NEET 2026 Application Form Live: Registration Dates & Photo Rules

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has commenced the NEET UG 2026 registration process on the official portal neet.nta.nic.in, with the final deadline to apply set as 8 March 2026. Aspirants seeking admissions to MBBS, BDS and related courses must comply with updated identity verification requirements and complete their applications accurately.

NEET UG 2026 Registration Dates & Key Schedule

The NEET UG 2026 application window opened on 8 February 2026 and will close on 8 March 2026 (closing time is typically in the evening). After this, the form correction facility will be available from 10 March to 12 March 2026. The exam itself is tentatively scheduled for 3 May 2026. Candidates are advised to avoid delays near the deadline to prevent last-minute server congestion and submission errors.

NEET UG 2026 Mandatory Aadhaar eKYC and Live Photo Capture

A major update in the 2026 NEET registration process is the introduction of Aadhaar-based eKYC and live photo capture during the application:

• Aadhaar eKYC: Aspirants must enter their Aadhaar number and complete OTP authentication linked to their registered mobile number. Successful verification confirms identity instantly.
• Live Photo Capture: During the online form fill-up, candidates must capture a real-time photograph through their device’s camera or webcam. This live photo will be matched with Aadhaar records.

If the live photo does not match the Aadhaar image, candidates may be required to submit supporting proof.

NEET UG 2026 Photo, Signature & Thumb Impression Requirements

Applicants must upload scanned images and adhere to strict specifications to avoid rejection of their form:

Photograph Guidelines:

• Must have been taken after 1 January 2026.
• File size: 10 KB – 200 KB (JPG/JPEG).
• The face should cover 80 % of the frame against a white or light background.

Signature & Thumb Impressions:

• Signature scan (running handwriting) in JPG/JPEG, 4 KB – 30 KB.
• Left and right thumb imprints in JPG/JPEG, 10 KB – 200 KB.

NEET UG 2026 Qualifying Exam Code & Education Details

A key step in the form-filling process is selecting the correct qualifying exam code, which denotes the candidate’s board or educational category. This code must be entered accurately, as errors can impact form acceptance. Eligibility requirements include passing Class 12 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology and English from a recognised board, and meeting minimum age and qualification criteria as outlined in the official bulletin.

NEET UG 2026 Documents Checklist Before Application

Before starting the NEET UG 2026 form, candidates should prepare the following:

• Passport-size photograph
• Postcard-size photograph
• Scanned signature
• Left & right thumb impressions
• Class 10 mark sheet and pass certificate
• Class 12 mark sheet or admit card
• Valid photo ID (Aadhaar/Passport/other)
• Category/EWS/PwBD certificates (if applicable)

Keeping all files in the prescribed size and format will help avoid upload failures.

NEET UG 2026 Final Tips for Applicants

Candidates should verify all entered details carefully before final submission as many fields cannot be changed after confirmation, except during the correction window. Starting the application process early helps avoid technical issues due to heavy traffic near the deadline.