The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is the single most important examination for anyone aspiring to build a career in medicine in India. Conducted to ensure merit-based, transparent, and standardised admissions, NEET has eliminated multiple state-level exams and brought uniformity across the country. Whether you dream of joining a college like Dr. Moopen’s Medical College, Wayanad or Al-Azhar Medical College, Thodupuzha, or any other recognised institution, qualifying NEET is mandatory.
What is NEET?
NEET is a national-level entrance test regulated by the National Medical Commission (NMC). It has two main versions:
NEET UG — For undergraduate courses, primarily MBBS.
NEET PG — For postgraduate courses like MD (Doctor of Medicine) and MS (Master of Surgery).
The exam tests deep understanding of core subjects and ensures only qualified candidates enter the medical profession.
NEET UG: The Essential Gateway to MBBS
NEET UG is the only accepted entrance exam for MBBS admission in India. No medical college — government, private, minority, or deemed — can offer admission without a valid NEET UG score.
Key Details for NEET UG 2026:
Exam Date: 3 May 2026 (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Mode: Offline (Pen and Paper / OMR-based)
Duration: 3 hours
Total Questions: 180 (Physics 45, Chemistry 45, Biology 90)
Total Marks: 720
Marking Scheme: +4 for correct answer, -1 for incorrect
Eligibility Criteria:
Minimum age: 17 years as on 31 December 2026.
Must have passed Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English.
Minimum marks in PCB: 50% (General), 40% (SC/ST/OBC), 45% (PwD).
Why NEET UG Matters for MBBS:
All seats, including State Merit, Management, and NRI quotas, are filled strictly through NEET UG rank followed by counselling (Kerala CEE for colleges in Kerala).
It ensures fairness, reduces capitation fees, and upholds quality standards set by NMC.
A good rank improves chances of securing lower-fee government quota seats in private colleges.
Without qualifying NEET UG, MBBS admission is impossible in any recognised Indian medical college.
NEET PG: The Pathway to Specialisation (MD/MS)
After completing MBBS and the compulsory one-year internship, doctors must clear NEET PG to pursue postgraduate specialisations.
Key Details for NEET PG 2026:
Exam Date: 30 August 2026 (Computer-Based Test)
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
Total Questions: 200 MCQs
Total Marks: 800
Marking Scheme: +4 for correct, -1 for incorrect
Eligibility Criteria:
MBBS degree from an NMC-recognised college.
Completion of one-year compulsory rotating internship (by 30 September 2026 for NEET PG 2026).
Valid provisional or permanent registration with NMC or State Medical Council.
Why NEET PG Matters for MD/MS:
It is the sole entrance exam for all MD/MS seats in India.
Your rank decides not only the college but also the specialty (e.g., General Medicine, Surgery, Paediatrics, Orthopaedics, etc.).
It maintains high standards by selecting competent doctors for advanced training.
At colleges like Dr. Moopen’s or Al-Azhar, any available PG seats are allotted through NEET PG merit.
Why NEET Overall Matters
Standardisation: One national exam replaces multiple state tests.
Transparency: Merit-based selection minimises irregularities.
Quality Control: Ensures only deserving candidates enter and progress in medicine.
Fair Access: Applies reservations and quotas uniformly based on rank and category.
Even for MBBS abroad, NEET qualification is mandatory if you wish to return and practise in India as per current NMC rules.
Final Advice for Aspirants
NEET is the foundation of a medical career in India. Start preparation early with NCERT books, regular practice, and mock tests. For colleges in Kerala such as Dr. Moopen’s Medical College, Wayanad or Al-Azhar Medical College, Thodupuzha, a competitive NEET UG score is essential for better seat allocation in state counselling and access to scholarships.