NTA extends NEET-UG 2026 exam window to 195 minutes and adds more rough-work pages

The medical entrance examination is scheduled to be held on June 21

The medical entrance examination is scheduled to be held on June 21

NTA announces more rough-work space, extended exam window for NEET-UG 2026

The National Testing Agency has introduced significant changes for NEET UG 2026. The exam duration is extended to 195 minutes, running from 2:00 pm to 5:15 pm. This provides ample time for candidates, including administrative procedures. Additionally, the number of rough work pages in the question booklet has doubled to four

NEET (UG)-2026 will feature a longer exam window, now 195 minutes, from 2:00 PM to 5:15 PM. Candidates will receive four rough-work pages, with two placed at the booklet's beginning for easier access, addressing feedback on convenience and accessibility. These changes aim for a fairer, more comfortable exam experience.

NEET UG 2026 Re-Exam: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has introduced student-friendly measures for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET UG) 2026, scheduled for June 21, 2026. The changes aim to improve the examination experience for candidates while ensuring fairness, transparency, and security.According to an official notice issued on June 12, 2026, the NTA has revised the exam process and question paper design based on feedback from aspirants over the years.Direct Link To Check Official NoticeNEET UG 2026 Exam Duration ExtendedThe NEET UG 2026 examination will now be conducted from 2:00 PM to 5:15 PM, providing a total duration of 195 minutes. The extended schedule includes time for mandatory formalities such as attendance verification, signatures, and invigilation procedures, ensuring candidates have the full time intended to attempt the question paper.More Space for Rough WorkCandidates will now receive four rough-work pages instead of two, allowing additional space for calculations, diagrams, and other workings during the examination.Revised Question Paper Layout for Better ConvenienceTwo rough-work pages will be placed immediately after the instruction page at the beginning of the booklet, while the remaining two pages will be available at the end. The change was made following feedback from left-handed students who found the previous arrangement less convenient. This format applies to both English and regional language versions of the question paper.Objective Behind the ChangesThe NTA emphasised that even minor improvements in examination design can significantly enhance candidate experience. The new measures aim to make the process more comfortable without compromising examination integrity.Instructions for CandidatesCandidates appearing for the NEET UG 2026 re-examination should carefully read all instructions on their admit cards and in the information bulletin, and cooperate with examination authorities and invigilators.NEET UG 2026: Key Changes at a GlanceExamination Date: June 21, 2026Exam Timing: 2:00 PM to 5:15 PMTotal Duration: 195 minutesRough-Work Pages: Increased from 2 to 4Rough-Work Placement: 2 pages at the beginning, 2 pages at the endPurpose of Changes: Improve candidate convenience and examination experienceBenefit for Candidates: Additional time for exam formalities and more space for calculationsSpecial Consideration: Revised rough-work page placement for left-handed candidatesQuestion Paper Format: Changes implemented in both English and regional language versionsOld vs New: NEET UG 2026 Changes at a GlanceExam DurationEarlier: Shorter windowNow: Extended to 195 minutes (2:00 PM to 5:15 PM), including mandatory procedures.Rough-Work PagesEarlier: 2 pages.Now: 4 pages for calculations, diagrams, and other workings.Placement of Rough-Work PagesEarlier: Both pages at the end of the booklet.Now: 2 pages at the beginning (after instructions) and 2 pages at the end.Benefit to CandidatesEarlier: Limited rough-work space and less flexibility.Now: More writing space, improved convenience, especially for left-handed students.Purpose of ChangesEarlier: Standard examination format.Now: A student-friendly and comfortable process while maintaining fairness and security.