es, you can apply for NEET 2026 if you're appearing for the HSC improvement exam in February 2026. As per NTA and NMC guidelines, candidates can appear for NEET if they are "appearing" or "improving" their Class 12 exams in the same year. Since you belong to the SC category, you’ll need to secure at least 40% aggregate in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology after the improvement exam to meet the eligibility criteria.

When filling out the NEET form, you’ll mark yourself as an “appearing” candidate. You can give the exam, and if your improved scores meet the eligibility during counselling or verification, your admission process will go forward.

Yes, you can apply for NEET after your improvement exam if you meet the minimum eligibility marks in 2026. Your latest result will be considered.

Hello Avantika,

Yes, you are eligible to apply for NEET if you are giving your HSC Improvement exam in 2026. Your result in the improvement exam only needs to meet the NEET eligibility criteria. NEET eligibility requirements state candidates need to pass means you need to have individual pass marks in Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology and English, and you must have scored 50% in total (as an aggregate) in Physics, Chemistry and Biology (PCBM) subjects (40% for SC, ST, OBC). You will most likely be eligible to apply for NEET 2026 since you are writing your HSC Improvement exam in February 2026, as long as your improvement marks meet the required percentage. Make sure you will:

1. Update your application with improved marks after results are declared.
2. Official NEET brochure will be published, so you should check when it is released as rules do change slightly year on year.