NEET PG 2026 exam format changes. Candidates can now select three preferred test cities. The number of questions has also been reduced.
NEET PG 2026 Exam Overhaul Announced
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Postgraduate (NEET PG) 2026 will feature a revised examination structure. The Union Health Ministry announced the changes aimed at streamlining the process for over 2.73 lakh candidates. The examination is scheduled for August 30, 2025 .
Key Changes for NEET PG 2026
Candidates will now have more choices for their examination centers. They can select three preferred cities, a change from the previous first-come, first-served system. Applicants must list their home state or correspondence state as their first preference.
The city intimation slip, which informs candidates of their allotted test city, will be issued three weeks before the exam date. This provides earlier notification compared to previous years.
Revised Exam Pattern
The total number of questions on the NEET PG 2026 exam has been reduced from 200 to 180 . The exam duration remains unchanged at 210 minutes . This alteration means candidates will have more time per question. Each correct answer will award four marks. One mark will be deducted for each incorrect response.
Single-Shift Examination Continues
Following a Supreme Court directive, NEET PG will continue to be conducted in a single shift. This format replaced the two-shift system introduced in 2024. The Supreme Court mandated the single-shift approach to ensure fairness after challenges related to the normalization process.
Mandatory Authentication
Aadhaar-based authentication is now mandatory for candidates. This requirement applies during the application process and on the day of the examination. Iris-based authentication will serve as a backup if fingerprint verification encounters issues.
Examination Statistics
| Detail | Information |
| Registered Candidates | 2,73,183 |
| Exam Cities | 340 |
| Examination Centres | Over 1,300 |
| Registration Increase | 14% from previous year |
The Union Health Minister stated that the final question paper selection will occur shortly before the exam begins, utilizing a time-bound process for enhanced security.
