What is the Exam Format, and How is Scoring Done?
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) and the Indian Institute of Technology Joint Entrance Examination (IIT JEE) are two of the most competitive exams in India. NEET is for medical aspirants, while IIT JEE is for engineering aspirants. Understanding their exam format and scoring system can help students prepare effectively and improve their performance.
In this guide, we’ll break down the exam pattern, marking scheme, and scoring method for both NEET and IIT JEE.
NEET Exam Format
The NEET (UG) exam is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to MBBS, BDS, and other medical courses.
1. NEET Question Paper Pattern
| Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks |
| Physics | 50 (45 to be attempted) | 180 |
| Chemistry | 50 (45 to be attempted) | 180 |
| Botany | 50 (45 to be attempted) | 180 |
| Zoology | 50 (45 to be attempted) | 180 |
| Total | 200 (180 to be attempted) | 720 |
- The paper is offline (pen and paper-based).
- Duration: 3 hours and 20 minutes.
- Language options: English, Hindi, and regional languages.
- Question type: Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with 4 options each.
2. NEET Marking Scheme
- Correct answer: +4 marks
- Incorrect answer: -1 mark (negative marking)
- Unanswered question: No marks awarded or deducted
3. NEET Score Calculation
NEET Score=(Correct Answers×4)−(Incorrect Answers×1)\text{NEET Score} = (\text{Correct Answers} \times 4) - (\text{Incorrect Answers} \times 1)
For example, if a student answers 150 questions correctly and 30 questions incorrectly:
(150×4)−(30×1)=600−30=570(150 \times 4) - (30 \times 1) = 600 - 30 = 570
4. NEET Percentile Calculation
NEET results are based on percentiles, not just raw scores. The formula for percentile ranking:
Percentile=(Total Candidates - RankTotal Candidates)×100\text{Percentile} = \left( \frac{\text{Total Candidates - Rank}}{\text{Total Candidates}} \right) \times 100
For example, if a candidate ranks 5,000 out of 2,00,000:
(2,00,000−5,0002,00,000)×100=97.5%\left( \frac{2,00,000 - 5,000}{2,00,000} \right) \times 100 = 97.5\%
5. NEET Cut-off and Qualifying Marks
The cut-off varies yearly, but a general trend is:
- General category: 50th percentile (~NEET score 720-138)
- OBC/SC/ST: 40th percentile (~NEET score 137-108)
- PwD (General): 45th percentile (~NEET score 137-122)
Higher cut-offs apply to government colleges due to intense competition.
IIT JEE Exam Format
The IIT JEE exam is divided into two stages:
- JEE Main – Conducted by NTA for admission to NITs, IIITs, and other engineering colleges.
- JEE Advanced – Conducted by IITs for admission into the IITs.
1. JEE Main Exam Pattern
| Subject | Number of MCQs | Number of Numerical Questions | Total Questions | Marks |
| Physics | 20 | 10 (5 to attempt) | 25 | 100 |
| Chemistry | 20 | 10 (5 to attempt) | 25 | 100 |
| Mathematics | 20 | 10 (5 to attempt) | 25 | 100 |
| Total | 60 | 30 (15 to attempt) | 75 | 300 |
- Mode: Online (Computer-based Test)
- Duration: 3 hours
- Languages: English, Hindi, and regional languages
- Type of Questions: MCQs + Numerical value-based questions
2. JEE Main Marking Scheme
- MCQs:
- Correct answer: +4 marks
- Incorrect answer: -1 mark
- Unattempted: No marks
- Numerical Questions:
- Correct answer: +4 marks
- No negative marking
3. JEE Advanced Exam Pattern
| Paper | Sections | Question Types |
| Paper 1 | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics | MCQs, Integer-type, Match the following |
| Paper 2 | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics | MCQs, Numerical-type, Paragraph-based |
- Mode: Computer-based test
- Duration: Two papers of 3 hours each
- Scoring: Variable marking scheme with partial marking for some questions
4. JEE Main and Advanced Scoring Calculation
For JEE Main:
Total Score=(Correct MCQs×4)−(Incorrect MCQs×1)+(Correct Numerical×4)\text{Total Score} = (\text{Correct MCQs} \times 4) - (\text{Incorrect MCQs} \times 1) + (\text{Correct Numerical} \times 4)
For JEE Advanced:
- Different question types carry different marks.
- Scores are normalized to adjust for difficulty across shifts.
5. JEE Percentile Calculation
JEE Mains is scored on a percentile basis:
Percentile=(Total Candidates - RankTotal Candidates)×100\text{Percentile} = \left( \frac{\text{Total Candidates - Rank}}{\text{Total Candidates}} \right) \times 100
- The top 2.5 lakh candidates qualify for JEE Advanced.
- JEE Advanced ranks are used for IIT admissions.
Conclusion
Understanding the NEET and IIT JEE exam formats and scoring methods is crucial for success. Since both exams have negative marking, accuracy is important. Candidates should focus on conceptual clarity, speed, and time management to maximize their scores.
FAQs on What is the Exam Format, and How is Scoring Done
What is a good score in NEET?
A good NEET score depends on your target college. For AIIMS and top government colleges, 650+ is required.
What is a safe percentile in JEE Main?
A 99+ percentile is required for top NITs. 85-95 percentile can secure seats in other good colleges.
Is negative marking present in both exams?
Yes, both NEET and JEE Main have negative marking for MCQs. JEE Advanced has a variable negative marking scheme.
How are tie-breakers decided in NEET and JEE?
NEET: Higher Biology marks → Chemistry marks → Physics marks → Fewer incorrect answers → Older candidate gets preference.
JEE: Higher Mathematics marks → Physics marks → Chemistry marks → Less negative marking → Older candidate gets preference.
How can I improve my score in NEET and JEE?
Practice previous years’ papers.
Focus on NCERT for NEET and conceptual understanding for JEE.
Manage time effectively during the exam.
What are the qualifying marks for JEE Advanced?
A minimum of 90+ percentile in JEE Main is usually required to qualify for JEE Advanced.
How to score high on exams?
To score well on exams, follow a structured study plan. Focus on understanding concepts, solving practice papers, and revising regularly. Time management and consistent effort are key to performing well.
What is the format of the IIT exam?
The IIT exam consists of two papers – JEE Main and JEE Advanced. Both exams test you on subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. The questions are multiple-choice and numerical type, designed to test your knowledge and problem-solving skills.
What is the format of the CAT exam?
The CAT exam is an entrance test for MBA programs. It consists of three sections: Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability, and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning. The questions are a mix of multiple-choice and non-multiple-choice questions, focusing on problem-solving and critical thinking.
How can I get 100% in my exam?
Getting 100% in an exam requires dedication and smart study techniques. Focus on understanding the core concepts, practice regularly, take mock tests, and stay consistent with your revision. Avoid last-minute cramming and aim for a balanced approach.
How to properly study?
Study in a distraction-free environment, break down your study time into focused sessions (like the Pomodoro technique), and take regular breaks. Revise what you study every day, and practice as many problems as possible to reinforce concepts.
Is 150 good in JEE Mains?
A score of 150 in JEE Mains is generally considered good, but it depends on the overall difficulty of the exam and the cutoff for that year. It could put you in a competitive position for admissions, especially in some of the top NITs and other engineering colleges.
Is IIT difficult to pass?
Yes, IIT is challenging to get into, as it requires high levels of preparation, dedication, and problem-solving skills. The exams (JEE Main and Advanced) are designed to test your deep understanding of subjects and your ability to apply concepts.
Is negative marking in JEE?
Yes, JEE has negative marking. In the JEE Main, for every wrong answer in the multiple-choice questions, you lose one mark. So, it’s important to answer only when you’re sure, to avoid unnecessary losses.
