
Is NEET 2026 Conducted in Two Phases? Rumours are also prevailing about NEET 2026, which may conduct its exams in two phases. NTA, however, has yet to announce such a plan. The reason why they are planning to conduct exams in two phases could be due to an increase in applicants. Students would then have a chance to perform better in the second phase.
Nevertheless, the entire teaching syllabus and exam structure will not see any change, with only the timing being modified. Students can prepare for the exam with the same official syllabus.
Students actively question whether NEET 2026 will shift to a two-phase format. This debate is significant for medical aspirants. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has not provided official confirmation. However, the idea gains traction due to increasing NEET registrations. Understanding this discussion helps candidates plan their preparation strategy.
If NTA introduces a two-phase model, it would likely involve two attempts. Students could take the exam at different times of the year. The higher score from both attempts might be considered. Alternatively, scores could combine for a final result. The syllabus is expected to remain consistent across both phases. This approach aims to provide greater flexibility for candidates.
|
Category |
Details
|
|---|---|
|
Phase 1 (Attempt 1) |
Conducted earlier in the year; first attempt for students. |
|
Phase 2 (Attempt 2) |
Held later; students may attempt again to improve score. |
|
Scoring Method |
Higher score from two attempts, or combined scores. |
|
Syllabus |
Expected to remain unchanged for both phases. |
NTA has not officially confirmed a two-phase format for NEET 2026. Despite no announcement, this possibility is discussed widely. Several factors drive this consideration. High numbers of student registrations create logistical challenges. Managing over 20 lakh candidates in one sitting is complex. A two-phase system could ease this pressure. It might also offer students an additional chance to improve their scores. This could reduce anxiety and provide a better performance opportunity.
NEET has traditionally been a single-phase examination. This format simplifies logistical management for NTA. Coordinating exam centers, staff, and security for millions of students nationwide is a monumental task. A single exam date ensures a standardized environment for all candidates. It helps maintain fairness and consistency in evaluation. Shifting to two phases would significantly increase this organizational complexity.
NEET applicant numbers consistently grow each year. In recent years, registrations exceeded 20 lakh students. This upward trend is likely to continue for NEET 2026. Estimates suggest 21 to 23 lakh candidates may appear. This massive number contributes significantly to the two-phase exam discussion. Distributing candidates over two phases could reduce strain on resources.
The format of the NEET examination is very important for all medical aspirants. There have been recent developments about the possibility of changes to the structure of the exam. This set of points briefly mentions some points about the current discussion on the NEET 2026 exam.
|
NEET 2026 Exam Format |
|
|
Parameter |
Details |
|
Exam Name |
National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) 2026 |
|
Exam Mode |
Offline (Pen and Paper Based) |
|
Question Type |
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
|
Total Questions |
200 (180 to be attempted) |
|
Total Marks |
720 Marks |
|
Exam Duration |
3 Hours 20 Minutes |
|
Subjects |
Physics, Chemistry, Biology (Botany & Zoology) |
|
Marking Scheme |
+4 for correct, −1 for incorrect |
|
Exam Frequency |
Once a year |
|
Conducting Body |
National Testing Agency (NTA) |
The NTA has not yet released any information regarding changes in the NEET 2026 exam pattern. The system may only be affected by the two-phase process concerning the timings. The format, subjects, and marking scheme remain the same. The pattern concerning the distribution of questions and the method, which is pen and paper-based, is also expected to be the same.
|
What May Change |
What May Not Change
|
|---|---|
|
Two separate phases/attempts |
Core syllabus |
|
Separate admit cards |
Question distribution |
|
Option to appear once/twice |
Mode of exam (pen and paper) |
|
Scoring method (new options) |
Total marks, MCQ question type |
Students can expect the NEET 2026 exam to maintain its moderate to high difficulty. Biology will remain factual and NCERT-based. Chemistry will involve conceptual and formula-based questions. Physics will test application and numerical skills. If two phases happen, both phases will aim for similar difficulty levels. This ensures fairness across all attempts. Students must rely on NCERT, previous papers, and mock tests for preparation.
PW Disha is a digital platform where NEET aspirants can talk directly to dedicated mentors for guidance. Students can ask questions and get instant help through personal one-on-one sessions. PW Disha has many features to support students:
The first chat session of five minutes is free for every student.
Each student is connected with a mentor who focuses only on NEET preparation needs.
Chat attachments are given so students can look back at their conversation easily.
The mentor’s availability shows online so students know when to connect.
After each session, students are asked to share feedback to help make the platform better for everyone
No official confirmation exists. Discussions are ongoing, but NTA has not announced a two-phase format yet.
If introduced, Phase 1 and Phase 2 may work like two attempts. Students could appear once or twice.
No confirmed updates. Any change, if introduced, may only affect scheduling. The syllabus or marking scheme should remain the same.
Based on recent data, NEET 2026 may see 21–23 lakh candidates.
Difficulty is expected to remain moderate to high. It will be similar to previous years, focusing on NCERT-based questions.