NEET 2026 Application New Rules: Aadhaar based eKYC, live photograph, city choice and other updates here

NEET UG 2026 Application New Rules

• NEET UG 2026 registration open until March 8; exam scheduled for May 3
• Aadhaar-based eKYC and live photo capture now mandatory for applicants
• Exam city and medium linked to address; NEET now required for more courses

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The National Testing Agency (NTA) officially opened the registration window for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET UG 2026) on February 8. With the application process now active, the agency has introduced several significant modifications aimed at enhancing security and streamlining the candidate experience. Prospective medical aspirants must note the new protocols involving Aadhaar-based verification, live photograph capture, and a revised exam city selection process.

Candidates can submit their NEET UG 2026 application forms on the official portal, neet.nta.nic.in, until March 8, 2026. The high-stakes medical entrance examination is scheduled for May 3, 2026, to be held from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM across numerous test centers nationwide.

What’s New in NEET UG 2026 Registration?

The NTA has overhauled the application procedure with a clear focus on preventing impersonation and duplicate registrations. These steps are designed to uphold the integrity and fairness of the national-level examination. The primary updates for NEET UG 2026 form submission are as follows:

1. Mandatory Aadhaar-Based eKYC

A cornerstone of the new security framework is the implementation of Aadhaar-based eKYC for identity validation. Applicants must ensure their Aadhaar-linked mobile number is active and has consistent network connectivity to complete this step. The NTA has explicitly advised candidates to verify their mobile network coverage beforehand to avoid disruptions during the verification process.

2. Live Photograph Capture During Registration

Moving beyond static uploads, the NTA now requires a live photograph to be captured directly during the application filing. Candidates should prepare to have a functional webcam or use a smartphone by scanning a QR code provided on the application portal. Guidelines specify that the face should occupy roughly 80% of the frame, without accessories like caps, glasses, or goggles. This live image will be automatically cross-referenced with the photograph on the candidate’s Aadhaar card to authenticate their identity. In cases of a mismatch, applicants will have the option to upload a relevant supporting certificate.

3. Exam City & Medium Linked to Application Address

The choice of examination city and question paper medium will now be directly influenced by the current and permanent addresses furnished in the application form. This systemic allocation aims to optimize logistics and provide geographical convenience. The NEET UG 2026 exam will be conducted in 13 languages: Assamese, Bengali, English, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu.

4. Document Upload Requirements

As part of the standard procedure, candidates must upload scanned copies of a recent photograph, signature, and valid address proof. These documents, along with the new live photo, are essential for finalizing the registration.

These procedural enhancements are a direct response to longstanding concerns regarding exam security. By integrating Aadhaar eKYC and real-time photo verification, the NTA aims to create a more robust and foolproof registration system, minimizing the potential for malpractice.

NEET UG serves as the single gateway for admission to a wide range of undergraduate medical programs in India, including MBBS, BDS, BSc Nursing, BVSC, AH, BAMS, BUMS, and BHMS. Furthermore, recent directives will make NEET mandatory for several allied and healthcare courses starting from the 2026-27 academic session.

Aspiring candidates are strongly encouraged to visit the official NTA NEET website for detailed information and to commence their application well before the deadline to accommodate the new verification steps.