Will a two-stage formula curb paper leaks in NEET-UG? Centre considers major changes.

The NEET-UG exam could potentially be conducted in two stages in the future, similar to the JEE format. Additionally, there is a proposal to switch from the current pen-and-paper mode to a computer-based test (CBT).

NEET Exam Pattern Change: The Central Government is considering major changes regarding NEET-UG. The exam could be held in two stages, following the JEE model. A proposal to replace the existing pen-and-paper format with a computer-based test is also under discussion. The Centre disclosed this information in an affidavit filed with the Supreme Court. This affidavit was submitted during the hearing of petitions seeking reforms in the National Testing Agency's (NTA) examination system following the NEET paper leak incident. The Supreme Court had directed the Centre to establish a permanent mechanism to prevent such incidents in the future.

No final decision yet; task force to submit report

The Central Government has clarified that no final decision regarding the NEET-UG exam pattern or mode has been made yet. Any changes will be implemented only after the recommendations of a high-powered task force, chaired by Nandan Nilekani, are received. This task force comprises experts from the fields of technology, space, intelligence agencies, education, and administration. The committee will study aspects such as exam security, technology, logistics, infrastructure, student accessibility, equal opportunity, and academic matters before submitting its report.

Why is a two-stage exam being considered?

The government notes that concerns regarding paper leaks and the need for examination reforms in national-level tests have arisen over the past few years. Consequently, various options are being explored to make the examination system more secure and transparent. Discussions are underway regarding the possibility of implementing a two-stage exam—similar to JEE Main and JEE Advanced—and adopting a computer-based test to enhance the security of the examination process.

Most major NTA exams are already in CBT mode.

According to the affidavit, seven out of the eight major examinations conducted by the NTA are already being held in computer-based mode. These include examinations such as JEE Main, CUET-UG, CUET-PG, UGC-NET, and CSIR-NET. Among them, NEET-UG is currently the only major NTA examination still conducted in pen-and-paper mode; consequently, transitioning it to a Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode is being considered.

Will a two-stage exam prevent paper leaks?

The Central Government informed the court that NEET-UG differs significantly from other examinations. More than 2.2 million (22 lakh) students appear for it annually, with a large number hailing from rural areas and a significant proportion being female students. The government believes that conducting NEET-UG in two stages—similar to JEE—and adopting a computer-based test format could enhance the security of the examination process. This approach would reduce reliance on a single day and a single question paper, thereby potentially lowering the risk of incidents like paper leaks. Furthermore, the government noted that NEET facilitates admission not only to MBBS programs but also to various other medical courses, including BDS, AYUSH, veterinary science, and nursing. Therefore, all aspects will be thoroughly evaluated before any changes are made to the examination format.

Discussions to be held with the NMC and the Ministry of Health

The government stated that NEET-UG is conducted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and operates under the regulations of the National Medical Commission (NMC). Consequently, detailed discussions will be held with the NMC and the Ministry of Health before any alterations are made to the exam pattern or mode.