NEET UG 2027 CBT Mode Not Finalised Yet: Centre to SC
The Central Government has informed the Supreme Court that a shift to computer-based testing for NEET UG 2027 has not been decided upon, keeping the format question open for now.
Key points
- Centre tells Supreme Court that NEET UG 2027 CBT format is not yet finalised
- Current NEET UG format remains pen-and-paper (OMR-based) offline test
- Debate on CBT shift arose after 2024 NEET UG paper leak controversy
- Supreme Court continues to monitor NTA exam reform proceedings
- No change in format for NEET UG 2025; aspirants advised to watch official channels
Important details
| Organisation | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
|---|---|
| Official website | https://neet.nta.nic.in |
The Union Government has told the Supreme Court of India that moving the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test – Undergraduate (NEET UG) to a computer-based test (CBT) format for the 2027 cycle is not a settled decision. The clarification came during ongoing proceedings in the apex court related to the conduct and integrity of the medical entrance examination.
What Did the Centre Tell the Supreme Court?
Government counsel informed the bench that while discussions around reforming the NEET UG examination pattern are underway, no final call has been taken on replacing the existing pen-and-paper (OMR-based) format with a fully computer-based mode for 2027. The Centre indicated that any such structural change would require careful deliberation involving multiple stakeholders, including the National Testing Agency (NTA) and the Ministry of Education.
Background: Why Is CBT Being Discussed?
The debate around shifting NEET UG to CBT gained momentum following the controversy surrounding the 2024 examination, which was marred by allegations of paper leaks and irregularities. The Supreme Court had taken suo motu cognisance of the matter and has since been monitoring reforms in the examination ecosystem. A high-level committee was also constituted to recommend systemic improvements to national entrance tests conducted by NTA.
What Is the Current NEET UG Format?
- NEET UG is currently conducted as a pen-and-paper (offline) test using OMR answer sheets.
- It is the single national entrance exam for admission to MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, and other undergraduate medical courses across India.
- The exam is conducted once a year by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
- In 2024, over 23 lakh candidates registered for the examination.
Supreme Court's Continued Oversight
The Supreme Court has been actively supervising the functioning of NTA since the 2024 irregularities came to light. The court's scrutiny has pushed the government and NTA to consider long-term reforms, including the possibility of multi-session CBT, enhanced security protocols at exam centres, and decentralisation of question paper distribution.
What This Means for NEET UG 2025 and 2026 Aspirants
For students currently preparing for NEET UG 2025, there is no change in the examination format. The test will continue in its traditional offline mode. Aspirants targeting 2026 and 2027 should watch for official announcements from NTA and the Ministry of Education before adjusting their preparation strategy.
Students are advised to keep track of official updates on the NTA official website and the NEET UG portal for any confirmed changes to exam mode or pattern.
For the latest updates on NEET UG and other national entrance exams, stay tuned to CollegeUnify.
Important links
Links open the official website. Always verify details there before applying.
