NEET UG 2027 likely to retain pen-and-paper mode amid opposition to CBT

The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate), NEET-UG, is likely to largely retain its traditional pen-and-paper format for the 2027 examination cycle. This development comes as the Centre’s ambitious examination reform plan, designed by the Nilekani panel, faces significant resistance, primarily from southern states.

While immediate measures for 2027 are expected to involve a combination of pen-and-paper and computer-based testing (CBT), the full transition to a new, fully computer-based exam format, potentially moving towards Computer Adaptive Testing, is now anticipated to roll out from the 2028-29 cycle. The reform process has been influenced by feedback from over 54,000 suggestions received by the High-Powered Task Force (HPTF).

Delayed Transition to Computer-Based Testing

The High-Powered Task Force (HPTF) has categorized its recommendations into two segments: immediate measures for 2027 and long-term measures for 2028-29. The immediate measures for the upcoming 2027 cycle are expected to involve a blend of pen-and-paper and computer-based testing. This approach is being considered as a gradual transition, similar to the JEE, over the next two to three years.

The ultimate goal of the reform plan is to shift NEET-UG to a fully computer-based format and eventually adopt Computer Adaptive Testing. However, this complete overhaul is now slated to become effective from the 2028-29 cycle, indicating a delay in the full implementation of the new format. The structure of the JEE will remain unchanged for 2027.

Opposition from Southern States

Strong resistance to the proposed NEET-UG exam reforms has emerged from southern states, with Tamil Nadu and Kerala expressing predominant reservations. The Nilekani panel, which is tasked with finalizing the reform plan, has until January 2027 to submit its report. In the interim, the panel is scheduled to engage in extensive meetings with leadership in southern states, followed by consultations with other regions, to build a national consensus on the exam reforms.

Concerns raised by these states include the potential impact of computer-based testing on rural students, the value of assigning more weight to school board marks, and the need for equivalence among different school boards. Also, disadvantages faced by students from non-CBSE boards have been highlighted, as NEET-UG and JEE-like exams primarily align with the CBSE syllabus. The rural-urban digital divide has also raised questions about the effect of CBT on marginalized students. The 2021 Justice AK Rajan Committee report from Tamil Nadu indicated that NEET-UG admissions were less advantageous for Tamil-medium, government school, and state board students.

Proposed New Framework and Familiarisation

Under the new framework, NEET-UG could adopt a multi-shift computer-based testing format, mirroring the structure currently used for the JEE. This shift is part of the long-term measures recommended by the HPTF, which will become effective from the 2028-29 cycle.

To support a smoother transition, suggestions have been made to introduce computer-based testing practice and familiarisation sessions for NEET-UG aspirants before a full shift to the new format. This aims to address concerns about students’ readiness for a fully digital examination environment, particularly those from rural areas or with limited access to digital resources.

Further reading

• NEET SS 2026 application window open: apply by 18 November
• NEET SS 2026 registration opens; apply by November 18
• NEET application form: eligibility, dates and how to apply Next step
• KEAM 2027: Apply online for engineering seats starting January
• CENTAC NEET MDS 2026 Round 3 registration deadline extended; apply under revised cut-off
• KEAM 2026: Apply for 84 MBBS, 106 BDS stray seats. CEE to announce dates Applications open

Written by Nishit Kumar

Nishit Kumar is a senior EdTech industry leader with over a decade of experience in building and scaling education platforms, shaping their product, content, and growth strategy. At FindMyCollege, Nishit oversees content and editorial strategy, guiding topic selection and content frameworks to ensure accuracy, relevance, and student-first value across the website.

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