
The NEET 2026 eligibility criteria were relaxed by the National Medical Commission. By the revised NEET educational eligibility criteria, the non-Biology students who have completed their class 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as their core subjects can now take the NEET exam without Biology as one of the core subjects. Generally, the candidates opting for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as the core subjects would opt for the JEE Mains exam. But now the avenues for the NEET exam are also open. Such students can take the NEET 2026 exam with PCM as a core subject and Biology/ Biotechnology as an additional subject. The NEET 2026 exam is expected to be conducted in May 3, 2026. If you are still wondering can JEE students can take NEET 2026 without Biology, read the following article to have detailed information on NEET exam 2026 eligibility criteria for non-Biology students.
NMC Revised NEET UG 2026 Eligibility Criteria for Non-Biology Students
As per the previous NEET exam guidelines, only students who had studied Biology in classes 11 and 12 were eligible to appear for the NEET-UG exam. However, the new guidelines by the authority permit the students who have completed class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English to appear in the exam. Moreover, the students who have completed class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Computer Science, and other subjects can also appear for the NEET-UG exam 2026 without studying Biology/Biotechnology subjects.
This decision regarding the educational qualification came up in line with the National Education Policy (NEP-2020), which offers flexibility to the students in matters of academics in various subjects in class 12th. The NMC propagates the belief that this flexibility in decision will encourage more students to pursue medical education and bring a wider range of perspectives and career opportunities to the field.
Preparation Tips for JEE Students Taking NEET 2026 without Biology
The NEET exam is considered one of the most different medical entrance exams in India. Therefore, proper planning and strategy, consistency, and dedication are required to pass the NEET exam. If you are willing to appear for NEET exam 2026 and have not studied Biology in class 11tth/12th, check out the preparation tips for JEE students taking NEET 2026 without Biology:
- Focus on Foundation Building : Focus on learning and understanding the fundamental concepts in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Strengthen your grasp and conceptual clarity on Class 12th Biology topics as they form the base for advanced learning even if you have not studied Biology in Class 11th.
- Follow a Subject-wise Approach : Plan to divide your study time evenly among Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. If you have missed out on learning the basics of Biology, dedicate more time to challenging subjects while maintaining consistency throughout the preparation.
- Regularly Solve Difficult Questions : Solving a variety of problems enhances the problem-solving skills that will be helpful in the exam. Regularly practice numerical and conceptual questions to reinstate the overall learning.
- Appear for Mock Tests : Start taking various mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern which will give you a real-time feel. Analyze your performance to identify strengths and weaknesses.
- Maintain Time Management : Make a realistic timetable as per your need, balancing school studies and NEET exam 2026 preparation. Prioritize subjects based on your proficiency and allocate time accordingly. If you are missing class 11th/12th Biology knowledge, then allocate more time to understanding the basics.
- Read NEET Reference Books : Select standard reference books for in-depth study but avoid piling up unnecessary NEET materials. Consult NCERT books for a thorough understanding of the basics which will be enough for covering the basics.
In light of the previous decision to include Biology as a mandatory subject in class 11th/12th to appear for the NEET UG exam 2026, the flexibility will include wider students to pursue medical courses. The students preparing for JEE Mains can also appear for NEET 2026 without Biology. However, in due course, the candidate must pass class 12th Biology from any school./board before the admission process begins for matching the eligibility criteria. The NMC’s decision has relaxed the criteria for appearing in the NEET-UG exam 2026 and also grants an eligibility certificate for pursuing medicine abroad.
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FAQs
After clearing the NEET exam 2026, admission will be granted to over 1 lakh MBBS seats, 28,088 BDS seats, 52,720 AYUSH seats, and 603 BVSc & AH seats across various medical colleges.
As per the expert's opinion, the students preparing for the JEE Mains exam and appearing for the NEET 2026 exam will open up opportunities and career avenues for them. The aspiring doctors who could not study Biology in class 11th/12th can have a chance to appear in the exam.
According to the NMC’s revised regulations, the students can appear for both JEE Mains and NEET exam 2026 as Biology as a subject is not mandatory to appear. However, the candidates must prepare as per the individual exam syllabus.
As per the official schedule, the NEET exam 2026 will be conducted on 3rd May 2025 by NTA.
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