Answer keys for NEET-1 delayed; students in a fix over registering for NEET-2

The registration of NEET-2 is drawing close and the answer keys for NEET-1 have not been released so far. This has put the students in a fix. Last date for submission of application for NEET-1 is June 25, with the exam scheduled for July 24. However, CBSE has not yet released the answer keys for NEET-1, with many students not feeling anxious-whether to apply for NEET-2 or not. If they decide to apply for NEET-2, then that will mean they have surrendered their marks for NEET-1.

Taking the matter now in their own hands, parents and academicians have written to the CBSE by putting emails concerning the matter. They have requested to provide the answer key, which will enable the students to take a decision henceforth. Only after a student knows his/her exact score, a decision can be taken. Also, through the sent emails, an extension in date is being sorted for registering for NEET-2.

Many medical aspirants who had appeared for NEET-1 held earlier would have been in a state of anxiety; as the issue of SC verdict on NEET as a common entrance test for all state medical college admissions was pending that time. Only later did the SC gave an option to students to appear for NEET-2, even if the students had appeared earlier for phase 1. Even though states have been allowed to conduct their own CET, 15% quota is still reserved through NEET this year.

Dr Sanjeev Soni, a parent who has sent an e-mail to CBSE, said to TOI that, " NEET-2 is for the betterment of students but how can they decide whether to give exam or not if they don't know the marks of NEET-1. So, it has been requested to kindly issue the OMR of NEET-1."

Gandharv Sharma, a candidate implied that even though he has done well, yet he is not sure about his score. Students need the answer key to be able to take an effective decision on whether to appear for NEET-2 or not. If students score well in NEET-1, then why appear for NEET-2 which may be difficult.

Sangeeta Khanna, a city-based academician implied that the delay has put the students in confusion. Many students forgot to tick answers in the question paper and now don’t remember the answers given. The students should be provided with OMR sheet so that can make their own assessment.

Details about NEET-2

• NEET-2 will be conducted on July 24 from 10 am to 1 pm- for 3 hours


• 180-objective type question paper format. Subjects included Physics, Chemistry and Bio ((Botany & Zoology)


• Last date for registration is June 25


• Eligibility criteria for aspirants is passing class 12 from a recognised board of institute


• As per the SC directive, the medical admission are expected to be completed by September 30


• The combined results are expected to be declared on August 17, 2016


• UP government took a decision to do away with UP CPCMT and admit students in medical colleges through NEET-2

According to officials, the West Bengal government will conduct a common entrance test for admissions to MBBS and BDS courses on July 20. President Pranab Mukherje also signed Ordinance on uniform medical entrance examination NEET.

Arvind Goyal, a PMT trainer and academician told TOI that, " Students who are only opting for NEET and no other exam are more worried. "Students, who belong to those states which are not taking separate PMT and will be filling seats based on the merit of NEET are more at stake and are a worried lot as they have to decide to surrender the NEET-1 candidature without knowing their score.”