NEET 2026 Preparation Guide: Exam Pattern, Dates, Syllabus, and Strategy
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) 2026 is one of the most awaited entrance exams for medical aspirants across India. It is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, and other undergraduate medical courses in government and private colleges across the country.
🗓️ NEET 2026 Important Dates (Tentative)
| Event | Expected Date |
|---|---|
| NEET 2026 Notification Release | February 2026 |
| Application Form Start Date | February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | March 2026 |
| Application Correction Window | March 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | April 2026 |
| NEET 2026 Exam Date | First Sunday of May 2026 (Likely May 3, 2026) |
| Result Declaration | June 2026 |
| Counselling Process Begins | July 2026 |
Note: Official dates will be announced by NTA at neet.nta.nic.in.
📘 NEET 2026 Eligibility Criteria
To appear for the NEET 2026 examination, candidates must fulfill the following conditions:
- Qualification: Must have passed or be appearing for 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English.
- Minimum Marks:
- General: 50%
- OBC/SC/ST: 40%
- PwD: 45%
- Age Limit: Minimum age 17 years as on 31 December 2026.
- Upper Age Limit: No upper age limit for appearing in NEET.
- Nationality: Indian citizens, NRIs, OCIs, PIOs, and foreign nationals are eligible.
🧩 NEET 2026 Exam Pattern
The NEET 2026 exam is expected to follow the same pattern as the previous years:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode of Exam | Offline (Pen & Paper Based) |
| Duration | 3 Hours (180 Minutes) |
| Total Questions | 180 Questions |
| Total Marks | 720 Marks |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Marking Scheme | +4 for correct answer, −1 for incorrect |
| Sections | Physics, Chemistry, Botany, Zoology |
| Language Options | 13 Languages (including English & Hindi) |
Each subject is divided into Section A (35 questions) and Section B (15 questions), out of which any 10 questions can be attempted from Section B.
NATIONAL ELIGIBILITY CUM ENTRANCE TEST (UG)
📚 NEET 2026 Syllabus Overview
The syllabus is primarily based on the NCERT curriculum of Class 11 and 12. Candidates should focus on the following topics:
Physics
- Laws of Motion, Work, Energy & Power
- Thermodynamics
- Current Electricity
- Optics and Modern Physics
Chemistry
- Atomic Structure and Chemical Bonding
- Equilibrium and Thermodynamics
- Organic Chemistry (Reactions & Mechanisms)
- Coordination Compounds and Biomolecules
Biology
- Diversity in Living Organisms
- Cell Structure and Function
- Genetics and Evolution
- Human Physiology
- Ecology and Environment
Tip: Give maximum attention to Biology since it carries the highest weightage (360 marks).
🧠 NEET 2026 Preparation Strategy
- Understand the Syllabus & Pattern:
Go through the complete syllabus and exam structure before starting your preparation. - Follow NCERT Books Thoroughly:
NCERT textbooks for Class 11 & 12 are the foundation for NEET — especially for Biology and Chemistry. - Make a Realistic Study Plan:
Divide topics subject-wise and set daily, weekly, and monthly goals. - Practice Previous Year Papers:
Solving past papers helps you understand the trend and difficulty level of questions. - Take Mock Tests Regularly:
Attempt full-length mock tests under real exam conditions to improve time management and accuracy. - Focus on Weak Areas:
Analyze your mistakes and dedicate extra time to topics where you are scoring low. - Revise Consistently:
Make short notes for last-minute revision, especially for formulas and important definitions. - Stay Healthy and Positive:
Regular breaks, exercise, and proper sleep are crucial during long study hours.
🎓 After the Exam: Result & Counselling
- Result Declaration: Usually released within a month after the exam.
- Scorecard: Displays subject-wise marks, total marks, percentile, and All-India Rank.
- Counselling: Conducted by MCC for All India Quota (15%) and by respective state authorities for the remaining 85% seats.