NEET UG 2026 Registration Begins at neet.nta.nic.in: Application Process, Live Photograph Guidelines, Documents, Eligibility & New NTA Rules

Feb 8, 2026, 18:27 IST

NEET UG 2026 registration begins at neet.nta.nic.in. Check application dates, new NTA rules, live photo guidelines, documents required & eligibility criteria. Apply before March 8, 2026.

NEET UG 2026 Registration Begins at neet.nta.nic.in: Check Application Process, Live Photograph Guidelines, Documents, Eligibility & New NTA Rules
NEET UG 2026 Registration Begins at neet.nta.nic.in: Check Application Process, Live Photograph Guidelines, Documents, Eligibility & New NTA Rules

NEET Registration 2026: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially commenced the NEET UG 2026 registration process today, February 8, 2026. Medical aspirants across India can now access the application forms on the official website. The deadline for students to submit their applications is March 8, 2026.

The NTA has confirmed that NEET UG 2026 will be conducted in Pen and Paper mode on May 3, 2026. This year, the NTA has introduced significant changes to the registration protocols, including mandatory Aadhaar-based eKYC and a "Live Photograph" capture system to enhance security.

This article covers everything you need to know for successful NEET UG 2026 registration, including the application process, new NTA rules, Aadhaar-based eKYC, live photo capture guidelines, documents required, upload size & format, and NEET 2026 eligibility criteria.

NEET UG 2026: Key Highlights & Dates

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the official schedule for NEET UG 2026 along with application dates, exam timing, fee details, and other important events. Candidates must note these dates carefully to avoid missing any deadlines.

NEET UG 2026 Key Dates & Highlights (Official)

EventDetails
Exam Name National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET UG) 2026
Conducting Body National Testing Agency (NTA)
Registration Start Date February 8, 2026
Last Date to Apply March 8, 2026 (up to 09:00 PM)
Last Date of Fee Payment March 8, 2026 (up to 11:50 PM)
Application Correction Window March 10, 2026 to March 12, 2026
NEET UG 2026 Exam Date May 3, 2026
Exam Duration 180 minutes (3 hours)
Exam Timing 02:00 PM to 05:00 PM (IST)
Mode of Exam Pen and Paper (Offline)
Result Declaration June 2026
Official Website neet.nta.nic.in / nta.ac.in

New NTA Rules for NEET UG 2026 Application

For the 2026 session, NTA has updated the registration rules to prevent impersonation and ensure data authenticity. Candidates must pay close attention to these two major changes:

1. Aadhaar-Based eKYC

NTA has introduced Aadhaar-based eKYC for identity verification.

  • Action Required: Before starting your application, ensure your Aadhaar-linked mobile number is active and has proper network connectivity to receive OTPs.

  • NTA Notice: “Remember to check if your Aadhaar-linked number is active and has proper network coverage.”

2. Live Photograph Capture

Unlike previous years where you only uploaded a scanned photo, you must now capture a live photograph via a webcam during the form submission.

  • The Rule: The system will automatically compare your live photo with your Aadhaar photo.

  • Mismatch Protocol: If the live photo does not match the Aadhaar photo, you will be required to upload a valid supporting certificate during the process.

  • Instructions:

    • Ensure your webcam is functional.

    • If you lack a webcam, you can scan a QR code on the form to use your mobile camera.

    • Do's: Ensure the photo covers 80% of the frame (face). The background should be light-colored.

    • Don'ts: Do not wear caps, glasses, or goggles.

How to Apply for NEET Exam 2026?

Follow this step-by-step guide to avoid errors in your application form.

  1. Visit the Official Website: Go to neet.nta.nic.in or nta.ac.in.

  2. Access Registration: Click on the "NEET UG 2026 Registration" link on the homepage.

  3. New Registration: Click on the "New Registration" button.

  4. Enter Basic Details: Fill in your Name, Mobile Number, and Email Address. Click Submit.

  5. Verify OTP: Enter the OTP sent to your mobile/email to complete the initial registration.

  6. Login: Use the system-generated Application Number and Password to log in.

  7. Fill Application Form: Complete the form with personal, academic, and exam center preference details.

  8. Upload Documents: Upload the "Live Photo," scanned signature, thumb impressions, and certificates as per the size guide above.

  9. Payment & Print: Pay the application fee, submit the form, and download the confirmation page for future reference.

NTA’s NEET 2026 Information Bulletin Released (Download PDF)

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially released the NEET UG 2026 Information Bulletin, which contains all the authentic and detailed guidelines related to the NEET 2026 exam. Candidates must download and read the bulletin carefully before filling out the NEET UG 2026 application form to avoid mistakes and rejection.

The NEET 2026 Information Bulletin is the most reliable source for rules, eligibility, exam pattern, and application instructions issued by NTA.

What the NEET UG 2026 Information Bulletin Covers:

  • Complete NEET UG 2026 registration process

  • Detailed eligibility criteria (age limit, subjects, minimum marks, nationality)

  • Step-by-step application form filling instructions

  • Aadhaar-based eKYC and live photo capture guidelines

  • Photograph, signature & thumb impression upload rules

  • Document size and format requirements

  • NEET 2026 exam pattern, mode of exam, and important instructions

  • Rules for PwBD, NRI, OCI, and Foreign National candidates

  • Information on unfair means, cancellation of candidature, and legal actions

Why You Must Read the NEET 2026 Information Bulletin:

  • Helps you avoid common application mistakes

  • Ensures compliance with new NTA rules for NEET 2026

  • Clarifies document upload guidelines and image specifications

  • Provides official details on exam day instructions and eligibility conditions

👉 Download NEET UG 2026 Information Bulletin (Official PDF)

Note: Always follow the instructions mentioned in the official NTA NEET 2026 Information Bulletin. Any mismatch in details or incorrect document upload can lead to rejection of the NEET UG 2026 application form.

NEET UG 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the specific eligibility standards set for 2026.

1. Age Limit

  • Minimum Age: Candidates must have completed 17 years of age at the time of admission or will complete that age on or before December 31, 2026.

  • Upper Age Limit: There is no upper age limit for NEET UG 2026. 

2. Educational Qualification

  • Qualifying Exam: Candidates must have passed Class 10+2 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English as core subjects from a recognized board.

  • Appearing Candidates: Students appearing for their Class 12 board exams in 2026 are also eligible to apply.

3. Minimum Marks Required (Aggregate in PCB)

  • General / EWS: 50% 

  • OBC / SC / ST: 40%

  • PwD (General): 45%

4. Number of Attempts

  • There is no limit on the number of attempts for NEET UG 2026.

Check NEET 2026 Eligibility Criteria in Detail Here

List of Documents Required for NEET UG 2026 Registration

Candidates must keep both digital (soft copy) and physical (hard copy) versions of the following documents ready before visiting the official portal.

List of Mandatory Documents

  1. Passport Size Photograph (Recent)

  2. Postcard Size Photograph

  3. Signature

  4. Left and Right-hand Fingers and Thumb Impressions

  5. Class 10 Pass Certificate & Marksheet

  6. Class 12 Marksheet (if passed)

  7. Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS, if applicable)

  8. PwBD Certificate (if applicable)

  9. Citizenship Certificate (for NRI/OCI/Foreign citizens)

  10. Address Proof (Present and Permanent)

  11. Valid ID Proof (Aadhaar Card, etc.)

Document Size & Format Guidelines for NEET Application 2026

NTA will reject files that do not meet these specific dimensions:

Document File Size Format
Passport Size Photograph 10 KB to 200 KB JPG/JPEG
Postcard Size Photograph (4"x6") 10 KB to 200 KB JPG/JPEG
Scanned Signature 10 KB to 100 KB JPG/JPEG
Fingers & Thumb Impressions 10 KB to 200 KB JPG/JPEG
Category Certificate 50 KB to 300 KB PDF
Class 10 Pass Certificate 50 KB to 300 KB PDF
Class 10 Marksheet 50 KB to 300 KB PDF
Address Proof 50 KB to 300 KB PDF
Citizenship/NRI Certificate 50 KB to 300 KB PDF
PwBD Certificate 50 KB to 300 KB PDF

NEET UG 2026 Photograph Upload Guidelines (As per NTA)

Candidates must follow the official NEET UG 2026 photo guidelines strictly to avoid rejection of the application form. The uploaded photograph is used for identity verification and live photo matching.

ParameterNEET UG 2026 Official Guidelines
Age of Photo Must not be older than 3 months
Content 80% of the frame must be the candidate’s face (without mask), including ears
Background Plain white background
Format JPG / JPEG only
File Size 10 KB to 200 KB
Colour Colour or black & white allowed
Face Accessories No caps, hats, goggles, or spectacles allowed
Image Quality Clear, well-lit, no blur or shadows

NEET UG 2026 Signature Upload Guidelines

The signature uploaded during NEET UG 2026 registration is used for authentication during the examination and counselling process. Any mismatch can lead to rejection.

ParameterNEET UG 2026 Official Guidelines
Pen Type Black ballpoint pen only
Paper White paper
Writing Style Running handwriting only (No capital letters)
Format JPG / JPEG only
File Size 10 KB to 100 KB
Clarity Signature must be clear, not smudged
Legal Warning Uploading someone else’s signature = Unfair Means Case (Candidature cancellation + legal action)

NEET UG 2026 Thumb Impression Upload Guidelines

Thumb impressions play a crucial role in biometric verification for NEET UG 2026. Any unclear or incorrect upload may result in form rejection.

ParameterNEET UG 2026 Official Guidelines
Content Left & Right-hand Fingers and Thumb Impressions
Template Must follow official template provided by NTA
Format JPG / JPEG only
File Size 10 KB to 200 KB
Clarity Must be clearly legible, not smudged
Quality Tips Use fresh ink, proper lighting, neat cropping

NEET UG 2026 Application Fee (As per NTA)

The NEET UG 2026 application fee varies by candidate category and exam centre location (India or outside India). Candidates must pay the fee online while submitting the application form to complete the registration process successfully.

CategoryFee (Centres in India)Fee (Outside India)
General ₹ 1700/- ₹ 9500/-
General-EWS / OBC-NCL ₹ 1600/- ₹ 9500/-
SC / ST / PwBD / Third Gender ₹ 1000/- ₹ 9500/-

Note:

  • Processing charges and GST are applicable and must be paid by the candidate.

  • Fee payment modes: Credit Card, Debit Card, Net Banking, UPI.

The NEET UG 2026 registration process has become more secure and transparent with the introduction of Aadhaar-based eKYC and live photo capture. Candidates are advised to complete the application well before the March 8, 2026 deadline and strictly follow the document upload guidelines to avoid rejection.

Also Check

NEET UG 2026: Physics Formula Sheet PDF

How many Attempts for NEET 2026: Complete Guide and Age Limit Here

NEET UG Exam Pattern 2026: Check Total Questions, Marks, Marking Scheme Here

Best Books for NEET 2025: Subject-Wise Top Reference Books for Physics, Chemistry & Biology

Gurmeet Kaur
Gurmeet Kaur

Assistant Manager

Gurmeet Kaur is an Education Industry Professional with 10+ years of experience in teaching and creating digital content. She is a Science graduate and has a PG diploma in Computer Applications. At jagranjosh.com, she creates content on Science and Mathematics for school students. She creates explainer and analytical articles aimed at providing academic guidance to students. She can be reached at gurmeet.kaur@jagrannewmedia.com

... Read More

Get here latest School, CBSE and Govt Jobs notification and articles in English and Hindi for Sarkari Naukari, Sarkari Result and Exam Preparation. Empower your learning journey with Jagran Josh App - Your trusted guide for exams, career, and knowledge! Download Now

Trending

Latest Education News