How Many Times is NEET UG Conducted in a Year? Attempt Limits, Eligibility, and Expert Insights for 2026

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Aspiring medical students often grapple with questions about the NEET UG exam’s frequency and attempt rules. As of August 26, 2025, NEET UG remains a once-a-year event, typically held in May, with no restrictions on the number of attempts. This guide demystifies these aspects, drawing from official NTA guidelines and historical trends. Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeater, understanding these details can shape your preparation strategy.

At VVT Coaching, we’ve empowered thousands of students to navigate NEET successfully. Let’s equip you with the knowledge to do the same.

Debunking Common Myths About NEET UG Frequency

Many students believe NEET UG is conducted multiple times a year, like JEE Main. However, this isn’t the case. Rumors stem from NEET PG’s biannual format or occasional re-exams due to irregularities, such as the 2024 re-test for 1,563 candidates. In reality, NEET UG is a single annual exam, ensuring uniformity and fairness across millions of aspirants.
This structure, managed by the National Testing Agency (NTA), simplifies logistics for over 23 lakh candidates.

Why the Confusion?

• Comparisons with exams like JEE (twice yearly) fuel speculation.
• Past discussions (e.g., 2021 proposals for biannual NEET) haven’t materialized.
• State-level variations pre-NEET era add to the mix-up.

At VVT Coaching, we clarify such myths early in our programs, helping students focus on quality preparation over waiting for extra chances.

The Official Frequency: Once a Year, Every Year

NEET UG is conducted only once annually, usually on the first Sunday of May. For 2025, it was held on May 4, with results announced in June. The 2026 exam is tentatively scheduled for May 3, aligning with this pattern. This single-session approach maintains exam integrity and allows ample time for counseling and admissions.

Here’s a quick look at recent exam dates:

No Limits on Attempts: A Game-Changer for Repeaters

Gone are the days of attempt caps. Since 2018, there’s no restriction on how many times you can take NEET UG. Previously (2017), a three-attempt limit existed, but it was scrapped to give aspirants more opportunities. This policy encourages persistence, especially for those improving scores for top colleges like AIIMS or JIPMER.

Key Benefits:

• Flexibility for gap-year students or those balancing boards.
• No penalty for multiple tries—each attempt is independent.
• Aligns with removing the upper age limit (minimum age: 17 by December 31 of the admission year).

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Attempt NEET UG?

To sit for NEET UG, you must meet basic requirements:

• Age: At least 17 years old by December 31, 2026 (for 2026 exam); no upper limit.
• Education: Passed or appearing in Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English (minimum 50% aggregate for General; 40% for SC/ST/OBC; 45% for PwD).
• Nationality: Indian citizens, NRIs, OCIs, PIOs, and foreign nationals eligible (with quotas).
• Attempts: Unlimited, but you can only attempt once per year.

Foreign nationals must obtain an eligibility certificate from the Medical Council of India. VVT Coaching offers eligibility checks and counseling to ensure you’re compliant.

Historical Changes: From AIPMT to NEET’s Evolution

NEET UG replaced AIPMT in 2013 but faced legal hurdles, leading to temporary revivals in 2014-2015. By 2016, it stabilized as the sole medical entrance exam. Key milestones:

• 2017: Attempt limit introduced (3 max), age cap at 25.
• 2018: Limits removed amid student protests.
• 2019: NTA takes over; languages expanded to 13.
• 2020-2022: Pandemic delays, but frequency unchanged.
• 2025: No changes; focus on integrity post-2024 controversies.

This evolution underscores NEET’s role in standardizing admissions.

Preparation Strategies for Your NEET Journey

With only one shot per year and unlimited attempts, smart planning is key. Focus on NCERT mastery (90% questions sourced here), regular mocks, and balanced study (8-10 hours daily).

VVT Coaching Tips:

• Phase Your Prep: Build basics (Months 1-6), practice intensively (7-9), revise (10-12).
• Mock Tests: Simulate exam day with our NTA-pattern series.
• Subject Focus: Biology (50% weightage) for quick wins; Physics for differentiation.
• Mental Prep: Handle pressure with our wellness sessions.

Why Partner with VVT Coaching for NEET Success

At VVT Coaching, we’re more than educators—we’re your NEET allies. With expert faculty, AI-driven analytics, and a 95% success rate, we turn attempts into achievements. Whether it’s your first or fifth try, our programs adapt to you. Enroll today at VVT Coaching Website or call +91 8122122333 for a free consultation.

In conclusion, NEET UG’s once-a-year format and unlimited attempts reward dedication. Stay informed, prepare strategically, and let VVT Coaching guide you to your medical dreams!

FAQs: Clearing Your Doubts on NEET UG

Q: Is NEET UG conducted twice a year like JEE?
A: No, it’s held once annually, typically in May. Proposals for biannual exams haven’t been implemented.

Q: How many attempts can I make for NEET UG?
A: Unlimited. You can try as many times as needed, but only once per year.

Q: What’s the minimum age for NEET 2026?
A: 17 years by December 31, 2026. No upper age limit.

Q: Can foreign nationals attempt NEET UG?
A: Yes, with eligibility certificates. They qualify for 15% All India Quota seats.

Q: How does VVT Coaching help with multiple attempts?
A: Our repeater batches analyze past performances, offering customized strategies to improve scores efficiently.