The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET UG) may continue to offer the traditional pen-and-paper option in 2027. The Centre was earlier considering switching to computer-based testing (CBT), however, some southern states have raised concerns over the proposed exam overhaul.
Tamil Nadu and Kerala have opposed CBT, reported the Economic Times. The proposed approach for 2027 may involve a hybrid arrangement, allowing candidates to take the exam either online or in the traditional pen-and-paper format.
The Centre is considering a gradual transition to CBT to give students time to become familiar with the online examination format and allow states to develop the required testing infrastructure.
Tamil Nadu and Kerala have raised
concerns about digital divide. They stated that CBT may impact rural students and those from disadvantaged backgrounds, the report added. Students in rural and remote areas may not have the same access to computers, reliable internet connectivity and exam facilities as those in urban areas.
States have also called for greater weightage to school board marks and suitable mechanisms to ensure equivalence among different education boards. Concerns have been raised that students from state boards may face disadvantages because national entrance exams largely follow the CBSE syllabus.
Tamil Nadu has reportedly referred to the findings of the 2021 Justice A.K. Rajan Committee report, which examined the impact of NEET on students from government schools, Tamil-medium backgrounds and disadvantaged communities.
The high-powered task force headed by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani is examining changes to India’s exam system following concerns over paper leaks and irregularities.
The panel has divided its recommendations into two phases. Immediate measures would guide the NEET UG 2027 exam, while broader reforms could be introduced from the 2028 – 29 exam cycle.
The proposed transition may follow a gradual approach similar to the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE), with exams conducted in multiple shifts. The longer-term objective is to move towards computer-based testing and eventually consider computer-adaptive testing.
The panel has reportedly received more than 54,000 suggestions and feedback from students, parents and other stakeholders. It is also expected to consult state governments before finalising its recommendations.
The Centre has extended the tenure of the Nilekani-led task force until January 2027 to allow it to complete consultations and submit its recommendations.
