The National Eligibility and Entrance Test

The National Eligibility and Entrance Test, commonly referred to as NEET, stands as a crucial milestone for aspiring medical professionals in India. Serving as the sole entrance examination for admission to Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Dental Surgery programs (MBBS and BDS) and so on across the country, NEET holds significant weight in the medical community.
Admission to over 1 lakh MBBS, 27,000+BDS, 55000+ AYUSH and BVSc, Nursing AH seats, as well as AIIMS MBBS and JIPMER MBBS seats in 20 AIIMS and 2 JIPMER institutes, will be determined by the results of the NEET exam. Its universal recognition among medical colleges ensures a standardized and equitable admission process for all candidates, irrespective of their background or location.
What is NEET Counselling process?
NEET counselling is the crucial phase following the successful completion of the exam. It's the mechanism through which aspiring medical students secure admission to prestigious medical colleges nationwide. Based on their All India Rank (AIR) and preferred college choices, seats are allocated to deserving candidates.
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Modes of NEET Counselling
The NEET counselling schedule is implemented in online mode from the 2023 academic session after the Supreme Court’s direction in December 2022. Online counselling involves digital form submissions and online choice/allotment procedures. There are however a few states which still continue with offline counselling. Offline counselling requires candidates to physically report to designated venues.
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Registration Fee
Candidates need to pay a non-refundable registration fee which may vary anywhere between Rs. 1000/- to Rs 5,000/- during the registration process. Additionally, a refundable security deposit which varies between Rs. 10,000/- to Rs 2 lakhs may be mandated based on the Counselling. 
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When is NEET Counselling Conducted?
NEET counselling typically commences post the exam results announcement and the thing that happens much before is the NEET counselling schedule. Only candidates meeting the NEET cut-off criteria are eligible to participate in this process.
For 85% of state quota seats and private colleges within a state, respective state counselling authorities oversee the counselling process.
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Number of Rounds
The NEET counselling process consists of four rounds, inclusive of a stray round conducted for Govt/Deemed/Central universities.
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Exploring Alternatives
In the event a candidate fails to secure a seat in a medical college or a dental college, fret not! There are  myriad of equally enriching career avenues awaiting exploration. From Pharmacy to Clinical Research, the possibilities are endless.
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Participation in Subsequent Rounds
Based on the NEET counselling schedule, after the first round is over candidates whose seats are allotted in the first round can either complete the admission process or join and opt for an upgrade in subsequent rounds. They also have the option to surrender their seat for participation in subsequent rounds.
Is NEET challenging? Let's break it down
Duration: 3 hours and 20 minutes of exhilarating challenge

Question Count: 200 MCQs

Answer Choices: Four options for each question, but only one holds the key!
NEET is a comprehensive examination that thoroughly assesses candidates' knowledge and understanding in three core subjects: Biology (both Botany and Zoology), Chemistry, and Physics. This broad-ranging assessment aims to evaluate not just the candidates' academic skills but also their ability to apply theoretical knowledge in practical contexts, reflecting the multifaceted demands of a career in medicine.
High academic standards and expectations are set for medical professionals by the competitive nature of NEET, which highlights its significance. Successfully clearing NEET is more than just a proof of one's academic capabilities; it symbolizes the beginning of a journey towards joining India's esteemed medical community. It opens doors to top-tier medical colleges and prepares the way for a rewarding career dedicated to healthcare and patient well-being.
Educational Qualification for NEET
Physics
Number of Questions: 45
Chemistry
Number of Questions: 45
Biology (Botony + Zoology)
Number of Questions: 90
Why do cut-offs matter?
The NEET cut-off-score (qualifying score) is the minimum score that you will need to qualify for a medical seat in India. The National Testing Agency (NTA) sets this based on the 50 percentile criteria
NEET cut-offs vary across categories. The general category typically has the highest cut-offs, while reserved categories like OBC, SC, ST, and others may benefit from lower cutoffs.
The cut-off at the institute/seat level is based on constantly changing various factors, including exam difficulty, applicant volume, and seat availability. This significantly improves your chances of securing as eat at your preferred college during NEET counselling. While clearing the cut off is crucial, aiming for a higher score is key.
State Quota and All India Quota Eligibility
Candidates aspiring for state quota seats must fulfil specific domicile/nativity/residence and schooling criteria. On the other hand, All India Quota seats are open to Indian citizens meeting age and academic requisites.
You must always remember that the NEET counselling registration and its selection process is based upon a merit list (comprising All India Rank / State Rank) prepared by the National Testing Agency (NTA) post the successful conduct of the examination.
NEET Process
flow flow
Knowing Your Quotas
NEET quotas play a crucial role in strategically securing your medical seat after clearing the exam. These quotas categorize the available seats in government medical colleges across India. There are two main categories:
1. All India Quota (AIQ)
2. State Quota
Each quota might have its own specific cut-off score. This understanding helps you to plan strategically for counselling. You can prioritize colleges that offer seats under both AIQ and state quotas, allowing you to explore a wider range of options. Through an understanding of NEET quotas, you will be able to effectively pass through the counselling process and increase your chances of securing your ideal medical seat.
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Category Cut-Off Percentile
General 50th Percentile
General PH 45th Percentile
SC 40th Percentile
ST 40th Percentile
OBC 40th Percentile
SC/ST/OBC-PH 40th Percentile
UR / EWS & PH 45th Percentile
All India Quota (AIQ)
15% for All India Level
What it is:
The All India Quota (AIQ) comprises 15% of all government medical college seats in India. Students from all states can apply for these seats irrespective of domicile/residence.
Who can apply:
Students from any state or union territory in India are eligible to apply for AIQ seats. This fosters diversity in medical colleges and and ensures that a set of seats are available in every medical college for all residents across India.
Benefits:
Applying for AIQ seats opens doors to prestigious medical colleges across the country, irrespective of your home state. This can be particularly beneficial for students aiming for top-ranked institutions.
State Quota
85% for State Candidates
What it is:
The State Quota constitutes the remaining 85% of government medical college seats in India. These seats are reserved primarily for students who are native / origin / domicile / residents of that specific state, while there may be other state specific criteria in a few states.
Who can apply:
Eligibility for state quota seats typically requires nativity/domicile (residency) in the respective state for a specific period (determined by each state). This ensures that a majority of medical graduates remain within the state to serve their local communities.
Benefits:
State quotas increase the chances of securing a seat for students facing high competition in their home state. Additionally, some states might have lower cut-off scores for the state quota compared to the AIQ, potentially making it easier for students to qualify.
High fives for NEET! Now let's crush counselling together
Counselling
Clearing the NEET exam is a significant accomplishment, but your journey to becoming a doctor doesn't end there. NEET counselling is the crucial next step that transforms your score into a seat at a medical college. This centralized process allocates seats based on merit (NEET score), preferences, and seat availability across government medical colleges and institutions.
Get ready!
The counseling arena awaits!
Choice filling round 2
Seat allotment
Document verification
College reporting
Registration
Choice filling (Round 1)
Seat allotment
Document verification
College reporting
and so on till the final rounds
NEET Selection Process

Centralised counselling for NEET applicants across all categories is conducted by the MCC and consists of four rounds:

1. All India Round-1
2. All India Round-2
3. All India Round-3
4. All India Stray Vacancy Round
While the MCC administers counselling for 15% of All India Quota seats and 100% of deemed university seats over four rounds, qualified NEET candidates are only eligible to participate in All India rounds 1, 2, 3 and the stray round. State authorities conduct separate state-level counsellings and publish the NEET counselling schedule for state-quota seats, facilitating admissions to government and private medical/dental colleges.
During the counselling process, applicants are required to complete an online form to select their preferred college options. Seats are subsequently allocated to candidates based on their rank and seat availability across participating universities.
Don't let counselling stress cloud your NEET victory. ZyNerd empowers you to choose wisely.
Acing the NEET exam is a fantastic accomplishment, but securing your dream medical seat requires navigating the complexities of NEET counselling. Don't let this process cloud your initial victory! At ZyNerd, we're here to ensure your journey continues smoothly. We offer a comprehensive support system designed to maximize your chances of success.
1

Expert Guidance :

Our experienced counselors guide you through NEET counseling, from seat reservation policies to information required for strategic choice filling.

2

Personalized Support:

Receive personalised advice and support to boost your confidence throughout the process.

3

Stay Updated:

We keep you informed about counseling schedules, seat availability, and crucial announcements.

With our guidance, conquer NEET and take the first confident step towards your dream of becoming a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions by the students
What is the mode of the NEET exam?
NEET is conducted in offline mode, which means it's a pen and paper-based test where candidates mark their answers on an OMR sheet.
Who conducts NEET exams?
The National Testing Agency (NTA) is responsible for conducting the NEET exams, ensuring a standardized and fair examination process.
I have crossed 25 years of age, can I take up NEET?
There is NO age limit for NEET
What are the basic eligibility criteria for NEET?
Candidates must have passed a 10+2 or equivalent examination with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English as core subjects. Additionally, candidates must meet the minimum aggregate marks required, which vary based on reservation categories.
What is the NEET exam pattern?
NEET comprises 180 multiple-choice questions, with 45 questions each from Physics and Chemistry, and 90 questions from Biology (Botany & Zoology). The exam duration is 3 hours 20 minutes.
In the application form, can the address be changed?
Yes, candidates have the opportunity to correct or update their address during the application form correction window provided by NTA.
What is the marking scheme for NEET?
Candidates are awarded +4 marks for each correct answer, while a -1 mark is deducted for each incorrect answer. Unanswered questions do not have any penalties.
What documents should I carry?
Candidates are required to carry their NEET admit card, a valid photo ID proof, passport, and post card-sized photographs to the examination center.
What dress code should be followed?
Candidates should dress in light-colored, half-sleeved clothes. They should avoid wearing any accessories, ornaments, or items with metallic parts to comply with the NEET dress code guidelines.
How will the NEET cut off be decided?
NEET cut off is determined based on various factors, such as the difficulty level of the exam, the number of applicants, and the total number of available seats. Additionally, cut-offs can vary for different quotas, like the All India Quota (AIQ) and state quotas.
Conclusion
The NEET counselling process is not just a procedural step, it's your bridge to a fulfilling medical career. Understanding its intricacies and eligibility criteria empowers you to navigate this journey seamlessly. As you embark on this transformative path, remember, each step brings you closer to realizing your aspirations. Best of luck on your NEET counselling journey!