NEET PG 2026 introduces expanded test centres and more exam time

The Union Health Ministry has announced significant changes to the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Postgraduate) 2026, including an expanded choice of test centres and additional time per question. These measures aim to enhance convenience for the record 2.73 lakh candidates registered for the exam, scheduled for August 30.

Candidates to Choose Test Centres Closer to Home

Under the new system, candidates will be allowed to select three state preferences for their examination centres, with their correspondence state as the mandatory first choice. This change is designed to ensure that most candidates are allotted centres closer to their place of residence, addressing past concerns about long-distance travel due to limited availability of nearby centres. Previously, test centres were assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, often forcing late registrants to travel to other states.

Extended Planning Time and Updated Exam Pattern

In another candidate-friendly move, test city allotments will now be announced three weeks prior to the exam date, giving aspirants more time to arrange travel and accommodation. This marks a departure from previous years when venue details were disclosed closer to the exam, causing logistical stress for participants.

The examination pattern has also been revised, reducing the number of questions from 200 to 180 while increasing the time allotted to 210 minutes. This adjustment provides candidates with more time per question without altering the overall test duration.

Enhanced Security Measures

To ensure the integrity of the examination process, the Ministry has introduced Aadhaar-based authentication during both the application process and on the exam day. Iris-based biometric verification will be implemented as a backup for cases where fingerprint authentication fails.

The question paper preparation and delivery process has been fortified with multiple layers of encryption, secure offline preparation, and controlled digital decryption at the test's scheduled start time. Additionally, the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) has operationalised a dedicated email for reporting impersonation and other unfair practices.

Single-Shift Exam for Uniformity

Unlike previous editions that were conducted in two shifts due to emergencies or postponements, NEET (PG) 2026 will be held in a single shift across approximately 340 cities and over 1,300 centres. This change aims to ensure uniformity in the difficulty level and assessment of candidates.

Record Registrations and Robust Infrastructure

With a 12.5% increase in registrations compared to last year, NEET (PG) 2026 will see the participation of over 2.73 lakh candidates. To manage the scale of the examination, more than 60,000 functionaries will be deployed, supported by comprehensive security measures such as CCTV surveillance, signal jammers, biometric authentication, and real-time monitoring via command centres.

Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda, after reviewing the preparations on August 1, directed all stakeholders to ensure a smooth, secure, and transparent examination process.

The reforms reflect the Ministry's commitment to making the NEET (PG) process more candidate-centric while maintaining the highest standards of security and fairness.

Source: The Hindu