Campus Times | Lucknow 

The National Testing Agency (NTA) will conduct the NEET UG 2026 examination on May 3, with more than 22.79 lakh candidates scheduled to appear across India and overseas centres. With the exam just a day away, the agency has issued detailed guidelines covering entry timings, dress code, biometric verification, and permitted items to ensure a smooth and fair examination process.

Exam Schedule and Entry Rules

The NEET UG 2026 exam will be held from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at 522 centres in India and 14 centres abroad. Candidates are required to report at least one hour before the exam begins.

Important: Entry to examination centres will close strictly at 1:30 PM. Latecomers will not be allowed under any circumstances.

Biometric Verification Guidelines

To maintain exam integrity, biometric verification will be conducted at centres. However, NTA has clarified that:

• Candidates facing issues due to technical or connectivity problems will still be allowed entry after frisking.

• Such candidates must submit a written undertaking, provided at the centre.

• No candidate will be disturbed during the exam for biometric verification.

Dress Code: What to Wear and Avoid

Students are advised to keep their attire simple, light, and comfortable to avoid delays during security checks.

Allowed:

• Light clothing with minimal design

• Full-sleeve outfits (subject to additional frisking)

• Woollen clothes if required (extra checks may apply)

• Slippers or low-heeled sandals

Avoid:

• Designer or heavily layered clothes

• Clothes with large or metallic buttons

• Accessories or outfits that may trigger metal detectors

Wearing complicated attire could lead to delays or even denial of entry, so candidates are strongly advised to follow the dress code strictly.

Items Allowed Inside the Exam Centre

Candidates must carry:

• NEET UG 2026 admit card

• A valid government-issued ID proof

• Transparent water bottle

Strictly Prohibited Items

The following items are not allowed inside the examination hall:

• Mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, earphones, smartwatches

• Calculators, study materials, or any stationery

• Bags, wallets, belts, caps, or metal accessories

• Food items (unless medically approved in advance)

• Any type of watch

Candidates with medical conditions must carry prior approval if they need special items.

Student Advisory

With a record number of aspirants, students are encouraged to:

• Reach the centre well in advance

• Follow all instructions carefully

• Avoid last-minute confusion by preparing essentials beforehand

Admit cards, released on April 26, are available on the official NEET website. Candidates must verify all details and adhere to guidelines to ensure a hassle-free exam experience.