Important Points Candidates Must Know About NEET 2026 Exam Scheme
The National Testing Agency (NTA) will conduct NEET UG 2026 on May 3, 2026. The exam is a pen-and-paper-based test consisting of 200 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). Candidates must attempt 180 questions for a total of 720 marks. The subjects include Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (Botany and Zoology). Each subject is split into Section A and Section B.
NEET 2026 Exam Scheme
The NEET 2026 Exam Scheme follows a defined structure where candidates must attempt 180 multiple-choice questions within a total duration of 200 minutes. The paper is divided into four subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Botany, and Zoology and each containing 45 compulsory questions (or a 35+15 sectional split where applicable) totaling 720 marks. This offline, pen-and-paper test utilizes a precise marking system of +4 for every correct answer and a negative marking of -1 for every incorrect response, demanding a high level of accuracy from medical aspirants.
|
NEET 2026 Exam Scheme |
|
|---|---|
|
Feature |
Details |
|
Total Questions |
180 Questions (from 200 provided in some sections) |
|
Total Marks |
720 Marks |
|
Question Type |
Objective (MCQs with 4 options) |
|
Marking System |
+4 (Correct), -1 (Incorrect), 0 (Unattempted) |
|
Exam Mode |
Offline (OMR Sheet based) |
Rules for Section B and Internal Choice
Section B offers flexibility but comes with strict evaluation protocols. This section contains 15 questions per subject. Candidates need to attempt only any 10 questions out of the 15 provided. If a candidate attempts more than 10, only the first 10 responses are evaluated. This rule applies to all four subjects. Ensure you choose questions where you have the highest accuracy to maximize your score.
NEET 2026 OMR Sheet Guidelines
The OMR sheet is a machine-gradable document that requires careful handling. Mistakes here can lead to result cancellation.
-
Pen Requirement: Use only the ballpoint pen provided at the center.
-
Bubbling Technique: Darken the circle completely; partial marks or ticks are invalid.
-
No Corrections: You cannot use white fluid, erasers, or blades to change answers.
-
Security: Do not make stray marks or folds on the OMR sheet.
NEET 2026 Exam Day Timelines
Strict adherence to the schedule is a specific requirement for entry. The exam duration is 200 minutes (3 hours and 20 minutes).
|
NEET 2026 Exam Day Timelines |
|
|---|---|
|
Event |
Time (IST) |
|
Gate Closing Time |
01:30 PM (Strict) |
|
Seating in Hall |
01:15 PM |
|
Exam Starts |
02:00 PM |
|
Exam Concludes |
05:20 PM |
Note: Candidates arriving after 01:30 PM will not be allowed inside the venue. Ensure you carry your Admit Card and valid ID proof.
Important Points About NEET 2026 Exam Scheme
The NEET UG 2026 Exam Scheme follows a streamlined structure designed for accuracy and time management. According to the official notification released on February 8, 2026, the major update for this session is the removal of optional questions, making all items mandatory.
-
Total Questions: 180 questions in total (45 each for Physics, Chemistry, Botany, and Zoology).
-
Total Marks: The exam is scored out of 720 marks.
-
Mandatory Format: Unlike previous years, there is no Section B with internal choices; all 180 questions are compulsory.
-
Marking System: +4 marks for a correct answer; -1 mark for an incorrect answer; 0 for unattempted questions.
-
Test Duration: Exactly 180 minutes (3 hours), typically held from 02:00 PM to 05:00 PM.
-
Mode of Exam: Traditional offline pen-and-paper mode using OMR sheets.
-
Question Type: Objective-based Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with four options.
-
Language Options: Available in 13 languages, including English, Hindi, and regional languages like Gujarati, Tamil, and Bengali.