
Full Form of NEET:
The full form of NEET is the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test. It is an all-India examination conducted to admit students to undergraduate medical courses across the country.
History of NEET:
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is a national-level medical entrance examination in India. It was introduced in 2013 by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) as an attempt to unify all medical entrance examinations across the country. NEET replaced AIPMT (All India Pre-Medical Test) and other state-level examinations.
NEET is conducted in Hindi, English, and eight other regional languages. The test is held for admission to undergraduate medical courses (MBBS) in government and private medical colleges across the country. In 2018, around 13 lakh students appeared for NEET.
What is NEET Exam:
NEET is one of the toughest medical entrance examinations conducted in India. The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to undergraduate (MBBS/BDS/Ayush courses) every year. According to the Government of India, it is a mandatory requirement to qualify for the NEET exam to study medical courses in India and abroad. The languages in which NEET 2021 was conducted include English, Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Punjabi, Oriya, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu.
The examination consists of 180 questions, with 45 questions each from Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Each correct answer earns 4 marks, and each incorrect answer results in a deduction of 1 mark.
NEET Eligibility:
NEET is the only medical entrance examination in India that fills all medical seats, including admissions to AIIMS and JIPMER, as well as admissions for medical courses abroad. To be eligible for the NEET examination, a student must be at least 17 years of age, and they must score a total of at least 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
NEET Exam Pattern:
The NEET exam is conducted by the NTA. The question paper covers topics from Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Biology is divided into two sections, including Botany and Zoology. The question paper consists of 180 questions, with each correct answer earning 4 marks, and 1 mark deducted for each incorrect answer. Candidates have a maximum of three hours to answer all the questions.
Benefits of NEET Exam:
- Common Entrance Exam: NEET being the sole medical entrance exam in India prevents private medical colleges from conducting their entrance exams. The NEET entrance exam facilitates medical aspirants in pursuing medical courses, including MBBS, abroad.
- Equal Opportunity: Qualifying NEET with high scores and securing a good rank in the All India merit list enables students to secure a seat in the most prestigious medical colleges in the country.
- More Time to Attend the Exam: Students appearing for the NEET exam need to attempt only 180 questions in 3 hours, providing them more time to think, concentrate, and potentially score higher compared to previous years.
- Save Time and Money: The introduction of the NEET exam streamlines the medical entrance exam process, saving students time and money. With only one exam to attempt and a single-time registration, the need for multiple exams for admission to medical colleges is eliminated.
- Uniform Admission: NEET reduces unnecessary stress for medical aspirants as they only have to appear for one exam to gain admission to any college. The introduction of NEET aims to bring about a uniform admission process to medical colleges in India, and admissions to medical universities are determined solely through NEET qualification.
Preparation for NEET:
There is no specific way to prepare for NEET; however, the best approach is practicing as many MCQs as possible. Candidates should focus on solving sample papers and previous years’ question papers. Here are a few tips for better preparation:
- Understand the syllabus and pattern of NEET
- Make a study plan and adhere to it
- Solve as many MCQs as possible
- Practice previous year’s question papers
- Focus on weak areas
With proper preparation and dedication, any student can crack NEET and fulfill their dream of becoming a doctor.
NEET Education Qualification:
Candidates must have completed and passed the 10+2 examination or its equivalent from a recognized board. The candidates must have studied core subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, with English from a reputed board. Those candidates appearing for 10+2 or its equivalent are eligible to appear for the NEET 2024 Entrance Exam.
NEET Minimum Percentage Requirement:
- General or Unreserved candidates: Must have secured a minimum aggregate of 50% in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Biotechnology to appear for the NEET examination 2024.
- Reserved category (SC/ST/OBC-NCL) candidates: Must have scored a minimum of 40% in the qualifying examination.
- PWD candidates: Must have secured 45% marks in their 12th or equivalent to appear for NEET 2024.
Aadhar Card Document Requirement:
Candidates who are Indian citizens must hold a valid Aadhar card issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). As the details on the Aadhaar card are used for the application process, candidates must ensure that their full name, date of birth, and other details match the Aadhaar card records. NRI/OCI/foreign nationals must possess essential documents such as a valid passport or OCI card, along with the eligibility certificate issued by the Medical Council of India (MCI).