With mere hours remaining for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET UG) 2025, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued strict protocols about the dress code and prohibited items at examination centers. The test, which is on May 4, 2025, is one of the most important and competitive medical entrance examinations in India. Due to the sensitivity of the test and to preserve its integrity, the NTA has provided elaborate instructions that all applicants must adhere to strictly.

All such candidates should understand the dos and don’ts to facilitate unproblematic access to the exam centre and never face any unwanted trouble at the last moment. According to official information bulletin posted by the NTA, frisking procedure will be highly stringent for every candidate before accessing the exam rooms. The scanning process will include the application of highly sensitive metal detectors to filter out any undeclared or non-permitted stuff from entering into the premises.

The NTA has clarified that several items are strictly forbidden at the examination centre. Candidates are not allowed to bring with them any textual material, whether printed or handwritten, which includes notes, pieces of paper, books, or any type of stationery like pencil boxes, plastic covers, calculators, pens, weighing scales, writing pads, pen drives, erasers, log tables, or electric pens and scanners. Communication equipment such as mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, earphones, microphones, pagers, and smart health bands are also banned.

In addition, personal items including wallets, goggles, handbags, belts, and caps are prohibited from entering the building. Wristwatches, bracelets, and cameras also cannot be taken inside. Metal ornaments and accessories, food products—opened or packed—and water bottles will not be allowed. Basically, anything that can be used for cheating purposes, including those that can be used to hide communication devices like microchips, cameras, or Bluetooth devices, will not be allowed.

Besides the banned items, NTA has announced a definite and strict dress code for every NEET UG 2025 candidate. The dress code is designed to facilitate the process of frisking and decrease the likelihood of any prohibited item being hidden. Every candidate needs to dress in light-coloured, short-sleeved clothing. Heavywear and long-sleeved garments are not allowed because they could be an impediment to checking.

Footwear regulations have also been clearly stated. Slippers or sandals with low heels alone are recommended for the candidates. Shoes are prohibited within the exam centre. Still, if any candidate has some valid medical grounds or any unforeseen situation to wear shoes, they should apply in advance for permission from the NTA. Without prior approval, they could be denied access.

For the candidates who dress in cultural or religious attire, including items of faith such as turbans, hijabs, or other traditional clothing, the NTA has informed them to report at least two hours prior to the last reporting time at the examination center. This is to make sure that there is sufficient time for proper and respectful frisking processes without creating inconvenience or delay. If any such article is discovered to carry or hide any suspicious item or device upon screening, the candidate can be requested to take it outside or even be denied entry into the examination hall.

These precautions are taken to maintain the sanctity and integrity of the NEET UG test. The NTA has also emphasized that all the aspirants need to adhere to these instructions, as any irregularity may result in disqualification or rejection. There have been earlier attempts at malpractices in previous years, and the NTA has further tightened their security measures to avoid any compromise.

Parents and guardians are also requested to make their wards familiar with the instructions well in advance. The candidates must go to their respective centres in advance so that there is no rush in the last minute and they carry only the necessary documents like their admit card and a valid proof of identity.

With lakhs of students who appear for the test annually, the NTA’s focus on stringent rules and transparent processes becomes important to guarantee a secured and fair environment. As NEET UG 2025 approaches, the candidates are asked to remain calm, abide by the rules, and provide their best performance.