NEET 2025 Exam Pattern Changes: Complete Guide for NEET Aspirants
Are you preparing for NEET 2025? Important changes have been made to the examination pattern that every aspirant needs to know. From subject-wise mark distribution to time duration, these updates will significantly impact your preparation strategy. Let’s break down everything you need to know about the new NEET exam pattern for 2025.
Major Changes in NEET 2025 Pattern
Elimination of Section B
The most significant change in NEET 2025 is the elimination of Section B. Previously, the exam had two sections:
- Section A: 35 compulsory questions
- Section B: 15 questions with an option to attempt only 10
Now, there is only one section with 45 questions per subject, all of which are compulsory. There are no optional questions anymore.
Reduced Time Duration
The exam duration has been reduced from 3 hours 20 minutes (200 minutes) to exactly 3 hours (180 minutes). With 180 questions to be solved in 180 minutes, candidates effectively have 1 minute per question.
Subject-wise Mark Distribution
The subject-wise distribution remains consistent in terms of total marks:
- Physics: 45 questions (180 marks)
- Chemistry: 45 questions (180 marks)
- Biology (Botany + Zoology): 90 questions (360 marks)
- Botany: 45 questions (180 marks)
- Zoology: 45 questions (180 marks)
Total: 180 questions worth 720 marks
Marking Scheme
The marking scheme remains unchanged:
- +4 marks for each correct answer
- -1 mark for each incorrect answer
- 0 marks for unattempted questions
- Multiple responses for a single question will be considered incorrect
NEET 2025 Exam Details
- Date: May 4, 2025 (Sunday)
- Time: 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- Mode: Pen and paper (offline)
- Duration: 3 hours (180 minutes)
Medium of Examination
NEET 2025 will be conducted in multiple languages:
- If you select English, you’ll receive the test booklet entirely in English
- If you select Hindi, you’ll receive a bilingual test booklet (Hindi and English)
- If you select any other vernacular language, you’ll receive a bilingual test booklet in your chosen language and English
In case of any uncertainty in translation, the English version will be considered the ultimate reference.
Preparation Strategy for NEET 2025
With these changes in mind, especially the reduced time duration, aspirants need to adjust their preparation strategies:
- Practice time management: With only 1 minute per question, speed and accuracy are crucial
- Take full-length mock tests: Practice with the exact 3-hour time limit
- Focus on all 45 questions per subject: Since there are no optional questions, be prepared to attempt all questions
- Solve previous years’ papers: Understanding the pattern and difficulty level will help
Free Resources for NEET 2025 Preparation
To help with your preparation, several free resources are available:
- Abhyas NEET Test Series 2025: Five full-length free mock tests with paper-wise solutions.
- Previous Years’ Papers: Solutions will be available from the 7th of the current month.
- One-Month Strategy Video: A comprehensive guide on how to complete the NEET syllabus within a month.
Conclusion
The NEET 2025 exam pattern has undergone significant changes, primarily the elimination of optional questions and reduction in time duration. Understanding these changes and adapting your preparation strategy accordingly will be key to success. Focus on speed, accuracy, and comprehensive knowledge of all topics to maximize your chances of cracking NEET 2025.
Remember, with dedicated preparation and smart study strategies, you are well on your way to achieving your dream of becoming a doctor. All the best for NEET 2025!

Jasmine Joy
Biology Educator at Deeksha
M.Sc. in Zoology (Specialization in Cell Biology)
DET Phd Entrance Exam Qualifier.
+5 Years experience in Teaching (NEET/KCET/NSO/ISO)
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