NEET-UG 2027: NTA Confirms Computer-Based Test Mode From Next Year

The National Testing Agency (NTA) Director General Abhishek Singh today, on September 14, 2026, confirmed that the NEET-UG examination will transition to a Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode from the 2027 examination cycle onwards. This significant shift aims to enhance transparency and fortify the examination system across India, following alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG 2026 examination.

This move comes after the NTA informed the Supreme Court of its intention to adopt the CBT format for NEET-UG from 2027, aligning it with other major examinations conducted by the agency. The decision is a direct response to recommendations from a high-level committee of experts and is being implemented under the oversight of a high-powered steering committee.

NEET-UG 2027: Transition to Computer-Based Test

The National Testing Agency (NTA) is set to start using the transition of the NEET-UG examination to a Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode starting from the 2027 examination cycle. NTA Director General Abhishek Singh stated, “All our examinations are CBT (Computer-Based Test) except the NEET examination. On NEET also, we will be moving to CBT very soon.” This strategic shift is being undertaken in consultation with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, which is the client ministry for NEET-UG, thereby standardising the examination platform across all major NTA tests.

The decision to move to CBT mode for NEET-UG was a key recommendation from a high-level committee of experts (HLCE). This committee submitted its thorough report to the Centre in October 2024, outlining 101 recommendations to strengthen the examination system. A high-powered steering committee (HPSC), constituted in November 2024 under the chairmanship of Dr K Radhakrishnan, is overseeing deploying these recommendations by the NTA.

NEET-UG 2026: Background and Irregularities

The impetus for this significant change stems from the alleged irregularities observed during the NEET-UG 2026 examination. The NEET-UG 2026 exam, initially conducted on May 3, 2026, at 5,432 centres, saw over 22.05 lakh candidates appear. However, the NTA officially cancelled the May 3, 2026, exam on May 12, 2026, following a confirmed paper leak. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan acknowledged the breach, stating, “Despite following the recommendations of the Radhakrishnan Committee, there was a breach in the command chain.”

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is currently investigating the paper leak, highlighting the severity of the issue. Reacting to the cancellation, a NEET re-exam was scheduled and held on June 21, 2026. This re-exam, however, remained OMR-based (pen and paper), with no change in format, affecting over 22 lakh candidates who had appeared in the initial examination.

NEET-UG 2026 Re-Exam: Key Dates and Details

The re-examination for NEET-UG 2026 was conducted to ensure fairness for all affected candidates. The NTA provided specific details regarding this re-exam, including the mode and logistical arrangements.

Strengthening Examination Systems and Digital Initiatives

Beyond the transition to CBT for NEET-UG, the NTA is actively implementing several measures to strengthen the overall examination system. The Nandan Nilekani-led high-powered task force is specifically working on the transition to CBT for NEET-UG. Also, the NTA plans to integrate AI-based tools for at least 85% of the translation work for question papers, aiming for greater efficiency and accuracy.

The Ministry of Education is also focused on enhancing digital evaluation infrastructure. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan chaired a review meeting on May 28, 2026, concerning the Online Skill Management (OSM) system. This system successfully digitized nearly 98 lakh answer booklets for CBSE Class 12 examinations in 2026. To further bolster digital evaluation, IIT Kanpur and IIT Madras will assist in reviewing and strengthening the infrastructure, and the government has announced the development of a student-friendly re-evaluation portal.

Future Outlook for NTA Examinations

The move to a Computer-Based Test for NEET-UG from the 2027 cycle marks a major step towards modernising India’s medical entrance examination. This change, along with other digital initiatives, is expected to significantly improve the transparency, security, and integrity of the examination process. The NTA Director (Legal) affirmed, “The transition will be implemented from the next examination cycle in consultation with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (the client ministry for NEET-UG), thereby bringing all major NTA examinations onto the CBT platform.” This detailed approach aims to prevent future incidents of paper leaks and ensure a fair and equitable testing environment for all aspiring medical students.

Written by Simran

Simran is currently working as a Senior Content Writer at Findmycollege , where she creates engaging and research-driven learning resources for students. She has completed her Graduation in Journalism from Delhi University. With 4 years of experience in the EdTech industry, she has previously contributed to leading platforms like Leverage Edu and Aakash. Her expertise lies in simplifying Engineering and Medical entrance exam content to guide aspirants in their preparation journey. Beyond writing, Simran enjoys sketching, watching movies, and finding creative inspiration in everyday life.

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