National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate)

National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate) - NEET-UG

The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Undergraduates (NEET-UG) is a preeminent examination in India, conducted annually to facilitate admissions into undergraduate medical and dental courses in government and private institutions across the country.

Overview

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An examination hall during NEET-UG exam.

NEET-UG is administered by the National Testing Agency (NTA), an independent body under the Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education, Government of India. It is the only entrance test for students aspiring to pursue undergraduate courses in medical sciences like MBBS, BDS, and AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy) in India.

Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for NEET-UG are as follows:

• Candidates must have completed or be appearing in their 10+2 examination with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English as core subjects from a recognized board.
• Candidates must have attained a minimum of 17 years of age at the time of admission or will complete that age on or before December 31 of the year of their admission.

Examination Structure

NEET-UG is a pen-and-paper test that consists of 180 multiple-choice questions from Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (Botany & Zoology). The duration of the exam is 3 hours, and it is conducted in various languages to cater to the diverse student population across the country.

Admission Process

Scores obtained in NEET-UG are used by participating institutions for admissions through a centralized counseling process. The counseling for All India Quota seats, state medical and dental college seats, as well as seats in private medical and dental colleges, is conducted by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, and respective state counseling authorities.

Significance

NEET-UG has standardized the admission process for medical undergraduate courses in India, making it more transparent and meritorious. It has significantly reduced the burden on students who had to earlier appear for multiple entrance exams and has also curbed malpractices in admissions.

Preparation Tips

• Comprehensive understanding of the NCERT textbooks for Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
• Regular practice of previous years' question papers and mock tests.
• Time management and a well-structured study plan.

Further Reading

• National Testing Agency (NTA) - Medical Examination
• Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India

External Links

• NTA NEET Official Website
• Medical Council of India (MCI)
• Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS)

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