NEET UG 2026: Key Updates and Application Details
Overview of NEET UG 2026
NEET UG 2026: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially announced the NEET UG 2026 examination details. This year, the registration process has undergone significant changes aimed at enhancing security and transparency. New features such as Aadhaar-based e-KYC, live photo capture, and multi-layer verification have been introduced to minimize fraudulent applications.
Exam Schedule
NEET UG 2026 Exam Date and Time
As per the notification, the NEET UG 2026 exam is scheduled for May 3, which falls on the first Sunday of May. The examination will take place in a single shift nationwide, from 2 PM to 5 PM. Similar to previous years, the exam will be conducted in an offline format, utilizing pen and paper.
Key Details:
- Exam Date: May 3, 2026
- Shift: Single
- Time: 2 PM to 5 PM
- Format: Offline (pen and paper)
Application Process
Deadline for NEET UG Applications
The application process for NEET UG 2026 is now open. Interested candidates can submit their applications through the official website, neet.nta.nic.in. The final date for application submission is March 8. It is crucial for candidates to complete the application and pay the fee by the deadline, as incomplete or unpaid applications will be rejected.
Rationale Behind New Rules
Reasons for Changes
The NTA has stated that these new regulations aim to bolster the exam's integrity. The application process has been tightened in response to past issues such as duplicate registrations and identity verification problems. Each candidate's identity will now be verified at multiple stages to ensure a fair examination process.
Mandatory Aadhaar-based e-KYC
Aadhaar-based e-KYC Requirement
This year, Aadhaar-based e-KYC is compulsory for NEET UG applications. Candidates must ensure that the mobile number linked to their Aadhaar is active. The NTA recommends checking mobile network availability prior to starting the application, as OTP-based verification will be necessary.
Live Photo Capture Feature
New Live Photo Capture Requirement
A significant update for the NEET UG 2026 application is the introduction of live photo capture. Candidates must take a real-time photo while completing the application. The face should occupy at least 80% of the frame.
Guidelines for Photo Capture:
- Face must be clearly visible in 80% of the frame.
- No caps, glasses, or goggles allowed during the photo.
- Those without a webcam can use a mobile camera via a QR code.
- The photo will be matched with the Aadhaar database.
Additionally, candidates must upload a passport-sized photo, a scanned signature, proof of address, and other necessary documents. Identity verification will be conducted by matching the live photo with the Aadhaar record.
Application Fees by Category
Category-wise Application Fees
The application fees for NEET UG 2026 vary by category:
- General: ₹1700
- General EWS/OBC-NCL: ₹1600
- SC/ST/PwBD/Third Gender: ₹1000
- International Candidates: ₹9500
Exam City and Language Options
Exam City Allocation
This year, the exam city will be assigned based on the current and permanent addresses provided in the application form. NEET UG 2026 will be available in 13 languages:
- Assamese
- Bengali
- English
- Gujarati
- Hindi
- Kannada
- Malayalam
- Marathi
- Odia
- Persian
- Tamil
- Telugu
- Urdu
Courses Offered Based on NEET UG Scores
Available Courses
The NEET UG examination is conducted for admissions into various undergraduate medical programs across India. Based on the scores obtained, candidates can secure seats in MBBS, BDS, B.Sc Nursing, B.V.Sc & AH, and more.