NEET UG Eligibility: Age Limit, Attempts & Class 12 Criteria
NEET UG eligibility covers four areas: your Class 12 qualification and marks, age, number of attempts, and nationality. Most confusion arises around age limits and attempt caps, which have been revised multiple times. The current rules must be verified in the official NTA information bulletin for the cycle you are applying for.
Eligibility summary (verify in current information bulletin)
| Criterion | General | OBC / SC / ST | PwBD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class 12 subjects | Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, English from a recognised board | Same | Same |
| Minimum PCB marks | 50% aggregate | 40% aggregate | 45% (General PwBD), 40% (SC/ST/OBC PwBD) |
| Age (minimum) | 17 years as of 31 Dec of admission year | Same | Same |
| Age (maximum) | No upper limit (as per last available guidance — confirm each cycle) | Same | Same |
| Attempts | No cap (as per last available guidance — confirm each cycle) | Same | Same |
These rules have been revised in the past. Always confirm the current eligibility in the official NTA NEET information bulletin before registering.
Upper age limit and attempt cap: verify each cycle: NTA and NMC have modified age-limit and attempt-cap rules in previous cycles. The current guidance removes an upper age cap, but this can change. Read the current information bulletin carefully before assuming any rule from a previous year applies.
Frequently asked questions
Can I appear for NEET in Class 12?
Yes. Students appearing in Class 12 in the year of the exam are eligible to register, subject to the current information bulletin rules. You will need to upload your Class 12 roll number and submit final marksheets during counselling if selected.
Is Biology compulsory in Class 12 for NEET?
Yes. Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (or Biotechnology, as per current rules) are required as Class 12 subjects. Confirm the exact subject list in the current information bulletin.