Preparing for NEET is always tense and stressful. The long hours of study can drain a candidate, both physically and mentally. Any uncertainty about the examination and the evaluation process will add to the pressure and this can have a negative impact on the preparation. To help students better understand the NEET system, here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the examination.
Who will conduct the NEET-UG examination in 2020?
The examination will be conducted by the NTA (National Testing Agency), which has replaced the CBSE.
What is the pattern of the examination?
As per the NTA, there will be 180 questions covering the subjects of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (Botany and Zoology). Each subject will have 45 questions.
When will the examination be held?
As per the November 2019 notification of the NTA, the examination will be held on 3rd May 2020.
Will NEET be held twice a year in the future?
As of now, there is no formal announcement on this. 3rd May 2020 is the only official examination date.
Are there any major changes in NEET for 2020?
From 2020 onwards, NEET will serve as the single entrance test for all MBBS and BDS seats across the country.
What is the examination format?
The examination will be in the off-line mode and candidates will use pen and paper to give their answers. To clarify – candidates will be provided with special OMR sheets which will have to be filled in and which will then be electronically marked and evaluated.
Is there a limit on the number of times a candidate can sit for the examination?
As of 2020, there is no notification limiting the number of attempts that a candidate may make.
What is the minimum qualifying mark to be eligible for NEET?
The minimum is 50% for general category candidates and 40% for SC/ST candidates.
Is there an age limit for candidates?
As per NTA guidelines, the candidate must have completed 17 years of age as on 31st December 2020 to qualify for the minimum age. There is some confusion about the maximum age policy.
Is a student appearing for the class 12 examination eligible to sit for NEET?
Yes, a candidate who is qualifying for class 12 may sit for the examination, subject to the minimum age limit of 17 years being maintained.
What are the languages in which NEET is conducted?
The examination is conducted in English, Hindi and 9 regional languages: Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Marathi, Odia, Tamil, Telugu and Urdu.
Will it be possible to take the examination in Tamil if the candidate has chosen an exam center outside Tamil Nadu?
Question papers in regional languages will be available only in the state where the language is spoken. A student wishing to take the examination in Tamil must choose an examination center in Tamil Nadu.