NEET UG 2027 to Be Conducted in CBT (Computer-Based Test) Mode

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has announced that the NEET UG examination will be conducted in CBT (Computer-Based Test) mode from 2027. The decision comes after concerns related to the OMR-based examination system during NEET UG 2026.

According to the minister, issues associated with the OMR process were identified as one of the major reasons behind the recent controversy. Following this, the government has decided to shift the medical entrance examination to a digital format from the 2027 academic cycle.

NEET UG to Shift From OMR to CBT Mode

Currently, NEET UG is conducted in offline pen-and-paper mode where candidates mark their responses on OMR sheets. Under the new system, candidates will answer questions digitally on computers at designated examination centres.

The transition is expected to improve transparency, reduce manual intervention, and strengthen the examination process.

What is CBT (Computer-Based Test) Mode?

In CBT mode, candidates attempt the examination through a computer system instead of using paper-based OMR sheets.

Under this format:

• Questions appear on the computer screen

• Candidates select answers digitally

• Responses are submitted electronically

• Evaluation becomes faster and more automated

• Chances of OMR-related errors are reduced

Several national-level entrance examinations in India, including JEE Main and CUET, are already conducted in CBT format.

Why is NEET UG Moving to CBT Mode?

The shift comes after issues related to the NEET UG 2026 examination process. According to the Education Ministry, problems linked to OMR handling became one of the major concerns.

The CBT-based system is expected to help in:

• Improving transparency

• Strengthening examination security

• Reducing manual handling of answer sheets

• Minimising evaluation errors

• Speeding up result processing

Will NEET UG 2026 Re-Exam Be Conducted in CBT Mode?

No. The NEET UG 2026 re-examination scheduled for June 21, 2026 is expected to continue in the existing offline OMR-based format.

The CBT system is likely to be implemented from the 2027 examination cycle.

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NEET UG 2027 CBT Mode FAQs

From when will NEET UG be conducted in CBT mode?

NEET UG is expected to shift to CBT (Computer-Based Test) mode from 2027.

Will NEET UG 2026 re-exam be CBT-based?

No. The 2026 re-exam will likely continue in offline OMR format.

Why is NEET shifting to CBT mode?

The move aims to reduce issues linked to OMR handling and improve transparency in the examination process.

What does CBT mean in NEET?

CBT stands for Computer-Based Test, where candidates answer questions digitally on a computer instead of using OMR sheets.