When you hear NEET, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test, India’s single gateway to undergraduate medical courses. It’s not just another exam—it’s the filter that decides who gets into MBBS, BDS, and other health science programs across the country. If you’re planning to become a doctor, NEET isn’t optional. It’s mandatory. And before you start preparing, you need to know if you even qualify.
NEET eligibility, the set of rules set by the NTA that determine who can sit for the exam. You must have passed Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English. Minimum marks? 50% for General, 40% for OBC/SC/ST, and 45% for PwD candidates. Age matters too—you need to be at least 17 by December 31 of the exam year, with no upper limit anymore. That’s right. A 30-year-old can take NEET if they meet the academic criteria.
But eligibility isn’t just about papers and percentages. It’s about strategy. Where you prepare matters. Allen coaching, a high-intensity coaching hub known for producing top NEET rankers. It pushes students to their limits. Aakash coaching, a more accessible, nationwide network that balances structure with support. It’s better if you need steady progress over pressure. And if you’re stuck on Physics, NV Sir, a popular teacher known for breaking down complex problems. might be your secret weapon—but only if you already know the basics.
Where you live also affects your chances. Cities like Delhi, Kota, and Hyderabad are packed with NEET aspirants because they offer the best coaching, study groups, and peer pressure—all of which push you harder. But living in a metro isn’t a requirement. Many students crack NEET from small towns using online resources, disciplined schedules, and smart prep.
Don’t let confusion stop you. The rules are clear. The path is tough. But if you’re eligible, you’ve already taken the first step. What comes next? The right coaching, the right mindset, and the right habits. Below, you’ll find real advice from students who’ve been there—on coaching choices, city decisions, study habits, and how to turn eligibility into admission.