NEET 2026 Exam Pattern Explained: Marking Scheme, Sections & Duration
Understanding the exam pattern is also a part of preparing for NEET 2026, which is as important as understanding concepts. It helps you to know the format of the paper, what each section requires, and how marks are given because it makes a significant difference to your prep strategy. In addition to NCERT books, using an appropriate mock test book for NEET, along with detailed NEET books and the best question bank for NEET, will prepare you thoroughly for the exam.
Structure of the NEET 2026 Exam
NEET-UG is an offline pen-and-paper-based test. It has one paper comprising 200 questions, of which the candidates are required to attempt 180 questions. The questions are MCQ, with four options.
NEET 2026 Exam Pattern at a Glance
In order to make things clearer to you, below is a table explaining the structure of the NEET 2026 exam.
| Feature | Details |
| Mode of Exam | Pen-and-paper (offline) |
| Total Questions | 200 (students must attempt 180) |
| Subjects Covered | Physics, Chemistry, Biology |
| Section Division | Section A: 35 questions; Section B: 15 questions (attempt any 10) |
| Duration | 3 hours 20 minutes (200 minutes) |
| Marking Scheme | 4 for correct, –1 for incorrect, 0 for unattempted |
| Highest Weightage | Biology |
Why the Pattern Matters
Biology is the more heavily weighted component of the paper and, in most cases, determines students’ ranks. But Physics and Chemistry also hold significant weight since even one small slip can alter the total score. Solving a mock test book for NEET, as well as the best question bank for NEET, will help them experience time pressure as well as negative marking.
Marking Scheme Explained
Each right answer scores +4 points, each wrong answer scores -1 point. A blank question earns 0. In this system accuracy is as important as speed. More important than guessing are smart attempts.
FAQs
Q1. How many questions are there in NEET 2026?
There will be 200 questions, of which candidates will have to answer 180.
Q2. How much time is given for the exam?
The duration is 3 hours and 20 minutes (200 minutes).
Q3. Is there negative marking in NEET?
Yes, –1 mark is deducted for every wrong answer.
Q4. Which subject has the highest weightage?
Biology has the highest weightage, followed by Physics and Chemistry.