NEET UG 2026 OMR Challenge Window Now Open: Steps to Follow
NTA has opened the OMR recorded response challenge window for NEET UG 2026 re-exam candidates, with a fee and strict deadline of July 15.
AC Team
If you sat for the NEET UG 2026 re-exam, here's a fresh update worth your attention. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has opened a new window that lets you check your OMR sheet against what the machine actually recorded. Yes, machines make mistakes too, and this is your chance to catch one before it costs you marks.
Let's break down what's happening and what you need to do next.
What NTA has released
NTA has put up scanned images of OMR answer sheets along with recorded responses for everyone who appeared in the NEET UG 2026 re-examination. You'll find these on the official NEET portal. NTA has also sent scanned copies to the email address you registered during your application.
So check your inbox. It might be sitting between a pizza offer and a forgotten newsletter.
The answer key challenge is over
Before you get any ideas, note this clearly: the answer key challenge process has already closed. NTA will not accept any fresh objections against the answer key itself. This new window is only for recorded responses, meaning what the scanning machine picked up from your OMR sheet.
Think of it as checking whether the machine read your handwriting correctly, not whether the answer itself was right or wrong.
How much time do you have
You can submit online challenges against your recorded responses until 11:00 am on July 15, 2026. That's a tight window, so don't sit on this update for too long.
The fee involved
Each response you want to challenge will cost you Rs 200. This fee has to be paid online through debit card, credit card or net banking. Challenges submitted without payment, or through any method outside the official portal, will simply not count. No exceptions.
Logging in safely
To view your documents, log in using your application number and password. NTA has added a Two-Factor Authentication step this time. You will get a one-time password sent to your registered mobile number and email address, and you need this OTP before you can view your scanned OMR sheet and recorded responses.
It's an extra step, but it keeps your data safe from anyone trying to peek into your results.
How to raise an objection
Once you're in, the portal lets you compare your high-resolution scanned OMR sheet with the responses the system recorded. If you spot a mismatch between what you marked and what got recorded, select that question and indicate the option you actually marked.
You can also flag errors in other important details, like your roll number, booklet number or set code, if something looks off there too.
The system will automatically calculate your total fee based on how many challenges you raise. After you pay, submit your challenge online and download the acknowledgement page. Keep this safe, you'll want proof later if anyone asks.
Read the instructions carefully
NTA has asked candidates to go through their scanned OMR sheet carefully before filing any objection. Only responses where you have completely darkened a single circle using a blue or black ballpoint pen will be treated as valid. Half-filled circles or answers marked in two colours won't help your case.
Here's the serious part. NTA has warned that any manipulated or tampered OMR images submitted during this challenge process will be treated as unfair means. This could lead to debarment or even legal action. So this is not the place to get creative with editing tools.
Go through your OMR sheet with a clear head, check every response, and raise objections only where you genuinely see a difference. This window exists to help you, so use it wisely and within the given time.
