In a key development ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 exam scheduled for May 3, the National Medical Commission (NMC) is considering a proposal to change the qualifying criteria for undergraduate medical admissions. The commission is exploring the possibility of replacing the current percentile-based cutoff system with a fixed percentage-based benchmark.
NEET-UG is the central entrance examination for MBBS, BDS, and other medical courses across India, with more than 20 lakh students appearing every year. The proposed change, if implemented, could directly affect how candidates qualify for admission.
At present, NEET-UG follows a percentile-based system. Under this method, candidates qualify based on their performance relative to others in the same exam session. This ensures that a certain proportion of students qualify every year, regardless of the overall difficulty level of the paper.
However, this system has been under discussion as it may allow candidates with relatively lower marks to qualify in years when the exam is considered difficult.
The NMC is now reviewing a shift to a percentage-based cutoff. This would require students to secure a fixed minimum percentage of marks in order to qualify for medical admissions.
Unlike the percentile system, this approach would set a clear score requirement. Students would need to meet this defined benchmark, independent of how other candidates perform in the exam.
The proposal is aimed at improving the academic standard of students entering medical colleges. With a growing number of candidates appearing for NEET each year, maintaining consistent quality has become an important focus area for regulators.
A percentage-based system is expected to ensure that all qualifying candidates meet a minimum level of subject knowledge, which is essential for pursuing medical education.
If the proposal is approved, it may lead to noticeable changes:
At the same time, the system could become more transparent, as students will have a clear idea of the minimum marks required.
Experts have pointed out that a fixed percentage cutoff may create challenges in years when the exam paper is tougher. In such cases, fewer students may be able to meet the required marks.
There are also concerns about how the cutoff percentage will be decided and whether it will remain fixed or vary depending on exam conditions.
The proposal is currently under consideration, and no final decision has been announced yet. The NMC is expected to hold discussions with stakeholders before implementing any changes.
The possible shift from a percentile to a percentage-based cutoff marks an important discussion in India’s medical admission system. While the move aims to strengthen academic standards, its final impact will depend on how the policy is designed and implemented. With NEET-UG 2026 approaching, students are advised to continue their preparation with a focus on achieving strong scores.
