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NEET Eligibility Marks in 12th: Category-wise Percentage and Criteria

NEET Eligibility Marks in 12th are a crucial criterion for all medical aspirants. Candidates must secure minimum marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) in their Class 12 exams to be eligible for NEET UG. For the General category, the requirement is 50% aggregate in PCB, while OBC, SC, and ST candidates need 40%. General-PwD candidates must score at least 45%. Passing each subject individually is mandatory to meet the eligibility criteria and apply for NEET 2026.

authorImageAnanya Gupta13 Mar, 2026
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Aspirants planning to pursue a career in medicine must first clear the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). However, before appearing for the exam, it is crucial to understand the NEET eligibility marks in 12th. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has set specific academic standards that every candidate must fulfill in their qualifying board examinations.

While the NEET rank determines your college placement, meeting the NEET class 12 marks criteria is a mandatory prerequisite for the counseling and admission process.

NEET Eligibility Marks in 12th Overview

The primary focus for qualifying is the aggregate marks obtained in the Science stream. Candidates must have completed their Class 12 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English. The NEET eligibility PCB percentage is calculated based on the marks scored in the three core science subjects.

NEET Eligibility Criteria 12th Marks Overview

Category

Minimum Marks Required for NEET (PCB Aggregate)

General (Unreserved)

50%

OBC/SC/ST

40%

General-PH (Physically Handicapped)

45%

Detailed NEET PCB Marks Requirement by Category

The minimum percentage for NEET UG varies significantly depending on the category of the candidate. It is important to note that these percentages refer to the aggregate of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, not the overall percentage of all 12th-grade subjects.

1. NEET Qualification Marks for General Category

For candidates belonging to the Unreserved (UR) category, the NTA mandates a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Biotechnology. Additionally, the student must pass English and each of the science subjects individually.

2. NEET Eligibility Marks for OBC

Candidates from the Other Backward Classes (OBC-NCL) are provided a relaxation in the qualifying score. The NEET eligibility marks for OBC is a minimum aggregate of 40% in the PCB group.

3. NEET Eligibility Marks for SC ST

Aspirants from the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) must also secure at least 40% aggregate marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology to be eligible for the entrance test.

Essential NEET Class 12 Marks Criteria

Beyond the percentage, there are specific rules that define the NEET PCB marks requirement:

  • Passing Status: Candidates must pass Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English individually.

  • Practical Marks: The aggregate percentage includes both theory and practical marks as per the board's marking scheme.

  • Age Limit: Candidates must be at least 17 years old at the time of admission or will complete that age on or before 31st December of the admission year.

  • Open Schooling: Students from Open Schools (like NIOS) or those with Biology as an additional subject are eligible to apply, subject to the final outcomes of pending court cases.

 

NEET Eligibility Marks in 12th FAQs

What are the NEET eligibility marks in 12th for the General category?

NEET qualification marks for general category students is a minimum of 50% aggregate in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

Is there a minimum percentage for NEET UG for SC/ST students?

Yes, the NEET eligibility marks for SC ST candidates is a minimum aggregate of 40% in the PCB subjects.

Are 12th-grade marks considered for NEET ranking?

No, 12th-grade marks are only for eligibility. The final merit list and ranking are strictly based on the score obtained in the NEET UG entrance exam.

Can I apply for NEET if I failed in Chemistry but have a high overall percentage?

No, you must pass Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English individually to satisfy the NEET class 12 marks criteria.