Introduction
The National Eligibility and Entrance Test (NEET) UG is the entry point to undergraduate medical and dental schools in India. This exam, administered by the National Testing Agency (NTA), is required for students wishing to pursue MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, and other related degrees at both government and private universities. NEET UG is a highly competitive test that evaluates candidates’ knowledge in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, ensuring that only the most competent students are admitted to medical colleges.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the NEET UG Test, including eligibility requirements, test pattern, syllabus, preparation tactics, crucial dates, and more.
NEET UG 2025 Overview
| Exam | NEET UG |
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency |
| Mode of Exam | Offline (Pen and Paper-based) |
| Duration | 3 hours 20 minutes |
| Subjects | Physics, Chemistry, Biology (Botany & Zoology) |
| Total Questions | 200 (180 to be attempted) |
| Maximum Marks | 720 |
| Negative Marking | Yes (-1 for each wrong answer) |
| Eligibility | 12th pass with PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Exam Frequency | Once a year |
NEET UG Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality
- Applicants might be Indian citizens, NRIs, OCIs, PIOs, or foreign nationals.
- Age Limit
- Age requirement: 17 years as of December 31 of the admission year.
- There is no upper age limit as per the latest guidelines.
- Educational Qualification
- Candidates must have completed Class 12 or an equivalent examination with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Biotechnology.
- Minimum qualifying marks in PCB:
- General: 50%
- OBC/SC/ST: 40%
- PWD candidates: 45%
- Number of Attempts
- There is no restriction to the number of tries for NEET UG.
NEET UG Exam Pattern
Understanding the exam pattern is critical for successful preparation. Here is a breakdown of the NEET UG exam format:
- Question Paper Structure
| Subject | Sections | Total Questions | Questions to be Attempted | Marks |
| Physics | Section A + B | 50 | 45 | 180 |
| Chemistry | Section A + B | 50 | 45 | 180 |
| Biology (Botany + Zoology) | Section A + B | 100 | 90 | 360 |
| Total | – | 200 | 180 | 720 |
- Marking Scheme:
- +4 for each accurate answer
- -1 for each inappropriate answer
- No negative marking for unanswered questions
- Mode of Examination:
- NEET UG is a pen-and-paper-based test where candidates must mark answers on an OMR sheet.
NEET UG Syllabus
The NEET UG syllabus follows the NCERT pattern for classes 11 and 12. It has three major subjects:
- Physics
- Class 11: Physical world, Units and Measurements, Laws of Motion, Gravitation, Thermodynamics, Work, Power & Energy, etc.
- Class 12: Electrostatics, Current Electricity, Electromagnetic Waves, Optics, Dual Nature of Matter, etc.
- Chemistry
- Class 11: Atomic Structure, Chemical Bonding, Equilibrium, Thermodynamics, Redox Reactions, etc.
- Class 12: Solid State, Solutions, Electrochemistry, Coordination Compounds, Polymers, Biomolecules, etc.
- Biology
- Class 11: Diversity of Life, Human Physiology, Plant Physiology, Cell Structure & Function, etc.
- Class 12: Genetics & Evolution, Biotechnology, Ecology, Human Reproduction, etc.
How to Prepare for NEET UG?
Cracking the NEET UG involves focused study, smart preparation, and frequent practice. Here are a few preparation tips:
- Understand the Syllabus
- Download and analyse the NEET syllabus to focus on important topics.
- Follow NCERT textbooks as they form the base of NEET questions.
- Create a Study Plan
- Divide the syllabus into manageable sections and create a timetable.
- Allocate more time to difficult topics while ensuring regular revision of all subjects.
- Solve Previous Year Papers & Mock Tests
- Practice NEET previous year question papers to understand the exam pattern.
- Concept Clarity
- Focus on understanding concepts rather than rote learning.
- Strengthen basics through NCERT and reference books.
- Take Regular Breaks & Stay Healthy
- Avoid burnout by taking short breaks.
- Maintain a healthy diet and proper sleep cycle.
NEET UG 2025 Important Dates (Tentative)
| Event | Date (Expected) |
| Application Start | March 2025 |
| Application Deadline | April 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | May 2025 |
| Exam Date | May 2025 |
| Answer Key Release | June 2025 |
| Result Declaration | June 2025 |
| Counselling Begins | July 2025 |
NEET UG Application Process
The NEET UG application process is completely online. Here’s how you can apply:
Step-by-Step Process:
- Visit the official NTA NEET website (https://neet.nta.nic.in/).
- Register using personal details, contact information, and email ID.
- Fill the application form, including academic details and exam center preferences.
- Upload scanned documents (photograph, signature, and category certificate if applicable).
- Pay the application fee via net banking, UPI, or debit/credit card.
- Submit the form and download the confirmation page.
NEET UG Counselling Process
After the results are announced, the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) conducts counselling for 15% AIQ (All India Quota) seats, while the relevant state agencies conduct counselling for the remaining 85% state quota seats.
Counselling Stages:
- Registration
- Choice filling & locking
- Seat allotment
- Document verification
- Reporting to the allotted college
Conclusion
The NEET UG Test is an important exam for medical students in India. You can get into a top medical college if you prepare thoroughly, have a clear approach, and manage your time well. To succeed in the NEET UG 2025, begin your preparation early, stick to NCERT textbooks, and practice rigorously.