NTA NEET UG 2026: The National Testing Agency (NTA) is considering the introduction of facial recognition and live photo verification in national-level entrance examinations such as NEET and JEE, a move that could significantly change how students register for and appear in competitive exams. The proposal is aimed at preventing impersonation and exam fraud, but it also raises questions around privacy, access, and student preparedness
Why NTA is Planning This Change
For years, students have raised concerns about paper leaks and impersonated candidates undermining the credibility of competitive exams. According to officials facial recognition is being explored as a technological safeguard to ensure that the same student who fills the form is the one who sits for the exam
The move comes after multiple controversies around exam integrity, especially in medical and engineering entrances, where a single seat can determine a student’s future.
How the New System May Affect Students
If implemented, students can expect changes at two key stages:
- During application:
Candidates may be required to upload a live photograph, captured through a webcam or mobile phone, instead of relying only on old scanned passport-size photos. This means students will need access to a device with a functional camera and stable internet. - On exam day:
Facial recognition may be used at exam centres to verify identity, possibly alongside existing checks like admit cards and ID proof. The aim is to eliminate impersonation without adding excessive delays for genuine candidates.
Officials have indicated that outdated photographs may no longer be accepted, making it important for students to ensure that their application details and identity records are up to date.
Join NEET News 2025 Major Concerns:
While many aspirants welcome stricter checks to ensure fairness, students also have concerns:
- Privacy: How long will facial data be stored, and who will have access to it?
- Errors: What happens if facial recognition fails due to lighting, stress, illness, or technical glitches?
- Digital divide: Students from rural or low-connectivity areas worry about live photo uploads and tech-heavy processes.
Education experts suggest that technology should support students, not make them afraid, and stress the need for clear guidelines, grievance redressal mechanisms, and offline support options.
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When Will This Be Implemented?
According to reports, the system is still at the planning stage and may be introduced gradually, possibly from upcoming exam cycles after pilot testing during NEET UG 2025. NTA is expected to release detailed instructions well in advance to avoid confusion among candidates
What Students Should Do Now?
For aspirants preparing for NEET, or other NTA exams:
- Avoid panic, no immediate change has been officially enforced yet
- Keep identity documents updated
- Use recent photographs for applications
- Stay alert to official NTA notifications.
