The NEET UG 2025 exam is one of the most anticipated events for medical aspirants across India. Scheduled for May 4, 2025, this national-level medical entrance test plays a crucial role in determining the future of thousands of students aspiring to become doctors. With only a few weeks left for the exam, aspirants must stay updated with the latest changes in the exam pattern, duration, and marking scheme.

This year, significant modifications have been introduced in NEET UG 2025, which are expected to affect student performance, cut-off scores, and the number of top-ranking students. Understanding these changes is crucial for aspirants to plan their preparation effectively and achieve their desired scores.

Major Changes in NEET UG 2025

1. Removal of Optional Questions

One of the most notable changes in NEET UG 2025 is the elimination of optional questions. In previous years, each subject was divided into two sections:

• Section A: 35 compulsory questions
• Section B: 15 questions, out of which students could attempt any 10

This system provided students with flexibility, allowing them to skip difficult questions and focus on their strengths. However, in NEET UG 2025, all 180 questions are compulsory, leaving no room for choice.

How does this impact students?

• Higher chances of negative marking, as students must attempt all questions, even the difficult ones.
• Increased pressure, as students cannot eliminate their weaker topics.
• More emphasis on conceptual clarity and thorough preparation.

2. Reduction in the Total Number of Questions

Unlike previous years, where the total number of questions was 200, NEET UG 2025 will feature only 180 questions. The subject-wise distribution is as follows:

• Physics: 45 questions
• Chemistry: 45 questions
• Biology (Botany + Zoology): 90 questions

While the reduction in the number of questions might seem like an advantage, it actually increases the weightage of each question, making accuracy even more crucial.

3. Reduced Exam Duration

Another major modification in NEET UG 2025 is the shortened exam duration. Previously, candidates had 3 hours and 20 minutes (200 minutes) to complete the exam. However, this year, they will only have 3 hours (180 minutes).

With 180 questions and 180 minutes, students will now have exactly 1 minute per question to read, analyze, and mark their answers.

Challenges due to reduced time:

• Time management will be critical.
• Speed and accuracy must be optimized.
• Mock test practice with a strict time limit is necessary.

How Will These Changes Affect NEET UG 2025 Cut-Offs?

With these modifications, the overall cut-off trends are expected to change in NEET UG 2025:

• Cut-off marks might decrease due to increased difficulty and time constraints.
• The number of students achieving perfect scores is likely to reduce.
• Greater competition among aspirants for top ranks.

History of Perfect Scores in NEET UG

The number of students achieving a perfect 720/720 score in NEET UG has varied over the years:

• 2024: Initially, 67 students scored 720/720, but after a correction in the physics answer key, the number dropped to 17. These included four from Rajasthan, three from Maharashtra, and two each from Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, among others.
• In total, only 24 candidates have ever achieved a perfect score in NEET UG so far, including 17 in 2024 and the remaining 7 from 2020 to 2023.
• 2020: Shoaib Aftab (Odisha) and Akanksha Singh (Delhi) set the record for the first perfect scores in NEET UG history.
• 2021: Mrinal Kuteeri (Telangana), Tanmay Gupta (Jammu and Kashmir), Karthika G Nair (Maharashtra).
• 2023: Prabanjan J (Tamil Nadu), Bora Varun Chakraborty (Andhra Pradesh).
• 2022: No candidate achieved full marks.

Perfect Scorers from NEET UG 2024

• Rajasthan: Prachita, Saurabh, Devesh Joshi, Iram Kazi.
• Maharashtra: Shubham Sen Gupta, Plansha, Mane Neha Kuldeep.
• Delhi: Mridul Manya Anand, Divyansh.
• Uttar Pradesh: Ayush Nagoria, Aryan Yadav.
• Bihar: Mazin Mansoor.
• Punjab: Gunmay Garg.
• West Bengal: Aaradhyadeep Dutta.
• Tamil Nadu: Rajneesh P.
• Kerala: Sreenand Sharmil.
• Chandigarh: Tejas Singh.

Given the changes in NEET UG 2025, it is anticipated that achieving a perfect score will become even more challenging.

Effective Preparation Strategies for NEET UG 2025

With the introduction of these changes, a strategic approach to preparation is essential. Here are some tips for NEET UG 2025 aspirants:

1. Develop Strong Time Management Skills

Since the time per question is now limited, students should practice solving full-length mock tests under timed conditions to improve their speed and accuracy.

2. Strengthen Conceptual Understanding

Without optional questions, aspirants must have a strong grasp of all topics to answer every question confidently.

3. Practice Regularly with Mock Tests

Mock tests not only help in time management but also in identifying weak areas. Taking at least one mock test every week is recommended.

4. Focus on High-Weightage Topics

Certain topics in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology have historically carried more weight in NEET. Prioritizing these areas can boost scores.

5. Minimize Negative Marking

With all questions being compulsory, students must avoid unnecessary guessing. Eliminate wrong options logically before choosing an answer.

How Navjeevan NEET Academy Prepares Students for NEET UG 2025

Navjeevan NEET Academy in Sikar is committed to helping students succeed in NEET UG 2025. We provide complete guidance and personalized support to make sure students have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to do their best and excel in the exam.

1. Complete Syllabus Coverage

We cover the full NEET UG 2025 syllabus with clear explanations, focusing on important topics in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Our expert faculty makes difficult ideas easy to understand, helping students feel confident in all subjects.

2. Time Management Techniques

With limited time to answer 180 questions, we teach students how to solve problems quickly and manage their time well. Practicing every day under real exam conditions helps them get better at balancing speed and accuracy, using formulas and shortcuts to solve problems faster..

3. Mock Tests & Feedback

Students regularly take full-length practice exams and subject-wise tests to mimic the real NEET exam. We give detailed feedback, helping them see their strengths and weaknesses, track their progress, and improve based on the results.

4. Personalized Doubt-Clearing Sessions

We provide one-on-one doubt-solving sessions where students can clear up any difficult concepts. Teachers are available to give personal guidance, making sure each student's questions are answered and helping them feel confident in solving tough problems..

5. Customized Study Plans

Each student gets a personalized study plan that focuses on their weak areas while improving their strengths. This customized approach helps them prepare better and make steady progress throughout their NEET journey.

6. Stress Management & Motivation

We help students mentally prepare by teaching stress-relief techniques like meditation and offering regular motivational sessions. By boosting confidence and managing exam stress, we ensure students stay calm and do their best during the exam.

At Navjeevan NEET Academy, we prepare students both academically and mentally for NEET UG 2025. With expert guidance, personalized support, and a focus on exam preparation, we help students reach their goals of becoming doctors.

Conclusion

The NEET UG 2025 changes may pose new challenges, but with proper preparation and the right guidance, students can turn these challenges into opportunities. Adapting to the new exam pattern, improving speed, and focusing on accuracy will be the key to success. At Navjeevan NEET Academy, we are dedicated to providing the best resources, mentorship, and strategies to help students achieve their medical dreams. Stay focused, stay positive, and give your best effort on exam day. Success is within reach!

For students aiming for top ranks, consistency, discipline, and expert guidance are essential. Stay committed, take advantage of mock tests, and follow a structured study plan. With the right mindset and perseverance, you can achieve success in NEET UG 2025 and secure your seat in a top medical college. Keep striving, and let your hard work pay off!