The NEET exam is not just another test—it’s an emotional rollercoaster. When someone says, “NEET 2026: I lost AIR 1 by 4 marks and still cry thinking about it,” it perfectly reflects the pressure, sacrifices, and mental stress students go through. NEET doesn’t just decide careers; it impacts families, confidence, and sometimes even self-worth. That’s why understanding what the NEET exam is, how it works, who can appear for it, and what comes after is crucial for every aspirant.
How Are 720 Marks in NEET Divided?
The NEET 2026 exam pattern focuses more on concept clarity than mugging up facts.
Subject-wise Marks Distribution
| Subject | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Physics | 50 (45 attempted) | 180 |
| Chemistry | 50 (45 attempted) | 180 |
| Biology (Botany + Zoology) | 100 (90 attempted) | 360 |
| Total | 200 | 720 |
Each correct answer gives +4 marks, while each wrong answer leads to -1 mark. Biology alone carries 50% of the total marks, which is why toppers rely heavily on NCERT books. Knowing this structure is extremely important for NEET exam preparation—and to avoid heartbreaks like missing AIR 1 by just a few marks.
Is NEET the Toughest Exam in India?
Many students wonder if the NEET exam paper level is tougher than all other exams. NEET is often compared to IIT-JEE and UPSC—but the challenge is different.
Why NEET feels extremely tough:
- Huge competition (20+ lakh candidates)
- Limited medical seats
- Concept-heavy Biology
- Constant fear of negative marking
Unlike UPSC, NEET has a fixed syllabus, but it demands speed, accuracy, and consistency. This mix makes NEET mentally exhausting for most students.
How Many NEET Seats Are There in India?
Seat availability plays a big role when talking about all about NEET exam 2026.
Approximate Seats (2026)
| Course | Seats |
|---|---|
| MBBS | 1,10,000+ |
| BDS | 27,000+ |
| AYUSH | 52,000+ |
| BVSc | 600+ |
Because seats are limited, many students also look for exams other than NEET or other exams than NEET for PCB students.
Who Is Eligible for the NEET Exam?
The NEET exam eligibility criteria are simple but strict.
Eligibility Criteria
- Age: Minimum 17 years
- Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology
- Board: Any recognized board
- Attempts: Unlimited
- Nationality: Indian / OCI / NRI
Many students search “What is the Neet exam?”—simply put, it’s the single entrance gate to medical education in India.
Is NEET Harder Than UPSC?
NEET and UPSC are often compared, but they test very different abilities.
| Factor | NEET | UPSC |
|---|---|---|
| Attempts | Unlimited | Limited |
| Syllabus | Fixed | Dynamic |
| Competition | Very High | Extremely High |
| Duration | 3 hours | 1–2 years |
NEET checks academic strength, while UPSC tests personality, awareness, and decision-making. Both are tough—just in different ways.
How Many Attempts Are Allowed for NEET?
There is no limit on NEET attempts. This gives students the freedom to improve with time. Many NEET toppers succeeded after multiple attempts, proving that persistence matters more than raw talent.
Can You Get MBBS with 400 Marks in NEET?
Short answer: Yes, but it depends.
Possible options:
- Private medical colleges
- Management quota
- Reserved categories
- State quota in low cut-off states
Because of uncertainty, students also explore other than NEET exams for PCB, such as:
- BSc Nursing
- Biotechnology
- Pharmacy
What Is the Salary After MBBS in India?
Earnings vary based on experience and workplace.
| Experience | Monthly Salary |
|---|---|
| Internship | ₹15,000–₹25,000 |
| Government Doctor | ₹60,000–₹90,000 |
| Private Practice | ₹1–5 lakh+ |
Doing specialization later can boost income significantly.
Conclusion
Losing AIR 1 by just 4 marks is painful—but NEET is not the end of the road. Whether you’re preparing again, exploring other exams than NEET, or choosing a different career path, success has many routes. Stay strong, stay hopeful—your story is far from over.
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