NEET-UG 2026 cancelled nationwide; fresh examination to be held

KOHIMA — The National Testing Agency (NTA) has cancelled the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET-UG) 2026 conducted on May 3 and announced that the examination will be re-conducted, following findings that the integrity of the examination process had been compromised.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the NTA said the decision was taken with the approval of the Government of India after inputs examined in coordination with central agencies and findings shared by law enforcement agencies established that “the present examination process cannot be allowed to stand”.

The agency informed that the matter had been referred to central agencies on May 8 for independent verification and necessary action to ensure the fair, secure and credible conduct of the examination.

The Government of India has also decided to hand over the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a comprehensive inquiry into allegations related to the examination.

“The NTA will extend full cooperation to the CBI and provide all necessary materials and records for the investigation,” the statement said.

The agency stated that the decision to cancel the examination and conduct it afresh was taken in the interest of students and to uphold the trust and integrity of the national examination system, while acknowledging the inconvenience caused to candidates and their families.

According to the NTA, the registration data, candidature details and examination centres opted for during the May 2026 cycle will remain valid for the re-conducted examination. Candidates will not be required to register again and no additional examination fee will be charged.