NEET-UG Exam Set for Transition to Computer-Based Testing

The Ministry of Education is preparing to transition the NEET-UG examination from a traditional pen-and-paper format to a computer-based testing system. This significant change aims to enhance exam security and accessibility, particularly for candidates in rural areas. While the final decision awaits recommendations from a high-level task force led by Nandan Nilekani, the initiative reflects a broader strategy to modernize various entrance examinations across the country. The Ministry is also addressing disparities in exam center availability and ensuring necessary technical infrastructure is in place. Stay tuned for updates on this important development in the examination system.

By Ambika Singh Oct 1, 2026, 08:37 IST

Transitioning NEET-UG to Computer-Based Testing

The Ministry of Education is planning a significant change in the NEET-UG examination format, moving from the traditional pen-and-paper method to a computer-based testing (CBT) system. This initiative aims to establish a nationwide infrastructure that supports the new testing mode.

Currently, the Ministry is working on developing the necessary infrastructure, which includes setting up exam centers and technical systems for online testing. However, a definitive decision regarding the transition to an online format is pending, as the government awaits recommendations from a high-level task force led by Nandan Nilekani. The final decision will be made after reviewing the task force's suggestions on examination reforms.

The Ministry's vision extends beyond NEET-UG, as officials are also formulating a strategy to create a national CBT infrastructure that can facilitate various entrance exams in an online format. This initiative aims to address the disparity in exam center availability between urban and rural regions. Additionally, efforts are being made to standardize computer security and essential facilities across different exam centers. Considerations are being given to infrastructure needs, exam center availability, and a phased approach to implementing the transition from pen-and-paper exams to CBT.

Current Status of Other Exams

Among the exams administered by the National Testing Agency (NTA), NEET-UG is the only one still conducted in a pen-and-paper format. In contrast, several other major NTA exams, such as JEE Main, CUET-UG, CUET-PG, UGC-NET, and CSIR-UGC-NET, are already conducted using computers. The government is preparing to transition additional entrance examinations to an online format once the necessary infrastructure is established.

Increased Focus on Online Exams Following Leaks

The discussions surrounding the shift to a Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode for NEET are not new; however, the government's focus has intensified following a recent paper leak incident. Students nationwide protested after the NEET-UG question paper was leaked this year. In response, the Centre formed a high-level task force to reform the examination system, headed by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani. The task force's goal is to recommend reforms that enhance the security of public examinations, and its report is currently awaited.

Considerations for Rural Candidates

In planning the transition to an online format for NEET, the Ministry is also considering the impact on candidates from rural areas, women, and regions with limited connectivity. Separate preparations are being made to ensure the availability of examination centers and the necessary technical facilities. Officials report that work is ongoing on various aspects of the transition from the pen-and-paper format to CBT, including implementation phases and required infrastructure.