Has NTA released NEET sample paper for 2026?

For NEET exam preparation, the NCERT books are non-negotiable. Candidates should cover the syllabus from NEET NCERT books of Class 11 and 12. Moreover, candidates should refer to the best books for NEET preparation, such as-

• Concepts of Physics by H C Verma
• Organic Chemistry Objective by Arihant
• Truema

The 80/20 rule in NEET is applible in case when candidates have limited time to study for the exam. The rule implies rather than covering the entire syllabus, candidates should focus on 20% of the high-value topics that are likely to form about 80% of the NEET question paper. 

The NEET exam is conducted offline in pen and paper mode. The NEET exam pattern is as such-

• There are 180 MCQs.
• 45 are from Physics, 45 from Chemistry and 90 from Biology (Botany and Zoology). 
• Each question is of 4 marks.
• The total marks are 720.
• The exam duration is 3 hours.

The minimum age limit to apply online for NEET exam is 17 years. However, there is no upper age limit in the exam. Candidates must be of 17 years as on or before December 31, 2026 to be eligible for NEET. Check here NEET age limit 2026 for OBC, SC, ST, General. 

The NEET exam is conducted from 2.00 to 5.00 pm. Have a look at the NEET exam timing 2026 below-