NEET UG
Updated: Oct 9, 2026
NEET UG Answer Key 2026: Provisional Key, OMR Response Sheet & Challenge Procedure
The National Testing Agency (NTA) publishes the official NEET UG Answer Key alongside scanned copies of candidates' machine-gradable OMR Response Sheets at neet.nta.nic.in. This provides transparency by allowing candidates to verify their answers, calculate probable raw scores, and formally challenge any question or response representation.
Provisional vs Final Answer Key
| Phase | Provisional Answer Key | Final Answer Key |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Released to invite challenges and feedback from test-takers | Released after subject matter experts evaluate all challenges |
| Challenge Allowed? | Yes, candidates can submit objections online with fee | No, the final answer key is decisive and unchallengeable |
| Result Basis | Used for preliminary estimation of raw scores | Official NEET UG scorecards and AIR ranks are computed strictly on this key |
How to Download NEET Answer Key & Scanned OMR Sheet
- Visit the official portal neet.nta.nic.in.
- Click on the login tab: "NEET (UG) 2026 Candidate Activity – Answer Key & OMR Challenge".
- Log in using your Application Number and Password (or Date of Birth).
- Click on "View/Challenge OMR Response Sheet" to download your scanned copy.
- Click on "View/Challenge Answer Key" to view the official question-wise correct options for your booklet code.
Answer Key & OMR Challenge Mechanism
Candidates dissatisfied with the provisional key or their recorded OMR responses can submit an objection through the online portal:
- Processing Fee: A non-refundable fee of ₹200 per question / response challenged must be paid online via Net Banking, Debit/Credit Card, or UPI.
- Documentary Proof: Candidates must upload supporting textbook references (preferably NCERT extracts) in PDF format to substantiate their claim.
- Expert Panel Review: A panel of subject matter experts reviews all objections. If a challenge is upheld, the answer key is revised uniformly for all candidates, and full marks are granted where applicable.
Calculating NEET UG Raw Score
To calculate your estimated raw score using the answer key:
NEET Raw Score = (Total Correct Answers × 4) - (Total Incorrect Answers × 1)