NEET to Become Mandatory for Allied & Healthcare Courses from 2026–27

The National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) has announced significant changes to the admission process for undergraduate Allied and Healthcare programmes beginning in the 2026–27 academic session. In a recent official release, the Commission confirmed that appearing for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) will now be compulsory for entry into several major Allied and Healthcare courses after Class 12.

The announcement marks a major policy shift aimed at standardising and strengthening the admission framework for Allied and Healthcare professions across India. According to the Commission, 13 curricula for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes have already been notified, with more expected to follow in the coming months as the NCAHP continues its review and development process.

Citing the provisions of the NCAHP Act, 2021, the Commission clarified that eligibility norms for admission must be clearly defined and embedded within the approved curricula. “In the majority of the curricula notified, one of the eligibility criteria for admission is appearing in the NEET exam, over and above other criteria. Admission to these courses is slated to begin from the 2026–27 academic year,” the notification stated.

The move is expected to bring greater uniformity and accountability to the growing Allied and Healthcare sector, which plays a critical role in India’s medical ecosystem. By mandating NEET—a national-level medical entrance examination—the Commission aims to ensure that students entering these specialised fields possess a strong foundational understanding of science and healthcare.

Courses to Come Under the New NEET Requirement

The updated guidelines will impact admissions to some of the most sought-after Allied and Healthcare programmes, including:

• Physiotherapy (BPT)
• Dialysis Technology
• Nutrition & Dietetics
• Medical Laboratory and Life Sciences
• Optometry
• Medical Radiology, Imaging and Therapeutic Technology

These disciplines form the backbone of diagnostic, rehabilitative, and supportive healthcare services. Experts believe that aligning their admission criteria with NEET will improve academic standards and enhance the overall quality of healthcare education in the country.

As the Commission works on finalising additional curricula, educational institutions and aspirants are advised to stay updated through official NCAHP announcements. With the new norms set to take effect from 2026–27, students planning to pursue Allied and Healthcare careers will need to prepare for NEET as an essential component of their admission journey.

The decision underscores the government’s broader goal of fostering a more regulated, skilled, and competent healthcare workforce in India.