Paper pattern of NEET exam have with three subjects: Chemistry and Physics will ahve 45 questions each, Biology subject will have 90 questions, 45 each for Zoology and Botany. As per NEET exam pattern 2026, a total of 180 question will be asked in medical entrence exam. The total exam duration will be 2 hours
The NEET 2026 examination pattern follows a structured format designed to comprehensively evaluate candidates' knowledge in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. The exam is conducted in offline mode (pen and paper-based) with a duration of 3 hours and 20 minutes. The question paper consists of 200 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) divided into four sections, out of which candidates need to attempt 180 questions. The examination follows a standardized marking scheme with +4 marks for each correct answer and -1 mark for each incorrect response. Understanding the exam pattern thoroughly is crucial for effective preparation and strategic attempt during the actual examination. The pattern ensures equal weightage to all three subjects while testing conceptual understanding, application skills, and problem-solving abilities.
NEET 2026 maintains the two-section pattern introduced in recent years. Each subject has Section A (35 compulsory questions) and Section B (15 questions with choice of 10). The exam is conducted in 13 languages with bilingual question papers. Negative marking applies only for attempted wrong answers, making strategic attempting crucial for maximizing scores.
The NEET 2026 exam pattern is meticulously designed to assess candidates' comprehensive understanding of medical entrance requirements. Here's the complete breakdown:
| Parameter | Details | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Mode | Offline (Pen and Paper Based) |
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| Exam Duration | 3 hours 20 minutes (200 minutes) |
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| Total Questions | 200 Questions |
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| Questions to Attempt | 180 Questions |
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| Marking Scheme | +4 for correct, -1 for incorrect |
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| Maximum Marks | 720 Marks |
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| Language Medium | 13 Languages |
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| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
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Each subject in NEET 2026 follows a specific pattern with section-wise distribution. Understanding this breakdown helps in strategic preparation and time allocation.
Compulsory Questions: Covers entire Physics syllabus with emphasis on numerical and conceptual questions.
Attempt any 10: Includes application-based and higher difficulty level questions. Choose wisely based on strength.
Compulsory Questions: Balanced distribution from Physical, Organic, and Inorganic Chemistry.
Attempt any 10: Focus on named reactions, mechanisms, and conceptual applications.
Compulsory Questions: Plant physiology, genetics, ecology, and plant diversity.
Attempt any 10: Application-based questions from entire botany syllabus.
Compulsory Questions: Human physiology, animal diversity, reproduction, and evolution.
Attempt any 10: Diagram-based and application-oriented questions.
The marking scheme in NEET 2026 plays a crucial role in determining the final score. Understanding the marking pattern helps in developing effective attempt strategies.
| Response Type | Marks Awarded | Explanation | Strategic Implication |
|---|---|---|---|
| Correct Answer | +4 Marks | For every correctly answered question | Focus on accuracy and sure-shot questions first |
| Incorrect Answer | -1 Mark | Negative marking for wrong attempts | Avoid guesswork and random attempts |
| Unattempted Question | 0 Marks | No marks deducted for unattempted questions | Better to leave doubtful questions unattempted |
| Multiple Answers | -1 Mark | If more than one option is marked | Ensure only one option is darkened in OMR |
| No Answer Marked | 0 Marks | If no option is selected | Same as unattempted - no penalty |
With 1:4 negative marking ratio, each wrong attempt nullifies 4 correct answers. Strategic attempting is crucial for maximizing scores.
Focus on accuracy rather than attempting maximum questions. 160 accurate attempts can score better than 180 with errors.
In Section B, attempt only those 10 questions you are absolutely sure about to avoid unnecessary negative marking.
The NEET 2026 question paper is expected to follow a balanced difficulty distribution across subjects. Understanding this pattern helps in preparation strategy.
| Difficulty Level | Percentage Distribution | Question Characteristics | Preparation Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Easy Level | 40% (80 questions) |
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| Moderate Level | 40% (80 questions) |
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| Difficult Level | 20% (40 questions) |
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Numerical heavy with conceptual applications
Balanced with factual and application questions
Most scoring subject with direct NCERT questions
Effective time management is crucial for maximizing performance in NEET 2026. Here's a detailed time allocation strategy for the 200-minute examination.
| Time Slot | Duration | Activity | Important Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial 10 minutes | 10 minutes | Question paper scanning and OMR filling |
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| Biology Section | 75-80 minutes | Attempt Botany and Zoology questions |
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| Chemistry Section | 50-55 minutes | Attempt Physical, Organic, Inorganic Chemistry |
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| Physics Section | 55-60 minutes | Attempt Physics numerical and theory |
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| Last 15 minutes | 15 minutes | Final review and OMR verification |
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Answer: NEET 2026 will be conducted in offline mode (pen and paper-based) only. There are no plans to change it to computer-based test mode for 2026.
Answer: In each subject, you need to attempt only 10 questions out of 15 in Section B. Attempt only those questions you are confident about to avoid negative marking.
Answer: No changes are expected in the marking scheme. It will remain +4 for correct answers and -1 for incorrect answers. No marks are deducted for unattempted questions.
Answer: Recommended time distribution: Biology 75-80 minutes, Chemistry 50-55 minutes, Physics 55-60 minutes, with 10 minutes for initial scanning and 15 minutes for final review.
Answer: Yes, you have complete freedom to choose any 10 questions from the 15 questions in Section B of each subject. Choose based on your strength and preparation.
Answer: Yes, Biology carries 50% weightage with 100 questions out of 200 total questions, accounting for 360 marks out of 720 total marks.
Answer: There is no concept of passing marks in NEET. However, for eligibility for AIQ counseling, general category candidates need 50th percentile, which typically translates to 600+ marks.
Answer: Fill the OMR sheet as you attempt questions. Use blue/black ball point pen only. Darken bubbles completely and ensure no stray marks. Double-check question numbers.
Answer: No, there is no sectional time limit in NEET. You can manage your time freely among the three subjects within the total 200 minutes duration.
Answer: Focus on accuracy over attempts. Attempt only those questions you are reasonably sure about. Avoid random guessing. If in doubt between two options, it's better to leave unattempted.