Centre Announces Major Changes After NEET Paper Leak Controversy
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday announced a series of major decisions regarding the NEET UG examination and the upcoming re-test scheduled for June 21, following the controversy surrounding the alleged paper leak in the 2026 medical entrance exam.
The announcements are being seen as part of the government’s attempt to restore confidence among lakhs of medical aspirants after the cancellation of the earlier examination held on May 3.
From changes in exam format to extra time for students, the Education Minister outlined several important updates that candidates need to know before the re-examination.
NEET to Shift to Computer-Based Format From Next Year
One of the biggest announcements made by the minister was that NEET will move to a computer-based testing format from next year.
The decision comes after concerns were raised over the security and integrity of the offline examination process following the alleged paper leak controversy.
Officials believe the computer-based format could help reduce the risk of leaks and improve transparency in conducting one of India’s largest entrance examinations.
Students Can Choose Their Own Exam Centres
Dharmendra Pradhan also announced that candidates appearing for the NEET re-exam will be allowed to select their preferred examination centres.
The move is expected to provide relief to students who had faced logistical issues and confusion after the cancellation of the original examination.
“For the NEET re-exam, candidates will be provided an opportunity to choose their own exam centre,” the minister said.
Fresh Admit Cards to Be Released by June 14
The Education Minister confirmed that fresh admit cards for the NEET re-examination will be issued by June 14.
Candidates will have to download the newly issued hall tickets because the previous admit cards will not remain valid for the re-conducted examination.
The National Testing Agency has advised students and parents to rely only on official notifications and avoid misinformation circulating on social media platforms.
NEET Aspirants to Get Extra 15 Minutes
In another major relief for candidates, the government announced that students appearing in the re-examination will receive an additional 15 minutes during the exam.
Officials said the extra time is being provided to ensure smoother management of the revised examination process and reduce pressure on candidates.
No Fresh Registration or Additional Fee Required
The minister clarified that students will not have to apply again for the NEET re-examination.
According to the NTA, all earlier application details, examination centres and candidature information submitted during the May 2026 cycle will automatically remain valid for the re-test.
“No fresh registration will be required, and no additional examination fee will be levied,” the agency said.
The government also stated that fees already paid by students would be refunded while the re-examination would be conducted using the agency’s internal resources.
NTA Releases Official Helpline Details
Students seeking clarification regarding the examination process can contact the NTA through official helpline numbers or email support.
Helpline Numbers: 011-40759000 / 011-69227700
Email: neetug2026@nta.ac.in
