Introduction

The NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) reservation system plays a vital role in ensuring equal opportunities for aspiring medical students across India. It enables students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds to secure admissions in both government and private medical colleges under reserved quotas.

In 2025, NEET will continue to follow a structured reservation policy for various categories, including Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), Persons with Disabilities (PWD), and the General category. Understanding these reservation policies is essential for medical aspirants to optimize their chances of admission.

This blog provides a detailed breakdown of the NEET reservation system, category-wise seat allocation, and eligibility criteria, helping students navigate the admission process efficiently.

What is NEET Reservation?

NEET reservation refers to the allocation of medical seats based on government policies aimed at promoting inclusive education. This system ensures that students from socially and economically backgrounds have fair access to medical education.

Importance of NEET Reservation

Here’s why NEET reservation is crucial:

✔ Ensures equal access to quality medical education for marginalized communities.

✔ Promotes diversity in the medical profession.

✔ Offers financial support, including fee relaxations and scholarships.

✔ Upholds constitutional rights and fosters social justice.

NEET Quota Categories

Medical seats in India are distributed among different reservation categories as per government policies.

SC/ST Reservation

SC candidates: 15% of total seats
ST candidates: 7.5% of total seats
A valid SC/ST certificate issued by the government is required.

OBC Reservation

OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates receive 27% reservation in government medical colleges.
A valid OBC-NCL certificate (issued within the past financial year) is mandatory.

PWD (Persons with Disabilities) Reservation

5% reservation across all categories under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
Candidates must provide a disability certificate from a recognized medical board.

GEN EWS (Economically Weaker Sections) Reservation

10% reservation for General category students who meet the income and asset criteria.
A valid EWS certificate issued by the relevant authority is necessary.

General Category

No specific reservation benefits apply.
Candidates are selected based purely on merit.

State Quota and All India Quota (AIQ) in NEET

State Quota

85% of government medical seats are reserved for students from the respective states.
Applicants must meet domicile requirements to qualify under this quota.

All India Quota (AIQ)

15% of government medical seats are available to candidates nationwide.
AIQ reservation breakdown:

SC: 15%
ST: 7.5%
OBC: 27%
EWS: 10%
PWD: 5% (within each category)

NEET Criteria for Reservation

Eligibility Criteria

SC/ST/OBC candidates must have caste certificates issued by competent authorities.
EWS candidates must have an annual family income below ₹8 lakh.
PWD candidates must have at least 40% disability.

Important Documents for Reservation Eligibility

Below are the documents that are required for the reservation eligibility:

✔ Caste Certificate (for SC/ST/OBC)
✔ EWS Certificate (for EWS candidates)
✔ Disability Certificate (for PWD candidates)
✔ Domicile Certificate (for state quota applicants)

Total Government MBBS Seats in India for NEET 2025

Currently, India has approximately 70,000; government MBBS seats, but the exact number for 2025 will be confirmed closer to the admission process.

Seat Distribution

Government Medical Colleges: Approximately 15% for AIQ of total seats.
Private Medical Colleges: No centralized reservation; state policies apply.
Deemed Universities: Primarily merit-based, with some state-specific reservations.

NEET Reservation Guidelines and Important Changes in 2025

Expected Changes

Any modifications to EWS income criteria, OBC-NCL certification rules, or AIQ policies will be announced by the National Medical Commission (NMC).
Some states may revise their state quota policies based on local government decisions.

Guidelines for Candidates

Ensure all documents are valid and up to date before applying.
Verify AIQ and state quota eligibility based on domicile rules.
Apply under the correct category to avoid disqualification.

Conclusion

A clear understanding of the NEET reservation system is crucial for medical aspirants to maximize their chances of admission. The 2025 reservation policies aim to ensure fair distribution of seats, making medical education accessible to all.

Stay updated with official notifications from NTA and NMC regarding policy changes.
Collect necessary documents in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
Choose between AIQ and State Quota wisely based on your eligibility.