NEET-UG 2027 set for computer-based exam over 5-6 days as NTA faces overhaul

New Delhi: NEET-UG is set to move to a computer-based format from 2027, with the medical entrance test planned across five to six days at about 1,000 centres in 500 cities. The proposed shift comes after this year’s NEET-UG paper leak forced cancellation of the May 3 exam, in which about 22 lakh candidates had appeared, and led to a retest, protests and a CBI investigation. The government is also preparing a full revamp of the National Testing Agency, which conducts NEET-UG and other national entrance examinations. Under the plan, about 5 lakh candidates would be accommodated each day. Most centres being identified are government institutions, including Kendriya Vidyalayas and Navodaya Vidyalayas, with some reputed private institutions also likely to be used. The NTA overhaul is expected to cover organisation, infrastructure, technology and processes. Sources cited in the report said the exercise is expected to be completed before October. The agency has about 150 sanctioned posts. The move follows recommendations of the seven-member committee led by former ISRO chairman K Radhakrishnan, set up after the 2024 paper leak. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had said on May 15, while announcing the June 21 retest, that NEET-UG would shift from pen-and-paper to computer-based testing from next year. A detailed notification on shift timings, test cities and other exam arrangements is expected after the NTA revamp is completed. Investigations into the leak are continuing, while officials from the Education Ministry and NTA have briefed the Parliamentary Standing Committee on steps to strengthen entrance exam security.