The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) is the single entrance examination for admission to MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, and nursing programmes in India. In 2026, more than 20 lakh candidates are expected to appear for approximately 1,10,000 MBBS seats. Here is the complete admission roadmap.
NEET 2026 Eligibility Criteria
- Educational Qualification: Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Biotechnology
- Minimum Marks: 50% aggregate in PCB for General (40% for SC/ST/OBC, 45% for PwD)
- Age Limit: Minimum 17 years as of 31 December 2026. No upper age limit as per Supreme Court ruling
- Number of Attempts: No limit on number of attempts
NEET 2026 Registration Process
- Visit the NTA NEET official website
- Create an account and fill the application form online
- Upload scanned photographs, signature, and required documents
- Pay the application fee (General: INR 1,700; SC/ST/PwD: INR 1,000)
- Download the confirmation page and take a printout
NEET 2026 Exam Pattern
| Section | Questions (Attempt) | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Physics | 50 (45) | 180 |
| Chemistry | 50 (45) | 180 |
| Botany | 50 (45) | 180 |
| Zoology | 50 (45) | 180 |
| Total | 200 (180) | 720 |
Each subject section has two parts: Section A (35 MCQs, all compulsory) and Section B (15 MCQs, attempt any 10). Correct answer: +4 marks. Incorrect: -1 mark. Unanswered: 0.
NEET 2026 Counselling Process
All India Quota (AIQ) Counselling by MCC
The Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) conducts counselling for 15% All India Quota seats in government colleges, 100% seats in central universities (AIIMS, JIPMER), and 100% seats in deemed/central universities.
- Round 1: Register on MCC portal, fill choices, seat allotment, report to college
- Round 2: Fresh choice filling, allotment, reporting
- Round 3: Mop-up round for unfilled seats
- Stray Vacancy Round: Final round for remaining vacant seats
State Quota Counselling
85% of seats in government medical colleges are filled through state-level counselling. Each state conducts its own counselling based on NEET scores and state-specific domicile requirements.
MBBS Fees Comparison
| College Type | Annual Fees (Approx) | Total 5.5 Year Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Government Colleges | INR 10,000 - 50,000 | INR 55,000 - 2,75,000 |
| AIIMS / JIPMER | INR 1,500 - 5,000 | INR 8,250 - 27,500 |
| Private Colleges | INR 5 - 25 lakh | INR 27.5 lakh - 1.37 crore |
| Deemed Universities | INR 10 - 30 lakh | INR 55 lakh - 1.65 crore |
Documents Required for MBBS Counselling
- NEET 2026 scorecard and admit card
- Class 10 mark sheet and certificate (for date of birth proof)
- Class 12 mark sheet and certificate
- Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS) issued by competent authority
- Domicile / residence certificate (for state quota)
- Transfer certificate and character certificate
- Aadhaar card
- Eight passport-size photographs
- Medical fitness certificate
NEET Cut-off Trends
| Category | 2024 Cut-off Score | 2025 Cut-off Score (Approx) |
|---|---|---|
| General | 164 | 160-170 |
| OBC | 129 | 125-135 |
| SC | 129 | 125-135 |
| ST | 129 | 125-135 |
Tips for a Smooth Admission Process
- Keep multiple sets of photocopies of all documents ready
- Fill maximum choices during counselling to improve seat allotment chances
- Monitor MCC and state counselling websites regularly for schedule updates
- Keep the counselling fee (INR 25,000 - 2,00,000) ready for security deposit
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get MBBS admission without NEET?
No. NEET is mandatory for admission to all medical colleges in India, including AIIMS and JIPMER, as per Supreme Court and NMC guidelines.
How many NEET attempts are allowed?
There is currently no limit on the number of NEET attempts as the age cap has been removed.
What score is needed for a government medical college?
For General category, a score of 550+ out of 720 gives a reasonable chance at government colleges. For top colleges like AIIMS Delhi, you typically need 680+ marks.
Is domicile certificate mandatory for state quota?
Yes, a domicile or residence certificate is required to participate in state-level counselling for the 85% state quota seats.