The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially announced changes to the NEET 2025 examination pattern and duration. This update reverts the exam format to its pre-COVID structure. The changes were confirmed in a circular dated January 25, 2025.
Key Changes in NEET 2025
1. Removal of Section B (Optional Questions)
- The provision for optional questions, introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, has been removed.
- All 180 questions in the NEET exam will now be compulsory.
2. Number of Questions in Each Subject
The question distribution remains the same as the pre-COVID pattern:
| Subject | Number of Questions | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Physics | 45 | 180 |
| Chemistry | 45 | 180 |
| Biology | 90 | 360 |
| Total | 180 | 720 |
- Biology retains the maximum weightage with 90 questions.
3. Exam Duration
- The total duration of the NEET 2025 exam will be 3 hours (180 minutes), as it was before the pandemic.
- Students will need to complete all 180 questions within this time, emphasizing speed and accuracy.
Impact on Students
Increased Focus on Accuracy and Time Management
- With no optional questions, students must attempt all 180 questions, making accuracy and speed critical.
- Practicing under timed conditions will become essential for success.
Reduction in Cut-Off Trends
- According to experts, the cut-off marks, which had been rising significantly in recent years, are expected to drop slightly due to the reversion to the older format.
Tips for NEET 2025 Preparation
- Revise Thoroughly
- Cover all topics thoroughly, as no section can be skipped.
- Practice with a Stopwatch
- Always practice mock tests with a stopwatch to improve time management.
- Simulate real exam conditions to boost confidence.
- Strengthen Speed and Accuracy
- Focus on solving questions accurately in the least amount of time.
- Stay Relaxed and Positive
- Avoid panic and anxiety caused by negative information.
- Join structured study plans or crash courses to remain consistent.
FAQs
1. What are the major changes in NEET 2025?
The optional Section B has been removed, and all 180 questions are now compulsory. The exam duration is 3 hours.
2. Will Biology still have the highest weightage?
Yes, Biology will continue to have the highest weightage, with 90 questions carrying 360 marks.
3. Will the NEET 2025 cut-off marks reduce?
Experts predict a slight reduction in cut-off marks due to the elimination of optional questions.