NEET PG 2026 Test Centre Selection Rules Changed; NBEMS Introduces State-Based Preference System

The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) has shared an important notice for NEET PG 2026 candidates on their official website, natboard.edu.in. This notice was published on July 1, 2026, and it outlines major changes in how test centers will be assigned this year. Now, candidates will not be able to pick a specific city for the exam when they apply. Instead, they have to choose three preferred states in order. The first choice must be the state where they are registered, and the other two must be neighboring states.

NBEMS has also stated that test center allocation will not be based on who applies first. Submitting the form early does not give any advantage in getting your preferred state or city. The board is asking applicants not to rush and fill up the form quickly. Although the board will try to assign a test city based on your preferences, there might be situations where they assign a different city or center due to administrative, security, or technical issues.
NEET PG 2026 will be a single computer-based test (CBT).

How to Apply for NEET PG 2026?

The application process is expected to start soon on the NBEMS portal. Here are the steps candidates should follow when the form is available:

1. Visit the official NBEMS website at natboard.edu.in.
2. Click on the NEET PG 2026 registration link on the homepage.
3. Use a valid email address and mobile number to set up a login.
4. Fill in the application form with personal, academic, and correspondence details.
5. Select three preferred test states in order, keeping the advisory in mind.
6. Submit the required documents in the specified format.
7. Pay the application fee online and submit the form.
8. Save a copy of the confirmation page for your records.

Why Was the Test State Rule Changed?

The change from selecting a city to choosing a state is meant to spread out the candidates more evenly across test centers. It also helps to reduce the heavy traffic on the portal when applications start. This rule allows students in far-off areas to still get a nearby test center without having to apply very early.

Action Plan for Candidates

Before starting the application, read the full advisory on the NBEMS portal.

1. Make sure the state you list as your correspondence is correct.
2. List two neighboring states as your second and third choices.
3. Prepare scanned documents and internship proof in advance.
4. Do not rush to fill out the form on the first day of the application window.
5. Check all your information again before final submission.