NEET UG 2026: Can you appear for NEET UG while wearing a Hijab or Turban? What to do if you have Henna (Mehendi) on your thumb?

NEET UG 2026 Guidelines: NEET UG is one of the most challenging examinations in the country. Millions of aspirants toil day and night for years to prepare for it. However, a minor oversight can often undo all their hard work. Have you ever wondered what would happen if your fingerprints (biometrics) failed to match at the examination center? If you inadvertently wore something that is prohibited, would you still be allowed to take the exam? The National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued strict guidelines for NEET UG 2026.

The process leading up to entry into the NEET UG examination hall is nothing short of a trial by fire. From rigorous physical searches to digital attendance, every step is subject to strict scrutiny. Many aspirants, overwhelmed by the stress of their studies, tend to take these rules lightly; however, remember this: adhering to the instructions printed on your admit card is just as crucial as providing the correct answers to the questions. The NEET UG examination is scheduled for May 3, 2026. Before that date, it is essential to be well-informed about the NEET UG dress code and biometric guidelines.

What to Do If Biometric Verification Fails at the NEET UG Examination Center?
Often, due to factors such as perspiration, *mehndi* (henna), or minor injuries, an aspirant's thumbprints may fail to match during the entry process at the examination center. While it is natural to feel anxious in such a situation, certain NTA guidelines offer recourse even in these circumstances:

Manual Verification: If the biometric machine is unable to recognize your fingerprints, the invigilator may scan your irises (eyes).
Aadhaar Authentication: If the digital method proves unsuccessful, your physical ID proof and the photograph affixed to your admit card will be manually cross-checked.
Undertaking: In cases involving suspicious circumstances, you may be required to fill out a declaration form (undertaking) to verify your identity and ensure that you are not barred from taking the examination.

NEET UG 2026 Dress Code: What to Wear—and What to Avoid—at the Examination Center?

The NTA has adopted a zero-tolerance policy regarding the NEET UG dress code. You can check all the instructions regarding the NEET UG 2026 dress code below:

Instructions for Boys:
Clothing: Wear half-sleeved shirts or T-shirts. Do not wear full-sleeved shirts or shirts with large buttons.
Footwear: Wearing shoes is prohibited. Only slippers or sandals with thin soles are permitted.

Instructions for Girls:
Clothing: Wear simple attire free of large buttons, brooches, or floral embellishments. Half-sleeved kurtis or T-shirts are recommended.
Jewelry: Earrings, rings, bangles, necklaces, or any other form of jewelry are strictly prohibited.
Footwear: Do not wear high-heeled sandals. Only simple flat slippers are permitted.

Religious Attire:
If you are wearing a hijab or turban in accordance with your religious traditions, you must arrive at the examination center at least one hour before the reporting time to allow for a thorough security check.

NEET UG candidates are permitted to carry a transparent water bottle with them. Additionally, all candidates are advised to reach the examination center before the scheduled reporting time.

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