NEET PG 2026 Qualifying Scores Drop to Five-Year Low Across Categories

The qualifying cut-off score for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Postgraduate courses has fallen to 262 marks for General and EWS candidates, marking the lowest specified cut-off in the last five years. The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences declared the results on September 24. Last year's cut-off was 276 marks, while the scores were 291 in 2023 and 275 in 2022. The 2024 result specified the qualifying percentile but did not mention the corresponding cut-off score. For General PwBD candidates, the new cut-off is 244 marks at the 45th percentile, which is an 11-mark drop from the previous score of 255. For SC, ST and OBC candidates, including PwBD candidates, the qualifying score has dropped by nine marks from 235 to 226 marks at the 40th percentile. The General and EWS cut-off remains set at the 50th percentile, matching past years. This year's exam was conducted for a total of 720 marks, which is lower than the 800 marks used in previous years. Qualifying cut-offs can change based on the difficulty level of the paper, the total number of candidates, and available seats. A tougher paper typically lowers average scores and pushes the qualifying score down. Following directions from the Supreme Court, the board will publish the NEET PG answer key and candidates' recorded responses for the first time. Candidates can view their question ID, correct answers, recorded responses, and scores through their applicant login. The answer key will be available on or after October 1, 2026, allowing candidates to check their responses after the result declaration.