NEET Exam Cancelled Over Paper Leak; NTA Announces Re-Exam For All Candidates
NEET Exam Cancelled Over Paper Leak; NTA Announces Re-Exam For All Candidates
The National Testing Agency (NTA), with approval from the Government of India, has officially cancelled the NEET UG 2026 examination conducted on May 3 after inputs from central agencies and investigative findings raised concerns over the integrity of the exam process.
In a major and unprecedented decision affecting lakhs of medical aspirants across the country, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially cancelled the NEET UG 2026 examination and announced that the exam will be conducted again on fresh dates.
The decision comes after allegations of a paper leak and an investigation involving central agencies. In an official statement shared on X, the NTA said it had referred the matter to central agencies on May 8 for independent verification and necessary action.
The agency stated that after examining the inputs received from investigative and law enforcement agencies, it concluded that “the present examination process could not be allowed to stand.”
The NEET UG 2026 examination was held nationwide on May 3 and was attended by nearly 22 lakh candidates seeking admission to medical colleges across India.
The National Testing Agency is aware of reports concerning the action initiated by the Rajasthan Special Operations Group in connection with alleged irregularities around NEET (UG) 2026. The following is placed on record for the information of candidates, parents, and the public.…
— National Testing Agency (@NTA_Exams) May 10, 2026
According to the official statement, the re-examination dates and fresh admit card schedule will be announced separately through official NTA channels in the coming days.
The Government of India has also decided to hand over the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a comprehensive inquiry into the alleged paper leak and related irregularities. The NTA said it would fully cooperate with the investigation and provide all records and assistance required by the agency.
Importantly, the NTA clarified that students will not have to register again for the re-examination. Existing registration data, candidature details and examination centre preferences from the May 2026 cycle will automatically be carried forward.
In continuation of its press release dated 10 May 2026, the National Testing Agency wishes to inform candidates, parents, and members of the public of the following decisions taken in respect of NEET (UG) 2026. NTA had, on 8 May 2026, referred the matters then under consideration…
— National Testing Agency (@NTA_Exams) May 12, 2026
The agency also announced that no additional examination fee will be charged for the re-test. Fees already paid by candidates will be refunded, while the fresh examination will be conducted using NTA’s internal resources.
In its statement, the NTA acknowledged the inconvenience caused to students and parents due to the re-conduct of the examination. However, it said the decision was taken in the larger interest of protecting the credibility and trust associated with the national examination system.
Students and parents have been advised to rely only on official announcements issued through NTA’s verified channels and avoid believing unverified social media claims.
For further assistance, candidates can contact the NTA through its official helpline and email support.
Disclaimer: Candidates are advised to regularly check official NTA communication channels for updates regarding the revised NEET UG 2026 examination schedule and admit cards.
