Erasing or Overwriting Details on OMR Sheet: Is It Allowed?

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has clearly stated in the NEET (UG) 2026 Information Bulletin that erasing or overwriting any information on the OMR Answer Sheet is not permitted. 

Such actions are categorised as Unfair Means Practices, as they compromise the integrity and fairness of the examination process. Candidates are therefore required to fill and handle the OMR sheet with utmost care during the examination.

What Does NTA Say About Erasing or Overwriting on OMR Sheets?

As per the official bulletin, unfair means practices include:

• Erasing or obliterating any information printed on the OMR Answer Sheet

• Providing incorrect information and/or overwriting details such as:

• Roll Number

• Test Booklet Number

• Candidate’s Name

• Father’s Name or Mother’s Name

• Candidate’s Signature

These actions are treated as attempts to gain an unfair advantage and are therefore strictly prohibited.

Is Erasing or Overwriting in OMR Sheet Classified as Unfair Means Practice?

NTA defines unfair means practice as any activity that allows a candidate to gain an unfair advantage over other candidates. Erasing or overwriting details on the OMR Answer Sheet directly falls under this definition and is treated as a serious examination violation.

Punishment for Erasing or Overwriting OMR Sheet Details

According to the NEET (UG) 2026 Information Bulletin:

• Candidates involved in such practices will be booked under an Unfair Means (UFM) case

• The candidate may be debarred from NTA examinations for up to three years, depending on the gravity of the offence

• The candidate shall also be liable for criminal action and/or other action under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024

What is the Impact of Erasing or Overwriting on OMR Sheet

NTA has made it clear that:

• The NEET (UG) 2026 result of candidates indulging in unfair means practices will be cancelled and not declared

• This includes candidates found erasing or overwriting information on the OMR Answer Sheet

Such actions lead to cancellation of the result as per examination rules.