If you’re dreaming of building a successful career in the medical field, the first step is to start with the basics. In India, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is considered the gateway to medical programs. The highly competitive exam determines admissions to courses such as MBBS, BDS, and AYUSH.
But for someone planning to appear for NEET, a common query is “How many times NEET exam is conducted in a year?” This article provides a detailed overview of NEET, highlighting the frequency, preparation tips, and more.
Overview of the NEET Exam
Before getting to the frequency, it is essential for the aspirants to understand the NEET exam. There are two different NEET exams in India- NEET UG and NEET PG. Take a look-
NEET UG
The NTA or the National Testing Agency conducts the NEET UG (Undergraduate) exam. Candidates who’ve completed 10+2 or an equivalent examination with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English can appear for NEET UG.
After clearing NEET UG, the candidates are eligible for MBBS, BDS, and AYUSH courses.
NEET PG
The NBEMS or the National Board of Examination in Medical Sciences conducts NEET PG exam. It is the qualifying exam for postgraduate medical students who want to pursue courses like MD (Doctor of Medicine), MS (Master of Surgery), and PG Diploma programs.
Candidates already possessing MBBS or a Provisional MBBS Pass Certificate are eligible for NEET PG.
Here’s a table highlighting the difference between the two-
| Parameter | NEET UG | NEET PG |
| Conducting Body | NTA | NBEMS |
| Purpose | Admissions to MBBS, BDS, and AYUSH courses | Admissions to MD, MS, and PG Diploma courses |
| Eligibility | 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (Min. 50% aggregate) | MBBS degree and completion of internship |
| Age Limit | Minimum 17 years; no upper age limit | No age limit |
| Mode | Offline (Pen and Paper) | Online |
| Participants | Over 2 million in 2024 | Over 2 lakh in 2024 |
NEET Annual Frequency
So, how many times NEET exam held in a year? Both NEET UG and NEET PG are held once every year. NEET UG 2025 will be held on 4th May and NEET PG 2025 is expected to be held on 15th June.
It is worth noting that while the NEET exam is only held once every year, there is no limit on the number of times candidates are allowed to appear for the exam as long as they fulfill the basic eligibility requirements.
Here’s a quick overview of the NEET 2025 exam timeline-
| Schedule | NEET UG 2025 | NEET PG 2025 |
| Registration | February (Expected) | April (Expected) |
| Admit Card Available | April (Expected) | May (Expected) |
| Exam | May 4 | June 15 (Expected) |
| Results | June (Expected) | July (Expected) |
Why is NEET Conducted Once a Year?
Here are some of the reasons why the NEET exam is only conducted once every year-
Administrative Feasibility
NEET is a large-scale exam with millions of students appearing for it every year. Especially for NEET UG which is an offline exam, it requires significant resources, infrastructure, and logistical arrangements. Conducting it more than once would pose immense challenges for the organizing bodies.
Evaluation Consistency
Conducting the exam annually ensures a uniform assessment of candidates, as all aspirants are evaluated on the same set of questions, maintaining fairness in the ranking process.
Preparation Time for Aspirants
A single annual exam provides students with a definitive timeline to strategize and focus their efforts. It reduces the confusion or pressure that might arise from preparing for multiple sessions within the same year.
Streamlined Admission Process
An annual exam also aligns with the academic calendars of medical institutions, ensuring a smooth and timely admission process.
Why Should NEET Be Organized Twice in a Year?
Is NEET conducted twice a year? Currently, the NEET UG and NEET PG exams are only conducted once a year. However, there have been discussions about making it biannual. While their once-a-year schedule offers some benefits, making it twice a year can also be advantageous.
Second Chance for Aspirants
Aspirants who face personal emergencies, health issues, or underperform in their first attempt would get another opportunity if NEET is conducted twice a year.
Reduced Pressure
A biannual schedule can help alleviate the immense stress associated with a single annual exam.
Improved Preparation
Aspirants can use the first attempt as a learning experience to identify gaps and refine their strategies for the next session.
Flexibility
Similar to JEE Main, multiple sessions allow candidates to choose the exam date that suits their preparation.
Higher Success Rate
More opportunities could increase the overall chances of securing a seat in desired medical programs.
Tips to Prepare for NEET UG 2025
Now that you know how many NEET exam in a year, here are some tips to crack the exam in 2025-
- Master the NCERT
The NEET UG syllabus mostly revolves around the NCERT textbooks for Classes 11 and 12, especially for Biology. Thoroughly study these books to ensure a strong grasp of fundamental concepts, which are often directly tested in the exam. Pay close attention to diagrams, tables, and summaries in the textbooks.
- Mock Tests
Regularly practicing mock tests is crucial to improve speed, accuracy, and familiarity with the exam format. Using OMR sheets, like the ones used during the actual NEET exam, helps simulate the exam experience. Analyze your performance in each test to identify weak areas and work on them.
- Time Management
Divide your study time effectively across Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, based on your strengths and weaknesses. Focus more on Biology as it carries the highest weightage but allocate sufficient time to practice problem-solving for Physics and Chemistry to balance your preparation.
- Join the Right Coaching
While self-study works for some aspirants, most others prefer joining a coaching center. Enrol in a reputable coaching institute that can provide expert guidance, a structured study plan, and access to high-quality study materials. Coaching classes often conduct regular tests and doubt-clearing sessions, helping aspirants stay on track and resolve any challenges they encounter.
Are You Preparing for NEET 2025?
How many times NEET exam is conducted in a year? NEET UG and NEET PG are both conducted once a year, each serving a distinct purpose for aspiring doctors. As an aspirant, you should align your preparation strategies with the exam frequency and make a note of the tips discussed above to excel in these highly competitive exams. Good luck!
For the latest updates, you can visit the official website of these examinations-
NEET UG: https://neet.nta.nic.in/
NEET PG: https://nbe.edu.in/
FAQs on NEET Exam Conducted in a Year
No, NEET exams are only conducted once a year.
NEET is held once a year for UG and PG programs.
NEET UG is generally conducted in May, while NEET PG is held in March or June.
With the number of aspirants increasing every year and the high competition for limited seats, NEET 2025 is expected to be challenging.
