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)
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| 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.
-
Visit the Official Website: Go to neet.nta.nic.in or nta.ac.in.
-
Access Registration: Click on the "NEET UG 2026 Registration" link on the homepage.
-
New Registration: Click on the "New Registration" button.
-
Enter Basic Details: Fill in your Name, Mobile Number, and Email Address. Click Submit.
-
Verify OTP: Enter the OTP sent to your mobile/email to complete the initial registration.
-
Login: Use the system-generated Application Number and Password to log in.
-
Fill Application Form: Complete the form with personal, academic, and exam center preference details.
-
Upload Documents: Upload the "Live Photo," scanned signature, thumb impressions, and certificates as per the size guide above.
-
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
-
Passport Size Photograph (Recent)
-
Postcard Size Photograph
-
Signature
-
Left and Right-hand Fingers and Thumb Impressions
-
Class 10 Pass Certificate & Marksheet
-
Class 12 Marksheet (if passed)
-
Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS, if applicable)
-
PwBD Certificate (if applicable)
-
Citizenship Certificate (for NRI/OCI/Foreign citizens)
-
Address Proof (Present and Permanent)
-
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 | |
| Class 10 Pass Certificate | 50 KB to 300 KB | |
| Class 10 Marksheet | 50 KB to 300 KB | |
| Address Proof | 50 KB to 300 KB | |
| Citizenship/NRI Certificate | 50 KB to 300 KB | |
| PwBD Certificate | 50 KB to 300 KB |
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.
| Parameter | NEET 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.
| Parameter | NEET 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.
| Parameter | NEET 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.
| Category | Fee (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
Comments
All Comments (0)
Join the conversation