NEET Exam 2026: No entry after 1:30 PM; know the 10 rules covering everything from shoes and watches to mobile phones..
NEET UG Re-Exam 2026: Preparations are complete for the NEET UG Re-Exam 2026, scheduled to be held nationwide on June 21. Approximately 22.7 lakh students will appear for the exam this time. The NTA (National Testing Agency), the conducting body, has issued several important instructions for candidates. Students and parents are also urged not to rely on rumors or unverified news circulating on social media and to consider only official information as accurate. The exam will take place from 2:00 PM to 5:15 PM, but entry into the exam centers will begin at 11:00 AM. No candidate will be allowed entry after 1:30 PM; therefore, arriving at the exam center ahead of time is crucial.
**Strict Security Measures**
To ensure the exam is completely secure and transparent, over five lakh security personnel have been deployed across the country. Additionally, more than 6,000 observers and 674 city coordinators will oversee the examination process. The NTA has clarified that strict action will be taken against anyone involved in paper leaks, cheating, or any other form of malpractice. Under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, those found guilty could face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to ₹1 crore.
**Three Major Changes This Time**
Several significant changes have been introduced for NEET UG 2026. First, students will have a total of 195 minutes to solve the questions. Second, the number of pages provided for rough work has been increased from two to four. Third, students are permitted to write on both sides of the rough sheets, making it easier for left-handed students.
**NEET Dress Code: What to Wear and What Not to Wear?**
The NTA has issued a strict dress code for the exam. Male candidates may wear half-sleeved shirts or T-shirts; full-sleeved clothing and woolen garments are not permitted. Trousers or regular pants are permitted, but track pants and joggers are not allowed. Girls may wear half-sleeved kurtas or tops; full-sleeved garments and woolens must be avoided.
**Rules regarding footwear**
Wearing shoes inside the examination center is not permitted. Candidates are advised to wear simple slippers or low-heeled sandals. Entry will be denied to anyone wearing rings, chains, bracelets, *kada* (metal bangles), amulets, earrings, nose studs, watches, sunglasses, caps, hairbands, or any metallic objects.
**Special rules for religious or traditional attire**
Candidates arriving in religious or traditional attire must reach the examination center at least 30 minutes earlier than the standard reporting time—specifically by 12:30 PM—to undergo a special screening.
**Mandatory documents to carry**
Carrying specific documents is mandatory for entry into the examination center. Candidates must bring two printed copies of their NEET admit card. Additionally, an original Aadhaar card, Voter ID, PAN card, driving license, or any other government-issued photo identity card is required. Candidates must also carry a 4x6-inch postcard-sized photograph (affixed to the proforma downloaded with the admit card) and an extra passport-sized photograph; entry will be denied to those without these photographs. A filled-out self-declaration form is also mandatory.
**No need to carry a pen**
The NTA has clarified that students do not need to bring their own pens. Black ballpoint pens will be provided to all candidates at the examination center. Candidates may carry only the necessary documents and a transparent water bottle; no other items are permitted. **Items Strictly Prohibited**
Carrying mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, smartwatches, calculators, electronic gadgets, pencil boxes, wristwatches, jewelry, or any type of digital device into the examination center is strictly prohibited. Food and beverage items are also not allowed inside the examination hall.
**Points to Remember While Filling the OMR Sheet**
The NTA has issued several important instructions regarding filling out the OMR sheet.
**What to Do?**
Use only the black ballpoint pen provided at the examination center.
Fill the answer circle completely and darkly.
Select only one option for each question.
Carefully check the question number before marking the answer.
Keep the OMR sheet clean and tidy.
**What Not to Do?**
Do not mark with a tick (✓) or a cross (✗).
Do not leave circles partially filled.
Do not mark more than one answer.
Do not attempt to erase, overwrite, or make alterations to the OMR sheet.
**Where to Do Rough Work?**
Candidates must perform rough work only on the rough sheets provided during the examination. The use of any other paper is not permitted.
**Rules Regarding Toilet Breaks**
If a student goes to the restroom during the exam, they will undergo a fresh security check (frisking) upon returning. Additionally, toilet breaks will not be permitted during the first 30 minutes after the exam starts and the last 30 minutes before it concludes.
**NTA's Special Advice Regarding Weather**
The NTA has noted the possibility of rain and thunderstorms in several parts of the country. Consequently, students should plan their travel in advance. They are advised to check the weather forecast before leaving home, consider potential issues like traffic and waterlogging, and aim to reach the examination center well ahead of time.
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