NEET exam pattern 2025 changed-NTA released latest updates

In a significant development, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced that it will revert the NEET UG 2025 exam pattern to the pre-COVID format. This decision marks the end of the modifications that were introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic and brings the exam structure back to its original design, effective for the upcoming NEET UG 2025 session.

Key changes in NEET UG 2025 exam pattern

According to the latest NTA update, the question paper pattern for NEET UG 2025 has changed:

• There will be a total of 180 compulsory questions, with no optional questions and extra time

• Physics and Chemistry sections will follow the pre-pandemic distribution of 45 questions each

• Biology will account for 90 questions

• No additional time will be granted, and there will be no Section B

What was the format during COVID-19?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the NEET UG examination underwent significant changes to accommodate the disruptions caused to students' education and ensure flexibility in the exam structure.

The exam was divided as follows:

• Physics and Chemistry each had two sections (A and B):

  • Section A: 35 compulsory questions

  • Section B: 15 questions, with students required to attempt 10 out of these 15 questions

• Biology was also divided into two sections:

  • Section A: 70 compulsory questions

  • Section B: 30 questions, with students needing to attempt 20 out of these 30 questions

Each of these sections carried a total of four marks per question, maintaining that there will be a total of 720 marks for the entire exam. The duration of the exam remained at three hours; however, candidates were granted an additional 20 minutes to attempt the questions in Section B, offering them more time to complete the optional questions.

Return to the pre-COVID format for NEET UG 2025

With the recent announcement, the NTA has decided to change the question paper pattern and revert to the pre-COVID exam pattern for NEET UG 2025. The compulsory 180 questions will be divided between Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, as per the original format. The additional Section B and the extra time previously introduced during the pandemic will no longer be a part of the exam.

This means that NEET UG 2025 will closely resemble the structure that was in place before the pandemic, requiring students to answer all questions within the three-hour duration. The agency has confirmed that NEET UG 2025 will be held offline, in pen and paper mode and using OMR sheets. The test will be held in a single day and a single shift.

Why did NTA revert to the Pre-COVID format?

The decision was made as the academic landscape has largely returned to normal. The NTA aims to provide a uniform and standardized experience for all candidates. The move also ensures fairness and consistency across all NEET UG exams, especially as educational institutions resume regular operations.

As the NEET UG 2025 exam approaches, students will need to adapt and revert to pre-COVID exam structure, with a focus on comprehensive preparation for all subjects without relying on optional questions or additional time.

Impact on NEET UG 2025 aspirants

The return to the pre-COVID pattern means that candidates will no longer have the advantage of optional questions or extra time. This change requires students to revise all topics thoroughly and practice time management to ensure they can attempt all questions within the three-hour window.

Key implications for students:

• Candidates must answer a total of 180 compulsory questions(in physics and chemistry and biology) making time management crucial

• The format will be more challenging, requiring strong conceptual clarity

• Physics and Chemistry will follow the traditional structure, necessitating a balanced approach to preparation

Official confirmation from NTA

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released an official notification confirming the change for NEET UG 2025. The updated question paper pattern will align with the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET UG) standards before the pandemic.

This change emphasizes the need for students to adjust their preparation strategies accordingly. As NEET UG 2025 approaches, aspirants should focus on mastering all topics and practicing under the revised exam conditions.

For further details, candidates are advised to check the official NTA website.

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