NEET UG 2024: Eligibility Criteria for Students with Biology as an Additional Subject

The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET UG 2024) is a crucial examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to medical colleges in India. As the exam date approaches on May 5, 2024, there have been queries regarding eligibility criteria, especially for students with Biology as an additional subject. Here are the key points to clarify the eligibility criteria for NEET UG 2024:

1. Basic Eligibility:

• Candidates must have completed Class 12 in the Science stream with Biology as one of the subjects.
• Students appearing for Class 12 Board exams are also eligible, provided they submit their passing certificate later.

1. Changes in Eligibility Criteria:

• Traditionally, candidates completing Classes 11 and 12 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English, along with other main subjects, were eligible for NEET UG.
• The National Medical Commission (NMC) introduced changes in November 2023, allowing students with Biology as an additional subject to be eligible.

1. Previous Criteria:

• Earlier rules mandated two years of continuous study of Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, along with English, in Classes 11 and 12, completed from regular schools (not open schools).
• The study of Biology or Biotechnology as an additional subject after passing Class 12 was not allowed.

1. Updated Rules:

• In a public notice dated November 22, 2023, the NMC acknowledged the evolving educational landscape and revised the eligibility criteria.
• Candidates are now allowed to study the requisite subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, along with English) even as additional subjects after passing Class 12 from recognized boards.

1. Flexibility and Inclusivity:

• The changes align with the flexibility offered by the New Education Policy, providing students with greater flexibility in choosing their academic path.
• Aspiring candidates with Biology as an additional subject can confidently apply for NEET UG 2024, fostering inclusivity and adaptability in medical entrance examinations.

These modifications reflect a progressive approach to accommodate changes in educational policies, ensuring that a broader range of students can participate in NEET UG 2024.

Author: Chetan Raj