NEET UG 2026 To Become Fully Computer-Based
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced on Thursday that the NEET UG examination will transition to a fully computer-based test (CBT) format starting next year. This change marks a significant reform in India’s medical entrance examination system and comes during an ongoing investigation into the NEET UG 2026 paper leak controversy.
During a press conference in New Delhi, Pradhan confirmed the cancellation of the NEET UG 2026 examination, originally scheduled for May 3, after authorities confirmed the question paper had been leaked. Concerns arose on May 7 about the circulation of a “guess paper,” prompting complaints that were forwarded to central agencies for investigation.
The minister stated that upon confirming the paper leak, the government decided to cancel the examination immediately to protect students’ interests and ensure fairness in the admission process. He also announced that fresh admit cards for the re-examination would be issued by June 14, with the re-test scheduled for June 21.
Pradhan emphasized the government’s “zero tolerance” policy towards examination malpractice and those attempting to exploit the system. He acknowledged the challenges posed by advancements in technology but assured that the government would not compromise students’ futures.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been tasked with conducting a thorough investigation into the breach of the examination process. According to the minister, agencies have been directed to identify the root causes of the leak and ensure strict action against all individuals involved.
“We do not want any mafia to take seats from hardworking students. The trust of students is of utmost importance,” Pradhan stated during the briefing.
He also recognized that, despite previous reforms and recommendations from the Radhakrishnan Committee, there had been a failure in the examination command chain. He assured that further corrective measures are being implemented to strengthen the National Testing Agency (NTA) and ensure “zero error” examinations in the future.
To support candidates affected by the cancellation, the government announced that examination fees would be refunded and that the re-examination would be conducted free of charge. Students will be allowed to select their preferred exam city one week before the test, and transportation support will be arranged wherever feasible, taking weather conditions into account.
The shift to a fully computer-based format is expected to improve transparency, reduce malpractice, and modernize the conduct of one of India’s largest entrance examinations.
