The proposal submitted to the National Medical Commission (NMC) suggests that admissions to medical and dental colleges should rely on the percentage of marks obtained in NEET-UG, instead of the percentile ranking secured in the exam.
Dr. Aruna Vanikar, former President of the NMC’s Undergraduate Medical Education Board (UGMEB), explained that this proposed change is intended to ensure candidates meet a minimum level of academic competence.
“Currently, eligibility is determined based on percentiles, wherein candidates qualify based on their comparative performance.”
A major reform in India’s
medical entrance framework could be approaching. A fresh proposal submitted to
the National Medical Commission recommends replacing the existing
percentile-based eligibility in NEET-UG with a percentage-based system. This
step is aimed at enhancing the academic quality of students gaining admission
into medical and dental colleges nationwide.
What Changes Are Proposed in
NEET-UG Admission Criteria? (NMC Considers Percentage Shift)
At present, NEET-UG eligibility is calculated using a percentile system. This means candidates qualify based on how they perform relative to other candidates appearing for the same exam.
Under the proposed change, eligibility would instead be determined by the actual percentage of marks scored. In simpler terms, students would need to achieve a fixed minimum percentage rather than merely surpassing a certain percentile of candidates.
This transition is expected to create a more uniform and transparent standard for admissions.
Why This Change Is Being Proposed
The suggestion has been supported by Dr. Aruna Vanikar, former President of the Undergraduate Medical Education Board (UGMEB) under NMC.
According to her, the current percentile-based system sometimes allows candidates with comparatively lower marks to qualify, depending on overall exam difficulty and performance trends. In contrast, a percentage-based approach would ensure that every qualifying candidate meets a defined academic benchmark.
This move is being viewed as an effort to strengthen the quality and foundation of medical education in India.
Difference Between Percentile vs Percentage
Percentile System:
Qualification depends on how a candidate performs compared to others. Cut-offs
vary each year.
Percentage System:
Qualification depends on the fixed marks secured by the candidate. Cut-offs
remain more stable and predictable.
The proposed system could help minimize fluctuations in eligibility criteria and provide greater clarity for aspirants.
Impact on NEET Aspirants (NMC Considers Percentage Shift)
If this proposal is implemented, it could significantly influence how students prepare for NEET-UG:
- Students may need to focus on achieving higher absolute scores rather than just staying above the percentile cut-off
- Coaching methods and preparation strategies could change
- Competition may shift toward building stronger conceptual understanding
While students scoring high marks may benefit, those depending on lower percentile thresholds could find it more challenging.
What Happens Next?
The proposal is currently under review by the National Medical Commission. Any final decision is expected to involve discussions with academic experts, policymakers, and stakeholders in the medical education sector.
As of now, there is no official confirmation regarding its implementation. Students are advised to continue preparing according to the existing NEET-UG pattern until any formal announcement is made.
NMC Official Website: https://www.nmc.org.in/