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While the Centre is now considering changes such as a hybrid examination format, many other countries already run large-scale medical exams with far fewer instances of paper leaks.
NEET-UG 2026 cancelled, new date soon. (PTI File)
Repeated controversies around NEET-UG, including allegations of paper leaks and the cancellation of NEET-UG 2026, have once again highlighted concerns about the security of India’s medical entrance examination system. While the Centre is now considering measures such as a hybrid examination format, several other countries already conduct large-scale medical entrance tests with far fewer instances of organised paper leaks.
The crucial difference lies in how these exams are designed and administered. Unlike India’s single-day, paper-based NEET for more than 23 lakh candidates, many countries use computer-based tests, multiple exam dates, and stronger digital security protocols.
In India, NEET-UG is held on a single day across thousands of centres with an identical question paper. This necessitates printing, transporting, storing, and distributing the paper nationwide under strict confidentiality. Officials identify these stages as the most vulnerable to leaks and manipulation.
By contrast, countries like US, and UK primarily rely on computer-based testing for medical entrance exams. Here is how some countries conduct such large-scale exams:
Gaokao: China’s Gaokao, one of the largest examinations worldwide, is supported by stringent security measuresincluding surveillance cameras, biometric verification, signal jammers, encrypted systems, and tightly monitored printing facilities. Although cheating does occur, major scandals involving paper leaks are relatively rare.
MCAT: In the United States, aspirants appear for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), conducted on multiple dates throughout the year at dedicated testing centres. Candidates receive different question sets drawn from extensive question banks, which significantly reduces the risk associated with any single paper being compromised.
UCAT: The United Kingdom follows a similar model with exams such as the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT). These tests are administered online over several days or weeks, with candidates choosing time slots at authorised centres equipped with surveillance and secure software.
Infrastructure is another major differentiator. Many countries use permanent computer-based testing centres instead of temporary school-based venues. Further, several testing systems also rely heavily on large digital question banks. Instead of all candidates receiving the same paper, software generates varied yet comparable question sets.
However, conducting a fully online exam for nearly 25 lakh students in India would require a major expansion of computer-based testing facilities, particularly in rural areas and smaller towns. Challenges such as unreliable internet connectivity, power outages, and inadequate technical support in some regions remain significant obstacles.
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