NEET-UG retest tougher and lengthier than original exam, say students after re-examination

Aspirants carry out last minute revisions before entering the Thakur College exam centre, in Kandivli East. PIC/SATEJ SHINDE

Just as many students and counsellors anticipated, the NEET-UG retest for aspiring students turned out to be lengthier and trickier than its former, compromised counterpart. The National Testing Agency (NTA) announced a re-test for all aspiring medicos across the nation once it came to light that parts of the first question paper were leaked, tampering with the annual cut-throat competitive exam.

While most students were wary of picking up the books once again, they were also suspecting that the NEET retest may be tougher. Many students told mid-day that the initial NEET attempt, which took place on May 3, was relatively easier and they stood to gain higher scores. The re-examination changed things.

‘Questions weren't direct'

For this attempt, the students were also given an additional 15 minutes to make up for the time that goes into verification and other exam-related formalities. Students, however, said that the biology section was unexpectedly lengthy and the physics section would affect their scores.

"Most students found that their exam was just okay, and the experience at the centres was sombre. The physics section posed trickier questions. I had to leave nearly 50 marks worth of my paper… 10-12 questions, to avoid negative marking," said Samvita, a NEET-UG candidate who took her exam in Bandra. Rajeeya Ramakrishna, 17, echoed her sentiment. "The paper was just what we were bracing ourselves for. Now only the marks will tell."

‘Wasn't enough time'

This attempt, mid-day learnt, was just as the candidates expected, lengthier and trickier. "My daughter was not feeling too well and came out crying from the centre. She had to let go of eight questions because there wasn't enough time. She believes that this year the paper was tougher than what candidates received in 2025," said Rahul Rajgarhia, whose daughter took the exam at a centre in Mulund.

No glitches faced

Many students reported that the National Testing Agency (NTA) logistics ran smoothly and no glitches were faced at their centres. "This attempt did not take us by surprise because we already anticipated a moderate paper. Students lost most of their time in rough work and calculations," said Sudha Shenoy, a parent representative.