NEET UG 2026: NTA outlines exam rules, warns against prohibited items

The National Testing Agency has issued exam day guidelines for NEET UG 2026, warning candidates against carrying prohibited items to test centers and saying that violations will be treated as unfair means.

In an advisory shared on X, the agency listed items that are strictly banned inside examination venues and said candidates will undergo mandatory frisking before entry. Any candidate found carrying restricted items may face action under exam rules.

NEET UG 2026 is scheduled to be held on May 3 from 2 pm to 5 pm in 552 cities across India and 14 international locations. Admit cards will be released soon on the official website, neet.nta.nic.in, and candidates must follow all instructions mentioned on the hall ticket.

As per the official guidelines, candidates are not allowed to carry textual material, paper bits, stationery items like geometry boxes, calculators, pens, scales, or electronic devices, including mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, earphones, and smart wearables.

Personal belongings such as wallets, handbags, belts, caps, watches, bracelets, cameras, and metallic items are also prohibited. Food items and water bottles are not permitted unless approved under specific medical conditions.

The agency stated that any exception due to medical reasons must be approved in advance before admit cards are issued. Candidates have also been advised to avoid wearing heavy clothing or jewelry and must carry their admit card along with a valid government ID for entry.

Separately, the National Medical Commission has directed medical colleges not to grant leave to students on May 2 and May 3, except in exceptional cases, as a precaution to maintain the integrity of the examination.

“Leave should not be granted on May 2 and 3, except in exceptional circumstances with due justification,” the notice stated.

The directive, issued on April 23, follows communication from the Department of Higher Education emphasizing the need to ensure the “sanctity and integrity” of the examination process.

Institutions have been asked to remain vigilant and caution students against any activity that could compromise the conduct of the exam.

The measures come amid increased monitoring of entrance examinations, with authorities tightening norms to prevent malpractice and ensure a fair environment for candidates.

City intimation slips were released on April 12, and admit cards are expected on April 26. Around 99.2% of candidates have been allotted their first preference of exam cities this year.

NTA has also warned aspirants against fraudulent claims circulating on social media platforms, particularly Telegram, offering access to question papers. The agency said strict legal action is being taken against those spreading misinformation.