NEET 2026 Exam Date: Pattern, Syllabus, Schedule & Timing

NEET 2026 Exam Date: NEET UG Exam is expected to be conducted on 03 May 2026 (Sunday) by the National Test Agency. This exam is held once a year for those students who are seeking admission into undergraduate medical programs like MBBS, MDS, BAMS, BSMS, BUMS, and more in private and government colleges.

The application form for NEET UG 2026 will be released on 05 February 2026, and the final date to submit the form will be 28 March 2026. Additionally, lakhs of students appear for this exam every year, which makes it highly competitive. NEET is the only entrance test for medical seats in India

NEET 2026 Exam Date 

The National Testing Agency (NTA) will officially announce the NEET 2026 exam date on its website. Based on the last few years, the exam is usually conducted in the month of May. For 2026, students can expect the exam to be held on 03 May 2026.

However, the exact date will be confirmed only when NTA releases the official notification. Candidates are advised not to depend only on predictions and instead keep checking the official NEET website regularly.

NEET Application form 2026 is going to be released in February 2026, and the expected last date to submit the application form will be 28 March 2025*. Aspirants who wish to appear in the NEET 2026 Exam have to fill out the application form, which will be released soon on the official web portal of NTA https://neet.nta.nic.in/.

The basic eligibility requirement for NEET 2026 is a 10+2 grade in a relevant stream from a recognized board such as CBSE, ICSE, and others. While filling out the form, applicants need to pay a form fee of Rs 1000 to Rs 1700 via various payment methods, including UPI, Net Banking, and others.

NEET 2026 Exam Important Date

NEET 2026 Exam Date and Timing

The NEET 2026 exam will be conducted in one shift on the exam day. The test is expected to be held from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM (IST), making the total duration 180 minutes (3 hours). During this time, candidates will have to answer 200 questions, out of which 180 must be attempted.

The subjects included are Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, with Biology carrying the highest weightage. Students must plan their time wisely during the exam because time management plays a very important role in scoring well. Knowing the exam timing helps candidates prepare for the test in real conditions. 

NEET 2026 Exam Day Schedule

On the day of the NEET 2026 exam, students need to follow a strict schedule. The reporting time is usually well before the exam starts, and candidates must reach the exam center on time. The gates of the center close around 1:30 PM; after that, no entry is allowed. Candidates should carry their admit card, valid ID proof, and passport-size photographs. Security checks are conducted before entry, so it is better to arrive early to avoid the last-minute rush.

Once seated in the examination hall, students must carefully read the instructions given by the invigilators. The exam begins at 2:00 PM sharp and ends at 5:00 PM. Managing time, staying calm, and following all the guidelines are the keys to performing well. Understanding the exam day schedule in advance reduces stress and helps students remain focused during the test.

Why Knowing the NEET 2026 Exam Date is Important?

For every NEET aspirant, being aware of the exam date is extremely important. It allows students to plan their study routine, create a timetable, and complete the syllabus on time. If candidates do not know the exact exam date, they may either delay their preparation or face last-minute pressure. Knowing the date also helps in scheduling mock tests, revisions, and rest days effectively. It gives students a clear goal and deadline to work toward.

When students prepare with the date in mind, they stay more disciplined and motivated. It also avoids confusion related to exam events like admit card release or correction windows. In short, being aware of the NEET 2026 exam date helps students prepare with confidence, stay stress-free, and focus completely on performing well in the exam.

NEET 2026 Exam Date Guidelines 

On the day of NEET 2026, students must follow certain rules and instructions set by the NTA. These guidelines are important to avoid last-minute problems and to ensure a smooth exam experience. Here are the main points every student should remember:

• Carry your NEET 2026 admit card, valid photo ID, and passport-size photo to the exam center.
• Reach the exam center at least 1 hour before reporting time to avoid delays.
• Do not carry items like calculators, mobile phones, smartwatches, or electronic gadgets.
• Only bring permitted items like pens, admit card, ID proof, and transparent water bottle (if allowed).
• Follow the dress code as mentioned in the NEET guidelines (avoid heavy jewelry, metallic items, caps, etc.).
• Sit at the allotted seat and follow the instructions of the invigilator.
• Students will not be allowed to enter the exam hall after the closing of the reporting time.
• Maintain discipline and do not talk or disturb others during the exam.
• After finishing the test, wait for the invigilator’s instructions before leaving the hall.

Is NEET UG 2026 Exam Mode Online?

Many students wonder if the NEET (UG) 2026 exam will be online. According to the latest updates, NEET will be conducted in offline mode, which means students will use a pen-and-paper format at exam centres. Candidates will get an OMR sheet to mark their answers with a black or blue pen. This method is helpful for students who are not very comfortable with computers.

Students should reach the exam centre on time and carry their admit card and other required documents. They must follow the instructions given by exam officials carefully. Practicing with previous year papers and mock tests can help students get used to marking answers on the OMR sheet. It is important to regularly check the official NTA NEET website for any updates about the exam mode, timings, or guidelines.

Sami

I am a content writer with 7 years of experience in the EdTech industry, specializing in writing about universities, courses, and educational opportunities. I create easy-to-understand, engaging content that helps students make smart decisions about their studies and future careers.