NEET Changes 2025: Key Updates, Tie-Breaking Criteria, and Exam Guidelines

NEET Changes 2025: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has introduced significant updates for the NEET UG 2025 exam. These changes include a revised exam pattern and updated tie-breaking rules. Understanding these updates is crucial for candidates as they prepare for the exam. Here’s a detailed and easy-to-read guide on the major changes.

On Jan 16, 2025, the NTA confirmed that NEET UG 2025 will be conducted offline using pen and paper. The exam pattern has been modified, requiring candidates to answer 180 questions within 3 hours, as Section B has been removed from the question paper.

The official NEET UG 2025 notification is available on neet.nta.nic.in, where candidates can access all relevant information. Recent changes include updates to the application fee, exam centers, and tie-breaking policy. NEET UG 2025 offers admissions to over 1 lakh MBBS, 27,868 BDS, 52,720 AYUSH, 525 BVSc, and AH seats across 45 medical colleges, 318 dental colleges, 914 AYUSH colleges, and 47 BVSc and AH colleges in India.

Major Changes in NEET Exam 2025

1. Updated NEET Tie-Breaking Rule

If multiple candidates score the same, the NTA will now use a random selection process under the guidance of an independent expert committee to break the tie.

This change ensures a fair and transparent process when conventional methods are exhausted. The application number and age are no longer used for resolving ties. Instead, the following criteria will be applied:

• Higher marks in Biology
• Higher marks in Chemistry
• Higher marks in Physics
• Fewer incorrect responses in all subjects
• Fewer incorrect responses in Biology
• Fewer incorrect responses in Chemistry
• Fewer incorrect responses in Physics

If a tie still persists, random selection will be employed under expert supervision.

2. Revised NEET Exam Pattern

According to the revised NEET 2025 pattern, the NEET 2025 exam will have 180 questions to be answered in 3 hours. Section B has been removed from the question paper. This streamlined structure allows students to concentrate on core subjects without additional optional questions, simplifying the exam process.

3. Mode of Exam

NEET 2025 exam will be conducted in offline mode using pen and paper. This traditional method ensures familiarity and reliability for most candidates.

4. No More Optional Questions in NEET UG 2025 

NEET UG 2025 will not feature optional questions in Section B. Candidates must attempt all 180 questions—45 each from Physics and Chemistry, and 90 from Biology.

5. NEET Exam Timings and Entry Rules

The exam will be conducted from 2 PM to 5 PM. Entry to the exam center will close at 1:30 PM. Candidates must report at least three hours before the exam begins.

6. NEET Photo Upload Rules

Applicants must upload a recent passport-size photo taken after Jan 1, 2025, along with their signature, fingerprints, and relevant certificates (such as citizenship, social category, Class 10 marksheet, and PwBD/PwD certificate, if applicable).

7. NEET UG Scores for Admissions

NEET UG 2025 scores will be used for admissions into MBBS, BDS, BVSc & AH, BAMS, BUMS, BSMS, and BHMS programs. Military Nursing Service (MNS) aspirants applying for the BSc Nursing program at Armed Forces Medical Service Hospitals must qualify NEET UG for shortlisting.

Also Check: How to Decrease Negative Marking in Upcoming NEET Exam 2025?

Important Details About NEET 2025

Below are the key highlights of NTA NEET UG for candidates. These updates are important to understand while preparing for the exam

NEET Changes 2025 PDF Download

Candidates preparing for NEET UG 2025 can now access the official PDF released by NTA, which contains detailed information about the latest exam updates. This document covers key changes such as the updated tie-breaking rules, revised NEET exam pattern, and important guidelines for the exam day. Downloading the PDF will help students stay informed and better prepare for the exam. To access the document, visit the official website neet.nta.nic.in and navigate to the notifications or information brochure section.

NEET Changes from Previous Years

1. NEET Application Fee

The application fee was revised in 2024. General category candidates now pay ₹1,700, while candidates living outside India pay ₹9,500. EWS/OBC-NCL candidates pay ₹1,600, and SC/ST/PwD candidates pay ₹1,000.

This revision aligns with administrative costs and improvements in the application process.

2. Increase in Exam Centres

The number of NEET exam centers has increased from 499 to 554, including 14 international locations such as the UAE, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Singapore.

This expansion provides candidates with more options, reducing travel-related stress and ensuring wider accessibility.

Also Check: How to Change NEET Exam Centre 2025?

Is there Any Changes in NEET 2025 Syllabus?

According to the latest update from the National Medical Commission (NMC), there are no significant changes to the NEET 2025 syllabus. Despite discussions about possible revisions to reduce stress and make the syllabus more manageable, the finalized version remains largely the same as previous years.

The syllabus continues to follow the NCERT curriculum, covering key subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (Botany and Zoology). There are no major additions or deletions. Students are advised to refer to the official syllabus published by the NMC to ensure they are fully aligned with the current NEET 2025 preparation requirements.

Also Check: How to Crack NEET Exam 2025?