NEET UG 2026: 26 Lakh candidates to appear, 13L female and 9 lakh male candidates to take part competing for 1Lakh MBBS seats

NEET UG 2026: 26 Lakh Students to Compete for 1 Lakh MBBS Seats

NTA rules out Guidelines for dress codes, timing etc.

Delhi, May 02: Over 26 lakh candidates, including 13 lakh female and 9 lakh male students, are set to compete for approximately 1 lakh MBBS seats in the NEET UG 2026 exam on May 3, 2026. 

The NTA has issued strict, mandatory dress code guidelines and exam day rules, requiring light, half-sleeve clothing and prohibiting, for example, watches and heavy jewelry, as per the NTA NEET 2026 guidelines.

Key NEET UG 2026 Exam Details:Exam Date & Time: May 3, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM (3 hours).

Capacity & Competition: 26 lakh+ candidates competing for ~1 lakh MBBS seats.Location: Pen-and-paper mode across India and abroad.

NTA Dress Code Advisory & Rules:Clothing: Light-colored, half-sleeved clothing is preferred. Long sleeves, fancy clothes, or large buttons are not permitted.

Footwear: Wear sandals or slippers; shoes with thick soles or high heels are not allowed.

Prohibited Items: No electronic devices, watches, metallic items, or wallets inside the hall.

Allowed Items: Only admit cards, photographs, ID proofs, and transparent water bottles are allowed inside the 0.5.5 exam hall.

Compliance: Strict frisking, biometric, and face authentication will be conducted.

Candidates should arrive early at the exam centre to ensure a smooth, stress-free entry. (Web Report)