NEET UG 2026: NTA Issues Strict Exam Day Dress Code; Check Full Guidelines

New Delhi: An important update has been released for students preparing for National Eligibility Cum Entrance Test (NEET) 2026 for admission to undergraduate medical courses. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued reminders for candidates appearing for the NEET UG 2026. Preparations are underway for the NEET UG exam, scheduled to be held in pen-and-paper mode on May 3, at centers across the country.

Are there any guidelines?

Millions of students are currently immersed in their books, but did you know that not only your studies but also your attire can determine the outcome of your year-long journey. The NTA's security standards are so strict that even a small metal pin at the exam center could cause trouble.

The NTA has provided information on the important guidelines applicable during the medical admission entrance exam. Details have been provided, including what to carry into the exam hall on the day of the NEET exam, what to wear, what to be especially careful about, and more.

What about clothes?

In the guidelines issued by NTA, NEET aspirants have been advised to wear loose and light clothes on the day of the exam.

What to wear: Try to wear half-sleeved T-shirts or shirts.

What not to wear: Avoid full-sleeved clothing. Furthermore, clothing with numerous pockets, large buttons, zips, or heavy embroidery will result in being stopped during security checks.

What about footwear?

Students often wear sports shoes for style or comfort, but they are made to remove them at the center. Therefore, thick-soled shoes and high-heeled sandals are strictly prohibited. It's safest to wear thin-soled slippers or simple sandals.

Is accessory allowed?

Carrying any kind of metal inside the examination center is strictly prohibited. Girls should be careful not to wear earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, or nose pins. Boys are also prohibited from wearing bracelets or chains. Even hair clutches or large rubber bands are prohibited.

What to carry with the admit card?

Admit card: A color printout with a passport-size photo (the same one on the form) affixed to it.

Passport photo: Carry an extra photo to be pasted on the attendance sheet.

Valid ID proof: Carry the original version of your Aadhaar card, PAN card, or Voter ID (photocopies will not be accepted).

Keep in mind that you don't need to keep a pen in your pocket. The NTA will personally provide each student with a new black/blue ballpoint pen in the examination hall. Additionally, if you feel very thirsty, you may bring a completely transparent water bottle.

What about Kada-Kirpan or Hijab?

NTA has also issued clear instructions for those students who wear certain items as a mark of their religious beliefs or cultural identity (like Kada or Kirpan for Sikh candidates, or Hijab etc.).

These candidates are required to arrive two hours in advance. If you are wearing any customary clothing or items associated with your faith, you must report to the center at least two hours in advance. This is to maintain the dignity of the exam and ensure that your thorough frisking is completed without inconvenience.

During the checking, if the security personnel suspect that there is any kind of electronic device or suspicious object in your religious attire or item, then they have full right to make you keep it outside the examination hall.