Centre Considers JEE-Style NEET-UG Format

The Centre has informed the Supreme Court that it is considering a new format for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test-Undergraduate (NEET-UG) exam. The proposal includes conducting NEET-UG as a Computer-Based Test (CBT), either as a single-stage examination or a two-stage examination, similar to the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main and JEE Advanced.

The Centre's decision comes after the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, which led to ongoing proceedings on reforms in the National Testing Agency (NTA). The High-Powered Task Force (HPTF) on examination reforms, led by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani, will provide recommendations to the Centre before a final decision is made.

Currently, NEET-UG is the only major NTA examination still conducted in pen-and-paper mode. In contrast, seven of the NTA's eight major examinations, including JEE (Main), CUET (UG), CUET (PG), UGC-NET, and CSIR-NET, are already conducted as computer-based tests across multiple sessions.

The Centre noted that NEET-UG is a unique examination due to its scale, with over 22 lakh registered candidates, mostly women from rural areas. The exam determines admissions to various programmes, including MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, Veterinary, and Nursing. Any structural changes to the exam will be made after consultations with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the National Medical Commission (NMC).

The Centre has also introduced new security measures to prevent paper leaks and systemic failures. A 10-layer 'fortress' security framework has been implemented, which includes using air-gapped (offline) artificial intelligence systems to prepare question papers, assigning unique serial numbers to every question paper and OMR sheet, and transporting examination papers using six layers of tamper-evident packaging secured with single-use locks.

The Supreme Court will hear the case on August 6. The Centre has referred to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Act, 2026, which provides for stringent penalties, including imprisonment of up to 10 years and fines of up to ₹1 crore, for serious examination-related offenses.

The proposed changes to the NEET-UG exam format aim to create a robust and institutionalized examination system. The Centre will provide sufficient advance notice to candidates if any changes are made to the examination pattern.

In conclusion, the Centre's consideration of a new format for NEET-UG and the introduction of new security measures aim to prevent paper leaks and ensure a fair examination process. The Supreme Court's hearing on August 6 will provide further clarity on the matter.

The changes to the NEET-UG exam format and the new security measures are significant developments in the education sector. They demonstrate the Centre's efforts to improve the examination system and prevent malpractices.

The implementation of a computer-based test for NEET-UG will bring it in line with other major NTA examinations. The use of technology will help to reduce the risk of paper leaks and ensure a more secure examination process.

Overall, the Centre's proposals and the introduction of new security measures are positive steps towards creating a more robust and fair examination system for NEET-UG candidates.