Introduction
Before applying for NEET 2026, every aspirant must clearly understand the eligibility criteria prescribed by the National Testing Agency (NTA). Even a small mistake regarding age limit, educational qualification, or number of attempts can lead to application rejection. This article provides a complete and updated explanation of NEET 2026 eligibility criteria, covering age requirements, qualification rules, nationality, subject combination, and attempt limits.
📌 NEET 2026 Eligibility Criteria – Overview
To be eligible for NEET 2026, candidates must satisfy the following conditions:
Nationality
Age limit
Educational qualification
Minimum qualifying marks
Number of attempts
🧑🎓 Nationality Criteria for NEET 2026
The following candidates are eligible to apply:
Indian Citizens
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)
Overseas Citizens of India (OCI)
Persons of Indian Origin (PIO)
Foreign Nationals
📌 Admission eligibility for foreign nationals depends on respective medical colleges and counselling authorities.
🎂 NEET 2026 Age Limit Criteria
Minimum Age Limit
Candidate must be 17 years old as on or before 31 December 2026.
Maximum Age Limit
No upper age limit for NEET 2026 as per current regulations.
📌 Age will be verified using Class 10 certificate or birth certificate.
🎓 Educational Qualification for NEET 2026
Candidates must fulfill the following academic requirements:
1. Qualifying Examination
Must have passed or be appearing in Class 12 or equivalent examination
Examination must be from a recognized board
2. Mandatory Subjects
Candidates must have studied:
Physics
Chemistry
Biology / Biotechnology
English
3. Minimum Qualifying Marks (PCB Aggregate)
| Category | Minimum Marks Required |
|---|---|
| General / EWS | 50% |
| OBC / SC / ST | 40% |
| PwD (General) | 45% |
📌 Marks are calculated based on Physics, Chemistry, and Biology combined.
🏫 Eligibility for Open School & Private Candidates
Candidates from National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) and private boards are eligible, provided they meet subject and marks requirements.
Biology/Biotechnology must be studied as a core subject.
🔢 NEET 2026 Number of Attempts
Is There Any Limit on Attempts?
No limit on the number of attempts for NEET 2026.
Candidates can appear for NEET as many times as they want, provided they meet age and qualification criteria.
📌 This rule benefits repeaters and drop-year students.
🧾 Category-Wise Eligibility Summary
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 17 years |
| Maximum Age | No limit |
| Attempts | Unlimited |
| Qualification | Class 12 pass/appearing |
| Subjects | PCB + English |
| Exam Mode | Offline |
📄 Documents Required for Eligibility Verification
Class 10 certificate (Date of Birth proof)
Class 12 mark sheet / passing certificate
Aadhaar Card / Passport / Voter ID
Category certificate (if applicable)
PwD certificate (if applicable)
Nationality proof
⚠️ Common Eligibility Mistakes to Avoid
Incorrect date of birth entry
Insufficient PCB percentage
Missing Biology subject
Uploading invalid certificates
Assuming attempt limit exists
🎯 Who Should Apply for NEET 2026?
Class 12 appearing students (2026)
Class 12 passed candidates
Drop-year aspirants
Candidates improving marks
Foreign/NRI medical aspirants
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the minimum age required for NEET 2026?
Candidates must be 17 years old by 31 December 2026.
Q2. Is there any upper age limit for NEET 2026?
No, there is no upper age limit as per current guidelines.
Q3. How many attempts are allowed for NEET 2026?
There is no restriction on the number of attempts.
Q4. Can Class 12 appearing students apply for NEET 2026?
Yes, students appearing in Class 12 in 2026 are eligible.
Q5. Are NIOS candidates eligible for NEET 2026?
Yes, NIOS and open school candidates are eligible if they fulfill subject and marks criteria.
Q6. Is Biology mandatory for NEET eligibility?
Yes, Biology/Biotechnology is a compulsory subject.
Conclusion
Understanding the NEET 2026 eligibility criteria related to age limit, qualification, and number of attempts is essential before applying. Aspirants should carefully verify all requirements to avoid disqualification and ensure a smooth application and counselling process.
