NEET-UG eligibility has four conditions: Class 12 passed with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology and English; a minimum aggregate in those subjects (50% General, 40% SC/ST/OBC, 45% PwD); 17 years of age by 31 December of the admission year; and no upper age limit or attempt limit. Biology must be a Class 12 subject — this is the condition that excludes most people who ask.
The four conditions #
| Condition | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Qualification | Class 12 or equivalent, passed |
| Compulsory subjects | Physics, Chemistry, Biology or Biotechnology, and English |
| Minimum aggregate in PCB | 50% General / EWS · 40% SC, ST, OBC · 45% General-PwD |
| Minimum age | 17 years as on 31 December of the admission year |
| Maximum age | None |
| Attempts | Unlimited |
The Biology requirement #
You must have studied Biology or Biotechnology as a subject in Class 12. A Physics-Chemistry-Maths student cannot appear for NEET on the strength of PCM alone.
The workaround is real but slow: appear in Biology as an additional subject through NIOS or a state open school, then apply. Acceptance of additional-subject Biology has been contested and the position has shifted, so confirm on the current notification and with the counselling authority before committing a year to it.
- The two 50s are different things. 50% in Class 12 PCB is a board requirement. The 50th percentile in NEET is an exam requirement. Both must be met, and they are unrelated.
- The aggregate is calculated on PCB plus English, not on your overall Class 12 percentage.
- Appearing candidates can apply while awaiting the Class 12 result, but must produce it before admission.
- Age is taken from your Class 10 certificate. Mismatched documents are a common rejection cause.
Eligibility for specific situations #
| Situation | Eligible? |
|---|---|
| Dropper / repeat candidate | Yes — no attempt limit |
| Working professional, age 30+ | Yes — no upper age limit |
| Open schooling (NIOS) | Generally yes; confirm on the current notification |
| Biology as additional subject | Contested; verify before relying on it |
| PCM student without Biology | No, unless Biology is added |
| Studying medicine abroad | Yes — NEET is required as an eligibility certificate |
| Foreign national / NRI / OCI | Yes, under the applicable quota rules |
NEET eligibility — frequently asked questions
What is the eligibility for NEET?
Can I give NEET without Biology in Class 12?
What marks are needed in Class 12 for NEET?
Is there an age limit for NEET?
Can I apply for NEET while in Class 12?
Verified fees, centres and reviews.
Disclaimer: Eligibility rules follow the current NTA NEET notification and have been subject to revision and litigation. Verify before applying.
