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Despite the persistent demand from students and experts to conduct NEET twice a year, the National Testing Agency (NTA), the exam’s governing body, has decided to retain the current format of a single-attempt exam. This decision comes after years of deliberation by NTA and the Government of India. Proponents of two attempts argue that it would alleviate the immense pressure on students, provide a second chance for improvement, and enhance overall exam preparation. However, the authorities maintain that the current format ensures fairness and consistency in the selection process.
The decision to stick with the single-attempt format has been met with mixed reactions from students and stakeholders. While some express disappointment, others acknowledge the rationale behind the decision. Nevertheless, the debate surrounding the frequency of NEET is likely to continue, as the quest for medical education remains highly competitive and aspirations to become doctors run deep.
NEET to be Conducted Once a Year
Confirming the matter, the Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Bharati Pravin Pawar in the Lok Sabha said, “there is no proposal to conduct NEET UG twice in a year. Currently, the National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (UG) once in a year as an eligibility/ entrance test for medical courses in India. “National Medical Commission (NMC) & National Testing Agency (NTA) have informed that there is no proposal to conduct NEET exams for providing two chances in a year,” Pawar said.
What is NEET?
The National Eligibility Entrance Test (NEET) is a medical entrance exam for aspiring medical professionals in India. It is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) once a year in a single day and single slot. The exam is designed to assess the aptitude and knowledge of candidates in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English.
NEET is the mandatory test for admission to undergraduate medical and dental courses, including MBBS, BDS, BAMS, BHMS, BUMS, and other Allied Health Sciences courses in India. Over 15 lakh candidates appear for NEET each year, vying for 1 lakh MBBS seats.
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The NEET exam consists of three sections:
- Physics: 75 questions with a duration of 30 minutes
- Chemistry: 75 questions with a duration of 30 minutes
- Biology: 90 questions with a duration of 270 minutes
- English Language: 50 questions with a duration of 30 minutes
The exam is conducted in a computerized mode, and candidates are required to answer multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with four options for each question. The questions are based on the NCERT (National Council of Educational Research and Training) syllabus for classes 11 and 12.
To pass NEET, candidates must secure a minimum qualifying percentile, which is determined by the NTA each year based on the performance of all the candidates. The qualifying percentile for admission to MBBS programs is typically around 50%.
Apart from qualifying for undergraduate medical and dental courses, NEET also serves as a screening test for admission to postgraduate medical and dental programs, such as MD, MS, MDS, and other specialized courses.
NEET is a crucial exam for aspiring medical professionals in India. It determines their eligibility for pursuing a career in medicine and opens doors to numerous opportunities in the healthcare sector.
How Many times is the NEET Exam conducted in a year?
In the fiercely competitive medical entrance examination arena, the NEET is a formidable gateway for aspiring doctors. With over 15 lakh candidates vying for a limited number of MBBS seats, the pressure to excel is immense. While the current format of NEET allows for a single attempt, the demand for two attempts has gained significant traction among students and experts alike.
This demand stems from the recognition that two attempts would provide numerous benefits, including improved chances of admission, reduced stress, better preparation opportunities, and the flexibility to choose an exam schedule. Let’s delve into the compelling reasons why conducting NEET twice a year would be a game-changer for medical aspirants.
- Improved Chance of Admission: The ratio of NEET takers to available MBBS seats is astoundingly low, fostering an environment of fierce competition. Providing candidates with two opportunities to sit for NEET significantly amplifies the likelihood of securing admission into a coveted medical college. This is particularly pivotal for students who may not have unleashed their full potential in the initial attempt due to factors like exam anxiety, unforeseen circumstances, or inadequate preparation time.
- Saving a Year: After an unsuccessful NEET attempt, candidates often face the dilemma of either settling for a less-preferred course or opting for a gap year to enhance their preparation. Two attempts empower candidates to circumvent this dilemma, enabling them to save an academic year and steadfastly pursue their dream of becoming a doctor without squandering valuable time.
- Reduced Stress Among Students: The prevailing single-attempt format of NEET subjects students to immense pressure, culminating in heightened stress and anxiety levels. Introducing a biannual exam would serve as a stress-alleviating mechanism, affording students a second chance to rectify mistakes and enhance their performance. This, in turn, would enable candidates to approach the exam with a composed and focused mindset, bolstering their chances of success.
- Better Opportunity for Preparation: With the provision of two attempts, students gain a more extended time frame to prepare for the exam judiciously. This extended preparation period allows candidates to discern their strengths and weaknesses, address areas in need of improvement, and optimize their study plans for more favorable results.
- Convenience to Select Exam Schedule: The introduction of two NEET attempts grants students the liberty to select an exam date aligning with their personal schedules and preferences. This flexibility empowers candidates to consider factors such as academic commitments, personal circumstances, and their individual readiness for the exam. Consequently, students can meticulously plan their preparation and exam schedules for optimal performance.
- Get a Sneak Peek at Question Types and Difficulty: Candidates participating in the initial NEET slot would gain valuable insights into question types, difficulty levels, and the overall exam pattern. This invaluable information becomes a strategic advantage for those appearing in the subsequent slot, allowing them to tailor their preparation accordingly and enhance their likelihood of success.
Conclusion
Advocates for biannual NEET exams posit many benefits, including heightened admission prospects, diminished stress levels, enhanced preparation opportunities, and the flexibility to customize exam schedules.
While the government of India has yet to green light this proposal, the unwavering demand for two attempts underscores its significance. Students are encouraged to advocate for this change while remaining steadfast in their preparation for the exam, irrespective of the examination frequency.
FAQ’s on Two Attempts for NEET UG
Why is NEET conducted only once a year?
NEET is conducted only once a year to maintain fairness and consistency in the selection process. It ensures that all candidates have equal opportunities and prevents any advantages gained by attempting the exam multiple times.
Why is NEET not conducted twice?
Despite the demand from students and experts for two attempts, the authorities have decided to retain the single-attempt format. Two attempts would increase the burden on students and may compromise the quality of the selection process.
What is the purpose of NEET exam?
NEET serves as a single, national eligibility test for admission to undergraduate medical and dental courses in India. It assesses the aptitude and knowledge of candidates in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English.
Does NEET have 2 attempts this year?
No, NEET will not be conducted twice this year. The exam will be held once, on a single day and in a single slot, per the current format.
