The assessment of ranks for NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) aspirants with equal scores has undergone substantial changes as a result of the Graduate Medical Education Regulations-2023, which were recently published. When resolving ties in subject marks, the new regulations give Physics marks precedence over Biology marks. This change departs from the custom of giving priority to marks earned in Biology, then Chemistry, and last Physics.

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has released updated rules for allocating positions to NEET candidates who had identical scores. These rules give Physics grades precedence over Biology grades in an effort to make the ranking system more objective and equitable. The rules, which were announced on June 2, are anticipated to go into effect the following academic year.

The New Ranking Methodology

Under the new rules, a computer-based draw of lots will be used to establish the merit list if subject marks are unable to break a deadlock between NEET-UG candidates. Without any human involvement, the lots will be drawn, guaranteeing the ranking process’s objectivity and transparency. The NMC’s decision to automate the tie-breaking procedure demonstrates its dedication to provide an equal playing field for all NEET applicants.

National Testing Agency and NMC discussions

The National Medical Commission and the National Testing Agency (NTA), which oversees the NEET-UG, will continue to discuss the updated ranking system. Any potential issues or points of consideration brought forward by various stakeholders will be addressed during these sessions. The goal is to improve the rules and provide a solid framework that upholds meritocracy and protects the credibility of the NEET-UG exam.

Tie-Breaking Standards

In the event of a tie in scores amongst students taking the NEET-UG, the individual marks earned in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology will be taken into account. If the tie still exists after taking into account these subject marks, a computer-based draw of lots will be used to decide which candidates are qualified. Without human intervention, the lots will be drawn, guaranteeing the selection process’ fairness and objectivity.

Tie-Breaker Rule in Effect

The tie-breaker system in place prior to the implementation of the new regulations had a different priority order. If two or more applicants received identical marks or percentile scores, the tie was broken by taking into account the candidates who scored higher in biology. If the Biology scores were the same, the same approach was then applied to Chemistry and then Physics. In the event that the scores remained the same, the older candidate was given the higher rank.

New Rules for the MBBS Course

Along with modifications to the ranking system, the new rules also impose some requirements for students enrolled in the MBBS programme. According to the rules, students have nine years from the entrance date to complete the MBBS programme. Additionally, there will only be four chances for students to pass the first year of the course. By taking these steps, the MBBS programme will be completed on time and the standard of medical education will remain high.

Common Admissions Counselling

The NMC has emphasised the necessity of uniform counselling for applicants to graduate medical programmes at all Indian medical colleges. The merit list of NEET-UG will serve as the foundation for this uniform counselling process, expediting the admissions procedure and guaranteeing impartiality. The counselling will be based on the seat matrix provided by the NMC, and if necessary, additional rounds of counselling may be held.