NEET (UG) Eligibility 2026
Detailed overview of academic qualifications, age limits, marks required, and other eligibility criteria for NEET 2026.
Overview
In 2026, are you prepared to start your career as a medical professional? Understanding the NEET UG eligibility requirements is the first step, and we have all the important information right here!
For prospective medical students, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the necessary NEET UG 2026 qualifying requirements. To facilitate a seamless application procedure, prospective applicants should familiarise themselves with these prerequisites. You will not be allowed to take the admission exam if you don't fulfil any of these requirements.
Major Highlights
10+2 or its equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
17 Years
No upper age limit
No restrictions
Indian Nationals, NRIs, OCIs, PIOs & Foreign Nationals
One Academic Year
Academic Qualification
Candidates should pass their 10+2 or equivalent exam with individual passing grades in Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English.
Note: Mathematics scores are not considered for this examination eligibility, though Physics, Chemistry, and Biology are mandatory.
Marks Required
All prospective medical students must meet the NEET eligibility requirements. Below is the category-wise breakdown:
| Category | Aggregate Marks Required |
|---|---|
| Unreserved (General) | 50% |
| SC/ST/OBC/Reserved-PH | 40% |
| Unreserved-PH | 45% |
Age Criteria
| Category | Minimum Age Requirement | Maximum Age Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Unreserved Category (UR) | Born on or before December 31, 2009 (17 years) | No Upper Age Limit |
| SC/ST/OBC | Born on or before December 31, 2009 (17 years) | No Upper Age Limit |
Number of Attempts
How many attempts are allowed?
The number of attempts permitted for the NEET test was eliminated in 2018 by the NEET UG eligibility requirements. Therefore, if a student satisfies the qualifying standards, there is no limit on the number of times they may take the NEET (UG) test.
Foreign/NRI Students
Eligibility Criteria for Foreign Students
Candidates with foreign education must fulfil specific conditions. They ought to have passed a test that would have earned them a Class 12 diploma back home. Along with completing an English exam throughout their qualifying schooling, they also need to have studied Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, and passed both theoretical and practical exams.
NRI, OCI, and Foreign Nationals
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), and Foreign Nationals are eligible for admission subject to specific rules.
• NRIs and OCI applicants must attach a Certificate issued by the appropriate Indian Diplomatic Mission in their home country to confirm their status.
• Overseas applicants should provide supporting documentation, such as relevant pages from a valid passport or a certificate from authorities in their home country.
Score Validity
Your 2026 NEET score is only good for one year. This allows applicants to apply for admission to undergraduate medical and dentistry programs during the academic year 2026–2027 if they pass the NEET 2026 test.
It does not ensure admission to a particular school or course. Candidates must actively engage in the NEET 2026 counselling process to be admitted.
Qualifying Codes Criteria
Candidates must carefully choose the correct qualifying code on the application form:
Candidates intending to sit for NEET 2026 and are awaiting Class 12 board exam results. Must fulfill requirements by admission time.
Candidates studying for Indian School Certificate Examination (ISCE) or equivalent Class 12. Must have Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotech, and English.
Candidates who finished Intermediate/Pre-degree Science Examination from an Indian University/Board with practical exams.
Candidates who passed Higher Secondary, Pre-University, or equivalent with required subjects and passed a Pre-professional/Pre-medical Examination.
Candidates enrolled in a 3-year degree program who passed the first year of practical exams in PCB subjects.
Candidates who completed B.Sc. Examination with at least two subjects: English, Physics, Chemistry, Biology (Botany, Zoology), and Biotechnology.
Candidates who passed an exam comparable to 10+2 (India or abroad) including practical assessments in PCB.
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