NEET Entrance Exam: A Complete Guide (Eligibility, Syllabus, Preparation & Career Scope)
Introduction to NEET Entrance Exam
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is one of the most prestigious and competitive medical entrance exams in India. Conducted annually by the National Testing Agency (NTA), NEET serves as the gateway to undergraduate medical courses like MBBS, BDS, BAMS, BHMS, and B.V.Sc., in government and private medical colleges across the country.
Introduced to streamline the medical admission process, NEET has replaced multiple state and institutional entrance tests. It ensures a uniform standard of evaluation for medical aspirants, making the selection process fair and merit-based.
Importance of NEET in India
• NEET is crucial not just for students but also for the medical education system in India. Here’s why:
• Single National-Level Exam: NEET has eliminated the need for various state and private entrance exams, reducing pressure on students.
• Merit-Based Selection: Admission is strictly based on NEET score, ensuring transparency and fairness.
• Wide Range of Courses: NEET score is valid for MBBS, BDS, AYUSH courses, and even veterinary sciences.
• Global Recognition: Many international universities consider NEET for medical admissions, especially in countries like Russia, Ukraine, and China.
NEET 2025 Overview
• Exam Name National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG)
• Conducted By National Testing Agency (NTA)
• Exam Type National Level
• Mode of Exam Offline (Pen & Paper Based)
• Duration 3 hours 20 minutes (200 minutes)
• Frequency Once a year
• Courses Offered MBBS, BDS, BAMS, BHMS, BUMS, BSMS, B.V.Sc.
Eligibility Criteria for NEET
To appear for NEET-UG, candidates must meet certain eligibility criteria:
1. Nationality
•. Indian Nationals
• Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)
• Overseas Citizen of India (OCI)
• Persons of Indian Origin (PIO)
• Foreign Nationals
2. Age Limit
• Minimum Age: 17 years as of 31st December of the year of admission
• Maximum Age: No upper age limit as per latest Supreme Court verdict
3. Educational Qualification
Passed Class 12 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English
Minimum marks:
• General category: 50%
• SC/ST/OBC: 40%
• PwD: 45%
4. Number of Attempts
• Unlimited (subject to age and other eligibility)
• NEET Exam Pattern 2025
• NEET follows a standardized exam format:
• Subject Sections No. of Questions Marks
Physics Section A + B 45 + 5 180
Chemistry Section A + B 45 + 5 180
Botany Section A + B 45 + 5 180
Zoology Section A + B 45 + 5 180
Total 200 (180 to attempt) 720
Each question carries 4 marks.
1 mark is deducted for every wrong answer.
Candidates can attempt any 10 out of 15 questions in Section B of each subject.
NEET Syllabus 2025
The NEET syllabus is based on NCERT curriculum for Class 11 and 12.
1. Physics
Class 11 Topics:
• Laws of Motion
• Thermodynamics
• Motion in a Straight Line
• Gravitation
• Oscillations and Waves
Class 12 Topics:
• Current Electricity
• Magnetism
• Electromagnetic Waves
• Optics
• Modern Physics
2. Chemistry
Class 11 Topics:
• Atomic Structure
• Chemical Bonding
• States of Matter
• Hydrocarbons
• Thermodynamics
Class 12 Topics:
• Electrochemistry
• Coordination Compounds
• Biomolecules
• Polymers
•™Organic Chemistry (complete)
3. Biology
Class 11 Topics:
• Diversity of Living Organisms
• Cell Structure and Function
• Plant Physiology
• Human Physiology
Class 12 Topics:
• Genetics and Evolution
• Reproduction
• Biotechnology
• Ecology and Environment
• How to Apply for NEET
Follow these steps to register:
1. Visit the official website: https://neet.nta.nic.in
2. Click on “New Registration”
3. Fill in personal and academic details
4. Upload required documents (photograph, signature, etc.)
5. Pay the application fee:
General: ₹1700
EWS/OBC-NCL: ₹1600
SC/ST/PwD: ₹1000
6. Download and print confirmation page
Preparation Tips for NEET 2025
Cracking NEET requires strategic preparation and consistency. Here are proven tips:
1. Know the Syllabus Thoroughly
Stick to NCERT textbooks as they cover most NEET questions. Mark important topics and create a checklist.
2. Make a Study Plan
Divide your day into 3 blocks: Physics, Chemistry, Biology. Assign fixed hours for each subject and include breaks to avoid burnout.
3. Practice MCQs Regularly
Solve previous years’ question papers and attempt mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
4. Revise Frequently
Create short notes and flashcards. Revise them weekly to reinforce key concepts and formulas.
5. Focus on Weak Areas
Identify topics where you lag and work on strengthening them through revision, doubt sessions, and concept videos.
6. Take Mock Tests
Enroll in test series and simulate real exam conditions to build confidence and manage time.
7. Stay Healthy and Positive
Maintain a balanced diet, sleep well, and practice mindfulness or yoga to manage stress.
Books Recommended for NEET Preparation
Physics
• NCERT Class 11 & 12
• Concepts of Physics by H.C. Verma
• D.C. Pandey Series
Chemistry
• NCERT Class 11 & 12
• Physical Chemistry by O.P. Tandon
• Organic Chemistry by Morrison & Boyd
Biology
• NCERT Class 11 & 12
• Trueman’s Biology
• Objective Biology by Dinesh
NEET Reservation Policy
Category Reservation (%)
SC 15%
ST 7.5%
OBC-NCL 27%
EWS 10%
PwD 5% (horizontal)
Note: Reservations are applicable only in government colleges as per Central and State Government norms.
Colleges Accepting NEET Score
• Over 500+ medical colleges and 300+ dental colleges accept NEET scores for admission:
• AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences)
• JIPMER, Puducherry
• Government Medical Colleges (state-wise)
• Private Medical and Dental Colleges
• AYUSH Colleges (BAMS, BHMS, etc.)
Veterinary Colleges
• NEET vs Other Medical Exams
• Criteria NEET AIIMS/JIPMER (Now merged)
Mode Offline Merged with NEET
Scope All India National
Courses Covered MBBS, BDS, AYUSH MBBS (AIIMS, JIPMER)
Exam Body NTA Merged under NTA
Career Opportunities After NEET
NEET opens doors to multiple career paths:
1. MBBS/BDS
The most sought-after career route, allowing you to become a doctor or dentist and practice medicine/surgery.
2. AYUSH Courses
Courses in Ayurveda (BAMS), Homeopathy (BHMS), Siddha (BSMS), and Unani (BUMS) for those inclined toward traditional systems of medicine.
3. Veterinary Sciences
B.V.Sc. courses for those interested in animal health and veterinary medicine.
4. Abroad Medical Education
Students can also use NEET score to apply to foreign medical colleges in countries like Russia, Ukraine, China, Philippines, etc.
5. Paramedical and Allied Sciences
Courses like B.Sc. Nursing, Physiotherapy, Radiology, and Occupational Therapy are viable career options.
NEET Cut-Off Trends
Cut-off varies every year based on difficulty level, number of students, and total seats.
Category 2024 Cut-Off Score
General (50%) 720 – 137
OBC/SC/ST (40%) 136 – 107
PwD (45%) 136 – 121
Challenges Faced by NEET Aspirants
• High competition (Over 20 lakh applicants annually)
• Pressure to succeed in one exam
• Time management across multiple subjects
• Emotional and mental stress
• Coaching expenses and lack of resources in rural areas
Conclusion
The NEET Entrance Exam is a gateway to fulfilling your dream of becoming a doctor or healthcare professional in India. It tests your academic strength, perseverance, and passion for medicine. With the right preparation strategy, dedication, and time management, you can ace NEET and unlock countless opportunities in the medical field.
Whether you aim to become a general physician, surgeon, dentist, or traditional medicine practitioner, NEET is your stepping stone to a rewarding career in healthcare.
FAQs About NEET
Q1. How many times can I attempt NEET?
There is no attempt limit as long as you meet the age and qualification criteria.
Q2. Is NEET compulsory for studying medicine abroad?
Yes, NEET qualification is mandatory for MBBS abroad as per the Medical Council of India (MCI).
Q3. Can I appear for NEET in regional languages?
Yes, NEET is conducted in 13 languages, including Hindi, English, Urdu, Tamil, Bengali, and more.
Q4. Are calculators allowed in NEET?
No, electronic devices and calculators are strictly prohibited in the exam hall.
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Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group)