In a much-awaited move that brings hope amid months of uncertainty, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the provisional answer keys for the NEET UG 2026 re-examination held on June 21.
Over 20 lakh medical aspirants who reappeared for the high-stakes test after the original May 3 exam was scrapped due to paper leak allegations can now review their responses and challenge discrepancies.
The challenge window is open from today, June 25, until June 28, 2026 (11:50 PM). Candidates can log in to the official website — neet.nta.nic.in — enter their Question Paper Series Code, select disputed questions, upload supporting evidence strictly from NCERT or standard textbooks, and pay a non-refundable fee of ₹200 per question. If the challenge is accepted, the fee will be fully refunded.
The agency has emphasised that the objection submission is one-time and final — aspirants are advised to review everything carefully before confirming payment.
To speed up the process, expert review of challenges will run parallel with OMR sheet scanning.
This parallel workflow aims to declare results at the earliest possible date, potentially by mid-July, easing the anxiety of students eyeing MBBS, BDS, and other medical seats for the 2026-27 academic session.
How to Challenge the NEET 2026 Answer Key (Step-by-Step):
- Visit the official portal: neet.nta.nic.in
- Enter your Question Paper Series Code (printed on your test booklet cover)
- Select the question(s) you want to challenge
- Upload clear evidence from NCERT or authorised textbooks
- Pay ₹200 per question and submit
Important Note: Only challenges with valid documentary proof will be considered. Random or baseless objections may not yield results.
The re-examination on June 21 was conducted under unprecedented security measures across 5,440 centres to restore trust in the system. With the answer key now public, the focus shifts to final evaluation and merit list preparation.
Aspirants are urged to act quickly within the tight 4-day window. For any queries, reach out to the helpline at 011-40759000 or email neetug2026@nta.ac.in.
