NEET 2026 Expected Cutoff (Category Wise Safe Score)
With the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test scheduled on 3 May 2026, students across India are searching for one crucial thing:
What is the NEET 2026 expected cutoff?
If you’re targeting a government MBBS seat, understanding the expected cutoff helps you set the right score target in the final 2–2.5 months.
Let’s break it down with category-wise analysis, previous year trends, and safe score estimates.
What Is NEET 2026 Cutoff?
NEET cutoff is of two types:
1. Qualifying Cutoff
Minimum marks required to pass NEET 2026.
2. Admission Cutoff
Marks required to secure MBBS/BDS seat in:
- Government medical colleges
- AIQ quota
- State quota counselling
⚠️ Important: Qualifying NEET does NOT guarantee a government seat.
NEET 2026 Expected Qualifying Cutoff (Category Wise)
Based on previous trends and competition growth, here is the projected NEET 2026 expected cutoff marks:
Category | Expected Percentile | Expected Marks Range |
General (UR) | 50th Percentile | 720 – 135 |
EWS | 50th Percentile | 720 – 135 |
OBC | 40th Percentile | 134 – 105 |
SC | 40th Percentile | 134 – 105 |
ST | 40th Percentile | 134 – 105 |
PwD (UR) | 45th Percentile | 134 – 120 |
These marks are only for qualification.
NEET 2026 Expected Cutoff for Government MBBS
Now comes the real concern:
What is the safe score in NEET 2026 for a government medical college?
15% All India Quota (AIQ) Expected Cutoff
Category | Expected Safe Score |
General | 610 – 650+ |
OBC | 600 – 630 |
EWS | 605 – 640 |
SC | 500 – 540 |
ST | 470 – 520 |
If the exam on 3 May 2026 is easier than expected, these numbers may increase by 10–20 marks.
Top Government Medical Colleges Expected Cutoff
For top-tier colleges like AIIMS and reputed state government institutions:
- General → 660+
- OBC/EWS → 640+
- SC/ST → 550+
Competition remains extremely high for these seats.
NEET 2026 Expected Marks vs Rank Analysis
Students also search for NEET 2026 marks vs rank prediction. Based on trend analysis:
Marks | Expected Rank Range |
700+ | Top 100 |
650+ | Under 5,000 |
600+ | 15,000 – 25,000 |
550+ | 40,000 – 60,000 |
500+ | 80,000+ |
Actual ranks depend on:
- Paper difficulty
- Number of candidates
- Overall performance level
Factors Affecting NEET 2026 Expected Cutoff
Several factors will decide the final cutoff:
1. Difficulty Level of Exam (3 May 2026)
Easier paper → Higher cutoff
Tough paper → Slight drop
2. Number of Applicants
20+ lakh students are expected again.
3. Total MBBS Seats Available
Seat increase can slightly stabilize cutoff.
4. Reservation Policy & State Quota Rules
State-wise variation affects final admission cutoff.
How Much Should You Target in NEET 2026?
If you want a safe position:
- General Category → Target 650+
- OBC/EWS → Target 630+
- SC/ST → Target 550+
Always aim 20–30 marks above the expected cutoff for safety.
Will NEET 2026 Cutoff Increase?
Considering:
- Rising competition
- More repeat candidates
- Strong preparation resources
- Stable exam pattern
There is a strong possibility that NEET 2026 expected cutoff may increase slightly if the paper is moderate or easy.
Final Verdict on NEET 2026 Expected Cutoff
To summarize:
- Qualifying cutoff (General) → Around 135 marks
- Safe score for government MBBS → 620+
- Top colleges → 650–670+
With only 2–2.5 months left for NEET 2026, focus on pushing your score above the safe zone — not just qualifying marks.
Prepare to secure a seat, not just to pass.