Two-stage exam, age cap, CBT shift in NEET: Parliamentary panel calls for major changes

A Parliamentary Standing Committee examining the National Testing Agency (NTA) in the aftermath of the NEET UG paper leak and cancellation recommended major reforms. The Committee, representing the education, women, children, youth, and sports sectors, emphasized the need for NTA accountability to both Houses of Parliament. The agency recently canceled the NEET (UG) 2026 exam conducted on May 3 due to allegations of paper leak.

The panel proposed conducting examinations in a computer-based test (CBT) model, involving government-operated centers, and reducing dependence on private centers. They also suggested lowering the age cap for NEET candidates and implementing an attempt limit. The Committee noted that NEET (UG) currently has no age or attempt limits, leading to elderly candidates participating.

They recommended exploring age and attempt limits alongside the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. The panel further advocated for a multi-stage exam format, similar to the Civil Services Examination, for better candidate filtration. In addition, they proposed creating a National Registry of blacklisted examination vendors and expanding question banks to enhance integrity.

The Committee urged NTA to hire permanent staff, especially experts in psychometrics, examination security, and digital infrastructure, to strengthen the agency's operations.