The Ministry of Education is currently undertaking a thorough review into the feasibility of transitioning the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test for Undergraduate courses (NEET-UG) to a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format. This potential shift from the traditional pen-and-paper method aims to significantly bolster exam security and prevent future paper leaks, a pressing concern following recent controversies.
Discussions regarding this monumental change are actively taking place between the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. As of now, no definitive decision has been reached, indicating a cautious and comprehensive evaluation process.
A senior official involved in the review highlighted key considerations: “We are meticulously examining whether a CBT mode for NEET could inadvertently disadvantage specific student groups. Our analysis also delves into the current examination infrastructure across the country and evaluates how similar online tests have been received by candidates in the past. Once these crucial findings are compiled, we will proceed with further discussions with the Health Ministry.”
Understanding the NEET-UG Examination
NEET stands as India’s largest medical entrance examination, drawing an immense number of candidates annually. In 2025 alone, over 2.2 million aspirants appeared for the test. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), NEET is the primary gateway for admissions into various medical colleges, covering coveted courses such as Medicine (MBBS), Dentistry (BDS), Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha across India.
Nationwide, approximately 108,000 MBBS seats are available, with roughly 56,000 in government institutions and 52,000 in private medical colleges. Beyond MBBS and BDS, NEET results are also pivotal for admissions to other undergraduate programs in allied medical fields.
The Drive for Reform and Enhanced Exam Security
The concept of conducting NEET in an online mode isn’t entirely new, having been deliberated in previous years. However, the recent surge in momentum for this change is a direct response to last year’s widely reported paper leak controversy. This incident unequivocally underscored the urgent need for the Union Government to reinforce examination security protocols.
In response to the reported irregularities in both NEET and the University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC-NET) last year, the Centre established a high-level expert panel in July 2024. Chaired by Dr. R. Radhakrishnan, former Chief of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), this panel was tasked with recommending measures to ensure the fair, transparent, and secure conduct of all major examinations administered by the National Testing Agency.
Among its recommendations, the panel suggested exploring multi-stage testing for NEET-UG as a potential reform to enhance integrity. Both the NEET alleged leaks and the subsequent cancellation of UGC-NET last year, due to compromised integrity, are currently under active investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).