New Delhi, May 12: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has cancelled the NEET UG 2026 examination, originally held on May 3, 2026, following inputs from law enforcement authorities and approval from the Government of India. A fresh examination will be conducted on dates to be announced separately. The decision was made public through an official statement on NTA’s X account on May 12, 2026.
According to the NTA, the matter had already been referred to central agencies on May 8 for independent verification and necessary action. The move was described as part of the agency’s commitment to ensuring the “fair, secure, and credible” conduct of national examinations. Following the findings shared by law enforcement agencies, the Government approved the cancellation of the exam and the decision to hold a fresh test.
The agency also confirmed that the Government has decided to hand over the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a comprehensive inquiry into allegations linked to the examination process. The NTA stated that it would fully cooperate with the investigation, providing all necessary materials, records, and assistance required by the CBI.
The NTA clarified that students will not need to complete fresh registration for the re-examination. Existing registration data, candidature details, and selected examination centers from the May 2026 cycle will automatically be carried forward.
“This decision has been taken in the interest of students and in recognition of the trust on which the national examination system rests. The Agency is conscious that re-conduct will cause real and significant inconvenience to candidates and their families. NTA does not take that consequence lightly. The decision has been taken because the alternative would have caused greater and more lasting damage to that trust,” the statement read.
The agency also announced that no additional examination fee will be charged for the re-test, and fees already paid will be refunded. The re-examination will be conducted using NTA’s internal resources, ensuring a secure and smooth process for all candidates.
