NEET UG Computer-Based Test Implementation Likely Delayed Until 2028

The central government’s proposal to transition the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) UG to a fully computer-based test (CBT) format is facing significant delays. According to recent reports, the shift to an entirely online examination model is now unlikely to occur before the 2028-29 academic cycle, largely due to pushback from state governments in southern India.

The opposition, led by states including Tamil Nadu and Kerala, centers on concerns regarding the digital divide. State authorities have argued that a mandatory shift to a computer-based format could disadvantage students from rural areas and economically weaker backgrounds. These concerns highlight a perceived lack of equitable access to reliable internet, computer hardware, and the necessary training required to navigate digital testing environments effectively.

Proposed Hybrid Model for NEET UG 2027

In response to these challenges, a high-powered task force led by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani is currently evaluating alternative strategies for the upcoming examination cycles. The panel is reportedly considering the implementation of a hybrid examination mode for the NEET UG 2027 session. This proposed approach would offer candidates the flexibility to choose between a computer-based test and the traditional pen-and-paper format.

Beyond the debate over testing technology, the southern states have also advocated for broader reforms to the national entrance examination structure. Officials from these regions have requested that greater weightage be given to local school board marks. They contend that the current NEET framework disproportionately favors the CBSE syllabus, which they argue creates an uneven playing field for students who have completed their secondary education under various state board curricula. As the government continues to deliberate on these recommendations, the focus remains on balancing the modernization of national testing standards with the need for inclusive access for all medical aspirants across the country.