NEET UG 2026 exam cancelled after 'paper leak,' re-examination date to be notified

The National Testing Agency on Tuesday cancelled the NEET UG 2026 examination conducted on May 3 and announced that the examination would be held again on a fresh date to be declared separately. The decision was taken after the agency reviewed findings shared by central authorities and investigative inputs provided by law enforcement agencies regarding alleged irregularities linked to the examination process.

NTA stated that the matter had earlier been referred to central agencies on May 8 for independent verification and further action. Following approval from the Government of India, the agency confirmed that the examination would be re-conducted to maintain transparency and preserve the integrity of the national examination system. The government has also ordered a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation into the alleged paper leak case.

According to officials, investigators are examining possible leak routes linked to the examination process, including the printing stage and individuals associated with preparing the question paper. Authorities stated that more than 45 people had been detained in Rajasthan in connection with the investigation into the alleged circulation of a “guess paper” before the examination. Initial findings indicated that handwritten copies of questions may have been circulated before the test.

The NTA stated that no fresh registration process would be conducted for the re-examination. Registration details, candidature information and previously selected examination centres from the May 2026 cycle will remain valid for the re-conducted examination. The agency also announced that no additional examination fee would be charged and that fees already paid by candidates would be refunded. Fresh admit cards will be issued before the new examination dates are announced.

Around 22 lakh candidates had appeared for NEET UG 2026 across the country. The NTA advised students, parents and stakeholders to rely only on official communications regarding the revised examination schedule and related procedures. Further announcements concerning the new examination dates and admit card issuance will be made through the agency’s official channels.