NEET UG 2026 Registration: Complete Guide to Form, Fees and Documents

The wait is over. The National Testing Agency has opened the registration window for NEET UG 2026 on 8th February. If you want to get into a medical college this year, you need to act fast. The registration closes on 8th March 2026.

NEET UG is the biggest medical entrance exam in India. Every year, lakhs of students take this test to chase their dream of becoming a doctor. This year will be no different.

When Is the Exam?

The NEET UG 2026 exam will happen on 5th May 2026. The paper runs in a single shift from 2 PM to 5 PM. You get three hours to answer 180 questions worth 720 marks.

The exam tests you on three subjects: Physics, Chemistry and Biology. Each correct answer gives you four marks. But here is the catch. Each wrong answer takes away one mark. So you need to be careful while attempting questions.

Registration Pattern Over the Years

The NTA follows a pattern. Looking at the past three years helps us understand this better:

In 2025, registration started on 7th February and the exam was held on 4th May
In 2024, forms opened on 9th February and the exam took place on 5th May
In 2023, registration began on 6th March and the exam happened on 7th May

This year follows the same timeline. The forms opened on 8th February and the exam is scheduled for 5th May.

Documents You Need

Before you start your application, gather these documents:

Aadhaar card with correct name, date of birth and photo
Passport size photograph in the specified format
Clear scanned copy of your signature
Class 10th certificate as proof of date of birth
Category certificate if you belong to SC, ST, OBC or EWS
UDID card for PwD candidates
Thumb impressions of both hands

Make sure all documents are scanned clearly. Blurred or unclear documents can lead to rejection of your application.

Application Fees Breakdown

The fee structure varies based on your category:

General category candidates pay around Rs 1,700
OBC and EWS candidates pay around Rs 1,600
SC, ST and PwD candidates pay around Rs 1,000

You can pay online using UPI, debit card or credit card. Keep your payment confirmation safe.

Step by Step Registration Process

Here is how you apply for NEET UG 2026:

First, visit the official NTA portal. Click on New Registration. The system will generate an application number and password for you. Save these details.

Next, log in using your credentials. Fill in your personal details like name, date of birth, parent's name and contact information. Double check everything. Even a small mistake can create problems later.

Then add your educational details. Enter your Class 10th and 12th information. Select your exam city from the given options. You can choose up to four cities in order of preference.

After that, upload all required documents. Make sure each file meets the size and format requirements mentioned on the portal.

Now pay the application fee. The portal accepts multiple payment methods. Once payment is successful, you will get a confirmation message.

Finally, download the confirmation page. Take a printout and keep it safe. You will need it during the exam.

Syllabus and Preparation Tips

The NTA has released the updated syllabus. It covers topics from NCERT Class 11 and 12 textbooks. Some topics have changed from previous years, so check the official syllabus document.

NCERT books form the base of your preparation. Most questions come straight from these books. Focus on understanding concepts rather than memorising facts.

Biology carries more weightage than Physics and Chemistry. But you cannot ignore any subject. You need a balanced preparation strategy.

Competition and Cut Off

Last year, around 22 lakh students filled the NEET form. This year, the number might be even higher. Government medical colleges have limited seats. The competition is tough.

Cut off marks change every year. They depend on the difficulty level of the paper and the number of candidates. General category students need higher marks compared to reserved categories.

Important Things to Remember

NEET follows a strict dress code. Read the instructions carefully. Reach your exam centre well before time. Late entry is not allowed.

The result usually comes out one month after the exam. After that, counselling starts at both All India and state levels.

Check your application form twice before final submission. Any error can lead to rejection. Keep your login details safe. You will need them to download the admit card later.

The registration window stays open for one month only. Do not wait until the last day. Server issues and technical problems are common during the final days.

Why NEET Matters

NEET is your gateway to medical education in India. Without a good NEET score, you cannot get admission to MBBS or BDS courses. Private colleges also use NEET scores for admission.

A single exam decides your future in the medical field. That is why preparation needs to be solid. Start early, practice regularly and stay focused.

The exam tests not just your knowledge but also your speed and accuracy. Time management during the exam is crucial. Practice with previous year papers to get comfortable with the pattern.

Remember, lakhs of students are competing for the same seats. Your preparation strategy needs to be better than theirs. Work hard, stay consistent and believe in yourself.

The registration is open now. If medical science is your calling, this is your chance. Fill the form today and start your preparation with full focus. Good luck!