NEET UG 2025 Rule Changes NTA: Tie-Breaking Criteria and Exam Pattern Changes

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced significant changes for the NEET UG 2025 examination, aiming to streamline the assessment process and enhance fairness. These modifications encompass the exam pattern, tie-breaking criteria, and application procedures. NEET UG 2025 will revert to its pre-COVID structure, eliminating optional questions in Section B.  In cases where multiple candidates achieve identical scores, the NTA has refined its tie-breaking mechanism.

NEET UG 2025: New Rules for Tie-Breaking

A significant update in NEET UG 2025 rules changes is the revised tie-breaking criteria. The traditional method of using application numbers and age for ranking ties has been discontinued. Instead, the NTA will follow this new order of preference:

1. Candidates with higher marks in Biology will be ranked higher.

2. If the tie persists, candidates with higher marks in Chemistry will be preferred.

3. Further ties will be resolved based on higher marks in Physics.

4. If still unresolved, candidates with fewer errors across all sections will be ranked higher.

5. Preference will then be given to candidates with fewer wrong responses in Biology.

6. Next, candidates with fewer incorrect answers in Chemistry will be considered.

7. Finally, candidates with fewer wrong answers in Physics will be ranked higher.

8. If a tie still exists, an independent expert committee will conduct a random selection process to finalise the ranking.

NEET UG 2025: Important Dates and Timings to Remember

NEET UG 2025: Revised Exam Pattern & Structure

Another significant NEET 2025 exam change is the return to the pre-COVID exam format. The optional questions in Section B have been removed. Candidates will now be required to answer all 180 questions, distributed as follows:

• Biology: 90 questions

• Physics: 45 questions

• Chemistry: 45 questions

This change reinstates the original format, ensuring uniformity and fairness in the examination process.

NEET UG 2025 Eligibility Criteria

To apply for NEET UG 2025, candidates must meet the following eligibility conditions:

• Age Limit: Candidates must be at least 17 years old by December 31, 2025.

• Academic Qualification: Must have passed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as core subjects.

• Minimum Marks Requirement:

• General category: 50%

• OBC/SC/ST categories: 40%

• PwBD candidates: 45%

• Number of Attempts: There is no limit on the number of attempts.

NEET Eligibility Criteria 2025

NEET UG 2025: Application Fees

NTA has set the following application fees for NEET UG 2025:

• General Category: Rs 1,700

• General-EWS/OBC-NCL: Rs 1,600

• SC/ST/PwBD/Third Gender: Rs 1,000

• Outside India Candidates: Rs 9,500

How to Stay Updated on NEET UG 2025

Candidates preparing for NEET UG 2025 should frequently check the official NTA website for the latest notifications and updates. Ensure you follow these updates closely to avoid missing crucial details regarding the NEET UG 2025 rules changes, NEET 2025 latest news, and NEET 2025 exam changes.

Conclusion

The NEET UG 2025 exam comes with several important changes, including revised tie-breaking rules, a return to the pre-COVID exam format, and updated exam dates and guidelines. These modifications aim to ensure fairness and transparency in the ranking system while maintaining the exam’s standard. Aspiring candidates must stay updated with the latest notifications from NTA and ensure they meet all eligibility criteria and deadlines. Make sure to plan your preparation wisely, practice previous years’ questions, and stay informed about the latest NEET UG 2025 news to maximise your chances of success. Good luck to all NEET 2025 aspirants! 

Essential Study Materials for NEET UG Success