NEET Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme

NEET is a single-paper, single-sitting test. Knowing its structure helps you design realistic mock tests.

The structure

NEET is conducted by the National Testing Agency for admission to medical and allied programmes. It covers Physics, Chemistry and Biology (Botany and Zoology), in multiple-choice format, in a single sitting of a little over three hours. Total marks are 720.

Marking

Each correct answer carries four marks and each incorrect answer is penalised by one mark; unattempted questions carry no marks. Details of the exact number of questions and any optional-question rules have varied, so verify them in the latest bulletin.

Implications for practice

  • Biology is the largest block, so protect your accuracy there first
  • NEET has been held as a pen-and-paper test, so alongside online mocks also practise with printed papers and a marked answer sheet
  • Decide in advance how many wrong answers you will tolerate in each subject

Turn the pattern into a schedule with the NEET preparation strategy and practise by subject on the NEET mock test hub.

Note: this is a general summary, not an official source. Always check the NTA information bulletin for the current rules.

More NEET preparation guides

Available mock tests for NEET

Chemical Symbols of Elements Practice Test 4 (25 Questions)

Chemical Symbols of Elements Practice Test 4 (25 Questions)

ReadyGo Learn

₹49 25 min
Chemical Names and Formulas Practice Test 4 (20 Questions)

Chemical Names and Formulas Practice Test 4 (20 Questions)

Xigma Academy

Free 20 min
SI Units and Physical Quantities Practice Test 3 (15 Questions)

SI Units and Physical Quantities Practice Test 3 (15 Questio...

ReadyGo Learn

₹29 15 min
Biology Basics Practice Test 3 (15 Questions)

Biology Basics Practice Test 3 (15 Questions)

ReadyGo Learn

Free 15 min
Chemical Symbols of Elements Practice Test 3 (30 Questions)

Chemical Symbols of Elements Practice Test 3 (30 Questions)

Xigma Academy

₹59 30 min
Atomic Numbers of Elements Practice Test 3 (20 Questions)

Atomic Numbers of Elements Practice Test 3 (20 Questions)

ReadyGo Learn

₹39 20 min

Institutes publishing NEET tests

Xigma Academy ReadyGo Learn

Related reading

How to Use Mock Tests for NEET Preparation

How to read a NEET mock result: subject accuracy, the cost of negative marking and how to schedule tests around NCERT re...

How Many Mock Tests Should You Take Before an Exam?

There is no magic number, but the right count depends on your stage of preparation. A practical guide to mock frequency.

How to Create a 30-Day Mock Test Preparation Plan

A practical four-week structure: topic practice, section tests, full-length tests and final exam simulations.

Start practising for NEET

Attempt free and paid mock tests from coaching institutes and get your score and answer review as soon as you submit.

Browse NEET mock tests Visit the marketplace

Disclaimer: This is an independent practice/mock test created for exam preparation. TestMint is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or associated with the official examination authority or government organization conducting the examination. This test is intended solely for educational and practice purposes. Exam pattern, syllabus, dates and other examination information may change. Candidates should refer to the official examination authority for the latest information.

Practice material on this page is independent of the NEET conducting authority.

Frequently asked questions

The paper has traditionally been out of 720 marks. Check the current bulletin for confirmation.

Yes, incorrect answers are penalised. Review the latest official rules for the exact scheme.