NEET UG 2026 Code 02 Explained: Official NTA Rule for 12th Pass & Droppers (Avoid Disqualification)

As competition for NEET UG 2026 intensifies, even a small error in the application form can cost candidates their medical seat. One of the most searched and most misunderstood rules is the NEET Qualifying Code 02 — especially for 12th-pass students and droppers.

Every year, thousands of applications face issues during document verification and counselling due to the wrong qualifying code selection. Here is a complete, NTA-aligned explanation of Code 02, based on previous NEET UG Information Bulletins and counselling norms, to ensure your NEET 2026 application is 100% error-free.

Also Read: Documents Required for NEET 2026 Application Form: Size, Format, and NTA Specifications

What Is NEET UG Qualifying Code 02? (Official Meaning)

Qualifying Code 02 is meant for candidates who have already passed their 10+2 or equivalent examination with the mandatory NEET subjects.

You must select Code 02 if:

• You have passed Class 12 (10+2) or equivalent

• Subjects studied: Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English

• You are a dropper, irrespective of gap years

• Your highest qualification is still 10+2
  
  

This rule has remained unchanged across multiple NEET UG cycles and applies to both AIQ (15%) and State Quota (85%) seats.

NEET 2026 Code 02: Who Exactly Should Choose It?

 12th Pass Candidates

• Passed Class 12 in 2025, 2024, or earlier

• From CBSE, ICSE, or any recognised State Board

NEET Droppers

• One-year, two-year, or multiple-year droppers

• As long as no higher degree (BSc or above) has been completed

NIOS & Private Candidates

• Passed 10+2 through NIOS or as a private candidate

• Must have PCB + English passed individually

• Eligibility is subject to acceptance as per NEET UG 2026 Information Bulletin and NMC norms

Important: NIOS candidates should always cross-check subject-wise eligibility once the official NEET UG 2026 brochure is released.

NEET UG 2026 Qualifying Codes: Complete Official List

Why Choosing the Wrong Code Can Cancel Your NEET 2026 Candidature

The National Testing Agency (NTA) allows applications to proceed even if a wrong code is selected.
However, real verification happens later:

• During MCC counselling (AIQ)

• During State counselling

• At college-level document verification

If your qualifying code does not match your documents, your:

• Seat allotment can be cancelled

• Admission can be revoked even after allotment

This is one of the most common reasons for rejection in medical counselling.

NEET 2026 Eligibility Checklist (Must Match Code 02)

Before submitting your application, confirm all of the following:

• Passed Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English individually

• Passed from a recognised board

• Aggregate marks as per category:

• General: 50%

• OBC/SC/ST: 40%

• PwD: 45%

• Highest qualification remains 10+

If all are YES, your qualifying code is 02.