The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced that the NEET UG 2025 examination will follow the traditional pen-and-paper format, in adherence to guidelines established by the National Medical Commission (NMC). The exam will be conducted in a single shift on a single day, with the aim of preventing malpractices, a concern highlighted by protests last year. Errors in the NEET UG 2024 examination prompted a re-examination for 1,500 students, which further influenced this decision.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had previously hinted at the continuation of the offline mode during his appearance at Agenda Aajtak in December 2024. The decision was formalised following discussions between the Health Ministry and Education Ministry. Despite considering a computer-based format, two rounds of talks led by JP Nadda concluded with the retention of the OMR-based system.
NEET UG 2025 will serve as the national entrance test for courses in the Indian System of Medicine and Homeopathy, including BAMS, BUMS, BSMS, and BHMS. Additionally, candidates seeking admission to BSc Nursing courses under the Military Nursing Service (MNS) will also be required to qualify for the examination.
The NMC has published the updated syllabus on its website, covering Physics, Chemistry, and Biology from Class 11 and 12 curricula. The exam will last 3 hours and 20 minutes, comprising 200 questions, of which 180 must be attempted. Candidates will earn four marks for each correct answer, while one mark will be deducted for incorrect responses. The test will be offered in 13 languages.
Registration dates are yet to be announced, and aspirants are advised to stay updated by visiting the NTA portal at nta.ac.in.