NMC asks medical colleges to restrict student leave ahead of NEET UG 2026 re-exam

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has instructed medical colleges across India to tighten oversight measures and avoid granting leave to students on June 20 and 21 as preparations intensify for the NEET UG 2026 re-examination scheduled on June 21.

The advisory has been issued as authorities seek to strengthen safeguards around the medical entrance test and prevent any activities that could affect its conduct.

In a public notice issued on June 18, the NMC directed all medical colleges and institutions under its jurisdiction to comply with instructions issued by the Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education regarding the upcoming re-examination.

The Commission also forwarded an official communication from the Department of Higher Education and asked institutions to ensure strict implementation of measures designed to protect the integrity of the examination process.

According to the NMC, concerns have arisen from past instances in which medical students were allegedly associated with activities that had the potential to compromise the fairness of national-level entrance examinations.

To address these concerns, colleges have been asked to remain vigilant and educate students about the importance of ethical behavior during the examination period.

The Commission emphasized that preserving the credibility of the examination system requires cooperation from both institutions and students.

As part of the advisory, medical colleges have been urged to strengthen monitoring mechanisms and maintain close supervision of student activities around the time of the examination.

Officials believe that increased awareness and preventive monitoring can reduce the risk of malpractice and help maintain confidence in the country's medical admissions process.

A key instruction in the advisory relates to student leave. Colleges have been told not to approve leave requests on June 20 and June 21 except in exceptional circumstances supported by valid reasons.

The NMC said the restriction is intended to minimize the possibility of misuse and support the smooth, secure, and transparent conduct of the NEET UG re-test.

The directive has been circulated to deans and principals of medical colleges nationwide. State governments and Union Territory medical education departments have also been informed to ensure compliance.

The NEET UG 2026 re-examination will be conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on June 21 amid heightened attention on exam security following concerns raised about the original examination held earlier this year.

Ahead of the test, the NMC has called on medical institutions to remain alert and support efforts to ensure a fair and malpractice-free examination process.