The National Eligibility Entrance Test (NEET) has long been the gateway to India’s prestigious medical institutions. However, its changing landscape has transformed the exam into a dynamic and demanding entity.
Every year, hundreds of thousands of students participate in NEET, making it one of the most competitive entrance exams in India. The large number of applicants, combined with the limited number of seats available in medical colleges, creates a high-stakes environment where even the slightest advantage can make a significant difference. With the change in exam pattern and syllabus, students need to be agile and responsive to adapt their preparation strategies and stay ahead in the race for a coveted seat in India’s top medical institutions.
Healthcare has emerged as one of the largest sectors in India, both in terms of revenue and employment. According to IBEF, India’s healthcare industry continued its healthy growth in 2023 and reached a value of $372 billion, driven by both the private and government sectors. As of 2024, India’s healthcare sector is one of the largest employers in the country, with 7.5 million employees.
The NEET exam has long been a cornerstone for medical aspirants in India as it determines admission to MBBS, BDS and other undergraduate medical courses. With each passing year, the NEET exam pattern evolves, reflecting the changing educational standards and student needs.
Revised question structure
The NEET 2025 syllabus reflects this trend, ensuring that the exam content is more relevant to current NCERT textbooks. The structure of the NEET 2025 exam will follow the pattern set in previous years, but with refined question formats. The exam will consist of 200 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), of which students must attempt to answer 180. Each subject (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (split into Botany and Zoology)) is divided into sections: Section A and Section B. Section A includes 35 compulsory questions. At the same time, Section B allows students to choose 10 out of 15 questions to answer. This optional section introduces a strategic element to the exam, where students must carefully select questions that suit their strengths.
Extended exam duration
The duration of the NEET 2025 exam will remain at 3 hours and 20 minutes, as in 2024. This extension is intended to give students enough time to consider their options in Section B, reducing pressure and allowing for more thoughtful responses.
Language and accessibility
The NEET 2025 exam will be offered in 13 languages, including English, Hindi and regional languages, to cater to India’s diverse linguistic backgrounds. This inclusive approach allows students to take the exam in their preferred language, thereby reducing language barriers and promoting equal opportunities for all.
The changes in the NEET 2025 exam pattern present both challenges and opportunities for students. Preparing for NEET requires a strategic approach that goes beyond rote learning.
Focus on the basics
With the simplified syllabus, students are required to focus intensely on core topics aligned to the NCERT syllabus. This reduction in syllabus content means that each topic covered becomes crucial and students should aim for deep understanding rather than superficial knowledge. The emphasis on NCERT textbooks will be more pronounced and students should incorporate these texts as the basis of their study material.
Selection of strategic questions
The optional questions in Section B of each subject introduce a new dimension to exam-taking strategy. Students must practice the skill of selective answering, choosing the questions they feel most confident about. This approach not only maximizes scoring potential, but also minimizes the risk associated with negative marking. Regular practice with mock exams that simulate the new exam pattern will be essential to mastering this strategy.
Time management and endurance
The longer duration of the exam requires students to develop stamina and maintain concentration for a longer period. Effective time management becomes essential and students must practice pacing to ensure they can complete the exam within the allotted time. Incorporating regular breaks during study sessions and simulating exam conditions will help develop the necessary stamina.
Preparing for uncertainty
While the revised model offers more clarity on what to expect, the unpredictability of the NEET difficulty level remains a factor. Students must prepare for a variety of scenarios, including the possibility of more difficult questions or unexpected twists in the exam format. This adaptability will be key to handling the pressure on exam day.
The evolution of the NEET exam pattern in 2024 reflects a broader trend towards creating a more focused, concept-based assessment for medical candidates. While these changes present new challenges, they also offer opportunities for students to hone their preparation strategies. As always, thorough preparation, self-discipline and adaptability will be the keys to success.
(Author Nidheesh Saxena is Senior Director, Admissions, Gitam Deemed to be University. The views expressed are personal.)
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