NEET UG Registrations: Long-Term Growth Trend
According to official figures, 22,76,069 candidates registered for NEET UG 2025, marking one of the highest participation levels in the exam’s history. Although registrations dipped slightly compared to 24,06,079 candidates in 2024, the overall trend since 2019 shows steady and significant growth.
- In 2019, registrations stood at 15.19 lakh
- By 2023, the number crossed 20.87 lakh
- 2024 recorded the highest registrations so far at 24.06 lakh
This sustained increase highlights the rising competition for undergraduate medical seats across India.
Appeared vs Absent Candidates
Out of the total registrations in 2025, 22,09,318 candidates appeared for the exam, while 66,751 candidates remained absent. The absentee count has reduced compared to earlier years such as 2020 and 2021, reflecting improved exam accessibility and participation.
Indian Nationals Dominate Candidate Pool
Indian nationals continue to form the overwhelming majority of NEET UG aspirants.
- Indian Nationals (2025): 22,73,528
- NRIs: 741
- OCI candidates: 861
- PIO candidates: Not reported
- Foreign Nationals: 939
The data indicates a steady rise in participation from OCI and foreign candidates since 2019, though their numbers remain comparatively small.
Female Candidates Continue to Outnumber Males
One of the most notable trends in NEET UG participation is the consistent dominance of female candidates.
In NEET UG 2025:
- Female candidates: 13,10,062
- Male candidates: 9,65,996
- Third Gender candidates: 11
Female participation has steadily increased over the years, reinforcing the growing representation of women in medical education across the country.
Category-Wise Distribution
Category-wise registration data for NEET UG 2025 shows the following:
- Unreserved: 6,89,366
- SC: 3,33,646
- ST: 1,50,224
- OBC: 9,48,507
- EWS: 1,54,326
The OBC category continues to account for the largest share of candidates, followed by Unreserved and SC categories.
Merit List and Domicile Clarification
The NTA has reiterated that it does not prepare state-wise merit lists or determine domicile status. These responsibilities rest with the respective counselling authorities, who will prepare merit lists based on NEET UG scores and applicable state rules.
What This Means for Aspirants
With consistently high participation and growing competition, NEET UG remains one of the most competitive entrance exams in the country. The data underscores the importance of early preparation, strategic counselling choices, and awareness of category-wise cut-offs for aspirants targeting MBBS and allied medical courses.