logo naukrinama

NEET UG and CUET UG 2026 Exam Schedule Announced by NTA

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has outlined the schedule for the NEET UG and CUET UG exams in 2026, proposing to hold both tests in May. The application process is set to begin in early 2026, with NEET UG on May 3rd and CUET UG shortly thereafter. This early scheduling aims to address previous delays in result announcements that impacted university admissions. With millions of students participating, these exams are crucial for securing spots in medical and central universities across India. Stay tuned for more updates on the application process and exam details.
By Ambika Singh Dec 5, 2025, 13:54 IST
NEET UG and CUET UG 2026 Exam Schedule Announced by NTA

Overview of NEET UG and CUET UG 2026


NEET UG – CUET 2026: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has initiated preparations for the upcoming National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) UG and Central University Entrance Test (CUET) UG for the year 2026. An exam calendar has been drafted, proposing that both tests take place in May 2026. The application process is expected to commence in February or March. This proposed schedule has been submitted to the Union Ministry of Education for approval.


Significance of NEET UG and CUET UG

Importance of the Exams:
The NEET UG is essential for students seeking admission to medical colleges post-12th grade, with around 2 million candidates participating annually. Successful candidates gain entry into approximately 300,000 seats across various medical courses such as MBBS, BAMS, BDS, BHMS, and nursing programs nationwide.


On the other hand, CUET UG serves as a gateway for students aiming to enroll in central and state universities after completing their 12th grade. Each year, over 1 million students take this exam, with top scorers securing admission based on their rankings. Notably, Delhi University offers more than 70,000 undergraduate seats.


Exam Dates and Application Process

NEET UG Scheduled for May 3rd:
As per the NTA's proposed calendar, NEET UG is set for May 3rd, 2026. If approved, the application window will likely open in the second week of February, allowing students a month to apply. Results are anticipated to be announced in late May or early June.


CUET UG Planned for Mid-May:
CUET UG is scheduled to occur after the second week of May 2026. Should the Ministry of Education endorse the NTA's academic calendar, the application process for CUET UG will begin in the first week of March, with results expected in June.


Reasons for Early Scheduling

Addressing Previous Delays:
Both NEET UG and CUET UG are traditionally held in May. In 2025, NEET took place on May 4th, while CUET UG was conducted from May 14th to June 4th. However, delays in releasing CUET UG results, which were announced on July 4th, led to significant concerns from universities regarding filling undergraduate seats.


During a meeting at the Ministry of Education, universities expressed that the late results hindered their ability to enroll students, pushing many towards private institutions. Consequently, an agreement was reached to conduct CUET UG earlier and ensure timely results. While NEET UG results were released promptly, delays in counseling processes affected the start of the medical college academic year.


FROM AROUND THE WEB