Students who appeared for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) 2026 on Sunday reported that the Physics section was significantly tougher and more time-consuming than in previous years, while Biology was generally easy and Chemistry was of moderate difficulty. This has led many to anticipate a lower cut-off for admission to medical and dental colleges across India.
Student Feedback on Section-wise Difficulty
According to multiple student reactions collected after the exam, the Physics paper was described as 'lengthy' and 'tricky', with several numerical problems requiring extensive calculation. Many candidates felt that the time allotted was insufficient to complete the section comfortably. In contrast, the Biology section was widely rated as easy, with questions largely based on NCERT textbooks. The Chemistry section was considered moderate, with a mix of straightforward and application-based questions.
One student, Riya Sharma from Delhi, said, “Physics was really tough this time. The questions were not directly from NCERT, and the numerical problems were time-consuming. I had to leave many questions unattempted. Biology was a relief, but the overall paper was challenging.”
Impact on Cut-off Marks
Given the increased difficulty in Physics, experts suggest that the overall NEET 2026 cut-off may be lower compared to last year. The cut-off is determined based on the difficulty level of the paper, the number of candidates, and the availability of seats. In 2025, the qualifying cut-off for the general category was 720-162 marks (out of 720). This year, with a tougher Physics section, the cut-off for general category students might drop by a few marks.
Coaching institute analysts noted that the Physics section had more application-based and analytical questions, which required deeper conceptual understanding. “Students who focused only on NCERT might have struggled. The paper tested problem-solving skills,” said a senior faculty member at a leading coaching center.
Exam Conduct and Security
The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducted the exam across 4,000 centers in 500 cities. Strict security measures were in place to prevent any irregularities. The NTA has not reported any major incidents of malpractice or paper leaks so far. The exam was held in two shifts, with the morning shift from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM and the afternoon shift from 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM.
An NTA official stated, “The exam was conducted smoothly. We have received no complaints of paper leaks or cheating. The results are expected to be announced by July 15, 2026.”
Student Reactions and Expectations
Many students expressed disappointment with the Physics section but remained hopeful for a lower cut-off. A candidate from Mumbai, Arjun Patel, said, “I prepared well for Physics, but the paper was unexpected. I hope the cut-off is lower so that I can secure a seat in a good government college.”
Another student from Kolkata, Sneha Das, added, “Biology was easy, but Physics spoiled my mood. The numericals were too lengthy. I think the cut-off will definitely be lower this year.”
Official Answer Key and Result Timeline
The NTA is expected to release the official answer key within a week. Candidates will have a limited window to raise objections. The final results are likely to be declared by mid-July. Medical counseling will begin thereafter, with seats allocated based on NEET scores, category, and state quota preferences.
Overall, the NEET 2026 exam has left students anxious about their scores, but the general consensus points to a lower cut-off due to the tough Physics section. Candidates are advised to stay updated with NTA announcements and prepare for the counseling process.
