Exam Day Guidelines Issued – NTA Releases Important Instructions for NEET UG 2026 Candidates

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the official Exam Day Guidelines for candidates appearing in NEET UG 2026. These guidelines cover every important aspect of the examination day, including the dress code, reporting time, mandatory documents, prohibited items, frisking procedures, and conduct inside the examination centre. Candidates are strongly advised to read these instructions carefully before the examination to avoid any inconvenience or disqualification.

The NTA has emphasized that following the prescribed guidelines is mandatory for all candidates. Even candidates with valid admit cards may not be allowed to enter the examination centre if they fail to comply with the rules.

Reporting Time is Mandatory

One of the most important instructions issued by the NTA is regarding the reporting time. Candidates must reach their allotted examination centre well before the reporting deadline mentioned on the admit card. Entry gates will close strictly as per the scheduled time, and no candidate will be permitted to enter after the gate closure.

Students are advised to consider traffic conditions, weather, and travel delays while planning their journey. Reaching the examination centre at least one to two hours before the reporting time can help avoid unnecessary stress.

Candidates should also remember that biometric verification, frisking, document verification, and seating arrangements take time. Arriving late may result in missing these formalities.

Mandatory Documents to Carry

The NTA has clearly listed the documents every candidate must carry on the examination day.

These include:

• Printed copy of the NEET UG 2026 Admit Card.
• One recent passport-size photograph (same as uploaded in the application form, if required).
• One valid original photo identity proof such as Aadhaar Card, Passport, PAN Card, Driving Licence, Voter ID, or School ID (where applicable).
• PwBD certificate, if applicable.
• Any additional documents mentioned in the admit card instructions.

Candidates must ensure that all documents are original, valid, and clearly readable. Photocopies or digital copies may not be accepted unless specifically mentioned.

Dress Code Guidelines

The NTA has once again implemented a strict dress code to ensure transparency and fairness during the examination.

Candidates are advised to wear:

• Light-coloured clothes with half sleeves.
• Simple clothing without large buttons, embroidery, badges, brooches, or heavy decorations.
• Slippers or sandals with low heels.

Candidates should avoid wearing:

• Full-sleeved garments.
• Jackets, coats, hoodies, sweaters with multiple pockets.
• Heavy jewellery including earrings, bracelets, necklaces, rings, or chains.
• Watches, smartwatches, fitness bands, and electronic accessories.
• Caps, scarves, or any item that may create difficulty during frisking unless permitted for religious reasons.

Candidates wearing customary or religious attire should report well in advance to facilitate additional security checks.

Prohibited Items Inside the Examination Centre

To maintain the integrity of the examination, the NTA has prohibited several items inside the examination hall.

Candidates must not carry:

• Mobile phones.
• Smartwatches.
• Bluetooth devices.
• Earphones or headphones.
• Calculators.
• Digital watches.
• Pen drives.
• Cameras.
• Wallets.
• Handbags.
• Study materials or notes.
• Written papers.
• Electronic gadgets of any kind.

Food items are generally not permitted unless medically required. Candidates with specific medical conditions should carry the necessary documents and inform the authorities in advance.

Any candidate found carrying prohibited items may face disciplinary action under the examination rules.

Biometric Verification and Security Checks

The NTA has made biometric verification compulsory for all candidates. Every student must cooperate during fingerprint verification, photograph matching, and frisking procedures.

Candidates should maintain discipline while waiting for verification and follow the instructions of examination staff.

Security personnel may conduct manual frisking as part of the standard procedure to prevent unfair practices.

Instructions Inside the Examination Hall

After entering the examination hall, candidates should immediately locate their allotted seat according to the roll number mentioned on the admit card.

Students must not change seats without permission from the invigilator.

Candidates should carefully check:

• Question booklet code.
• OMR answer sheet details.
• Candidate information printed on the OMR.

Any discrepancy should be immediately reported to the invigilator before the examination begins.

Candidates are advised not to open the question booklet until instructed.

OMR Answer Sheet Guidelines

The NTA has instructed candidates to fill the OMR sheet carefully.

Candidates should:

• Use only the pen provided or permitted by the examination authorities.
• Fill bubbles completely.
• Avoid overwriting or using correction fluid.
• Ensure the roll number and booklet code are correctly marked.

Improper marking may affect the evaluation process.

Maintain Discipline Throughout the Examination

Candidates must maintain silence and discipline throughout the examination.

Talking to other candidates, exchanging stationery, attempting unfair means, or violating examination rules can result in cancellation of candidature.

Students should carefully listen to the invigilator's announcements and follow every instruction without argument.

COVID and General Hygiene Precautions

Although many pandemic-related restrictions have been relaxed, candidates are advised to maintain personal hygiene and follow any health-related instructions issued by local authorities or the examination centre.

Carrying a personal transparent water bottle may be allowed where permitted. Candidates should check the latest instructions mentioned on their admit card.

Important Advice for Parents

The NTA has also requested parents and guardians to avoid crowding near examination centres. They should ensure candidates reach the venue on time and avoid creating congestion outside the gates.

Parents are advised to remain patient during the examination duration and follow local traffic guidelines.

Final Reminder for Candidates

The examination day is one of the most important milestones in every medical aspirant's journey. Proper preparation includes not only academic readiness but also following examination guidelines carefully.

Candidates should:

• Visit the examination centre location in advance if possible.
• Keep all documents ready the previous night.
• Sleep adequately before the examination.
• Leave home early.
• Read the admit card instructions thoroughly.
• Avoid carrying unnecessary belongings.

Following these simple precautions can help candidates remain stress-free and focus entirely on the examination.

The NTA has reiterated that these guidelines are issued to ensure a smooth, transparent, and fair examination process for all candidates. Every aspirant is encouraged to cooperate with the examination authorities and strictly adhere to the official instructions on the examination day.