NEET Exam Pattern 2025 : The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is the gateway to undergraduate medical and dental courses in India. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), NEET holds immense importance for students aspiring to pursue a career in medicine. With NEET 2025 fast approaching, the NTA has announced several crucial changes to the exam pattern. These modifications are aimed at streamlining the test and aligning it more closely with pre-pandemic formats.
In this article, we will discuss the revised NEET 2025 exam pattern, the subject-wise breakdown, and other important updates, including the marking scheme, changes in question format, and language options. We will also provide tips to help students better prepare for the exam.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Exam Name | NEET UG 2025 |
| Exam Date | 4 May 2025 |
| Exam Time | 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM |
| Entry at Centre Starts At | 11:00 AM |
| Total Duration | 3 hours (180 minutes) |
| Mode of Examination | Offline (Pen-and-paper based) |
| Courses Offered | MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, BSc Nursing, etc. |
NEET 2025 Exam Pattern: Major Changes
The most significant update for NEET 2025 is the removal of optional questions in Section B, which were introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic. These changes were initially made to accommodate the unique challenges posed by the pandemic, allowing students to skip certain questions and manage their time more effectively. However, for NEET 2025, the exam will revert to its pre-COVID format, where all 180 questions are compulsory.
Key Changes:
- Optional Questions Removed: Section B has been removed, meaning that all 180 questions will now be compulsory. This is a return to the original format.
- No Extra Time: Previously, the NTA had provided additional time for Section B, but this extra time is now removed, and students will have a standard time of 3 hours to complete the exam.
- 180 Questions, 720 Marks: The total number of questions remains at 180, and the total marks will be 720, with each correct answer earning 4 marks.
Detailed NEET 2025 Exam Structure
The NEET UG 2025 exam will consist of three main subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. The questions are divided into two sections: Section A and Section B. However, since Section B has been removed, all 180 questions will be from Section A.
Breakdown of NEET 2025 Exam
| Subject | Number of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | 45 | +4 | 180 |
| Chemistry | 45 | +4 | 180 |
| Zoology | 45 | +4 | 180 |
| Botany | 45 | +4 | 180 |
| Total | 180 | +4 | 720 |
The duration of the exam remains 180 minutes (3 hours), and there will be no sectional time limits. Candidates are free to attempt questions in any order.
NEET 2025 Marking Scheme
Understanding the NEET 2025 marking scheme is crucial for candidates to strategise their approach during the exam. Here’s how the marks will be awarded:
| Response Type | Marks Awarded |
|---|---|
| Correct Answer | +4 marks |
| Incorrect Answer | -1 mark |
| Unanswered Question | 0 marks |
| Multiple Correct Responses | +4 marks (if the answer key supports multiple correct answers) |
Key Points:
- Each correct answer gives +4 marks.
- Each incorrect answer results in a penalty of -1 mark.
- Unanswered questions receive 0 marks.
- Multiple correct responses, if verified, will be awarded full marks (+4 for each correct option).
It’s essential to note that once an answer is marked on the OMR sheet, it cannot be changed. Therefore, candidates must ensure that they are confident with their choices before marking.
NEET 2025 Exam: Subject-Wise Details
Physics
Physics is often considered one of the most challenging subjects in the NEET exam. For NEET 2025, there will be 45 questions from Physics. The weightage for different chapters in Physics varies, with certain topics carrying higher marks. Here is a breakdown of key topics in Physics:
| Unit | NEET Physics Topic-wise Weightage |
|---|---|
| Physical World and Measurement | 2% |
| Kinematics | 7% |
| Laws of Motion | 7% |
| Work, Energy, and Power | 4% |
| Electrostatics | 4% |
| Current Electricity | 9% |
| Optics | 4.5% |
| Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter | 4% |
| Atoms and Nuclei | 7% |
| Electronic Devices | 7% |
Chemistry
Chemistry is divided into three sections: Physical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Inorganic Chemistry. Candidates should focus on all three areas, with particular attention to topics that traditionally have higher weightage.
| Chapter | Number of Questions |
|---|---|
| Physical Chemistry | |
| Solid State | 2 |
| Thermodynamics | 1 |
| Chemical Kinetics | 2 |
| Organic Chemistry | |
| Hydrocarbons | 4 |
| Alcohols, Phenols, and Ethers | 1 |
| Inorganic Chemistry | |
| Chemical Bonding | 5 |
Biology
Biology plays a significant role in NEET, especially as it carries a major portion of the overall marks. The 90 questions in Biology are divided into Botany and Zoology, with 45 questions from each.
| Unit | Chapter Name | Approximate Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Class XI | Diversity in Living Organisms | 12% |
| Structural Organisation in Animals and Plants | 9% | |
| Plant Physiology | 8% | |
| Human Physiology | 16% | |
| Class XII | Reproduction | 11% |
| Genetics and Evolution | 13% | |
| Ecology and Environment | 10% |
NEET 2025 Language Options
The NEET 2025 exam will be conducted in 13 languages. Candidates can choose their preferred language medium during the registration process. However, once the language is chosen, it cannot be changed later.
Available Languages for NEET 2025:
- English
- Hindi
- Assamese
- Bengali
- Gujarati
- Kannada
- Malayalam
- Marathi
- Odia
- Punjabi
- Tamil
- Telugu
- Urdu
Candidates selecting a vernacular language will receive a bilingual test booklet, which includes both the selected language and English.
NEET 2025 Exam Day Guidelines
To ensure smooth conduct of the exam, candidates must adhere to specific guidelines on the day of the exam. Here are some crucial tips:
- Use of Ballpoint Pen: The OMR sheet must be filled using a ballpoint pen. Candidates will be provided with a ballpoint pen in the exam hall. Do not use pencil or gel pens.
- Do Not Erase Answers: Once a response is marked, it cannot be erased or altered. Make sure to double-check before marking an answer.
- Marking the Test Booklet Code: Ensure that you correctly mark the test booklet code on the OMR sheet.
- Avoid Guessing: Since negative marking is applied for incorrect answers, avoid random guesses. If unsure, leave the question unanswered.
NEET 2025: How to Avoid Negative Marking
The introduction of negative marking in NEET 2025 means candidates must be extra cautious while answering questions. Here’s how you can minimise the risk of losing marks:
- Do Not Guess: Avoid guessing answers, especially when unsure. If you don’t know the answer, it’s better to leave the question blank rather than risk a -1 mark deduction.
- Read Questions Carefully: Pay close attention to the wording of each question. Sometimes, minor changes in phrasing can drastically affect the correct answer.
- Prepare Well: A thorough understanding of the subjects will reduce the chances of making errors. Regular practice and revision are key to minimizing mistakes.
NEET 2025 Difficulty Level and Previous Year Trends
It is important to understand the overall difficulty level of the NEET exam to better prepare. According to the NEET 2024 exam analysis, the overall difficulty was rated as easy to moderate, with certain sections being tougher than others.
| Subject | Difficulty Level | Most Challenging Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Physics | Moderate | Mechanics, Optics |
| Chemistry | Tough | Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry |
| Biology | Easy but Lengthy | Human Physiology, Reproduction |
| Overall | Easy to Moderate | — |
Conclusion… The NEET UG 2025 exam will be a significant challenge for aspiring medical students. However, by understanding the new exam pattern, preparing for high-weightage topics, and following time management strategies, students can maximise their chances of success.
Make sure to follow the guidelines carefully, stay updated on any changes, and most importantly, focus on regular practice and revisions. With the right preparation and approach, you can achieve your dream of becoming a medical professional.
Best of luck to all NEET aspirants!
