NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) is the gateway to medical and dental colleges in India. Every year, lakhs of students compete for limited seats, making it one of the most challenging exams in the country.
One common question among aspirants is: 'How many times can I attempt NEET?' In this article, we’ll look at the history of NEET attempt limits, the current rules, and tips to help you prepare effectively.
History of NEET Attempt Limits
In the past, there were restrictions on the number of times a student could attempt NEET.
● 2017: The government introduced a 3-attempt limit for NEET. Aspirants could only appear for the exam three times in their lifetime.
● 2018: The 3-attempt rule was removed. The Medical Council of India (MCI) decided there should be no cap on the number of attempts.
This change allowed students to appear for NEET as many times as they wanted, provided they met the eligibility criteria. The removal of the limit was a relief for aspirants, especially those who needed more time to prepare.
Current NEET Rules in 2025
As of now, there is no limit on the number of times you can attempt NEET. However, there are certain eligibility criteria that students must meet:
Age Limit:
● Minimum Age: You must be at least 17 years old by December 31 of the admission year.
● Maximum Age: There is no upper age limit for NEET as per the latest rules.
Educational Qualification:
● Students must have completed Class 12 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English as core subjects.
● General category students need at least 50% marks in PCB, while reserved category students need 40%.
These rules mean you can appear for NEET as many times as you want, as long as you meet the age and educational requirements.
How Unlimited Attempts Impact Students
The removal of the attempt limit has been a positive change for aspirants. Here’s why:
● More Opportunities: Students no longer feel pressured to clear NEET within a fixed number of attempts. They can take the exam again if they need more time to prepare.
● Flexibility: Aspirants can appear for NEET after taking gap years to strengthen their preparation.
● Reduced Anxiety: Unlimited attempts allow students to focus on improving their performance without worrying about a strict cap.
However, it’s important to note that taking multiple attempts isn’t always the best strategy. Quality preparation for the first attempt is key.
Tips for NEET Aspirants
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your NEET journey:
Focus on Your First Attempt:
● Treat your first attempt as your best chance. Most students perform better when they are well-prepared and motivated.
Don’t Rely on Multiple Attempts:
● While unlimited attempts provide flexibility, relying on repeated attempts can lead to wasted time and energy.
Create a Strong Study Plan:
● Divide your syllabus into manageable sections. Focus on understanding concepts and practicing mock tests regularly.
Manage Stress:
● NEET preparation can be stressful. Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga to stay calm and focused.
Stay Consistent:
● Consistency is key to success. Avoid procrastination and stick to your study schedule.
Conclusion
As of 2025, there is no limit on how many times you can attempt NEET. This gives aspirants the freedom to take the exam as many times as they meet the eligibility criteria.
However, the number of attempts shouldn’t be your primary concern. Focus on preparing well for your first attempt. A strong study plan, consistent effort, and confidence can help you achieve your dream of becoming a doctor.
Good luck with your NEET journey!
