If you're preparing for NEET UG 2026, knowing the exam timeline is half the battle won. The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test Undergraduate opens doors to MBBS, BDS, BAMS, BHMS, and other medical courses across India. Every year, lakhs of students compete for limited seats in government and private medical colleges.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts this exam, and based on past patterns, we can map out when you should expect each major milestone. The exam typically falls in early May, with applications opening in February. Getting these dates right helps you plan better, avoid last-minute rushes, and focus on what matters most: your preparation.
Why the Timeline Matters for Your Preparation
NEET UG is India's largest medical entrance test. Understanding the schedule helps you manage applications, plan revision cycles, and prepare for counselling without stress. Based on previous years and expert predictions, the exam is expected on Sunday, 3 May 2026. Application forms should open in February 2026, with results likely in June 2026.
Keeping track of these dates means you won't miss registration deadlines or scramble for documents at the last moment. It also gives you clear milestones to structure your study plan around.
Application Form and Registration Process
The NEET UG 2026 application process happens entirely online through the official NTA website. You should start checking for notifications by February 2026. Make sure you have all your documents ready in the correct format before registration opens.
Expected Application Timeline
- Notification release: February 2026
- Online registration begins: First or second week of February 2026
- Last date to apply: March 2026
- Correction window: Late March 2026
Fill out your form early to avoid technical glitches that often happen closer to the deadline. Double-check every detail you enter, from your name spelling to your photograph. The correction window gives you one chance to fix mistakes, but it's better to get it right the first time.
Admit Card and Exam City Information
After you register successfully, NTA will release your exam city information in April 2026. Your actual admit card comes out shortly before the exam. These documents are crucial for knowing where you'll write your test and what you need to carry.
Admit Card Timeline
- Exam city information: April 2026
- Admit card download: Late April 2026
- NEET UG 2026 Exam: Sunday, 3 May 2026 (2 PM to 5 PM)
Print multiple copies of your admit card. Check every detail carefully: your name, photograph, exam centre address, and reporting time. If possible, visit your exam centre a day or two before the actual test to avoid any confusion on exam day.
Exam Day: What to Expect
NEET UG 2026 will be conducted offline using pen and paper. The exam tests your knowledge of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Understanding the format helps you prepare better and manage your time during the actual test.
Exam Pattern Overview
- Date: 3 May 2026 (Sunday)
- Mode: Offline (OMR-based)
- Duration: 3 hours (180 minutes)
- Total Questions: 180 questions to be attempted
- Biology: 90 Questions
- Physics: 45 Questions
- Chemistry: 45 Questions
Practice with OMR sheets during your mock tests. Time management is critical because you have exactly one minute per question. Work on your speed and accuracy by solving previous year papers regularly.
Answer Key Release
Once the exam ends, NTA publishes a provisional answer key along with your scanned OMR sheet. This usually happens in late May 2026. You can use this to calculate your probable score and check if there are any discrepancies.
Answer Key Timeline
- Provisional Answer Key: Late May 2026
- Final Answer Key: June 2026 (released with result)
If you find any error in the answer key, you can raise an objection by paying a fee per question. NTA reviews all challenges before releasing the final answer key, which forms the basis for result calculation.
Result Declaration and What Comes Next
The NEET UG 2026 result should be out by mid to late June 2026. You'll be able to download your scorecard from the official NTA portal. Your scorecard shows your All India Rank (AIR), category rank, and qualifying status.
After the Result
Once results are out, compare your marks with previous year cut-offs to gauge your admission chances. Keep your original documents ready for verification. All India Quota (AIQ) counselling and state-level counselling typically begin from July 2026 onwards.
The counselling process involves multiple rounds. Register for counselling as soon as it opens, fill in your college preferences carefully, and attend all rounds to maximize your chances of getting a good seat.
Complete Month-by-Month Timeline
Here's a quick reference guide to all major NEET UG 2026 events:
| Stage | Expected Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | February 2026 |
| Application Start | Early February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | March 2026 |
| Correction Window | March 2026 |
| Exam City Slip and Admit Card | April 2026 |
| Exam Date | 3 May 2026 (Sunday) |
| Provisional Answer Key | Late May 2026 |
| Final Answer Key and Result | June 2026 |
| Counselling Begins | July 2026 onwards |
This timeline gives you a clear roadmap for every stage of your NEET journey. Use it to organize your preparation and make sure you don't miss any important dates.
Preparation Tips Aligned with the Timeline
Knowing the dates is one thing. Using them to plan your preparation is what actually helps. Here's how to align your study schedule with the official timeline.
February to March: Foundation and Application
Focus on building strong concepts during this period. Complete your syllabus if you haven't already. Take regular mock tests to identify weak areas. Handle your application carefully and keep copies of all documents.
April: Intensive Practice
This is the time for full-length practice papers. Simulate exam conditions when you take these tests. Work on your speed and accuracy. Finalize your revision notes and formula sheets.
May: Final Sprint
The last week before the exam is crucial. Don't start new topics now. Revise what you already know. Take care of your health. Sleep well and stay calm. On exam day, reach your centre early and stay focused.
June to July: Post-Exam Phase
After the exam, track the answer key and result updates. Start preparing your documents for counselling. Research colleges and courses. Understand the counselling process so you can make informed decisions when the time comes.
Documents You'll Need
Keep these documents ready well in advance. You'll need them during application, at the exam centre, and during counselling:
- Class 10 mark sheet and certificate
- Class 12 mark sheet and certificate
- Passport-size photographs (as per specifications)
- Valid ID proof (Aadhar card, passport, or driving licence)
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- PwD certificate (if applicable)
- Domicile certificate (for state quota)
Make multiple photocopies and keep both physical and digital copies safe. Having everything organized saves time and reduces stress during critical moments.
NEET UG 2026 follows a predictable pattern based on previous years. Applications open in February, the exam happens in May, and results come out in June. Knowing this timeline helps you plan better, prepare systematically, and avoid last-minute surprises. Stay updated with official notifications, manage your time well, and focus on building a strong foundation in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Your preparation strategy should align with these dates to give you the best chance of success.
