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NEET Eligibility Criteria 2025: Age Limit, Attempts, Qualification, Application Details

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Everything You Need to Know About NEET Eligibility Criteria 202

Are you ready to take the first step toward a successful medical career? To begin your journey, it’s crucial to understand the NEET Eligibility Criteria 2025. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially outlined the eligibility requirements for NEET 2025 in its latest information bulletin. To be eligible for the NEET 2025 exam, all candidates must have attained a minimum age of 17 years by December 31, 2025, regardless of their category.


To ensure a smooth registration process, candidates must meet the criteria specified in the official NEET 2025 brochure, available at neet.nta.nic.in. Any failure to comply with these eligibility requirements will result in disqualification from the exam. Read on for detailed insights into the eligibility, application procedure, and key dates to make your NEET UG 2025 journey seamless and successful.


NEET 2025 Eligibility Criteria - Overview

The Eligibility Criteria for NEET 2025 details the academic qualifications, age limits, and other essential requirements that candidates must fulfil to be eligible for the NEET UG 2025 exam.


The NEET 2025 exam is scheduled for May 4, 2025, with the registration period opening on February 7 and closing on March 7, 2025. Candidates must thoroughly review the eligibility criteria before applying to ensure they meet all the requirements. Only those who qualify according to the official NEET eligibility conditions can successfully complete their registration.


Factor

Eligibility Criteria for NEET 2025

Academic Qualification

10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English

Minimum Marks Required

  • General: 50% (PH: 45%)

  • OBC/SC/ST: 40% (PH: 40%)

Subjects Considered

Physics, Chemistry, Biology (Mathematics is not counted)

Minimum Age Limit

17 years (Born on or before December 31, 2008)

Upper Age Limit

No upper age limit (As per NMC guidelines)

Number of Attempts

No limit on attempts

Nationality

Indian Nationals, NRIs, OCIs, PIOs, Foreign Nationals

Score Validity

One Academic Year (Valid for the 2025-2026 session)

Reservation Criteria

As per government rules (85% State Quota & 15% AIQ)



NEET 2025 Eligibility Criteria for MBBS: Academic Qualification

To be eligible for the NEET UG 2025 exam and secure admission into MBBS programs, candidates must meet specific academic qualifications and age requirements. According to the NEET Eligibility Criteria for MBBS 2025, candidates must have completed their 10+2 (or equivalent) education from a recognised board with the following subjects:


  • Physics

  • Chemistry

  • Biology/Biotechnology

  • English


NEET 2025 Eligibility Criteria: Category-Wise Marks and Requirements

Understanding the NEET eligibility criteria is essential for every aspiring medical student. The NEET 2025 eligibility criteria are categorised to help you easily determine the specific requirements based on your category. Here's a detailed breakdown of the eligibility requirements:


Category

NEET Eligibility Criteria 2025 12th Marks (Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology)

Unreserved (General)

50%

SC/ST/OBC/Reserved-PH

40%

Unreserved-PH

45%



NEET Eligibility Criteria 2025 Age Limit

The NEET Eligibility Criteria 2025 have undergone significant changes, especially regarding the age limit. According to the latest guidelines from the National Testing Agency (NTA) and the National Medical Commission (NMC), important updates have been made to the NEET Age Limit 2025, affecting all candidates across categories.


Minimum Age Limit for NEET 2025:

  • All candidates, regardless of category, must be at least 17 years old by December 31, 2025, to be eligible for the exam.


Maximum Age Limit for NEET 2025:

  • A major update for NEET 2025 is the removal of the maximum age limit for all categories, including Unreserved (General), SC, ST, OBC, and other categories. This means there is no longer an age cap for candidates wishing to appear for the NEET exam.


Category-Wise NEET 2025 Age Criteria:

Category

Minimum Age Limit (NEET 2025)

Previous Maximum Age Limit

NEET 2025 Maximum Age Limit

General (UR)

17 years

25 years

No Maximum Age Limit

OBC, SC, ST, and other categories

17 years

30 years

No Maximum Age Limit


Important Update:

The removal of the maximum age limit applies to all categories, including General (UR), OBC, SC, ST, and others, enabling candidates of all ages to pursue medical education through NEET.


Ensure that you meet the minimum age requirement of 17 years by December 31, 2025, and take note of the new age-related eligibility for NEET 2025 to avoid any issues during your application process.


NEET 2025 Eligibility Criteria: Number of Attempts

One of the significant updates in the NEET Eligibility Criteria 2025 is the removal of any limits on the number of attempts a student can make. Since 2018, there have been no restrictions on the number of attempts allowed for the NEET UG exam, and this continues to be the case for NEET 2025.


Key Points to Know:

  • No Limit on Attempts: Candidates can appear for the NEET 2025 exam as many times as they want, provided they meet the eligibility criteria for each attempt.

  • Eligibility Requirements: Every time a candidate wishes to take the exam, they must ensure they meet the NEET 2025 eligibility criteria, including age, academic qualifications, and category-specific requirements.

  • Continuous Opportunity: This policy allows students to attempt the exam multiple times, providing them with the flexibility to improve their scores and pursue a career in medical education.


The unrestricted number of attempts for NEET 2025 offers candidates multiple chances to succeed and secure admission to medical colleges across India.


NEET Eligibility Criteria 2025 for NRI and Foreign Students

For NRI (Non-Resident Indian), OCI (Overseas Citizen of India), and Foreign students, there are specific NEET eligibility criteria that must be met to appear for the NEET 2025 exam. These candidates must ensure that their educational qualifications meet the standards set by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and relevant Indian authorities.


Eligibility Requirements for NRI and Foreign Students:

  • Educational Qualifications: Candidates must have completed an equivalent of Class 12 education from their home country with mandatory subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Biotechnology.


They must have passed both the theoretical and practical exams in these subjects and completed an English language exam as part of their qualifying education.


  • Required Documentation for NRI/OCI Applicants: NRI and OCI candidates must submit a Certificate from the Indian Diplomatic Mission in their home country verifying their NRI/OCI status during the NEET 2025 online application process.


  • Required Documentation for Foreign Nationals: Foreign nationals applying for NEET 2025 must provide documentary evidence, such as relevant pages from their valid passport or an official certificate from the competent authority in their home country confirming their citizenship status.


  • Admission to Medical and Dental Colleges: NRI, OCI, and Foreign National candidates can apply for admission to medical and dental colleges in India, subject to the eligibility regulations and seat availability as set by the respective State Governments, educational institutions, and the Government of India.


NEET 2025 Score Validity: Key Information for Aspirants

The NEET UG 2025 Score will be valid for the academic year 2025-2026. Candidates who successfully clear the exam will be eligible for admission to undergraduate medical and dental programs in India for the 2025-2026 academic session.


Important Points to Know About NEET 2025 Score Validity:

  1. Score Validity Duration: The NEET 2025 score remains valid for one year, allowing candidates to seek admission for the 2025-2026 academic year in medical and dental colleges across India.

  2. No Guarantee for Admission: It is crucial to understand that while the NEET score remains valid for the duration of the academic year, it does not guarantee admission to any specific institution or course.

  3. Counselling Process: To secure admission, candidates must participate in the NEET 2025 counselling process, where they need to fulfil the specific eligibility criteria of the respective medical or dental colleges.


NEET 2025 Qualifying Codes: Comprehensive Guide for Aspirants

The NEET UG 2025 qualifying codes help categorise candidates based on their educational qualifications. These codes are critical when filling out the NEET application form, as they determine eligibility based on the candidate’s academic background. Understanding the NEET 2025 Qualifying Codes is essential to ensure correct application submission and eligibility verification.


Candidates must select the appropriate code based on their educational qualifications, as this enables NTA to validate their eligibility. Below are the various qualifying codes and their respective descriptions:


Code

Description

Code 01

Candidates currently appearing for or who have appeared in Class 12 exams in 2025 and are awaiting results. They must pass the Class 12 board exams for admission.

Code 02

Candidates who have passed their Class 12 exams before 2025, including those who are repeaters or "droppers" from CBSE/ICSE/state boards.

Code 03

Candidates who have completed their Pre-degree/Intermediate examination in Science from a recognised Indian University/Board, with mandatory subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English), including practical tests.

Code 04

Candidates who have passed a Pre-professional/Pre-medical examination after completing Class 12, with mandatory subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English), including practical tests.

Code 05

Candidates currently enrolled in the first year of a 3-year degree course from a recognised university with mandatory subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology) and have passed the first year with practical tests.

Code 06

Candidates who have completed a BSc with at least two of the following subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, along with English, and have passed their Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English.

Code 07

Candidates who have appeared for a qualification exam (whether from India or abroad) deemed equivalent to the last two years of Class 12, with mandatory subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology), including practical tests.



Important Study Materials for NEET UG 2025 Success



Conclusion

Understanding the NEET Eligibility Criteria 2025 is crucial for all aspirants aiming to pursue undergraduate medical and dental education in India. The eligibility requirements span across age limits, academic qualifications, number of attempts, and specific criteria for NRI and foreign students. Additionally, the NEET 2025 qualifying codes help categorise candidates based on their educational backgrounds, ensuring that each applicant meets the necessary standards to sit for the exam.

FAQs on NEET Eligibility Criteria 2025: Age Limit, Attempts, Qualification, Application Details

1. What is the NEET Eligibility Criteria 2025 12th Marks Requirement?

To be eligible for NEET 2025, candidates must score a minimum of:

  • General (UR): 50% in PCB

  • OBC/SC/ST: 40% in PCB

  • General - PH: 45% in PCB

  • Reserved - PH: 40% in PCB

Mathematics marks are NOT considered. Candidates appearing for Class 12 in 2025 can apply but must pass before admission.

2. Can I apply for NEET 2025 if I am appearing for Class 12 exams?

Yes, students appearing for Class 12 board exams in 2025 can apply for NEET. However, they must pass with the required marks before admission.

3. What is the NEET Eligibility Criteria 2025 for droppers?

There are no restrictions for droppers. Candidates who have passed Class 12 in a previous year can apply for NEET 2025 as long as they meet the required eligibility criteria.

4. Is there an upper age limit for NEET 2025?

No, there is no upper age limit for NEET 2025. Candidates who meet the minimum age requirement and educational qualifications can apply.

5. How many times can I attempt NEET 2025?

There is no limit on the number of attempts for NEET 2025. Candidates can appear for the exam as many times as they meet the eligibility criteria.

6. What subjects are considered for NEET eligibility in Class 12?

Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Biotechnology are the mandatory subjects for NEET eligibility. Mathematics marks are not considered.

7. Can students from open schools apply for NEET 2025?

Yes, students from open schools and private candidates are eligible for NEET 2025, provided they have studied Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English in Class 12.

8. What is the minimum age required for NEET 2025?

The minimum age required for NEET 2025 is 17 years as of December 31, 2025.

9. Can foreign students apply for NEET 2025?

Yes, foreign nationals, NRIs, OCIs, and PIOs can apply for NEET 2025. They must meet the same eligibility criteria as Indian students and provide proof of qualification.

10. Is NEET mandatory for admission to MBBS abroad?

Yes, NEET is mandatory for Indian students who want to pursue MBBS abroad. They must qualify for NEET to get eligibility certificates from the National Medical Commission.

11. Can I take the NEET exam in my regional language?

Yes, NEET is conducted in multiple languages, including Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Marathi, Gujarati, Assamese, Kannada, Odia, Punjabi, and Urdu. Candidates can choose their preferred language while filling out the application form.