The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) plays a crucial role for students who want to study undergraduate medical courses in India. It helps them get into MBBS, BDS, and other medical programs. As NEET 2025 draws near, students are keen to find out about possible changes in how the exam works, what it covers, who can take it, and other details. The National Testing Agency (NTA), which runs NEET, has been thinking about making some changes to make the exam process smoother and more open.
This article looks at the main NEET 2025 exam changes, which aim to make the exam fairer more transparent, and more efficient.
1. Reversion to the Pre-COVID Exam Pattern
The NTA has reverted to the pre-COVID exam pattern for NEET 2025. This includes the removal of Section B from each subject—Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Previously, Section B provided optional questions; however, all 180 questions in NEET 2025 will now be mandatory. Consequently, the total number of questions has been reduced from 200 to 180, and the exam duration has been adjusted from 3 hours and 20 minutes to 3 hours (180 minutes).
2. Examination Mode and Security Enhancements
In response to past irregularities, including paper leaks, the NTA is considering shifting to a Computer-Based Test (CBT) or a hybrid examination model. This change aims to enhance security and ensure a smoother experience for aspirants. Proposed measures include uploading question papers online to minimize leak risks and implementing multi-stage examinations to detect irregularities at various levels.
3. Syllabus Updates
The NEET 2025 syllabus remains aligned with the Class 11 and Class 12 NCERT curriculum, with no significant changes from the previous year. This consistency allows students to continue their preparation without disruptions.
4. Application Process After the NEET Update
The application process for NEET 2025 has been streamlined. Notably, the previously mandatory APAAR ID is no longer required for registration, simplifying the application procedure for candidates.
5. Exam Duration and Question Distribution
As per the NEET 2025 exam changes, the test now will consist of 180 compulsory questions:
- Physics: 45 questions
- Chemistry: 45 questions
- Biology: 90 questions
Candidates will have 180 minutes to complete the exam, with each section allotted approximately 45 minutes.
6. Marking Scheme After the NEET Update
The marking scheme for NEET 2025 remains unchanged:
- Correct Answer: +4 marks
- Incorrect Answer: -1 mark
- Unanswered Question: 0 marks
This scheme encourages candidates to attempt only questions they are confident about while discouraging random guessing.
7. Tie-Breaking Criteria
If two or more candidates achieve the same marks or percentile scores in NEET UG 2025, the tie-breaking criteria will be applied in the following order:
- Higher Marks in Biology (Botany & Zoology) – The candidate with higher marks in Biology will be ranked higher.
- Higher Marks in Chemistry – If the tie persists, preference will be given to the candidate with higher marks in Chemistry.
- Higher Marks in Physics – If still unresolved, the candidate with higher marks in Physics will be ranked higher.
- Fewer Incorrect Answers Overall – If the tie continues, the candidate with a lower ratio of incorrect to correct answers across all subjects will be given preference.
- Fewer Incorrect Answers in Biology – If necessary, the candidate with fewer incorrect answers in Biology will be ranked higher.
- Fewer Incorrect Answers in Chemistry – If the tie persists, the candidate with fewer incorrect answers in Chemistry will be given preference.
- Fewer Incorrect Answers in Physics – If still unresolved, the candidate with fewer incorrect answers in Physics will be ranked higher.
- Random Selection – If the tie remains after all the above criteria have been applied, the final ranking will be determined through a random selection process, overseen by an independent expert committee.
This structured approach ensures a fair and transparent ranking system for candidates with identical scores.
8. Exam Schedule and Reporting Time
As per the NEET new update, the test in 2025 is scheduled for May 4, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Candidates are advised to reach their respective examination centers well in advance. Entry will close at 1:30 PM, and latecomers will not be permitted. It is recommended that candidates arrive at least an hour before the closing time to complete the necessary formalities without rushing.
9. Language Options
To accommodate candidates from diverse linguistic backgrounds, NEET 2025 will be conducted in 13 languages:
- English
- Hindi
- Assamese
- Bengali
- Gujarati
- Marathi
- Tamil
- Telugu
- Oriya
- Malayalam
- Kannada
- Punjabi
- Urdu
This multilingual approach ensures inclusivity, allowing candidates to choose the language they are most comfortable with.
Preparation Strategies for NEET 2025
With the reversion to the pre-COVID exam pattern and other changes under NEET update, aspirants should refine their preparation strategies accordingly:
- Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the updated pattern, marking scheme, and time allocation.
- Master the Syllabus: Study the Class 11 and 12 NCERT curriculum thoroughly, as NEET 2025 aligns with these.
- Practice Regularly: Solve previous years’ question papers and take mock tests to enhance speed and accuracy.
- Time Management: Allocate dedicated time slots for each subject and adhere to a structured study plan.
- Revise Consistently: Regular revision is key to retaining concepts and formulas.
- Stay Updated: Keep track of any further announcements and any other expected changes in NEET 2025 from the NTA.
By implementing these strategies, aspirants can boost their preparation and approach NEET 2025 with confidence.
Conclusion
NEET 2025 remains one of the most crucial entrance exams for medical aspirants in India, hence introducing several notable changes aimed at improving fairness, transparency, and efficiency. After the NEET exam update, key modifications include reverting to the pre-COVID exam pattern, potential shifts in examination mode for enhanced security, and an updated application process that simplifies registration. The consistency in syllabus and marking scheme ensures stability for aspirants, while the revised tie-breaking criteria offer a fair ranking system.
By staying informed, practicing diligently, and following a structured study plan, aspirants can boost their confidence and increase their chances of success in NEET 2025. Good luck with your preparation!
FAQs on NEET 2025 Latest Updates
As of now after the NEET update, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has confirmed that NEET 2025 will be conducted in offline mode, in a single day and single shift.
No, the APAAR ID is no longer mandatory for NEET 2025 registration, simplifying the application process for candidates.
NEET 2025 will consist of 180 compulsory questions after the NEET update:
– Physics – 45 questions
– Chemistry – 45 questions
– Biology – 90 questions
The NEET 2025 exam will be conducted over 3 hours (180 minutes).
No, the NEET 2025 syllabus remains unchanged from the previous year and continues to align with the Class 11 and Class 12 NCERT curriculum.
