NEET UG 2026 Exam Guide: How to Apply Online & What You Must Know

Balasahana Suresh
The National Eligibility‑cum‑Entrance Test for Undergraduate (NEET UG) 2026 is India’s national medical entrance exam required for admission to MBBS, BDS, AYUSH and related programs. The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts it once a year for candidates from across the country.

📅 Important Dates (Tentative)

Event

Expected Timeline

Official Notification Release

February 2026

Online application Starts

Early–Mid february 2026

Last Date to Apply

March 2026

Correction Window

March 2026

Exam City Allotment

April 2026

Admit Card Release

April/May 2026

NEET UG 2026 Exam Date

Sunday, 3 May 2026 (Expected)

Answer Key

May 2026

Result Declaration

June 2026

Counselling Begins

July 2026 onwards

Note: These dates are based on official projections and past trends; the NTA notification in february 2026 will provide exact dates.

📌 Eligibility Criteria at a Glance

To apply for NEET UG 2026, you must meet all of the following:

Age

✔ Minimum: 17 years by 31 Dec 2026
✔ No maximum age limit is currently enforced.

Educational Qualification

✔ Passed or appearing in Class 12 (10+2) or equivalent with:

  • Physics
  • Chemistry
  • Biology/Biotechnology
  • English
    ✔ Minimum aggregate in PCB: 50% for General, 40% for SC/ST/OBC (approx.)
Nationality

✔ indian nationals, NRIs, OCIs, PIOs and foreign nationals can apply.

🧾 Documents Required Before Applying

Candidates should have the following ready before filling the form:

  • Aadhaar Card (ensure name, date of birth, and photo are correct)
  • Valid mobile Number & Email ID (for OTP & communication)
  • Class 10 Certificate (proof of DOB)
  • Class 12 Marks/Details (or anticipated marks if appearing)
  • Scanned Photograph & Signature (as per NTA specifications)
  • Category Certificate (if applicable)
  • UDID Card (if applying under PwBD category)
Tip: Make sure your Aadhaar details (especially name and date of birth) match your other documents — incorrect details can lead to rejection.

📝 Step‑by‑Step: How to Apply Online

Follow these steps once the form is live:

1. Visit the Official Portal

Go to the NTA’s official NEET website:
🔗 neet.nta.nic.in or nta.ac.in

2. Register New Account

  • Click ’New Registration’
  • Enter basic details (name, mobile number, email)
  • Verify with OTP
3. Fill in Personal & Academic Details

  • Enter personal information
  • Fill in your qualification details
  • Choose exam centre preferences
4. Upload Scanned Documents

Upload your photograph, signature, and ID documents as per the prescribed format and data-size requirements.

5. Pay the application Fee

Pay online using:

  • Debit card
  • Credit card
  • Net banking
  • UPI
    Fee varies by category:
  • General: ~₹1,700
  • Gen‑EWS/OBC‑NCL: ~₹1,600
  • SC/ST/PwBD/Transgender: ~₹1,000
  • Foreign/NRI: ~₹9,500
6. Submit & Print

After paying the fee, submit the form and download the confirmation page/receipt for future reference.

7. Correction Window

If provided, use the correction window in march to fix mistakes (some fields only).

📌 Important Tips

✔ Apply early in the window to avoid last‑minute server issues.
✔ Keep your documents ready and scanned before starting the form.
✔ Check your Aadhaar and category certificates well before registration.
✔ Save the payment receipt and confirmation page safely.

📚 Preparation & Syllabus

The NEET UG 2026 syllabus (Physics, Chemistry & Biology) has been officially uploaded and is primarily based on NCERT Class 11–12 curriculum.

 Summary

Applying for NEET UG 2026 involves:

Checking eligibility

Registering online at the official portal

Filling accurate personal and academic information

Uploading documents

Paying the application fee

Submitting before the deadline and using correction window if needed

Staying organized and starting early boosts your chances of a smooth application experience.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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