The National Testing Agency (NTA) has reported a significant volume of submissions as the registration window for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate) or NEET UG 2026 enters its second week. Since the portal opened on February 8, the agency has been managing a steady stream of applicants aspiring for MBBS, BDS, and AYUSH courses. As of today, February 15, the NTA has reaffirmed that the application gateway will remain accessible through March 8, 2026. This year's process is characterized by a "One Candidate, One Form" policy, aimed at maintaining a transparent environment for the millions of students expected to appear for the high-stakes medical entrance examination on May 3.
New Security Protocols: Aadhaar eKYC and Live Photo
In a major shift toward digital authentication, the NTA has integrated advanced technology into the 2026 registration cycle. These measures, sanctioned by the Ministry of Education, are designed to eliminate impersonation and ensure that the candidate database is verified at the source.
- Mandatory eKYC: Every candidate must now complete an Aadhaar-based eKYC process during the initial stage. This requires the applicant's mobile number to be linked to their Aadhaar card to receive the necessary OTP for identity verification.
- Real-Time Identification: The traditional method of simply uploading studio-clicked photographs has been replaced. Applicants must now use a webcam or smartphone to perform a live photo capture directly on the official NEET portal.
- Mismatch Resolution: The system automatically cross-references the live image with the Aadhaar database. If a discrepancy occurs, students must download a verification certificate from the NTA website and get it attested by a Gazetted Officer to proceed.
Application Timeline and Fee Structure
The NTA has provided a clear roadmap for the one-month registration window, urging students to complete their form early to avoid last-minute server congestion. The entire process is hosted on the NTA Examination Services platform, which handles both data entry and the integrated payment gateway.
- Submission Deadlines: The last date to submit the online application is March 8, 2026, by 9:00 PM. However, the window for the successful transaction of the fee remains open until 11:50 PM on the same day.
- Fee Categorization: The application fee is set at ₹1700 for General candidates, ₹1600 for General-EWS/OBC-NCL, and ₹1000 for SC/ST/PwBD/Third Gender categories.
- Correction Window: Following the March 8 deadline, the NTA will open a brief correction window from March 10 to March 12, 2026, allowing candidates to rectify minor errors in their submitted form.
| Event Milestone | Key Dates (2026) | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| Start of Online Registration | February 8 | Active |
| Application Closing Date | March 8 (9:00 PM) | Ongoing |
| Fee Payment Deadline | March 8 (11:50 PM) | Ongoing |
| Correction Window Period | March 10 - 12 | Scheduled |
| NEET UG 2026 Exam Date | May 3 (Sunday) | Scheduled |
Conclusion
As the registration continues, the NTA emphasizes that no offline applications will be accepted under any circumstances. Candidates are advised to use their own or their parents' active mobile numbers and email IDs to ensure they receive all official communications from the National Testing Agency. With the NEET UG 2026 exam set for May 3, the current focus is on a smooth application process that concludes on March 8. Applicants who successfully complete their form and fee payment will be eligible to download their city intimation slips in April. The agency continues to monitor the portal to ensure technical stability as the 2026 medical admission cycle progresses toward its peak
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