'Tougher Than Last Time': NEET UG Re-Exam Candidates Share Reactions After Test

The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducted the NEET UG 2026 re-examination on Saturday, June 21, for more than 22.79 lakh medical aspirants across India and abroad. Hours after the exam concluded, students began sharing their first impressions of the paper, with many describing it as moderate overall but slightly more challenging than previous attempts.

The examination was held in a single shift from 2 pm to 5:15 pm at 5,440 centres across 551 cities in India and 14 international locations. The pen-and-paper test consisted of 180 questions from Physics, Chemistry and Biology, carrying a total of 720 marks.

While most candidates said the paper was manageable, Physics emerged as the most difficult and lengthy section for many, whereas Biology was considered scoring but time-consuming.

Among the first candidates to react after leaving examination centres was Tarun, who felt the paper was more demanding than before.

"I did well but let's see. The exam was tougher than last time."

His assessment echoed the views of several students who found the difficulty level slightly higher compared to previous editions of the medical entrance examination.

At multiple centres, candidates reported spending more time on Physics questions, with some saying the section required careful calculations and time management.

'Physics Was A Little Difficult'

In Srinagar, candidates exiting examination centres appeared largely satisfied with their performance and preparation.

One candidate said to ANI, "The paper was very good. My preparation was very good, only Physics was a little difficult. Otherwise, it was good overall. Overall, it was a good experience."

The student's feedback reflected a common trend seen after the examination, with candidates generally expressing confidence in Biology and Chemistry while identifying Physics as the most demanding subject.

Biology seen as scoring section

Candidates noted that Biology featured straightforward questions but required considerable time because of the volume of questions and detailed reading involved.

Similar reactions emerged from Delhi, where students described the paper as balanced but lengthier than expected.

One candidate said to ANI, "The exam was quite moderate. Physics was quite lengthy. A little bit tougher than last time. Biology was good and Chemistry was moderate."

Smooth conduct across centres

The re-examination was conducted under enhanced security arrangements following strict protocols announced by the NTA earlier this week.

No major disruptions, technical glitches or security-related issues were reported from examination centres. Entry procedures were completed smoothly, and candidates were able to undergo verification and frisking processes without significant delays.

Authorities had deployed extensive surveillance systems, CCTV monitoring and signal jammers across centres to ensure the fair conduct of the examination.

As one student summed it up after stepping out of the examination hall, "It was a little tougher than last time."

With more than 20 lakh students across the country scheduled to appear for the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination on Sunday, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, without taking any name, warned the "so-called responsible people" against messing with the students' future.

Pradhan also wished the aspirants, asking them to appear for the examination "without any worry".

Addressing reporters, the Education Minister said: "As an individual and as a social worker, I request - please do not play with the future of India's new generation".

He added: "Do not make it a joke. Let us not do anything that impacts children's mental health. In a few hours, children are going to take their exam. I mention this because yesterday, some so-called responsible people in India acted with ill intent and wrong motives towards children."

"I earnestly appeal to them -- if you consider yourselves responsible and true citizens of India, if you represent the people of India, please take responsibility. Do not add to the troubles of India's children. This is our appeal to you," he emphasised.

Regarding the re-examination, Pradhan said he has full faith in the National Testing Agency (NTA), all state governments, district administrations, India's education system, and "especially the students".

"Nearly 22 lakh students will soon sit for the NEET exam. Sit without fear, without worry. You will surely do well. My best wishes to all students. The students have faith in India's system; I hope this unwavering trust continues," he added.

Further, the Education Minister mentioned that the results of more than 15 lakh students who had applied for re-evaluation of their CBSE Class 12 board exam marks are ready and will soon be released by the organisation.

"The work is almost complete; the CBSE will publish the re-verified marks soon. We won't allow any errors to happen. I am ensuring this today," he said.