The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test for Undergraduates (NEET UG) is India’s largest medical entrance exam, with more than 20 lakh aspirants appearing every year. Traditionally conducted in pen-and-paper format, NEET UG is now under review for a possible transition to computer-based testing (CBT) or online mode. The Ministry of Education, in consultation with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, is conducting a detailed data analysis to assess the feasibility, benefits, and challenges of moving the exam online.

Why Consider Online Mode for NEET UG?

The push for a digital exam format stems from concerns over security, transparency, and efficiency. In recent years, several exam paper leaks and malpractice allegations have raised questions about the integrity of high-stakes entrance tests. A CBT format, already used in other competitive exams such as JEE Main and CUET UG, is seen as a potential solution to minimize paper leaks, improve monitoring, and accelerate result processing.

The Education Ministry is analyzing available data on infrastructure readiness, digital access among students, and logistical challenges to determine whether such a shift would be practical and equitable. A committee headed by former ISRO Chairman K. Radhakrishnan had already recommended adopting computer-based formats wherever possible, emphasizing that they enhance exam security and credibility.

Factors Being Analyzed by the Government

Infrastructure Availability
The government is reviewing whether exam centers across urban, semi-urban, and rural regions have sufficient digital infrastructure—computers, internet bandwidth, power backup, and secure servers—to conduct exams at scale. Unlike JEE Main, which has fewer applicants, NEET UG caters to more than 20–22 lakh students annually, making logistics far more complex.

Equity and Access
A key concern is the digital divide. Students from rural and economically weaker backgrounds may not have regular access to computers or reliable internet. For them, preparing for an online test could be challenging. The ministry is studying how to minimize disadvantages and ensure a level playing field for all candidates.

Learning Curve for Students
Moving NEET UG to CBT would mean students must adapt to a new testing interface. This could involve mock CBT practice sessions, training modules, and awareness campaigns to ensure familiarity with digital exams before implementation.

Exam Integrity and Security
The biggest argument in favor of CBT is enhanced security. Physical question paper printing, storage, and distribution involve risks of leaks and tampering. Online exams, with encrypted question delivery and AI-enabled monitoring, are harder to compromise.

Logistical Preparedness
Conducting NEET UG online would likely require multiple shifts or sessions. This raises questions about normalization of scores, fairness across different slots, and how to ensure consistency in difficulty levels. The government is analyzing experiences from CUET UG and JEE Main to frame best practices.

Pros and Cons of Shifting NEET UG Online

✔️ Advantages:

Stronger exam security, reducing chances of malpractice.

Faster result processing and improved transparency.

Aligns with global testing standards and India’s own digital exam ecosystem.

❗ Challenges:

Risk of digital inequality, disadvantaging rural students.

High cost of setting up secure CBT infrastructure nationwide.

Possibility of technical glitches disrupting exams, as seen in CUET UG.

Managing multiple shifts without compromising fairness.

The Current Status of NEET UG 2025

Despite ongoing discussions, the government has clarified that NEET UG 2025 will continue in pen-and-paper mode. The exam will be conducted in a single shift using the OMR system. The online mode is still under review, and any decision will likely apply to future exam cycles after thorough consultations with stakeholders.

What It Means for Aspirants

For lakhs of NEET UG aspirants, the possibility of an online exam brings both hope and anxiety. While many urban students welcome the idea for its speed and modern approach, others fear being left behind due to lack of resources or exposure. If the exam does transition to CBT in the coming years, the government may need to introduce preparatory measures—such as free mock CBT tests, computer literacy support, and additional time for adaptation.

Looking Ahead

The Education Ministry’s decision on NEET UG’s format will have a long-term impact on India’s medical education system. If implemented thoughtfully, CBT could strengthen exam security and global credibility. However, unless challenges of equity, infrastructure, and fairness are addressed, the transition could deepen the gap between privileged and underprivileged aspirants.

For now, NEET UG 2025 will remain offline, but the debate signals a gradual shift in how India envisions the future of its most important entrance examinations.