NEET UG 2027 Online Exam: The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET UG) may shift from the existing pen-and-paper format to Computer-Based Testing (CBT) as the Centre works on a national examination-grade CBT infrastructure. The Ministry of Education is preparing a framework aimed at expanding examination centres, standardising infrastructure and enabling large-scale entrance examinations to move online.
However, a final decision on conducting NEET UG in online mode is yet to be taken. The government is awaiting recommendations from the high-powered task force headed by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani, which is examining reforms in India's public examination system. The proposed transition will also involve consultations with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the National Medical Commission (NMC).
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NEET UG 2027 Online Exam: Centre Plans National CBT Infrastructure
The Ministry of Education is working on a national-level Computer-Based Testing infrastructure strategy to facilitate the possible migration of examinations from pen-and-paper to CBT.
The proposed framework will focus on addressing the geographic gap in the availability of examination centres and establishing common examination-grade specifications. The strategy is being considered through a multi-model sourcing approach.
Several major examinations conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), including JEE Main, CUET UG, CUET PG, UGC NET and CSIR UGC NET, are already held in CBT mode. NEET UG remains one of the largest NTA examinations conducted using pen and paper.
NEET UG CBT Shift: Rural and Low-Connectivity Areas a Key Concern
The proposed transition to online testing involves significant infrastructure and accessibility considerations. The Centre is examining how the shift could affect candidates from rural areas, women candidates and districts with limited connectivity.
Officials are looking at the design and sequencing of the transition, infrastructure requirements and its implications for equity among candidates before taking a final decision.
This is particularly important because NEET UG is conducted on a nationwide scale and attracts candidates from different regions, including areas where access to reliable digital infrastructure may be limited.
Nandan Nilekani Task Force Report Awaited
The possible shift to CBT is part of the broader examination reforms being considered by the Centre. The government has constituted a high-powered task force headed by Nandan Nilekani to examine reforms related to the conduct, security, design and governance of public examinations.
The task force's recommendations are awaited. The final approach to shifting NEET UG from pen and paper to CBT will be considered after its report, along with consultations with the Health Ministry and the National Medical Commission.
With nearly 25 lakh candidates appearing for NEET UG annually, ensuring adequate infrastructure and comparable examination conditions across regions remains a major consideration.
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