Ministry of Education prepares to shift NEET UG to Computer-Based Testing mode

The Ministry of Education is preparing to shift NEET UG from pen and paper to online mode. The National Testing Agency is looking to enhance the infrastructure strategy to support examination systems across the country. The Agency will focus on increasing the availability of test centers, standardised infrastructure and make more exams to computer-based testing.  

A senior Ministry of Education official said that the strategy is prepared to close the geographic gap in the availability of exam centres and standardise examination-grade specifications. The proposed model might use multiple sources for providing the required infrastructure.

This move comes as the Indian government considers a CBT transition for NEET-UG. The medical entrance exam has so far been conducted using pen-and-paper and OMR sheets. Officials concerned to the matter said the possible shift is being worked out, however the final decision is expected only after the Nandan Nilekani-led High-Powered Task Force on examination reforms submits its recommendations.

The proposed transition will involve more than simply putting the NEET question paper on computers. The government is examining the infrastructure needed for the shift, the sequencing of the transition and the availability of centres. It is also looking at its impact on candidates in rural areas, women candidates and students from districts with poor internet connectivity.

The Nilekani-led task force was set up in July to recommend comprehensive reforms in the conduct, security, design and governance of public examinations, including those conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). Its mandate covers examination security, technology, infrastructure, accessibility and inclusion.

The panel has been consulting experts and stakeholders as it prepares its recommendations. The task force has consulted former ISRO chairman K Radhakrishnan, who headed the earlier committee set up to recommend reforms to the NTA after the 2024 NEET-UG paper leak. The latest consultation is part of the panel’s work on an overhaul of the NTA and the examination system.