The NEET-UG 2025 exam, scheduled for May 4, will be carried out under strict security procedures, including a three-level surveillance system at the district, state, and national levels, sources in the Ministry of Education said. The steps are taken to ensure that the test is conducted securely and fairly.
With more than 22.7 lakh students enrolled to take the test at 5,453 centers spread across over 500 cities, NEET-UG remains one of India’s biggest national-level entrance exams.
To avoid malpractice, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has enforced stricter measures. Candidates found to have employed unfair means will be debarred from all NTA tests for a period of three years. Furthermore, legal action will be taken under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, which provides for prosecution of the persons engaged in impersonation, facilitation, and organized malpractice.
In a first, mock drills are being conducted at all examination centres on May 3, 2025, to ensure operational readiness. These drills will test the functioning of mobile signal jammers, biometric authentication systems, frisking arrangements, and availability of trained manpower.
“Most centres are located in government and government-aided institutions to enhance oversight,” a senior official said. “Mock drills will ensure that all security systems are in place and functioning as intended.”
The added security follows NEET-UG 2024 being marred by controversies over supposed paper leaks and impersonation.
On exam day, oversight will be enforced through a coordinated three-level monitoring mechanism. Any instance of malpractice—before, during, or after the test—will be recorded as Unfair Means (U.F.M.), with penalties ranging from long-term debarment to criminal charges.
To support students amid rising summer temperatures, state and union territory administrations have been directed to provide essential amenities at exam centres, including drinking water, electricity, portable toilets, and first-aid facilities.