NEET UG 2026 Registration Rules: New Aadhaar eKYC and Live Photo Verification Guidelines
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The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially set the wheels in motion for the NEET UG 2026 examination by introducing a series of high-tech reforms to the application process. Aimed at curbing impersonation and ensuring a transparent testing environment, these changes represent a significant shift from previous years. For every medical aspirant, understanding these NEET UG 2026 registration rules is not just an option—it is a necessity to ensure your application isn't rejected before you even reach the exam hall.
Overview of NEET UG 2026 Registration
The registration window for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate) opened on February 8, 2026, and will remain active until March 8, 2026. Aspiring doctors looking to secure a seat in MBBS, BDS, and AYUSH courses must navigate a revamped portal that now integrates real-time identity verification.
Event | Important Dates |
Registration Start Date | February 8, 2026 |
Last Date for Application | March 8, 2026 (9:00 PM) |
Last Date for Fee Payment | March 8, 2026 (11:50 PM) |
Correction Window | March 10 – March 12, 2026 |
NEET UG 2026 Exam Date | May 3, 2026 |
Mandatory Aadhaar eKYC: A New Era of Verification
The most significant update in the NEET UG 2026 registration rules is the implementation of mandatory Aadhaar-based eKYC. Unlike previous years where Aadhaar was optional, the NTA now uses it as the primary tool for electronic authentication.
How Aadhaar eKYC Works
During the registration process, candidates must enter their Aadhaar number. An OTP (One-Time Password) is then sent to the mobile number linked with the Aadhaar card. Successful verification of this OTP authenticates the candidate's identity instantly.
Important Tip: Ensure your mobile number is updated in the UIDAI database. If your current mobile number is not linked to your Aadhaar, you must visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra immediately to update it, as registration cannot proceed without this OTP verification.
Live Photo Verification: No More Studio Uploads
The days of uploading old or edited studio photographs are gone. Under the new NEET UG 2026 registration rules, NTA has introduced a Live Photo Capture requirement.
Key Guidelines for Live Photo Capture:
Real-time Capture: Candidates must use a functional webcam or a smartphone (by scanning a QR code provided on the portal) to take a photo during the application.
The 80% Rule: Your face must cover at least 80% of the camera frame.
Neutral Background: Use a plain, light-colored background with proper lighting to avoid shadows.
Appearance: No caps, tinted glasses, or masks are allowed. Your ears should be visible.
Comparison: The system uses AI to compare the live photo with the photograph in the Aadhaar database.
What to do in case of a Mismatch?
If the system detects a mismatch between your live photo and the Aadhaar image (often due to an old Aadhaar photo), the application will stop. In such cases, candidates must download the Verification Certificate (Annexure-VI) from the portal, get it attested by a Class-I Gazetted Officer or a School Principal, and upload the scanned copy to resume the process.
Smart Exam City Allotment Rules
The NTA has also tightened the rules regarding exam center selection. For 2026, the choice of the examination city is strictly tied to the Present and Permanent Address furnished in the application form.
System-Driven Choice: The portal will automatically suggest cities based on the pincode provided.
Verification: These addresses are cross-verified against your identity documents to prevent students from traveling to distant cities for unfair advantages.
No Changes: Once submitted, requests for changing the exam city will not be entertained, even during the correction window.
Essential Documents and Fee Structure
While the live photo and eKYC are new, standard document requirements remain. You must keep the following ready in the specified formats:
Passport Size Photo: 10 KB to 200 KB (JPG format).
Scanned Signature: 4 KB to 30 KB (Black ink on white paper).
Address Proof: Combined PDF of present and permanent address (if different).
Category Certificates: SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS certificates (OBC-NCL and EWS must be issued after April 1, 2025).
Application Fees for 2026
General: ₹1700
General-EWS/ OBC-NCL: ₹1600
SC/ST/PwBD/Third Gender: ₹1000
Centres Outside India: ₹9500
Important Formula for NEET UG 2026
While you focus on the registration, don't lose track of your preparation. High-scoring candidates often emphasize these key concepts:
Physics: Lens Maker’s Formula, Rydberg Formula, Gauss’s Law, Bernoulli’s Equation.
Chemistry: Ideal Gas Equation, Nernst Equation, Molality and Molarity Formulas, Bragg’s Law.
Biology: Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium Formula, Population Growth Models (Exponential and Logistic).
Conclusion
The NEET UG 2026 registration rules signify NTA's commitment to a fair and secure examination. While the introduction of Aadhaar eKYC and live photo capture adds extra steps, these measures protect the interests of honest students. Ensure your documents are updated, your lighting is good for that live photo, and you complete your registration well before the March 8 deadline to avoid last-minute server issues.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions on NEET UG 2026 Registration Rules
Q1: Is Aadhaar card mandatory for the NEET UG 2026 registration rules?
Yes, Aadhaar-based eKYC is mandatory for the 2026 cycle. It serves as the primary method for identity verification and prevents impersonation.
Q2: Can I upload a photo from my phone gallery instead of the live photo?
No. The new NEET UG 2026 registration rules require a live photograph captured through the portal’s interface using a webcam or a mobile camera via QR code.
Q3: What if my Aadhaar-linked mobile number is lost?
You must update your mobile number at an Aadhaar center before starting the registration, as the OTP for eKYC is sent only to the registered number.
Q4: Can I choose an exam city in a different state?
Only if your present or permanent address (supported by valid proof) is in that state. The system limits city choices based on your verified address.
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