NEET UG 2026: The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), a nationwide entrance exam, is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admissions to undergraduate medical programs at private and government universities. The expected date of the NEET UG 2026 is May 3, 2026. The online application form will be issued around February 2026, tentatively.

In this blog, we will go through the overview of the NEET entrance exam, the important dates, eligibility criteria, syllabus, how to apply, exam pattern and counselling.

NEET UG Exam: Overview

NEET is the first step towards the medical journey. Students who aspire to be future doctors have to clear this entrance exam. After clearing the entrance exam, students can get admission in undergraduate medical courses such as MBBS, BDS, BHMS, BAMS and BSMS.

Formerly, NEET was known as AIPMT (All India Pre-Medical Test), and until 2012, it was conducted by CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education). However, due to some legal challenges, NEET was temporarily replaced by AIPMT in 2014 and 2015. NEET was reintroduced in 2016 and conducted by CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education). Later, NEET was conducted by NTA (National Testing Agency) since 2019.

NEET 2026 UG Exam Highlights:

NEET UG 2026: Tentative Important Dates

We are awaiting the official NTA notification with the final dates. However, based on previous years and current trends, these are the likely timelines:

Important Note: All dates are tentative and must be confirmed via the official NEET UG 2026 notification once released by NTA.

NEET UG 2026 Registration Date 

The registration and application for NEET would be issued online, probably in the first week of February 2026. The NEET registration notification will be released on the official website – www.neet.nta.ac.in. tentatively.

NEET UG 2026 Application Fee: 

The application fee for general candidates is INR 1700, for-EWS/OBC-NCL candidates is INR 1600, and for SC/ST/PwD candidates is INR 1000.

NEET UG 2026: Application Process

Who can apply?

To be eligible for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET UG) 2026 Exam, candidates must generally:

+ Have passed Class 12 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English.

+ Be at least 17 years old by December 31, 2026. There is no upper age limit.

+ Meet other criteria as specified in the official notification released (once released) by the National Testing Agency (NTA).

Note: Before starting the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET UG) 2026 application process, please verify that you meet all the eligibility criteria released by NTA.

Conclusion:

NEET UG 2026 is a crucial step for students aspiring to pursue medical and allied health courses. Understanding the application process, preparing the necessary documents, knowing the eligibility criteria, and keeping track of important dates will help candidates stay organized and prepared for the examination. As the application window approaches, keep an eye on the official NTA NEET portal for confirmed dates and updates.