NEET UG 2025 Cut-Off Marks: Category-Wise Expectations
Introduction
The NEET UG 2025 exam dates, scheduled for 4th May 2025, are the most-awaited event for lakhs of aspiring doctors across India. Once the exam is over, one of the most discussed aspects is the cut-off marks—the minimum score required to qualify and secure admission into medical and dental colleges. The cut-off varies each year based on several factors, and knowing the expected range helps aspirants set realistic targets.
What is the NEET UG Cut-Off?
The cut-off score is the minimum marks or percentile a candidate must secure to qualify for counseling and admission. It is released by the National Testing Agency (NTA) along with the results.
- Qualifying Cut-Off: Minimum score required to be considered “qualified” in NEET UG.
- Admission Cut-Off: Higher score requirement for admission to specific colleges and courses, which varies based on competition, college reputation, and number of seats.
Factors Influencing NEET UG 2025 Cut-Off
- Difficulty level of the exam – Tougher papers may lower the cut-off, while easier ones may raise it.
- Number of candidates appearing – More candidates increase competition.
- Seat availability – Limited seats in MBBS/BDS programs directly affect the cut-off.
- Previous year trends – Helps predict but does not guarantee the actual cut-off.
Previous Year Trends
NEET 2023 Qualifying Percentile & Scores:
- General: 50th percentile – 720–137
- OBC/SC/ST: 40th percentile – 136–107
- PwD (General): 45th percentile – 136–121
NEET 2024 Expected Range:
- General: 720–138
- OBC/SC/ST: 137–108
- PwD: 137–122
These ranges provide a benchmark for NEET UG 2025 exam date expectations.
Expected NEET UG 2025 Cut-Off
Based on trends and increasing competition, the projected qualifying cut-off is:
- General Category: 715–140
- OBC Category: 139–110
- SC Category: 138–105
- ST Category: 136–105
- PwD (General/EWS): 138–122
(Note: These are predictions; the actual cut-off will be declared by NTA in June 2025.)
Category-Wise Admission Cut-Offs
Admission cut-offs are generally higher than qualifying marks, especially for top colleges like AIIMS, JIPMER, and government MBBS institutes.
- Top Government Medical Colleges (AIQ seats): 650+ for General, 600+ for OBC, 500+ for SC/ST.
- Private Medical Colleges: 550+ for General, 500+ for OBC, 400+ for SC/ST.
- Dental Colleges (BDS): 500–550 for General, 450–500 for reserved categories.
Importance of Knowing the Cut-Off
Helps aspirants set score targets during preparation.
- Provides clarity on college choices during counseling.
- Encourages students to analyze competition realistically.
Conclusion
The NEET UG 2025 exam dates and cut-off marks are expected to remain competitive due to the growing number of aspirants and limited medical seats. While qualifying cut-offs are important, aspirants aiming for top government colleges should target much higher scores than the minimum requirement.
Ultimately, consistent practice, strong conceptual understanding, and time management will ensure you not only qualify but also secure a seat in a reputed medical institution.