New Delhi, India – July 8, 2026 – The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Undergraduate (NEET-UG), a cornerstone examination for aspiring medical professionals in India, is set to undergo a radical transformation, signaling a significant shift in the country’s approach to large-scale entrance examinations. In a move aimed at enhancing security, efficiency, and accessibility, the Ministry of Education is reportedly planning to transition NEET-UG to a computer-based test (CBT) format starting next year. Concurrently, the National Testing Agency (NTA), the body responsible for conducting NEET-UG and numerous other national examinations, is slated for a comprehensive organizational and operational revamp in response to persistent concerns over examination integrity.
These proposed changes, detailed in a report by The Indian Express and corroborated by sources within the Ministry of Education, come in the wake of a series of high-profile paper leak incidents that have plagued NEET-UG in recent years, sparking widespread student protests and a deep-seated erosion of public trust. The government’s commitment to a fundamental overhaul underscores the urgency with which it is addressing these critical issues impacting the future of millions of students.
)
The Impending Shift: Computer-Based Testing and Expanded Examination Window
The most striking proposed change for NEET-UG is its transition from the traditional pen-and-paper OMR-based format to a computer-based test. This move, long advocated for by examination reformists, is expected to significantly bolster the security of the examination process by minimizing opportunities for malpractices associated with physical papers.
)
Under the new model, the examination is likely to be conducted over an extended period of five to six days, accommodating approximately five lakh candidates each day. This phased approach aims to alleviate the logistical challenges of conducting a single-day examination for such a massive cohort, while also potentially diversifying the examination experience across different days and question sets, thereby further mitigating leak risks.
The report indicates that the examination will be held at an estimated 1,000 centres spread across nearly 500 cities nationwide. This expansive network of venues is designed to ensure accessibility for students across the country, reducing the need for extensive travel and associated costs. A key aspect of this infrastructure development will be the increased utilization of government educational institutions as primary examination centres.
)
A Deep Dive into the NTA Revamp: From Organization to Operations
The planned overhaul of the National Testing Agency (NTA) is as significant as the changes to NEET-UG itself. Established in 2017 with the mandate to conduct various entrance examinations efficiently and transparently, the NTA has faced increasing scrutiny due to repeated allegations of paper leaks and administrative lapses. The proposed revamp, described as a "complete overhaul from top to bottom," will encompass a wide spectrum of the agency’s functions.
)
Sources suggest that the restructuring will target the NTA’s organizational framework, its technological infrastructure, operational processes, and human resource management. This holistic approach aims to address the systemic vulnerabilities that have been exploited in the past and to build a more robust and resilient examination system. The exercise is reportedly slated for completion before October, indicating a swift and decisive action plan by the government.
)
Currently, the NTA has approximately 150 sanctioned posts. The proposed revamp is expected to lead to a re-evaluation of these staffing levels and potentially an expansion of its workforce, coupled with enhanced training and technological integration. The goal is to create an agency that is not only capable of conducting large-scale examinations but is also equipped with advanced security protocols and efficient grievance redressal mechanisms.
)
The Shadow of Paper Leaks: A Catalyst for Change
The impetus for these drastic measures is undeniable: the recurring and deeply damaging paper leak controversies that have marred NEET-UG. The most recent incident, involving the May 3rd examination, led to its cancellation and subsequent re-examination on June 21st, triggering widespread student protests and a nationwide outcry for accountability. The scale of the NEET-UG examination, with approximately 22 lakh students appearing for the test, amplifies the impact of any such lapse.
)
This is not an isolated incident. The report highlights that the current proposals are largely based on the recommendations of a seven-member committee, chaired by former ISRO chairman K. Radhakrishnan. This committee was constituted by the Centre in 2024 following another significant NEET paper leak, underscoring a pattern of recurring security breaches. The committee’s mandate was to analyze the existing examination system and suggest measures for its improvement and security enhancement.
)
The Radhakrishnan committee’s report, which has been reviewed by The Indian Express, reportedly includes critical recommendations regarding the adoption of technology, strengthening of examination centre protocols, and enhanced monitoring mechanisms. The proposed shift to CBT and the multi-day examination format are direct outcomes of such recommendations, aimed at creating a more secure and leak-proof examination environment.
)
Government Schools as Pillars of Examination Integrity
In a move that could significantly bolster the infrastructure and security of examination centres, the government plans to prioritize government institutions, including Kendriya Vidyalayas and Navodaya Vidyalayas, as the primary venues for NEET-UG next year. While some well-established private institutions might still be selected, the emphasis on public schools is likely driven by several factors:
)
- Enhanced Security Control: Government schools often have more controlled access and established security protocols compared to some private institutions.
- Reduced Costs: Utilizing existing government infrastructure can lead to significant cost savings in the long run, which could potentially translate into more affordable examination fees for students.
- National Reach: Kendriya Vidyalayas and Navodaya Vidyalayas are present across the country, ensuring a wide geographical spread and accessibility.
- Standardization: Using a standardized set of government institutions can simplify the process of implementing uniform security measures and training invigilation staff.
Each of these centres is expected to be equipped to handle approximately 500 candidates per day, reflecting the logistical planning involved in the multi-day examination format. A detailed notification, outlining shift timings, the list of exam cities, and other essential instructions, is anticipated to be released only after the completion of the NTA revamp, ensuring that all operational aspects are harmonized.
)
Ongoing Investigations and Parliamentary Oversight
The ongoing investigations into the NEET-UG paper leak remain a critical aspect of the government’s response. Sources have confirmed that the probe is actively underway, with assurances that "no one will be spared if he or she has committed the crime." This commitment to accountability is crucial for restoring public faith in the examination system.
)
In parallel with the administrative and operational reforms, the government is also engaging with legislative oversight. Senior officials from the Ministry of Education and the NTA recently appeared before the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, Women, Children, Youth and Sports. They briefed the committee on the comprehensive steps being undertaken to fortify the entrance examination system against malpractices. This engagement signifies a commitment to transparency and accountability at the highest levels of governance.
)
A Troubling Trend: Convictions in Paper Leak Cases Remain Low
While the government is initiating robust reforms, a stark statistic unearthed by The Indian Express paints a concerning picture of the past two decades. A review of 45 major exam paper leak cases involving examinations with at least one lakh candidates revealed that only two of these cases have resulted in convictions. This low conviction rate, if accurate, highlights a significant challenge in ensuring judicial accountability for those involved in such widespread cheating and academic fraud.
)
The NTA revamp and the shift to CBT for NEET-UG are not merely administrative adjustments; they represent a strategic imperative to address the deep-seated issues of examination integrity. The success of these initiatives will depend not only on their meticulous implementation but also on a sustained commitment to transparency, accountability, and a rigorous approach to safeguarding the future of India’s aspiring professionals. The coming year will be a crucial test for both the NTA and the future of high-stakes examinations in the country.
