NEET-UG May Shift to Online Format, Following JEE-Mains Pattern

The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test for Undergraduate Medical Studies (NEET-UG) may soon undergo a significant transformation, with the Centre considering a computer-based format similar to the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE)-Mains. This move comes in the wake of irregularities reported in this year’s test, which has sparked a renewed focus on the need for online exams.

According to sources close to the development, the idea of transitioning NEET-UG to an online format has been gaining traction within the committee responsible for making changes. While no formal direction has been issued yet, the controversy surrounding competitive exams, including NEET-UG and others, has added momentum to the proposal. One official, who wished to remain anonymous, acknowledged that equipping the 4,000 test centers across the country with computers and necessary infrastructure would be a significant challenge. However, they also emphasized that conducting exams online, like JEE-Mains, would be a positive step.

However, implementing this change would require a major scaling up of resources. The official noted that it would be crucial to ensure that all test centers are equipped to handle the transition smoothly.

The development comes as the Supreme Court is currently investigating the NEET-UG exam, which was marred by a question paper leak. On Monday, the court asked the National Testing Agency (NTA) and the Centre to file their affidavits with detailed information and sought a status report from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) by July 10. The court also directed the NTA to provide a report on the steps taken to identify candidates who benefited from the paper leak.

The case will be heard again on July 11. The Supreme Court has made it clear that there is no doubt that the May 5 NEET-UG exam was compromised by the question paper leak and has asked the NTA to provide information on the measures taken to address the issue.

The potential shift to an online format is likely to have significant implications for the future of NEET-UG, and it remains to be seen how the Centre and the NTA will proceed with the plan. As the investigation into the paper leak continues, students and educators alike will be watching closely to see how this development unfolds.