NEET-UG Eligibility Criteria 2026
Always confirm dates, fees and eligibility on the official notification before applying. The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate), commonly known as NEET-UG, is a crucial exam for students aspiring to pursue medical courses in India. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), the NEET-UG exam opens doors to MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, BVSc & AH, and BSc Nursing admissions across various medical colleges in India. Understanding the eligibility criteria is essential for candidates planning to sit for the exam in 2026.
Educational Qualification Required
To be eligible for NEET-UG, candidates must meet the following educational qualifications:
- Completion of Class 12: Candidates must have passed Class 12 or an equivalent examination.
- Subjects: The subjects studied should include Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English.
- Minimum Marks: Candidates must secure a minimum aggregate of:
- 50% in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Biotechnology for General category students.
- 40% for SC/ST/OBC-NCL candidates.
- 45% for Persons with Disabilities (PwD).
It is advisable to refer to the official prep guide from the NTA for detailed information on the syllabus and recommended study materials. Practising with mock tests on PractiseExam.com can also help solidify your understanding of the subjects and improve your performance.
Age Limits
Candidates must also adhere to the age limits set by the NTA:
- Minimum Age: Candidates must be at least 17 years old on or before December 31 of the year of admission.
- Maximum Age: The upper age limit for candidates is typically set at 25 years for General category students and 30 years for SC/ST/OBC-NCL candidates.
It is crucial to check the official notification for any updates regarding age limits.
Nationality and Residency
NEET-UG is open to:
- Indian Citizens
- Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)
- Persons of Indian Origin (PIO)
- Overseas Citizens of India (OCI)
- Foreign Nationals: However, foreign candidates must check with the respective colleges for specific admission requirements.
Candidates must provide proof of nationality and residency as per the guidelines outlined by the NTA.
Maximum Attempts Allowed
As of the latest guidelines, candidates can attempt the NEET-UG exam a maximum of three times. This limit applies to all candidates, regardless of their category. It is advisable to verify the current rules as they may change.
Special Category Relaxations
Certain relaxations are available for candidates belonging to special categories:
- Scheduled Castes (SC)
- Scheduled Tribes (ST)
- Other Backward Classes (OBC-NCL)
- Persons with Disabilities (PwD)
These candidates may have different criteria regarding minimum marks and age limits. For the most accurate information, refer to the official notification from the NTA.
Eligibility Checklist Before Applying
Before applying for NEET-UG, ensure you meet the following criteria:
- Completed Class 12 with required subjects and marks.
- Age meets the specified limits.
- Nationality and residency requirements are fulfilled.
- Familiarity with the maximum attempts allowed.
- Any special category relaxations are confirmed.
By following this checklist, you can confidently determine your eligibility for NEET-UG. For further preparation, consider exploring our resources on syllabus, preparation strategies, and best books to study.
Practising with mock tests on PractiseExam.com can significantly enhance your readiness for the exam. Make use of all available resources to increase your chances of success in NEET-UG 2026.