Students find NEET PG exam tough to crack; difficulty index rating out

Nearly two lakh medical graduates appeared for the NEET PG exam held on August 11 in 500 exam centres across India. The question patterns confounded the students as most were concept-based problems.

According to the Difficulty Index, today’s questions were gauged between moderate to difficult. Most questions appeared from clinical sections which required more than direct answers. The lack of time also added to the worries.

Most students were seen radiant before appearing for exams as they had ample time for preparation. However, this joy was curtailed the moment they had a glimpse of the question paper. The examination was computer-based, and conducted by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences.

Each question out of the 200 carries four marks for a total of 800 marks. Negative marking also exists. The students who appeared for the second shift examinations came out of the hall only at 7.30 pm. Some exam centres were marred by computer glitches that also contributed to the total dejection. The cut off marks this year may be lower than previous years, only for the relatively more difficult questions. The expected cut-off is likely to be between 180 - 210.

Selection for MD, MS and DNB programs in government, deemed and private medical colleges in the country will be based on the NEET PG rank list. The result will be published within two weeks. The counselling process will start in the second week of September while the admission will be completed before October 30.