In an unprecedented milestone, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Undergraduate (NEET-UG) registrations have shattered previous records, with over 25 lakh candidates applying for the medical entrance examination. This surge in applications marks a historic first for NEET UG, highlighting an increased interest in pursuing medical and allied health sciences education in India. The deadline for registration, which was on a Saturday, saw a flurry of activity, with a large number of students submitting their applications up until the late evening.
This year’s NEET-UG, scheduled for May 5th, has witnessed a remarkable increase in registrations, with the count reaching more than 25 lakh, a significant jump of over 4.2 lakh applicants from the previous year, 2023. Among these applicants, a striking majority of over 55%, equivalent to more than 13 lakh, are female candidates. This demographic shift underscores a growing trend of female students aspiring for careers in the medical field.
NEET-UG serves as the gateway to approximately 2.5 lakh seats in various medical and allied health sciences courses across the country. These include around 1,10,000 MBBS seats, over 26,000+ BDS (Dental) seats, 30000+ Ayurveda and a substantial number of seats in Unani, Homeopathy, Veterinary, and Nursing courses. The sheer volume of applicants this year reflects the competitive nature of the examination and the high demand for medical education in India.
In response to the unprecedented rush of applications, the authorities extended the deadline for submitting the application form to March 16th, providing prospective students with additional time to complete their registration process. This extension was a much-needed relief for many aspirants who were racing against time to ensure their candidacy for one of the most crucial examinations of their academic careers.
The examination, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), has evolved into one of the most sought-after entrance tests for students aiming to secure a place in medical colleges across the nation. The record-breaking number of registrations this year is a testament to the NEET-UG’s importance in the educational landscape and the aspirations of young Indians to pursue a career in healthcare.
As the date of the examination approaches, candidates are gearing up for what is poised to be a highly competitive battle for seats in prestigious medical institutions. With the number of applicants reaching new heights, the NEET-UG 2024 promises to be a landmark event in the annals of medical education in India, marking a new era of opportunity and challenge for the nation’s aspiring medical professionals.
