NEET UG 2026: NTA Cancelled Examination After Major Paper Leak Allegations, New Schedule Awaited

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has cancelled the NEET UG 2026 examination, which was conducted on May 3, following allegations of a paper leak and concerns over the fairness of the exam process. 

The agency said a fresh examination will now be held, with new dates to be announced separately. The decision was taken after reports of leaked questions surfaced from multiple states, prompting investigations by central agencies and law enforcement authorities. Lakhs of medical aspirants across the country are now awaiting further updates from the NTA. NTA said fresh dates for the re-conducted exam and revised admit cards will be announced separately through official channels. Source

NEET UG 2026: Why NTA Decided to Cancel the Examination?

There were more than 22 lakh students who appeared for the NEET UG 2026 examination, which was conducted on May 3 in a single shift across India and abroad. After the exam, the National Testing Agency (NTA) released the provisional answer key on its official website allowing candidates to check their answers and estimate their scores.

Soon after the examination, allegations of irregularities and a possible question paper leak started surfacing from different places. After these concerns came up, the case was first sent to the central agencies on May 8 for checking and further investigation. At the same time, state agencies including the Rajasthan Special Operation Group (RSOG), also started investigating the alleged malpractice linked to the NEET exam.

After receiving investigation reports and inputs, the NTA with the approval of the Government of India, decided to cancel the NEET UG 2026 examination conducted on May 3.

NEET UG 2026: Matter lead to CBI for Investigation

As this matter needs to be handled precisely, the Government has also decided to hand over the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a detailed inquiry into the allegations. The inquiry will thoroughly examine all claims and issues that have emerged in connection with the conduct of the examination. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has said that it will fully cooperate with the investigating agencies and will provide every necessary document, record, material and support required during the investigation to ensure a fair and transparent inquiry.

NTA has acknowledged the fact that it has provided inconvenience to lakhs of students but this decision was necessary to protect trust in the further examination process. 

NEET UG 2026: Key Updates for Candidates

The NTA has said that students do not need to register again for the NEET UG 2026 re-exam. All previous registration details and exam centre choices will stay the same and no extra fee will be charged. 

The fees already paid will be refunded. The re-exam will be conducted using NTA’s own system and the dates along with new admit cards will be shared only on official channels. Students and parents are advised to trust only official updates and avoid rumours on social media.