New Delhi: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has begun preparations for the upcoming NEET-UG re-examination scheduled for June 21, announcing several candidate-friendly changes aimed at improving the test-taking experience. The modifications include a redesigned answer booklet, additional pages for rough work and an increase in the total examination duration.
Under the revised format, candidates will now receive four pages for rough calculations and notes instead of the earlier two. The layout of the question booklet has also been altered. Previously, rough work pages were placed only at the end of the booklet. As per the new arrangement, two rough work pages will be available immediately after the instruction section, while the remaining two pages will be placed at the end.
NTA said the changes were introduced after receiving feedback from candidates. The revised design is expected to make the examination more convenient, particularly for left-handed students who found the earlier arrangement less comfortable. The updated layout will be available in both English and regional language versions of the question paper.
The agency has also increased the total duration of the examination to 195 minutes, effectively providing candidates with an additional 15 minutes. According to NTA, the extension takes into account the time required for mandatory examination formalities, including attendance verification and document checks.
The NEET re-test will be conducted from 2 pm to 5:15 pm. Officials said the longer duration was introduced after considering feedback received from students over the past few years.
The re-examination has been scheduled following the cancellation of the original NEET-UG test conducted on May 3. While the provisional answer key was released on May 6, allegations of a question paper leak later surfaced, prompting authorities to annul the examination.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is currently probing the paper leak case. Meanwhile, lakhs of medical aspirants across the country are preparing to appear for the fresh examination on June 21 under the revised format.