NEET UG 2026 exam today: Key rules, last minute tips, dress code and reporting time

The NTA is holding NEET UG 2026 today for over 22.79 lakh candidates across India and abroad. Strict gate closure, layered security and updated instructions shape the exam-day process.

In Short

• Compensatory time will extend till 6 pm for eligible candidates
• Exam centres span 551 Indian cities and 14 locations abroad
• Candidates must carry admit card, photo ID and two photographs

The National Testing Agency (NTA) is conducting NEET UG 2026 today, May 3, bringing months of preparation to a defining moment. With around 22.79 lakh candidates appearing, the examination remains one of the largest and most competitive in India.

The test will be held in pen-and-paper mode from 2 pm to 5 pm, with compensatory time extending till 6 pm for eligible candidates. Exam centres have been set up across 551 cities in India and 14 abroad, covering more than 5,400 venues.

DON’T BE LATE: TIMINGS YOU MUST FOLLOW

Candidates must report between 11 am and 1:30 pm. Entry gates will close sharply at 1:30 pm, with no exceptions. Students wearing customary or religious attire are advised to arrive even earlier due to additional frisking procedures.

The NTA has urged candidates to plan their travel carefully, accounting for traffic delays and weather conditions, to avoid last-minute panic.

ENTRY ESSENTIALS: WHAT YOU MUST CARRY

Candidates must carry only essential documents:

• Printed NEET UG admit card with passport-size photograph
• One valid original photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)
• Two passport-size photographs
• PwBD certificate (if applicable)
• Postcard-sized (4x6 inch) colour photograph with white background
• The admit card also includes a self-declaration form, which must be filled and carried as instructed.

Strict restrictions apply on prohibited items such as mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, Bluetooth devices, wallets, jewellery, and metallic objects. Following the dress code is equally important to ensure smooth entry.

DRESS CODE: KEEP IT SIMPLE

NTA has clearly instructed students to wear simple and comfortable clothing.

• Heavy clothes and long sleeves are not allowed
• Shoes are strictly prohibited
• Slippers and sandals with low or flat heels are permitted
• Light clothing is recommended to speed up frisking

Students wearing religious or customary attire are allowed, but they must report early to allow extra time for security checks. In some cases, additional screening may be conducted if required.

STRICTLY PROHIBITED ITEMS

The NTA has imposed a zero-tolerance policy for electronic and unnecessary items. Candidates must not carry:

• Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, cameras
• Wallets, jewellery, metallic objects
• Books, notes, or any written material
• Bags, handbags, or stationery items
• Packed food items (except allowed diabetic provisions)

Diabetic candidates may carry fruits like banana, apple, orange, sugar tablets, and a transparent water bottle, but prior intimation is required.

LAST-MINUTE TIPS FOR NEET UG 2026 CANDIDATES

• Reach the exam centre well before reporting time to avoid last-minute stress
• Keep admit card, ID proof, and photographs ready in a clear folder
• Double-check exam centre address a day before; don’t rely only on maps
• Avoid heavy meals before the exam; eat light and stay hydrated
• Do not carry prohibited items like mobile phones, watches, or jewellery
• Stay calm and avoid discussing difficult topics just before entering the hall
• Read instructions on the question paper carefully before attempting answers
• Manage time wisely during the exam; don’t get stuck on one question
• Follow all invigilator instructions strictly to avoid any issues during the exam
• Trust your preparation and avoid panic if you find difficult questions early

INSIDE THE HALL: TIGHT SECURITY, FAIR PROCESS

Security measures are robust this year. Candidates will undergo frisking using metal detectors and Aadhaar-based biometric verification. CCTV cameras are installed at all centres, with live monitoring from control rooms.

Even if biometric verification fails, candidates will not be denied entry. Instead, they will sign an undertaking and undergo manual verification.

A multi-layered security system is in place, including GPS-tracked transport of question papers and deployment of over 6,000 observers and 2 lakh personnel.

COMFORT AND SUPPORT ON-SITE

Centres are equipped with essential facilities, including power backup, fans, drinking water, sanitation, and medical support. Candidates may carry a transparent water bottle.

Special allowances are in place for diabetic candidates, who can bring fruits such as bananas, apples, and oranges, along with sugar tablets.

HELPLINES FOR QUICK ASSISTANCE

For queries, candidates can contact the NTA helpline between 10 am and 5 pm at 011-40759000 or 011-69227700, or email neetug2026@nta.ac.in. Official updates are available on the NTA website.

- Ends