The National Testing Agency (NTA) is preparing to shift the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) to a computer-based testing (CBT) format in the near future. NTA Director General Abhishek Singh confirmed this strategic move, emphasizing that CBT represents the future of examinations for the agency.
"All our examinations are CBT (Computer-Based Test) except the NEET examination. On NEET also, we will be moving to CBT very soon," Singh stated, noting that a high-powered task force led by Nandan Nilekani is actively working on the transition.
Enhancing Exam Integrity with AI and Technology
Singh highlighted that the NTA already conducts several major examinations, including JEE, UGC-NET, CUET, and NIFT, using the CBT model. The shift for NEET will require augmenting existing testing infrastructure and implementing robust safeguards to ensure smooth operations.
Beyond the format change, the NTA chief also revealed plans to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to bolster both the testing process and fraud prevention measures. This includes analyzing logs, data, and analytics to guarantee error-free and problem-free examinations.
Future Vision: Cross-Border Examinations
Looking ahead, the NTA aims to expand its operations to conduct examinations for global bodies. However, Singh stressed that this ambition will only be pursued after strengthening domestic systems to ensure fair, transparent, and malpractice-free conduct of Indian examinations.
The agency faced significant scrutiny earlier this year following the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and subsequent cancellation, which occurred shortly after Abhishek Singh assumed the Director General role on April 1, 2026.