Impersonation in NEET Exam: Rules & Punishment

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has clearly defined impersonation as a serious form of unfair means practice in the NEET (UG) examination. Any act that allows a candidate to gain an unfair advantage over others violates examination rules and attracts stringent action. 

As per the NEET (UG) 2026 Information Bulletin, impersonation-related offences are dealt with under both NTA regulations and the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.

What Is Impersonation Under NEET Unfair Means Rules

According to the official bulletin, unfair means practice includes:

• Using someone to write the examination (impersonation)

• Assisting or preparing material for copying

• Assisting other candidates to engage in malpractices, directly or indirectly

• Breaching examination rules or directions issued by NTA in connection with NEET (UG) 2026

Impersonation is treated as an act that gives a candidate an unfair advantage and is therefore classified as an Unfair Means (UFM) practice.

Related Acts Treated as Unfair Means in NEET UG 2026

In addition to impersonation, the bulletin lists several related actions that fall under unfair means, including:

• Manipulation or fabrication of online documents such as admit cards, rank letters, or self-declarations

• Forceful entry or exit from the examination centre or hall

• Communicating with any person other than examination staff during the exam

• Writing on material other than the answer sheet provided

• Taking away, smuggling, or tampering with the OMR sheet or question paper

• Providing incorrect or overwritten details on the OMR Answer Sheet

• Creating obstacles in the smooth and fair conduct of the examination

Any of these acts, if linked to impersonation or assistance in impersonation, are treated as serious violations.

Punishment for Impersonation and Unfair Means for NEET UG 2026

As per the NEET (UG) 2026 Information Bulletin:

• A candidate indulging in impersonation before, during, or after the examination 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

Cancellation of NEET UG 2026 Result

NTA has stated that:

• The result of NEET (UG) 2026 will be cancelled and not declared for candidates who indulge in unfair means practices, including impersonation

• Results will also be cancelled if candidates:

• Appear from a centre other than the one allotted

• Write on another candidate’s Test Booklet or OMR Sheet

• Allow other candidates to write on their Test Booklet or OMR Sheet

Such cancellations are final as per the official bulletin released by NTA.