The National Testing Agency (NTA) has made official declarations about the major changes in the examination pattern and duration of NEET (UG) 2025, it has returned to its pre-COVID format. The clarification was issued on January 25, 2025.
- The question paper will comprise 180 compulsory questions and there will be no optional questions under Section B, a format adopted temporarily during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Both Physics and Chemistry shall be allocated 45 questions, while Biology will contain 90 questions, as distributed.
- These shall be a timed examination and candidates are to complete the examination in strict 180 minutes or 3 hours.
This again signifies the adopted standardized structure by omitting extra time and flexibility implemented during the pandemic period. With the new format, aspirants need to concentrate on adequate preparation to make full use of the important sections.
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NEET 2025: Mode of Examination and Pattern
Refer to the table below for an abstract of the NEET 2025 exam pattern:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode of the examination | Pen-Paper Based |
| Duration of the examination | Three hours (3 hours) |
| Exam timing | 2 pm to 5.00 pm |
| Type of questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Total number of Questions | 180 Compulsory Questions |
| Total Marks | 720 |
| Negative marking | Yes |
| Marking Scheme | +4 for each correct answer-1 for each incorrect answer0 for unattempted or extra attempted question |
| Total sections in the question paper | Physics and Chemistry: 45 questions, Biology: 90 questions |
| NEET Subjects | Physics, Chemistry and Biology (Botany + Zoology) |
| NEET Question Paper Mediums or Languages | 13 - English, Hindi, Urdu, Bengali, Assamese, Odia, Punjabi, Marathi, Gujarati, Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam |
NEET Exam Pattern: Evaluation and Marking Scheme
The table below summarizes the evaluation process and marking scheme for Section A and Section B in NEET 2025:
| Criteria | Section A (MCQs) | Section B (MCQs) |
|---|---|---|
| Questions to Attempt | All 180 questions are compulsory. | No optional questions; all 45 in Physics, 45 in Chemistry, and 90 in Biology are mandatory. |
| Correct Answer | +4 marks | +4 marks |
| Incorrect Answer | -1 mark | -1 mark |
| Unanswered | 0 marks | 0 marks |
| More Than One Correct Option | +4 marks awarded to candidates selecting any correct option. | +4 marks awarded to candidates selecting any correct option. |
| All Options Found Correct | +4 marks awarded to all candidates who attempt the question. | +4 marks awarded to all candidates who attempt the question. |
| Incorrect or Dropped Question | +4 marks awarded to all candidates, whether or not the question was attempted. | +4 marks awarded to all candidates, whether or not the question was attempted. |
| Use of Constants in Calculations | Candidates should strictly use constants provided in the question for calculations. | Candidates should strictly use constants provided in the question for calculations. |
How are 720 marks for NEET divided?
NEET 2025 Mark Distribution as per the latest updates and the information provided:
- No Section B: According to the latest updates, optional sections and questions are not included in the NEET 2025 exam pattern.
- Total Questions: 180 questions, all of which are compulsory.
- Maximum Marks: 720 marks, divided among Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
- Time Elapsed: 180 minutes (3 hours), with no extra time.
NEET 2025 Mark Distribution
| Sections | Number of Questions | Total Marks |
| Physics Section A | 45 | 180 |
| Chemistry Section A | 45 | 180 |
| Biology Section A | 90 | 360 |
| Total | 180 | 720 |
“This distribution reflects the new pattern with emphasis on compulsory questions in all subjects.”
Important Points to Remember While Marking the OMR Sheet
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued crucial guidelines regarding the marking of answers on the OMR sheet for NEET 2025. Candidates are advised to strictly adhere to these rules to avoid disqualification or errors in evaluation. The key points are summarized below:
| Guidelines | Details |
|---|---|
| Use of Ballpoint Pen | Answers must be marked using the ballpoint pen provided in the examination hall. |
| Changing Answers | Changing answers on the OMR sheet is strictly prohibited. |
| Erasure or Obliteration | Erasing or obliterating any information on the OMR sheet is considered a punishable offense. |
| Rough Work | Rough work must be done only on the test booklet, not on the OMR sheet. |
| Test Booklet Code | Candidates must ensure to mark the test booklet code on the OMR sheet. |
| Matching Question Paper Code | Ensure the NEET question paper code matches the one printed on the OMR sheet. |
Expected Changes in NEET Exam Pattern for 2025
The National Testing Agency (NTA) is, in fact, under consideration to make several changes in the NEET UG 2025 exam pattern. These discussions are reviewed by an Expert Committee on the directives of the Supreme Court. Though these changes are not confirmed by NTA, they may appear in the NEET 2025 Information Bulletin, which is likely to come up in the subsequent months. Changes are likely to happen in:
1. Number of Attempts
The expert committee is considering a cap on the number of attempts allowed for NEET. This limitation could:
- Encourage more focused and strategic preparation.
- Foster a competitive environment among aspirants.
2. Age Limits
Age restrictions could be brought in so that candidates fall within the appropriate range of age to obtain medical education. This may make NEET fall in step with the international standards as maintained by all medical institutes of the world.
NEET Exam Pattern: Medium of Question Papers
In alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP), the NEET (UG) 2025 exam will be conducted in 13 languages to promote inclusivity and provide candidates the flexibility to choose a medium they are comfortable with. Below are the important details regarding the medium of the question papers:
Available Mediums
Candidates can choose from the following 13 languages while filling out the application form:
- English
- Hindi
- Assamese
- Bengali
- Gujarati
- Kannada
- Malayalam
- Marathi
- Odia
- Punjabi
- Tamil
- Telugu
- Urdu
Guidelines for Choosing the Medium
- The medium of the question paper must be selected while filling the NEET application form online, and the option cannot be changed later.
- Candidates opting for:
- English: Will receive the test booklet in English only.
- Hindi: Will receive a bilingual test booklet in English and Hindi.
- Regional Languages: Will receive a bilingual test booklet in English and the selected regional language.
- Example: A candidate choosing Tamil will receive a booklet in English + Tamil.
Important Notes on Translation and Ambiguities
- In case of any ambiguity or discrepancy in the translation, the English version of the question will be treated as final.
- Decisions made by the NTA regarding any issues in translation will be final and binding.
Language Availability Based on Examination Centers
The table below specifies the medium of the question paper available at different examination centers:
| S. No. | Language | Available Examination Centers |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | English | Available at all examination centers across India. |
| 2 | English and Hindi | Available at all examination centers in India. |
| 3 | English and Assamese | Examination centers in Assam. |
| 4 | English and Bengali | Examination centers in West Bengal, Tripura, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands. |
| 5 | English and Gujarati | Examination centers in Gujarat, Daman & Diu, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli. |
| 6 | English and Kannada | Examination centers in Karnataka. |
| 7 | English and Malayalam | Examination centers in Kerala and Lakshadweep. |
| 8 | English and Marathi | Examination centers in Maharashtra. |
| 9 | English and Odia | Examination centers in Odisha. |
| 10 | English and Punjabi | Examination centers in Punjab, Chandigarh, and Delhi/New Delhi (including Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Noida). |
| 11 | English and Tamil | Examination centers in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands. |
| 12 | English and Telugu | Examination centers in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. |
| 13 | English and Urdu | Available at all examination centers in India. |
NEET Exam Pattern – Difficulty Level of Question Paper
Understanding the difficulty level of the NEET question paper is essential for effective preparation. Analyzing the NEET 2024 exam provides candidates valuable insights into topic-wise weightage and section-specific challenges, enabling them to focus on high-priority areas. Below is a detailed analysis of the NEET 2024 Exam to help aspirants preparing for NEET 2025:
| Details | NEET 2024 Exam Analysis |
|---|---|
| Overall Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate |
| Physics Difficulty Level | Moderate |
| Chemistry Difficulty Level | Tough |
| Biology Difficulty Level | Easy but lengthy |
| Most Difficult Section | Chemistry |
| Easiest Section | Zoology and Botany |
| Difficult Sections | Chemistry and Botany |
| Good Attempts for NEET 2024 | 170+ |
Section-Wise Weightage and Key Topics
| Subject | Topics with High Weightage |
|---|---|
| Physics | Modern Physics, Electromagnetism, Electrostatics, Optics, Mechanics |
| Chemistry | Chemical Bonding, Hydrocarbons, Inorganic Chemistry |
| Botany | Biomolecules, Plant Physiology, Reproduction |
| Zoology | Human Physiology, Reproduction, Human Health & Diseases |
Tips to Tackle the NEET Difficulty Level
- Physics: Focus on conceptual clarity and practice numerical problems from high-weightage topics like modern physics and mechanics.
- Chemistry: Dedicate extra time to chemical bonding and inorganic chemistry, as these sections were reportedly the toughest in NEET 2024.
- Biology: Prepare thoroughly for theoretical topics such as plant physiology and human health; practice concise writing to manage lengthy questions effectively.
- Mock Tests and Analysis: Attempt previous years' papers and conduct a self-analysis to gauge your preparation level. Aim for at least 170+ good attempts to improve your chances of success.
NEET Syllabus 2025
The National Medical Commission has recently published the new syllabus for NEET UG 2025-26, students who are aiming to do MBBS, BDS, and other undergraduate medical courses will have a clear understanding of the NEET UG syllabus. Both deletions and additions have been made in the subjects of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Newly added topics must be kept in mind, and the deleted ones must be revised so that students are aware of the updated syllabus.
| NEET UG Syllabus 2025-26 | Links |
|---|---|
| NEET UG 2025-26 Physics Syllabus | Download pdf |
| NEET UG 2025-26 Chemistry Syllabus | Download pdf |
| NEET UG 2025-26 Biology Syllabus | Download pdf |
NEET 2025 FAQ’s
Question 1. How do optional questions in NEET 2025 impact your strategy?
Answer- Optional questions in Section B of NEET 2025 provide flexibility. They can impact your strategy in the following ways:
-
Focus on Strengths: Prioritize topics you’re confident about to improve accuracy in Section B.
-
Time Management: Skip up to 5 questions per subject in Section B to save time for challenging sections.
-
Strategic Preparation: Emphasize high-weightage topics, as optional questions may focus on them.
-
Avoid Guesswork: Carefully select 10 questions per subject to minimize negative marking.
Question 2. How does negative marking affect your NEET 2025 score?
Answer- Negative marking significantly impacts your score in NEET. Here’s how:
-
Scoring Scheme:
- Correct Answer: +4 marks.
- Incorrect Answer: -1 mark.
- Unanswered: 0 marks.
-
Impact: Guessing answers may lead to score deductions, especially for borderline cases.
-
Strategy: Attempt only questions you’re confident about to minimize score loss.
Question 3. Is NEET only MCQ-based?
Answer- Yes, NEET is entirely MCQ-based. The question paper includes:
- 200 questions, of which candidates must attempt 180.
- Four options for each question, with only one correct answer.
- Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (Botany & Zoology).
This format ensures standardization, objective evaluation, and time-bound testing.
Question 4. Can I crack NEET in 15 days?
Answer- While 15 days is a short time, focused preparation can yield results. Here’s how:
-
Prioritize High-Weightage Topics: Focus on Modern Physics, Human Physiology, and Inorganic Chemistry.
-
Revise NCERT: Review Biology diagrams and Chemistry reactions thoroughly.
-
Solve Previous Papers: Practice mock tests daily to improve speed and accuracy.
-
Time Management: Use short, intensive study sessions with regular breaks for better focus.
While cracking NEET in 15 days is challenging, a strategic approach can improve your score.
Question 5. What are the passing marks for NEET 2025?
Answer- Passing marks for NEET vary by category:
| Category | Qualifying Percentile | NEET 2024 Cutoff (Marks) |
|---|---|---|
| General (UR) | 50th Percentile | 720-137 |
| OBC/SC/ST | 40th Percentile | 136-107 |
| General-PwD | 45th Percentile | 136-121 |
| OBC/SC/ST-PwD | 40th Percentile | 120-107 |
To qualify, candidates must achieve the minimum percentile score for their category.
Check NEET Previous Year Cutoff (2024 - 2023)
| College | 2024 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|
47 | 57 | |
141 | 1556 | |
151 | 1012 | |
374 | 534 | |
510 | 621 | |
655 | 603 | |
676 | 2353 | |
731 | 931 | |
778 | 635 | |
826 | 5081 | |
953 | 1264 | |
1010 | 1962 | |
1031 | 485684 | |
1098 | 1084 | |
1098 | 1084 |
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.
Comments
Found 1 Comment
No, it doesn't change every year. The exam pattern for NEET 2024 has remained the same as last year.