The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) UG is about to witness a major transformation from next year. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has announced that the examination will move to a computer-based online format, bringing an end to the conventional pen-and-paper OMR system.
This decision follows the NEET UG 2026 controversy, in which allegations of paper leaks and exam-related irregularities resulted in the cancellation of the May 3 examination. In response, the government announced a re-examination and handed over the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
While speaking to the media, Dharmendra Pradhan said that shifting NEET UG to a computer-based examination format would help address the “root issue” behind the recent controversy. He also confirmed that the use of OMR answer sheets will be discontinued from the next academic year.
Reports suggest that the government views the online examination model as a step toward improving transparency, minimising the chances of paper leaks, and enhancing the security of the entire examination process.
The NTA has confirmed that the NEET UG 2026 re-examination will take place on June 21, while admit cards will be issued on June 14.
Authorities have also stated that candidates will not be required to complete a fresh registration process for the re-exam. Additionally, no extra fee will be charged, and students’ existing application details and preferred exam centres will continue to remain valid.
For millions of NEET aspirants, the move to an online examination format represents a significant change in the way the test will be conducted. Along with their regular studies, students may now have to adapt to computer-based testing and become comfortable with digital exam environments.
Until now, NEET has been held in offline mode using OMR sheets at examination centres across the country. With the introduction of the online format, students are expected to modify their preparation strategies, including practising computer-based mock tests and improving on-screen time management skills.
