NEET UG 2026: NTA Clarifies Controversy Over Abu Dhabi Exam Center Assignment

Clarification from NTA on Exam Center Assignment

A student from Nagpur was unexpectedly assigned to an exam center in Abu Dhabi for the NEET (UG) 2026 re-examination. This situation led to considerable confusion, prompting the National Testing Agency (NTA) to provide clarification.

In response to inquiries about the allocation of the Abu Dhabi center, the NTA explained that after the NEET (UG) 2026 exam was postponed to June 21, candidates were allowed to modify their exam city preferences. Approximately 320,000 candidates took advantage of this opportunity, with over 99.5% receiving their chosen exam locations.

Details of the Incident

Abdullah Mohammad Talib, the Nagpur candidate, was taken aback when he found his admit card listed an exam center in Abu Dhabi. This revelation led to widespread questioning on social media, prompting the NTA to respond.

The NTA clarified that the change to the Abu Dhabi center was made through the candidate's registered login. System logs confirmed that the candidate initiated this change.

Request for Change to Nagpur Center

On June 19, just two days before the exam, the NTA received an informal request to switch the exam center from Abu Dhabi back to Nagpur. The agency acted swiftly, reaching out to the candidate's father that evening to assist with the necessary adjustments.

Examination Center History

According to NTA records, the Abu Dhabi center was selected once using the candidate's ID, and it appeared twice during the preview stage. Despite this, the NTA honored the student's request and facilitated the change.

NTA's Commitment to Students

The NTA emphasized its commitment to prioritizing student interests. The agency aims to ensure that candidates do not face unnecessary challenges when taking the exam and that they receive all necessary support.