List of Unfair Means in NEET Exam, Official NTA Guidelines
The NTA maintains a zero-tolerance policy for NEET UG 2026. This comprehensive List of Unfair Means in NEET Exam includes possessing barred items, impersonation, or tampering with OMR sheets. Candidates found engaging in these malpractices face immediate result cancellation and can be debarred for up to 3 years.
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is a highly competitive uniform entrance examination for undergraduate medical courses in India. To maintain the integrity and transparency of this national-level test, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has established a strict List of Unfair Means in NEET Exam and stringent conduct regulations. Candidates must strictly adhere to these guidelines to avoid severe legal and academic consequences, including permanent debarment.
Definition of Unfair Means in NEET UG 2026
As per the official NTA Information Bulletin, "Unfair Means practice" refers to any activity that provides a candidate with an unfair advantage over others.
Prohibited Activities and Malpractices
The NTA identifies several actions as breaches of examination rules, including:
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Possession of Barred Items: Carrying prohibited stationery, electronic devices, communication tools, ornaments, or eatables into the examination hall.
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Impersonation: Using someone else to write the exam or preparing materials for copying.
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Assisting Others: Engaging in, giving, or receiving assistance of any kind during the test.
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Misuse of Exam Material: Tearing or defacing OMR sheets, smuggling out question papers, or writing on unauthorized materials.
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Communication: Attempting to contact any person other than official examination staff while inside the center.
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Document Manipulation: Fabricating or modifying online documents like admit cards, rank letters, or self-declarations.
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Data Tampering: Erasing information on the OMR sheet or providing incorrect details like the wrong Roll Number or Name.
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Morphed Photos: Uploading wrong or digitally altered photographs on the application form or admit card.
Punishment for Using Unfair Means
Indulging in any malpractice before, during, or after the examination leads to the candidate being booked under a UFM (Unfair Means) case.
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Debarment: Candidates may be debarred for up to 3 years from appearing in NTA examinations, depending on the severity of the offense.
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Legal Action: Offenders are liable for criminal action and penalties under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.
Cancellation of NEET UG 2026 Result
The NTA reserves the right to cancel the results of candidates involved in malpractices.
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Direct Cancellation: The result of any candidate found using Unfair Means will not be declared.
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Center Discrepancies: Appearing from an unallotted center or writing on another candidate's Test Booklet/OMR sheet will lead to immediate result cancellation.
Also Read: NEET UG 2026 Result Date
Important Instructions for Candidates
To ensure a fair environment, the NTA conducts extensive and compulsory frisking before entry. The entire examination process is videographed to establish identity and monitor conduct. Candidates are advised to visit the official NTA website (neet.nta.nic.in) regularly for the latest updates and instructions.