NEW DELHI, July 19: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued a strong advisory to candidates who appeared for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET-UG) 2026, cautioning them against submitting fake or artificial intelligence (AI) generated Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) sheets while seeking verification of their examination scores.
The warning follows a review of multiple complaints received from candidates claiming discrepancies between their expected marks and the scores declared in the NEET-UG 2026 results. During the scrutiny process, the agency discovered that several OMR sheets submitted along with these complaints were either fabricated or generated using AI-based tools.
NTA Warns of Strict Action
In its official advisory, the NTA stated that it is carefully examining every grievance related to the examination and has intensified scrutiny of documents submitted by candidates.
The agency advised students and parents to submit only genuine OMR response sheets for verification. It warned that anyone found submitting forged or AI-generated documents could face legal consequences.
According to the advisory, maintaining the authenticity of records is essential for ensuring a transparent grievance redressal process and protecting the integrity of the examination system.
Complaints Under Detailed Verification
Following the declaration of NEET-UG 2026 results, several candidates approached the NTA alleging differences between their expected scores and the marks reflected in the official scorecards.
As part of its verification mechanism, the agency compared the submitted documents with its official records. During this process, officials reportedly identified multiple instances where the OMR sheets did not match authentic examination records.
The NTA emphasized that all complaints are being assessed individually and that only original documents will be considered during the verification process.
Over 11 Lakh Candidates Qualify
The NEET-UG 2026 results were announced on July 16, with approximately 11.21 lakh candidates qualifying for admission to undergraduate medical courses across the country.
Every year, NEET serves as the single entrance examination for admission to MBBS, BDS, AYUSH and several other undergraduate medical programmes, making it one of India’s most competitive entrance tests.
The examination is conducted by the National Testing Agency on behalf of the Ministry of Education.
Exam Re-Conducted After Earlier Cancellation
The 2026 examination witnessed an unusual sequence of events after the original test conducted on May 3 was cancelled due to allegations of a question paper leak.
Following widespread concerns and public scrutiny, the examination was officially cancelled on May 12.
A fresh examination was subsequently conducted on June 21 to ensure fairness and restore confidence in the admission process.
The alleged paper leak is currently under investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the controversy.
Government Plans Shift to Computer-Based Testing
The issues surrounding the 2026 examination have prompted significant policy changes in India’s medical entrance examination system.
In the aftermath of the controversy, the Central Government announced that future editions of NEET-UG will be conducted as a Computer-Based Test (CBT) instead of the traditional pen-and-paper format.
The transition is expected to strengthen examination security, improve monitoring mechanisms and reduce opportunities for malpractice.
Officials believe digital testing will provide greater transparency while enhancing the efficiency of the examination process.
Long-Standing Debate Over Examination Mode
The decision to introduce computer-based testing follows years of discussions between the Ministries of Education and Health.
Authorities had been evaluating the advantages and challenges associated with conducting the country’s largest medical entrance examination online.
Supporters of CBT argue that digital examinations offer stronger security features, quicker result processing and improved logistical management.
At the same time, policymakers have also considered issues related to digital accessibility, infrastructure availability and candidate preparedness before implementing the transition.
India’s Largest Medical Entrance Examination
NEET-UG remains the country’s biggest undergraduate entrance examination, attracting nearly 25 lakh registrations every year.
The examination serves as the gateway for admission to medical institutions across India and plays a crucial role in determining access to undergraduate healthcare education.
Candidates compete for approximately 1.08 lakh MBBS seats, including nearly 56,000 seats in government medical colleges and around 52,000 seats in private institutions.
Apart from MBBS admissions, NEET scores are also accepted for undergraduate programmes in Dentistry (BDS), Ayurveda (BAMS), Unani (BUMS), Siddha (BSMS) and several other healthcare disciplines.
Importance of Authentic Documentation
The latest advisory underscores the importance of submitting genuine supporting documents during any official grievance process.
Educational authorities noted that fabricated documents not only delay the verification process but also consume administrative resources that could otherwise be devoted to addressing legitimate concerns raised by students.
The NTA reiterated that candidates should rely solely on officially issued records while communicating with the examination authority.
Maintaining Examination Integrity
The agency stated that safeguarding the credibility of national-level examinations remains a top priority.
Officials indicated that technological advancements, including AI-generated content, present new challenges for examination authorities. Consequently, verification mechanisms have been strengthened to detect manipulated documents and prevent misuse of the grievance redressal system.
The advisory also serves as a reminder that misuse of digital tools to create false evidence may attract action under applicable legal provisions.
Way Forward for Candidates
Students seeking clarification regarding their NEET-UG 2026 scores have been advised to follow the official procedures prescribed by the National Testing Agency.
Candidates are encouraged to submit only authentic records obtained through official channels and avoid relying on unofficial or digitally altered documents circulating on social media or other online platforms.
With admissions to medical colleges expected to begin soon, the agency has assured candidates that genuine grievances will continue to be examined through a transparent and fair verification process while maintaining the integrity of one of India’s most important entrance examinations.