NEET UG may go online; Education ministry explores CBT mode for MBBS exam

The Union education ministry is once again considering major reforms for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET UG).

After recent issues related to paper leaks, biometric failures, and increasing exam irregularities, the ministry has sought expert inputs on moving the medical entrance test from the current offline OMR-based system to a computer-based test (CBT).

Officials are reviewing data from national-level exams like JEE to examine feasibility, accessibility, and potential challenges before making a final decision.

Why is the Education Ministry considering the NEET UG CBT mode?

A high-level expert panel was formed after the 2024 paper leak controversy to review the conduct of NEET.

The committee, led by former ISRO chief K Radhakrishnan, suggested that a shift to CBT with multiple exam sessions could minimize malpractice and ensure greater transparency.

Officials are also examining whether the current mismatch between NEET’s difficulty level and Class 12 syllabus is pushing students towards expensive coaching centres.

The committee has proposed conducting NEET in multiple sessions with a score normalization process, similar to JEE Main.

Additionally, the idea of a two-stage exam system has been floated, where the first stage serves as a screening test and the second stage decides final admission eligibility.

With over 22 lakh aspirants each year, NEET is India’s largest entrance exam, making reforms crucial for fairness and efficiency.

Along with CBT, the expert group has recommended hybrid models where question papers are digitally transmitted to centres and printed locally.

For remote regions like the northeast, Himalayan states, and island territories, “mobile testing centres” have been suggested. This would ensure uniform access while reducing risks of leaks and delays.

To prevent cheating and impersonation, the panel has suggested tighter monitoring at exam centres. Measures under consideration include biometric checks, CCTV surveillance, and storing data securely on the cloud.

Officials are also exploring a ‘DIGI exam’ system, where candidates’ photos are regularly checked throughout the test to ensure fairness.

What next for NEET UG 2026 aspirants?

While NEET UG 2025 is confirmed in offline mode, students can expect reforms for 2026, but it is not confirm yet. If approved, CBT or a hybrid format may be introduced, accompanied by additional centres, enhanced security, and possibly a multi-stage exam process. The final decision will be taken after consultations with the Health Ministry and other stakeholders.

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