NEET-UG 2026: Exam day guidelines, last minute checklist, dress code and more

With less than a week left to go for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test - Undergraduate (NEET-UG) 2026, preparation is entering its final stretch. As more than 22 lakh aspirants gear up for one of India’s largest entrance exams, the focus now shifts on the exam day.

Scheduled for May 3, 2026 (Sunday), the exam will be held from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm in offline mode across India.

NEET-UG 2026: Exam pattern

The exam pattern will be largely unchanged this year:

• Mode: Offline (pen-and-paper)

• Duration: 3 hours

• Total questions: 180

• Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology (Botany + Zoology)

• Marking scheme: +4 for correct answer, -1 for incorrect answer

Each section carries equal weightage except Biology, which has the highest number of questions.

Also Read:NEET-UG 2026: NTA releases city slips for candidates; exam on May 3

Exam day checklist: What you must carry?

Candidates must ensure they carry all required documents to the exam centre:

• Printed admit card (mandatory)

• Passport-size photograph (same as application)

• Valid photo ID proof

Without the admit card, entry will not be permitted under any circumstances.

What NOT to carry: Strict guidelines

As per the official information bulletin, several items are strictly prohibited inside the exam hall:

• Mobile phones, earphones, smartwatches

• Calculators, electronic gadgets

• Books, notes, or any written material

• Bags, wallets, or any metallic items

• Food items and packaged water

Candidates will undergo strict frisking and biometric verification before entry.

Candidates are also advised to wear simple clothing and avoid items with heavy metal components. Any violation of dress code or possession of restricted items can lead to disqualification.

Also Read:NEET-UG 2026: NMC asks medical colleges not to grant leaves on May 2-3

Important instructions

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has advised candidates to:

• Reach the exam centre well in advance

• Carefully read all instructions on the admit card

• Regularly check official websites for updates

The official NEET-UG 2026 information bulletin also stresses that candidates must follow all exam-day instructions strictly, as any deviation can impact their candidature.

With the exam just days away, this is the time to stay calm, revise strategically, and avoid last-minute panic. It is also important to ensure all things are in place for the exam-day well in advance.

Lastly, candidates are advised to keep checking the official NTA website for any last-minute updates.