NEET UG 2026: NTA Issues Important Advisory to Update Aadhaar and Category Certificates Before Registration

If you're preparing for NEET UG 2026, stop everything and read this carefully. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has just released a critical advisory on 5th January 2026 that could affect your registration. This is not something you can ignore or deal with later.

The message is simple but serious: update your Aadhaar card and category certificates before you fill out your registration form. If you don't, your application could be rejected right away. No appeals, no second chances.

Why NTA Released This Advisory

NTA wants to make the registration process smooth and error-free. In previous years, many students faced form rejections because their documents didn't match the information they entered during registration. To prevent this from happening again, NTA has issued clear instructions about what needs to be updated and verified before you start your application.

Think of it as a preventive measure. Fix potential issues now rather than cry over a rejected form later.

What You Need to Update in Your Aadhaar Card

Your Aadhaar card is the most important document for NEET UG 2026 registration. Make sure these details are correct and current:

• Name: It should match exactly with your school certificates. Even a small spelling mistake can create problems.
• Date of Birth: Double check the day, month, and year. This must match your school records perfectly.
• Gender: Ensure this is correctly mentioned.
• Photograph: Your photo should be recent and clear. If you still have your childhood photo on your Aadhaar, get it updated immediately.
• Biometric Data: Your fingerprints should be updated in the system.
• Address: While this might seem less critical, having an updated address helps with communication.

To update your Aadhaar, visit the nearest Aadhaar enrolment centre or use the online update facility on the UIDAI website. Don't wait until the last minute because updating Aadhaar can take several days or even weeks.

Category Certificate Requirements

This is where many students make mistakes. If you belong to EWS, SC, ST, or OBC-NCL categories and want to claim reservation benefits, you need valid and updated certificates. Here's what you must know:

• Your category certificate must be original and recently issued.
• For EWS and OBC-NCL categories, the certificate must be issued in the current financial year.
• Old certificates will not be accepted.
• If you submit an outdated certificate or no certificate at all, your category will automatically be listed as General.
• Worse still, your entire application could be cancelled.

Get your certificates from the proper authorities well in advance. Government offices can be slow, and you don't want to be running around during the registration period.

UDID Card for PwD Candidates

Students applying under the Persons with Disabilities (PwD) category need a valid UDID (Unique Disability Identity) card. This card must be original and properly renewed if it has expired.

The UDID card can be obtained from the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities. Make sure you have this ready before registration opens.

Important Dates You Should Know

Here's a quick look at the NEET UG 2026 timeline:

Since registration is expected to open in February, you have a limited window to get all your documents in order. Start the process now.

Things to Keep Ready Before Registration

Apart from Aadhaar and category certificates, keep these items ready:

• Active Email ID: Use your own email, not your parents' or friends'. All important communications will come here.
• Mobile Number: Again, use your own active number. OTPs and updates will be sent here.
• Passport Size Photographs: Get recent photographs with a white background. Keep both digital and physical copies.
• Postcard Size Photograph: Some sections of the form might require this.
• Signature: Practice a consistent signature. You'll need to upload a scanned copy.
• Class 10 and 12 Mark Sheets: Keep scanned copies ready.

What Happens If You Ignore This Advisory

Let me be direct. If your documents don't match the information in your registration form, NTA will cancel your application. There will be no warnings, no chances to correct, no sympathy. Your hard work and preparation won't matter if your paperwork isn't in order.

Imagine studying for months, solving thousands of questions, attending coaching classes, and then having your form rejected because your Aadhaar photo was outdated. It sounds harsh, but it happens every year to unprepared students.

Steps to Take Right Now

Don't wait. Here's your action plan:

1. Check your Aadhaar card today. Verify every detail.
2. If anything is wrong or outdated, visit an Aadhaar centre this week.
3. If you're claiming category benefits, check your certificate's validity.
4. If your certificate is old or from a previous financial year, apply for a new one immediately.
5. PwD candidates should verify their UDID card status.
6. Gather all other required documents and keep them in one folder.
7. Create a dedicated email ID if you don't have one.
8. Keep your mobile number active and ensure you can receive OTPs.

Final Thoughts

NEET UG 2026 is a competitive exam. Thousands of students will compete for limited medical seats. You cannot afford to lose your chance because of documentation issues. The NTA advisory is not a suggestion. It's a requirement.

Take this seriously. Update your documents now. When registration opens in February, you should be ready to fill the form without any stress about paperwork. Your focus should be on preparation and exam strategy, not on running to government offices for certificates.

The students who succeed in NEET are not just academically strong. They're also organized and proactive. Be one of them. Check the official NEET website regularly for updates. Stay informed. Stay prepared.