Duration and Timing of NEET 2026 Exam Explained
The NTA has officially scheduled the NEET UG 2026 exam for May 3, 2026. The total duration of the examination is 3 hours and 20 minutes (200 minutes). The exam will be conducted in a single shift across all centers. It starts at 02:00 PM and concludes at 05:20 PM IST. Candidates must manage their time effectively to answer 180 questions within this window.
Duration and Timing of NEET 2026 Exam
The NEET UG 2026 examination is a single-shift marathon lasting exactly 3 hours and 20 minutes (200 minutes). Scheduled for May 3, 2026, the test begins promptly at 02:00 PM and concludes at 05:20 PM IST across all national and international centers. This specific duration is calculated to provide candidates with approximately one minute per question, plus a 20-minute buffer to manage the internal choices in Section B. Adhering to these timings is non-negotiable, as the NTA maintains a strict policy against late entries or early exits from the hall.
Mandatory Entry and Gate Closing Timings
Punctuality is strictly enforced at all NEET examination centers. Candidates must arrive at the venue well in advance for biometric verification and security checks.
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Last Entry Time: The center gates will close strictly at 01:30 PM.
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Recommended Arrival: Candidates should reach the center by 12:00 PM or 01:00 PM.
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Seating Time: Candidates must be in their allotted seats by 01:15 PM.
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Instruction Reading: Invigilators will provide the test booklets and instructions between 01:30 PM and 01:50 PM.
NEET 2026 Examination Day Schedule
Following the official notification from the NTA, the NEET UG 2026 exam will follow a strict timeline to ensure security and standardized conduct across all centers nationwide on May 3, 2026.
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NEET 2026 Examination Day Schedule |
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Event |
Timing (IST) |
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Exam Date |
May 3, 2026 (Sunday) |
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Duration |
200 Minutes |
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Last Entry to Hall |
01:30 PM |
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Sitting in Exam Hall |
01:15 PM onwards |
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Announcement of Instructions |
01:30 PM to 01:45 PM |
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Distribution of Test Booklets |
01:45 PM |
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Writing Particulars on Booklet |
01:50 PM |
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Commencement of Exam |
02:00 PM |
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Conclusion of Exam |
05:20 PM |
Compensatory Time for PwBD Candidates
According to the official notification, PwBD candidates are entitled to compensatory time. This applies whether or not they use a scribe facility. The compensatory time provided is 1 hour and 06 minutes for a 3-hour 20-minute exam. Consequently, for eligible candidates, the total duration extends beyond the standard 200 minutes.
Time Management for the 200-Minute Test
The 200-minute duration is designed to allow one minute per question, with 20 minutes for review. Candidates must attempt 180 out of 200 available questions. Efficiently dividing time between Physics, Chemistry, and Biology is essential. Most toppers suggest completing the Biology section in 45-50 minutes to save time for Physics numericals.
Official Guidelines for NEET 2026 Exam Conclusion
No candidate is permitted to leave the examination hall before 05:20 PM. You must hand over the OMR sheet to the invigilator before exiting. Ensure that you have signed the attendance sheet at the designated time. Failure to follow the departure protocol can result in the cancellation of your result.