The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is the largest entrance examination in the medical field, granting admission to medical and dental colleges across India. As it is one of the most competitive entrance exams in the country, it is natural for aspirants to search for the attempt limit and age limit set forth by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
In this blog, we’ll take a detailed look at how many attempts for NEET are allowed and if there is a maximum age limit.
Understanding the NEET Exam
Before we get to the limit imposed on NEET attempts, let us have a quick look at what this exam is. Conducted by the NTA, NEET, or NEET (UG) is a nationwide entrance test for admission to various undergraduate medical programs, including MBBS, BDS, BAMS, BHMS, BPT, and more.
In 2013, NEET replaced the All India Pre-Medical Test (AIPMT) as the standard entrance test for medical aspirants. However, it was again replaced by AIPMT in the years 2014 and 2015 before being reintroduced in 2016.
According to NTA, over 2 million students appeared for NEET in 2024. Given its competitive nature, the exam requires rigorous preparation, perseverance, and clarity with regard to the eligibility criteria, including the NEET attempt limit.
What are the Current Regulations for NEET Attempt Limit?
The good news for NEET aspirants is currently there are no restrictions on the number of times you can appear for NEET as long as you meet the eligibility criteria regarding age and educational qualifications.
However, the rules were not the same in the past. Let’s take a closer look at how this NEET number of attempts rule has evolved over the years-
The Evolution of NEET Attempt Regulations
1. Before 2017
Pre-2017, even when the AIPMT entrance test was in place, there were no restrictions on the number of attempts. Candidates could appear for AIPMT or NEET multiple times, provided they fulfilled the basic eligibility criteria.
2. Introduction of NEET Attempt Limit in 2017
The Medical Council of India (MCI) introduced restrictions on the NEET exam attempt limit in 2017. As per the new regulation, students were only allowed to appear for NEET up to three times. The rule created a lot of confusion, especially among candidates who already appeared for the exam multiple times.
Moreover, the council also introduced an age limit, wherein General category candidates of only up to 25 years and Reserved category candidates of only up to 30 years were permitted to appear for NEET.
3. Removal of Attempt Limit in 2018
In 2018, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) clarified the NEET attempt limit has been removed. Even the upper age limit set forth by the MCI in 2017 was removed in 2018.
4. Current Status of NEET Attempts
As mentioned above, currently there is no NEET attempt limit in 2024 and 2025. However, the NTA is expected to announce certain changes to NEET UG 2025. According to some sources, the NTA might reintroduce the attempt limit from NEET 2025 or NEET 2026.
Here’s the evolution of regulations in a tabular format-
| Year | Attempt Limit | Upper Age Limit |
| 2016 | No Limit | No Limit |
| 2017 | 3 | 25 years for General;30 years for Reserved |
| 2018 | No Limit | No Limit |
| 2019 | No Limit | No Limit |
| 2020 | No Limit | No Limit |
| 2021 | No Limit | No Limit |
| 2022 | No Limit | No Limit |
| 2023 | No Limit | No Limit |
| 2024 | No Limit | No Limit |
| 2025 | No Limit | No Limit |
Age and Eligibility Criteria for NEET
Now that you know how many attempts in NEET are allowed, let us go through the basic eligibility criteria for this exam-
1. Age Limit
The minimum age to appear for NEET is 17 years, calculated as of December 31 of the year of admission. So, if you want to appear for NEET 2025, you should’ve completed 17 years on or before 31st December 2025.
As for the upper age limit, there is currently none. So, any aspirant above the age of 17 years should not be concerned about the number of attempts in NEET or the upper age limit.
2. Educational Qualifications
Candidates must have passed or be appearing in their Class 12 or equivalent examination with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English as core subjects.
Aspirants should score an aggregate of 50% in the Class 12 exam if they are from the General category. For the OBC/SC/ST category, the requirement is 40%. For the PwD category, the aggregate marks requirement is 45%.
3. Nationality
Indian nationals, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and even foreign nationals are eligible to appear for NEET.
Are There Attempt or Age Limits on Different Applicant Categories?
So, are there different attempts or age limits for different categories? How many attempts in NEET for OBC/SC/ST? As mentioned above, there are currently no attempt limits for aspirants from any category. Since 2018, the attempt limit has been removed and candidates can appear for NEET any number of times if they fulfill other basic requirements.
It is also worth noting that the MCI introduced upper age limits for NEET applicants in 2017. The upper limit was 25 years for General category students and 30 years for Reserved category students. But this age limit too is no longer applicable. Aspirants above 17 years from any category can appear for NEET multiple times irrespective of their age.
The Debate Around Attempt Limits
It is a relief for the aspirants that they don’t need to worry about how many attempts for NEET UG. However, the lifting of restrictions has sparked a broader debate.
Pros of Unlimited NEET Attempts
- Equal Opportunities
With no restrictions on the number of NEET attempts, candidates from diverse backgrounds, including those facing socio-economic challenges, have ample chances to qualify and build a fruitful medical career.
- Reduced Pressure
A limited number of attempts make preparations stressful for the candidates. No restrictions alleviate stress and allow aspirants to focus on improving their preparation.
- Encourages Perseverance
Some candidates might require more time to master the NEET syllabus and gain the confidence they need to excel in the exam.
Cons of Unlimited NEET Attempts
- Extended Preparation Period
A prolonged preparation period can lead to burnout and financial strain for some candidates.
- Delays in Career Progression
Repeated attempts can make candidates negligent and might also delay the start of their careers.
What Aspiring NEET Candidates Should Remember
There was no NEET 2024 attempt limit and it’ll remain the same for 2025. While some reports are suggesting the NTA will reintroduce restrictions from 2025 or 2026, there are no official announcements yet.
But even while there are no limits on NEET attempts, it’s essential to approach the preparation process strategically. Every aspirant should focus on thorough preparation, self-assessment, and maintaining a positive mindset to achieve their goals in the least possible attempts. So, take charge and make your efforts count!
FAQs on how many attempts for neet
According to the regulatory body for NEET exams, the NTA, there is no limitation on the number of attempts for the NEET exams. This is in line with the NEET official website statement: “There is no cap on the number of attempts
With the lifting of restrictions, candidates are now allowed to take the NEET examination an unlimited number of times. This is contingent upon meeting the age eligibility criteria.
Candidates above the age of 17 years can apply for NEET UG. The upper age limit is removed so that candidates of any age can appear for the examination.
The student has to be at least 17 years old on or before December 31, 2025. Birth Date Requirement – if you were born on or before December 31, 2008, you meet the age requirement.
The National Test Agency (NTA) lays down the eligibility criteria for NEET. It has provided the important NEET UG 2025 eligibility criteria for future medical candidates.
