22.79 Lakh Candidates Set for NEET UG 2026 Amid Tight Security and Biometric Checks

Key facts

• NEET UG 2026 is scheduled for May 3, from 2 PM to 5 PM.
• A total of 22,79,743 candidates have registered, including 13,32,928 females and 9,46,815 males.
• The exam will be held at 522 centres in India and 14 centres abroad.
• Entry to examination centres closes strictly at 1:30 PM.
• Candidates facing biometric hardware or connectivity issues may still enter after frisking and submitting a written undertaking.
• Admit cards were released on April 26 and are available on the official NEET website.
• Candidates must carry a printed admit card, a passport-sized photograph, and a valid government ID.

The Final Countdown for India's Medical Aspirants

More than 22.79 lakh candidates are preparing to sit for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate) 2026 on May 3, as the National Testing Agency (NTA) puts the finishing touches on examination logistics. The test, a gateway to medical and dental seats across India, will run from 2 PM to 5 PM in 522 cities nationwide and 14 cities overseas. Registration figures released by the NTA show that 13,32,928 female candidates and 9,46,815 male candidates have enrolled, reflecting the exam's massive scale. to their allotted centres at least one hour before the exam begins, as entry will be barred after 1:30 PM.

Biometric Verification and Contingency Protocols

In a detailed advisory, the NTA has outlined procedures for biometric verification, acknowledging potential hardware or connectivity glitches. Candidates who encounter difficulties during biometric authentication will still be permitted to enter the examination hall after undergoing frisking. However, they must submit a written undertaking, the format of which will be provided at the centre. The agency has assured that candidates will not be interrupted during the examination for biometric verification. This measure aims to prevent disruptions while maintaining security standards.

Strict Dress Code and Prohibited Items

The NTA has specified a clear dress code to ensure smooth security checks. Candidates are encouraged to wear light, comfortable clothing. Full sleeves and woollen garments are allowed, but students opting for such attire must report early for additional security checks. Religious articles are also permitted under similar conditions. Footwear guidelines recommend slippers or low-heeled sandals. Candidates must carry transparent water bottles, their NEET UG 2026 admit card, and a valid government-issued identity proof. Jewellery, metallic ornaments, and any items that could facilitate unfair practices are strictly prohibited.

Admit Card and Document Checklist

Admit cards for NEET UG 2026 were released on April 26 and are accessible through the official NEET website. The NTA has urged candidates to carefully follow all instructions printed on the hall ticket. Essential items include a printout of the admit card, a passport-sized photograph pasted on it, an additional photograph for the attendance sheet, and a valid government identity proof. Candidates claiming relaxation under the PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities) category must carry their certificate of physical limitation or PwBD certificate. The agency has also advised keeping Aadhaar biometric details updated, along with UDID cards for persons with disabilities and category certificates for EWS, SC, ST, or OBC-NCL reservations.

Exam-Day Timeline and Centre Entry Rules

Entry to examination centres will commence at 11 AM, with a hard cutoff at 1:30 PM. No candidate will be allowed entry after this time. Test booklets will be distributed by invigilators at 1:45 PM, giving candidates 15 minutes to review the booklet before the exam starts at 2 PM. The NTA has reiterated that no candidate will be permitted into the exam hall without a valid admit card. Barred items, including electronic devices and study materials, are strictly forbidden to prevent unfair practices.

Wider Context: NEET's Role in India's Medical Education

NEET UG is the single entrance examination for undergraduate medical and dental programmes in India, replacing multiple state-level tests. The exam's integrity has been a subject of intense scrutiny in recent years, with past incidents of paper leaks and malpractice prompting the NTA to tighten security measures. The introduction of biometric verification and strict dress codes reflects ongoing efforts to ensure a level playing field for all candidates. With over 22.79 lakh aspirants vying for a limited number of seats, the stakes remain exceptionally high.

Outlook: What Lies Ahead for Candidates

As the exam day approaches, candidates are advised to finalise their preparations and adhere to the NTA's guidelines to avoid last-minute complications. The agency has emphasised that early reporting and compliance with dress and document requirements are crucial for a smooth experience. Results are expected to be announced in the coming weeks, followed by counselling sessions for seat allocation. For the lakhs of students whose futures hinge on this single test, May 3 marks a pivotal moment in their academic journeys.

The bottom line

• NEET UG 2026 will be held on May 3 with over 22.79 lakh registered candidates across 536 centres.
• Entry closes at 1:30 PM; candidates must report early and carry required documents.
• Biometric failures will not bar entry; affected candidates must submit a written undertaking.
• Strict dress code and prohibited items list aim to prevent malpractice.
• Admit cards released on April 26 are mandatory for entry.