How Many Attempts for NEET?

If you’re preparing for NEET, this question is inevitable:  “How many attempts for NEET do I get?”

Some hear three attempts.
Some hear unlimited.
Some are confused about category-wise rules.

Let’s clear the noise. Here’s the official, updated, and simplified truth about the NEET attempt limit, backed by NTA notifications and regulatory history.

NEET Attempt Limit: The Straight Answer

As per the National Testing Agency (NTA):

There is NO limit on the number of attempts for NEET UG.

Yes. You can appear for NEET as many times as you want, as long as you meet the age eligibility.

So when students ask:

• how many attempts for NEET
  Or
• NEET attempt limit

The answer remains the same.

NEET UG in 2026

For NEET 2026 specifically:

• No cap on attempts
• No upper age limit
• Minimum age condition still applies

If you are 17 years old (or will turn 17 by 31 December 2026), you are eligible. That’s it.

NEET Attempt Limit for General Category

Let’s address one of the most searched doubts. Earlier, there used to be confusion because of the older CBSE rules. But those are no longer valid.

How many attempts for NEET for general category?

• Unlimited attempts
• No upper age restriction
• Only the minimum age criteria applies

How Many Attempts in NEET for OBC, SC, ST?

Another common query:

how many attempts in NEET for OBC

Here’s the official clarity:

There is no category-wise restriction anymore.

So if you’re searching:

• NEET attempt limit for general
• How many attempts in NEET for OBC

The answer doesn’t change.

Why Do Students Still Think NEET Has an Attempt Limit?

Because history matters.

Let’s rewind.

Historical Timeline of NEET Attempt Limit

Here’s how confusion began and how it was resolved.

The three-attempt rule is outdated. It no longer applies.

Official Confirmation from Authorities

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, along with CBSE and NTA, officially clarified:

“There is no cap on the number of attempts for NEET UG.”

This was communicated via official letters and notifications, making the rule legally valid.

Age Limit for NEET Examination (Important)

Since the attempt limit is unlimited, age eligibility becomes the real filter.

Minimum Age Limit

• Must be 17 years old
• On or before 31 December of the admission year

Maximum Age Limit

• No upper age limit currently
• Applicable to all categories

This is why older aspirants, droppers, and even working professionals can reattempt NEET.

Does Unlimited Attempts Mean Unlimited Chances?

Not exactly. 

Here’s the expert perspective many miss.

While the NEET attempt limit is unlimited:

• Competition increases every year
• Cut-offs rise
• Pressure increases with each attempt

At Aakash we advise students to:

• Limit attempts strategically
• Improve scores meaningfully between attempts
• Avoid repeated attempts without academic growth

Unlimited attempts are a safety net, not a strategy.

NEET Attempts vs Reality: What Aspirants Should Know

Attempting NEET multiple times is common. But successful repeaters usually show:

• Better NCERT command
• Improved mock-test accuracy
• Stronger biology scores
• Reduced negative marking

Repeating without fixing fundamentals rarely changes outcomes.

Conclusion

So, now the confusion is clear: how many attempts for NEET can you take?

As many as you need.
As many as you’re eligible for.
As many as it takes, provided each attempt is smarter than the last.

NEET doesn’t stop you by the rules.  Use the freedom wisely.

FAQs on NEET Attempt Limit

Q1. Is there any NEET attempt limit in 2026?

No. NEET 2026 has no restriction on the number of attempts.

Q2. Is there an upper age limit for NEET?

Currently, there is no upper age limit for appearing in NEET UG.

Q3. Was NEET ever limited to three attempts?

Yes, briefly in 2017. The rule was later removed and is no longer applicable.