Are you preparing for NEET UG 2026? If yes, then this is the most important update for you. The National Testing Agency (NTA) is getting ready to release the official notification for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) UG 2026. Lakhs of medical aspirants across India are waiting for the registration link to become active.
This article covers everything you need to know about the NEET 2026 registration date, expected exam schedule, eligibility criteria, and the step-by-step process to apply online. Read on to stay ahead and avoid last-minute confusion.
NEET UG 2026: Latest News and Updates
According to recent reports and past trends, the NTA is expected to begin the NEET 2026 registration process in the first week of February 2026.
The official information bulletin will be released on the official website exams.nta.ac.in/NEET (or neet.nta.nic.in). Once the link is live, candidates will have about one month to submit their application forms.
Read more: BPSC Exam Calendar 2026
Key Highlights:
- Registration Start: Expected by February 7, 2026.
- Exam Date: The exam is tentatively scheduled for May 3, 2026 (First Sunday of May).
- Mode of Exam: Offline (Pen and Paper).
Important Dates for NEET 2026 (Tentative Schedule)
Since the official calendar is yet to be out, here is the most likely schedule based on previous years’ patterns.
| Event | Expected Date |
| Official Notification Release | 1st Week of February 2026 |
| Online Registration Starts | First Week of February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | First Week of March 2026 |
| Correction Window | Mid-March 2026 |
| City Intimation Slip | April 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | Last Week of April 2026 |
| NEET UG 2026 Exam Date | May 3, 2026 (Sunday) |
| Result Declaration | June 2026 |
Note: These dates are subject to change. Always keep an eye on the official NTA portal for confirmed updates.
Eligibility Criteria for NEET 2026
Before filling out the form, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements set by the NTA.
1. Age Limit
- Minimum Age: You must be at least 17 years old by December 31, 2026.
- Maximum Age: There is no upper age limit. Candidates of any age (above 17) can apply.
2. Educational Qualification
- You must have passed Class 12 or are appearing for the board exams in 2026.
- Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English are mandatory.
- Minimum Marks (PCB Aggregate):
- General/EWS: 50%
- OBC/SC/ST: 40%
- PwD: 45%
Documents Required for Registration
Keep these documents ready before you sit down to apply. This will help you complete the process smoothly without errors.
- Passport Size Photograph: Recent photo with white background (80% face visible).
- Postcard Size Photograph: (4” x 6”) with white background.
- Signature: On white paper with black ink.
- Thumb Impressions: Left and right hand fingers and thumb impressions.
- Class 10 & 12 Mark Sheets: Passing certificates (if applicable).
- Valid ID Proof: Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, or Passport.
- Category Certificate: (If applying under SC/ST/OBC/EWS).
How to Register for NEET 2026?
Follow these simple steps to fill out the application form online:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to
exams.nta.ac.in/NEET. - New Registration: Click on the “New Registration” link on the homepage.
- Read Instructions: Download the Information Bulletin and read it carefully.
- Fill Details: Enter your personal details like Name, Date of Birth, Mobile Number, and Email ID to create an account.
- Fill Application Form: Login with your Application Number and Password. Fill in your academic details and exam center preferences.
- Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your photo, signature, and other documents in the prescribed format.
- Pay Fee: Pay the application fee using Debit Card/Credit Card/UPI/Net Banking.
- General: Approx ₹1700
- OBC/EWS: Approx ₹1600
- SC/ST/PwD: Approx ₹1000
- Print Confirmation: After successful payment, download and print the confirmation page for future reference.
Why Is NEET 2026 Important?
NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) is the single largest medical entrance exam in India. It is the gateway for admission to:
- MBBS & BDS courses in all government and private medical colleges.
- AYUSH courses (BAMS, BUMS, BHMS, BSMS).
- Veterinary courses (BVSc & AH) under 15% quota.
- Nursing (B.Sc. Nursing) in select central institutes.
With competition increasing every year, applying on time and preparing well is crucial for securing a seat in a top medical college.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. When will the NEET 2026 application form be released?
The application form is expected to be released in the first week of February 2026.
Q2. Is the NEET 2026 exam date confirmed?
The NTA has not officially confirmed the date yet, but historically, NEET is held on the first Sunday of May. So, the expected date is May 3, 2026.
Q3. Is there any change in the syllabus for NEET 2026?
As of now, there is no official news about syllabus changes. Candidates should stick to the NCERT syllabus (Class 11 & 12) unless NTA announces otherwise.
Q4. Can I apply for NEET if I have a gap year?
Yes, students with gap years are fully eligible to apply for NEET 2026, provided they meet the age and educational criteria.
Q5. What is the official website for NEET registration?
The official website for all updates and registration is exams.nta.ac.in/NEET (previously neet.nta.nic.in).
Q6. How many times can I attempt NEET?
There is no limit on the number of attempts for NEET UG. You can appear as many times as you want if you meet the eligibility criteria.