NEET

To ensure your NEET UG 2026 application is successful, you must satisfy multiple layers of eligibility covering age, academic qualifications, nationality, and category-specific rules. As per the February 2026 notification, the detailed eligibility framework is explained below.

1. Age Criteria (The Official Cut-off)

The NTA enforces a strict minimum age requirement while completely removing the upper age restriction.

• Minimum Age: Candidate must be at least 17 years old by December 31, 2026.
• Rule of Thumb: Date of birth must be on or before December 31, 2009.
• Maximum Age: No upper age limit. Candidates aged 25, 35, or above are fully eligible.

2. Academic Qualifications

You must have passed or be appearing in Class 12 (10+2) or an equivalent examination from a recognized board such as CBSE, ICSE, NIOS, or State Boards.

The Mandatory “Core Four” Subjects

• Physics
• Chemistry
• Biology / Biotechnology
• English

Minimum Aggregate Marks (PCB Only)

The qualifying percentage is calculated using Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Biotechnology only. English is mandatory to pass but is not included in the aggregate calculation.

3. Eligibility for Special Cases

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has relaxed several long-standing restrictions in recent years.

• NIOS & Private Candidates: Fully eligible.
• Additional Biology: Candidates who passed Class 12 with PCM and later cleared Biology as an additional subject are eligible.
• Gap Years: No restriction on gap years between Class 11–12 or after Class 12.

4. Nationality & Domicile Rules

• Eligible Nationalities: Indian Nationals, NRIs, OCIs, PIOs, and Foreign Nationals.
• OCI Update: OCI candidates are now eligible for all seats including Government Medical Colleges, at par with Indian citizens.
• State Domicile: Required only for claiming seats under the 85% State Quota. The 15% AIQ is open to all Indian nationals.

5. Qualifying Codes (Form Selection)

While filling the NEET application form, candidates must select the correct qualifying code based on their academic status.

• Code 01: Appearing for Class 12 in 2026
• Code 02: Passed Class 12 in previous years
• Code 03: Pre-degree science qualification (specific state boards)
• Code 04–07: Pre-professional medical courses, first-year degree, or B.Sc. graduates

6. Additional Hidden Eligibility Layers

B.Sc. & Diploma Students

• Code 05: B.Sc. first-year students with PCB
• Code 06: Graduates with at least two subjects from PCB
• Important: Class 12 PCB + English pass is mandatory even with a degree

Foreign Nationals & NRIs

• Equivalency Certificate from Association of Indian Universities (AIU)
• Passed both theory and practical exams in PCB
• Valid passport is mandatory

Jammu & Kashmir & Ladakh (UTs)

• Eligible for 15% All India Quota without self-declaration
• Domicile certificate required for 85% State Quota

Medical Fitness & PwD Criteria

• PwD Benchmark: Disability between 40%–80%
• Certification required from NTA-authorized Disability Boards
• Color Blindness: Allowed for MBBS, though some PG specializations may have restrictions

NEET Score Validity for Studying Abroad

• Qualifying NEET is mandatory to practice in India later
• NEET score valid for 3 years for foreign medical admissions

Eligibility Summary Checklist

• ☑ Born on or before December 31, 2009
• ☑ Passed PCB individually with required aggregate
• ☑ English included in Class 12
• ☑ Biology as additional subject (if applicable)