The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced a major update for NEET UG 2025, discontinuing the optional section that was introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting this year, the exam will return to its pre-COVID structure, featuring 180 mandatory questions to be answered in 180 minutes. This decision is aimed at restoring uniformity and ensuring consistency in the examination process.
NEET UG 2025 Exam Pattern: Key Updates
The revised NEET UG 2025 exam pattern includes several notable changes, as outlined by the NTA:
1. Removal of the Optional Section
The optional section, introduced as a temporary solution during the pandemic, has been removed.
All questions in the paper are now compulsory, leaving no room for internal choices.
2. Total Number of Questions
The question distribution remains aligned with the core subjects:
Physics: 45 questions
Chemistry: 45 questions
Biology (Botany and Zoology): 90 questions
Total: 180 questions
3. Exam Duration
The exam will span 3 hours (180 minutes), with no additional time for optional sections.
4. Marking Scheme
Correct Answer: +4 marks
Incorrect Answer: -1 mark
Unanswered: 0 marks
Why NTA Removed the Optional Section in NEET UG 2025
The optional section was initially introduced during COVID-19 to address challenges like interrupted learning. With conditions now normalized, the NTA has decided to return to the standard format for the following reasons:
To create a level playing field, where all candidates answer the same set of questions.
To simplify preparation by removing the complexity of optional questions.
To align the exam structure with its pre-pandemic pattern.
How the Revised Pattern Affects NEET UG 2025 Aspirants
1. Comprehensive Preparation is Essential
With no optional questions, students must thoroughly prepare the entire syllabus, leaving no gaps in their understanding.
2. Balanced Focus on All Subjects
Equal weightage is given to Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, requiring aspirants to divide their preparation time effectively among all three subjects.
3. Time Management Becomes Critical
With 180 questions to answer in 180 minutes, aspirants must solve each question quickly and accurately to maximize their score.
4. Enhanced Uniformity in Evaluation
The removal of the optional section ensures a standardized evaluation process, making the competition fair for all candidates.
How to Prepare for NEET UG 2025: Tips for Success
To adapt to the revised NEET UG 2025 exam pattern, follow these preparation strategies:
1. Master the NCERT Syllabus
NCERT textbooks form the foundation of NEET preparation. Ensure you thoroughly cover all chapters in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
2. Practice Time-Bound Mock Tests
Regularly attempt full-length mock tests under timed conditions.
Use mock tests to improve speed, accuracy, and familiarity with the exam format.
3. Revise Regularly
Prioritize high-weightage topics during revision.
Develop a schedule that includes revisiting important concepts multiple times.
4. Focus on Weak Areas
Identify challenging topics and dedicate extra time to strengthening them. Seek help from teachers or peers if needed.
5. Solve Previous Year Papers
Analyze past NEET question papers to understand patterns and frequently asked questions.
6. Enhance Problem-Solving Skills
Practice numerical problems in Physics and Chemistry to boost confidence.
Work on improving conceptual clarity for application-based questions.
Advantages of the Revised Pattern
The new pattern offers several benefits:
1. Clarity and Uniformity
A uniform question paper eliminates ambiguity, ensuring all candidates face the same level of difficulty.
2. Streamlined Preparation
Without optional questions, students can focus on covering the entire syllabus without selective study.
3. Efficient Exam Timing
The fixed duration and question count help aspirants plan their approach strategically during the exam.
FAQs About NEET UG 2025 Revised Pattern
1. Why was the optional section removed?
The optional section was introduced during the pandemic for flexibility. With the challenges of COVID resolved, the NTA has reverted to the original format for fairness and uniformity.
2. How many questions are there in NEET UG 2025?
The paper consists of 180 compulsory questions: 45 in Physics, 45 in Chemistry, and 90 in Biology.
3. What is the marking scheme?
Correct Answer: +4 marks
Incorrect Answer: -1 mark
Unanswered: 0 marks
4. Is APAAR ID mandatory for registration?
No, APAAR ID is not mandatory. Candidates can use other identification methods specified in the official information bulletin.
5. Will the syllabus change?
No, the syllabus remains the same as before. NCERT books continue to be the primary source for preparation.
6. How can I improve my time management for NEET UG 2025?
Practice solving questions under timed conditions, focus on improving accuracy, and learn to skip time-consuming questions initially.