NTA introduces exam-friendly changes in NEET UG 2026, extends duration and revises layout
New Delhi, Jun 12, 2026 : The National Testing Agency (NTA) has extended the examination window by 15 minutes, from 180 minutes to 195 minutes, for Re-NEET UG-2026 scheduled to be held on the 21st of this month. The agency said that it is committed to ensuring that NEET (UG)-2026 examination is conducted in a manner that is fair, secure and responsive to the needs of candidates.
The new timings will be 2:00 PM to 5:15 PM. The revised examination window includes the time required for mandatory examination formalities such as signing of attendance sheets and other invigilation procedures.
The agency said in a statement that these improvements are based on feedback received from candidates over the years. The NTA said that it is committed to ensuring that NEET (UG)-2026 is conducted in a manner that is fair, secure, and responsive to the needs of candidates.
Apart from this, the agency said that the space for rough work in the question paper booklet has been increased from two pages to four, giving candidates more room for calculations and diagrams.
Based on feedback that the old layout was inconvenient for some students, especially those who are left-handed, the booklet’s design has also been updated. Two rough-work pages are now placed at the beginning immediately after the instructions, while the other two remain at the end. This new layout applies to both English and regional language versions so all candidates can work comfortably.
In a statement, the NTA said that even small improvements in examination design can have a positive impact on the experience of candidates during a high-stakes examination.
These measures have therefore been introduced with the objective of making the examination process more comfortable and candidate-friendly while maintaining the highest standards of fairness and security. Candidates are advised to read the instructions given in the admit card and information bulletin carefully and cooperate with the examination staff for the smooth conduct of the examination.