The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test for undergraduate (NEET UG 2026) registration is expected to open in early February 2026 . This projection aligns with application trends from previous years. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has not yet released an official notification. Candidates should monitor the official website, neet.nta.nic.in, for announcements regarding exam dates and application forms.
Medical Bachelor and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) programs remain highly competitive. Over 20 lakh students register for the NEET exam annually. The entrance examination has consistently taken place in early May for the past three academic years. Media outlets speculate the 2026 exam may occur on May 6 .
Registration Dates Expected
Based on historical data, the NTA typically opens the NEET UG application window on the first Friday of February. The expected registration date for NEET UG 2026 is Friday, February 6 . Exact dates will be confirmed with the official NTA notification.
| NEET UG Year | NEET Registration Date |
|---|---|
| 2026 | February first week (February 6, Friday – Expected) |
| 2025 | February 7, Friday |
| 2024 | February 9, Friday |
| 2023 | March 6 |
| 2022 | April 6 |
| 2021 | July 13 |
Potential Shift to Computer-Based Test (CBT) Mode
Plans to transition NEET UG 2026 to an online computer-based test (CBT) are currently under review. A high-level committee, led by former ISRO chief K Radhakrishnan, recommended this change. Implementing CBT mode could help prevent issues like paper leaks and logistical challenges experienced in previous examinations. The Education Ministry is actively considering this shift.
No final decision on the NEET UG 2026 question paper pattern, registration process, or exam date has been announced regarding a change to CBT. The 2025 NEET exam was conducted offline across 552 cities in India and 14 cities abroad on May 4 , from 2 pm to 5 pm.
MBBS Seat Expansion
India recently recorded its most significant single-year expansion of MBBS seats. The total number of available seats now exceeds 1.29 lakh . This increase is a direct result of new medical college approvals and additional seats in existing institutions. The National Medical Commission (NMC) released this data.
NEET UG Exam Structure (Based on 2025)
The NEET UG question paper typically comprises 180 compulsory questions. The examination carries a total score of 720 marks. While no changes have been confirmed for 2026, students can use this structure as a guide.
Candidates must await official notifications from the NTA for precise details on NEET UG 2026. Regular checks of the NTA website are essential for the most current information.