NEET Exam Pattern 2026: Marks, Subjects & Duration

NEET exam pattern 2026 is expected to be similar to last year. Previously, NTA updated the exam pattern by removing optional questions. Now, instead of 200 questions, candidates will have to attempt 180 questions. The time duration of NEET exam is 3 hours 20 minutes, while the exam mode, subject-wise compulsory questions, and marking scheme remain unchanged.

The complete NEET exam pattern 2026 includes details of total marks, subjects, and the Biology NEET exam pattern and others, will be released by NTA on its official website NEET NTA.nic.in, tentatively in February 2026. The exam is scheduled for the first week of May 2026. The NEET 2026 application form and NEET exam date will be announced together by NTA.

NEET Exam Pattern 2026 Highlights

NEET exam pattern 2026 is designed by National Testing Agency (NTA) to assess candidates in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Understanding the highlights allows aspirants to strategize their exam approach. Below are NEET exam pattern 2026 highlights 2026:

Changes in NEET Exam Pattern Last Year

Last year, NEET exam pattern was changed back to the pre-pandemic format. The exam was simplified, with all 180 questions now compulsory and the duration reduced to 3 hours. Students can easily know how many questions to attempt and manage their time.

• Optional Questions Removed: Previously, there were 20 optional questions, five in each subject. Now, all 180 questions are compulsory.

• Shortened Exam Duration: Earlier, the exam lasted 200 minutes (3 hours 20 minutes). The duration has now been reduced to 180 minutes (3 hours).

• Removal of Sectional Division: Each subject used to have Section A (35 questions) and Section B (15 questions with 5 optional). Now, each subject has a single section of 45 compulsory questions.

NEET 2026 Question Paper Structure

NEET 2026 question paper structure helps candidates plan their time and strategy during the exam. The paper is designed to test knowledge in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, with clear instructions on compulsory questions and marks distribution. The Biology NEET exam pattern carries the highest weightage, making it an important focus area for candidates. The table below contains NEET 2026 question paper structure:

NEET 2026 Marking Scheme and Distribution of Marks

NEET 2026 exam pattern follows a clear marking scheme to evaluate candidates’ performance. Each correct answer carries four marks, while one mark is deducted for every wrong answer. Unanswered questions do not affect the score, and multiple responses marked for a question are treated as incorrect. The total marks for NEET 2026 are 720. Understanding this distribution helps aspirants plan their strategy and attempt questions carefully to maximize their score.

NEET 2026 OMR Sheet Guidelines

To offer an accurate evaluation, the National Testing Agency has provided instructions for filling the NEET OMR sheet. Following these guidelines helps avoid mistakes that can lead to loss of marks. Below are some important points to remember of NEET 2026 OMR sheet:

• Answers must be marked using the ballpoint pen provided in the examination hall

• Changing answers on the OMR sheet is not allowed

• Erasing or altering any printed information on the OMR sheet is prohibited

• Rough work should be done only in the test booklet

• Candidates must mark the test booklet code on the OMR sheet

• Ensure the question paper code matches the OMR sheet code before starting

Language Options in NEET Exam Pattern 2026

NEET 2026 exam will be conducted in multiple languages. Candidates can select their preferred language based on their exam centre. It is important to choose the correct language during registration, as it cannot be changed later. Below are the language options in NEET exam pattern 2026: