NTA Unveils Important Updates Ahead of NEET UG 2026
With the NEET UG 2026 examination just two days away, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has released fresh details aimed at helping lakhs of medical aspirants prepare with greater confidence.
The agency has clarified the exam pattern, marking system, test duration and admit card process, introducing several candidate-friendly measures before the country’s biggest medical entrance examination.
NEET UG 2026 to Have 180 Questions for 720 Marks
According to the NTA, the exam will maintain a balanced distribution of questions across all three core subjects.
The paper will contain a total of 180 questions carrying 720 marks.
Subject-wise Distribution
- Physics: 45 Questions – 180 Marks
- Chemistry: 45 Questions – 180 Marks
- Biology: 90 Questions – 360 Marks
- Total Questions: 180
- Total Marks: 720
Biology will continue to carry the highest weightage, accounting for half of the total marks.
Marking Scheme Remains Student-Friendly
The NTA has also reminded candidates about the marking pattern for the examination.
- Correct Answer: +4 Marks
- Incorrect Answer: 0 Marks
- Unanswered Question: 0 Marks
This means students will not face any penalty for wrong answers or questions left unanswered.
Exam Duration Extended for Better Time Management
One of the biggest changes this year is the increase in examination duration.
Candidates will now receive 195 minutes to complete the paper. The examination will be conducted from 2:00 PM to 5:15 PM.
The additional time is expected to help students manage lengthy calculations and improve overall performance.
More Rough Work Space for Candidates
To make the examination process smoother, NTA has doubled the rough-work space available inside the question booklet.
Students will now get four rough-work pages instead of two.
Two pages will be provided at the beginning of the booklet and two at the end, giving candidates more room for calculations, diagrams and problem-solving.
The move is expected to benefit all aspirants, especially those who require additional space while attempting Physics and Chemistry questions.
Admit Cards Available Without Bank Verification
In another major relief for candidates, the NTA has relaxed the admit card download process.
Students can now download their NEET UG 2026 admit cards even if they have not completed bank account verification linked to the examination fee refund process.
Earlier, some candidates were unable to access their admit cards because of pending bank details. Under the new arrangement, admit cards can be downloaded immediately, while bank verification can be completed later.
The NTA has confirmed that candidates will remain eligible for fee refunds even if the verification process is completed after downloading the admit card.
Students Advised to Complete Preparations
With exam day approaching fast, candidates have been advised to download their admit cards, verify examination centre details, check reporting times and keep all required documents ready.
As lakhs of aspirants prepare for one of the most important exams of their academic journey, the latest NTA measures are expected to make the process smoother and more convenient for students across the country.
