The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) has been a long-standing requirement for admission into MBBS, BDS, and other principal medical programs. Furthermore, the National Commission Allied Healthcare Professionals (NCAHP) has now confirmed that a NEET qualification is also compulsory for these courses
What are Allied and Health Courses?
Allied and Health Courses, often collectively referred to as Allied Health Sciences, encompass a diverse group of non-physician healthcare professions that play a crucial role in the diagnosis, evaluation, and prevention of diseases and disorders; dietary and nutrition services; rehabilitation and therapy; and health systems management.
These professionals work in collaboration with physicians, nurses, and other specialists to provide comprehensive and high-quality patient care. They are distinct from medicine and nursing, offering specialized knowledge and technical skills that are essential to the modern healthcare system.
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Medical Lab Technology
- Radiology & Imaging Technology
- Nutrition & Dietetics
- Optometry
- Emergency and Trauma Care
- Dialysis Technology
- Anaesthesia Technology
- Operation Theatre Technology
Pursuing an Allied Health course prepares students for rewarding careers with high employment potential in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, public health agencies, and diagnostic laboratories.
Does This Apply to 2025 Admissions?
The requirement to qualify for NEET does not apply to the 2025 passouts or students pursuing Allied and healthcare professional courses in the current year. However, all students aiming for these courses will need to qualify for NEET starting from 2026.
Should You Start Preparing for NEET?
Preparation for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is advisable if your academic aspirations include pursuing the following programs:
- Physiotherapy
- Optometry
- Nutrition
- Occupational Therapy
- Medical Lab Technology
- Radiology
- And other comparable paramedical and allied health science courses.
Benefits of NEET-based Admission
The following or the core benefits for students who wish to pursue NCAHP courses in the upcoming The core benefits for students considering NCAHP courses in the upcoming year are outlined below.
1. Uniform Eligibility Criteria
The introduction of NEET has standardized the admissions process across India. Previously, colleges operated with their own distinct rules and entrance examinations. Now, all students adhere to a single set of requirements, eliminating confusion, the need for multiple exams, and ensuring equal opportunity for every aspirant, regardless of their geographic location (village, town, or city).
2. Improved Healthcare Workforce Quality
When all students enter through a single national exam, the overall quality of learning improves. Hospitals and clinics get better-trained professionals. Patients also benefit because the healthcare system becomes stronger and more reliable.
FAQ’s
Do I need NEET if I want to study physiotherapy (BPT)?
Yes, from 2026–27 onward, NEET will be required for admission to BPT as per NCAHP notifications.
Will private colleges also follow this rule?
Yes. All colleges regulated under NCAHP must follow NEET-based admission rules once they come into effect.
What if I didn’t qualify for NEET?
You will not be eligible for NEET-based allied health courses regulated by NCAHP. You may need to wait for the next NEET exam or explore non-regulated short-term certificate courses.
Will this change increase competition?
Yes. More students will now appear for NEET since it controls admissions for both medical courses and allied health courses, making it more competitive.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, NCAHP has confirmed that the NEET is now mandatory for those who wish to pursue Allied and Healthcare professional courses. However, it is applicable for the 2025 admission, and it will be mandatory from 2026-2027. Therefore, Aspirants of Allied and Healthcare courses like Physiotherapy, Optometry, Nutrition, Occupational Therapy, Medical Lab Technology, Radiology, and other comparable paramedical and allied health sciences must take NEET from 2026-2027.
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