With the NEET UG 2025 results just around the corner, thousands of candidates across the country are waiting for their scorecard. One of the most important factors for college admission is the category-wise cutoff. Whether you belong to the General (UR), OBC, SC, ST, or EWS category, the cutoff decides your eligibility for MBBS, BDS and other medical seats.
This year, several developments may bring slight shifts in category-wise cutoffs. Here’s a detailed look at what could change and what students should prepare for.
What is Category-Wise Cutoff?
The cutoff is the minimum NEET score required to qualify for the counselling process under each category. It varies every year based on:
| NEET UG Counselling Guide 2025 | |
|---|---|
| State-wise MBBS/BDS Counselling Guide eBook 2025 | 📥 Download |
| MCC NEET UG Counselling Guide eBook 2025 | 📥 Download |
| AACCC AYUSH NEET Counselling Guide eBook 2025 | 📥 Download |
- Number of candidates
- Exam difficulty level
- Seat availability
- Category-wise reservation
Each category has different qualifying marks. These cutoffs help determine your All India Rank (AIR) eligibility for government and private colleges.
Previous Year’s NEET UG 2024 Qualifying Cutoffs
| Category | Cutoff Percentile | Cutoff Score (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| UR (General) | 50th | 137 marks |
| OBC | 40th | 107 marks |
| SC | 40th | 107 marks |
| ST | 40th | 107 marks |
| EWS | 50th | 137 marks |
Note: These are qualifying cutoffs, not admission cutoffs. College cutoffs are generally much higher.
Join NEET News 2025 Expected NEET UG 2025 Qualifying Cutoffs
| Category | Cutoff Percentile | Expected Cutoff Score (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| UR (General) | 50th | 720-155 |
| OBC | 40th | 154-125 |
| SC | 40th | 154-125 |
| ST | 40th | 154-125 |
| EWS | 50th | 720-155 |
These predictions are based on expert inputs, past trends, and paper difficulty. Final cutoffs will be released by NTA with results.
What Might Change in NEET 2025?
1. Lower Cutoffs Expected for All Categories
- The paper was moderately tough, and the number of test-takers increased.
- Experts predict a 5–10 mark decrease in cutoff scores across most categories.
2. Stricter Competition for Reserved Categories
- More candidates from SC/ST/OBC/EWS are scoring well this year. (Expected based on registration trends)
- As a result, the effective competition has gone up even within reserved categories.
3. State-wise Variations Will Matter More
- In many states, OBC and EWS students might see higher state cutoffs due to seat demand.
- Students should not just rely on the All India Quota (AIQ) but also check state quota trends.
4. EWS Category Monitoring Tightened
- Authorities are strictly verifying EWS certificates this year.
- Any invalid or late submission may disqualify a candidate from claiming EWS benefits.
Impact on MBBS/BDS Admissions
- Government Colleges: Students in all categories might need 10–20 marks more compared to 2024, as competition may increase this year.
- Private Colleges: Cutoffs will vary, but many EWS/OBC students may find better chances here.
- Deemed Universities: Usually have high fees but lower cutoffs, a backup option for many.
What Students Should Do Now
- Estimate your score using answer keys.
- Compare with the past 3-year cutoffs for your category.
- Stay ready with documents (especially for OBC/EWS/SC/ST categories).
- Track state counselling portals and prepare your preference list early.
Key Dates Ahead
- NEET UG Result: Expected on 14 June at neet.nta.nic.in
- AIQ Counselling by MCC: Likely to begin in July
- State Quota Counselling: Timelines vary, but mostly from July to August
Cutoffs for NEET UG 2025 will likely see a slight decrease across all categories. Reserved category candidates must stay alert, as internal competition is stronger this year. With smart planning and timely counselling registration, students from all categories can secure the best possible seat based on their score.
