
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the updated NEET Dress Code 2026 for both male and female candidates appearing in the NEET UG 2026 examination. Following the dress code is compulsory, as even minor violations can lead to entry restrictions at the exam center. To ensure fairness, transparency, and security during the exam, NTA has set strict rules for clothing, footwear, and accessories.
In this blog, let’s understand the NEET 2026 Dress Code guidelines for male and female candidates in detail.
NEET Dress Code 2026 – Allowed vs Not Allowed
| Category | Allowed ✅ | Not Allowed ❌ |
|---|---|---|
| Clothing (Male) | Half-sleeve shirt/T-shirt, simple trousers, light-colored clothes | Full-sleeve shirt, kurta-pajama, jackets, hoodies, layered clothing |
| Clothing (Female) | Half-sleeve salwar, kurta, T-shirt, leggings, light-colored dress | Full-sleeve tops, heavy embroidery, frills, skin-tight clothes |
| Footwear | Slippers, sandals with thin soles | Shoes, boots, high heels, thick sole footwear |
| Accessories | None | Watches, jewelry, belts, caps, metallic items |
| Hair/Headwear | Simple hairstyle, no pins | Hair clips, pins, headbands (except religious reasons) |
| Religious Attire | Burqa, turban, kara, customary dress (report 1 hr early) | Denial only if student refuses frisking |
NEET Dress Code 2026 for Male Candidates
Male aspirants must dress in simple, light clothing NEET Dress Code 2026 to avoid unnecessary delays during frisking.
✅ Allowed for Males
- Half-sleeve shirts and T-shirts (plain, no fancy patterns).
- Simple trousers or jeans without multiple zips or pockets.
- Sandals or slippers with thin soles.
❌ Not Allowed for Males
- Full-sleeve shirts or kurta-pajama.
- Shoes, boots, or any footwear with thick soles.
- Watches, belts, caps, or metal accessories.
- Layers of clothing like jackets, blazers, or hoodies.
NEET Dress Code 2026 for Female Candidates
Female candidates must follow a modest and simple NEET Dress Code 2026 as per NTA rules.
✅ Allowed for Females
- Half-sleeve salwar, kurta, or T-shirt (without designs, embroidery, or frills).
- Trousers or leggings with simple patterns.
- Sandals or slippers with low heels.
❌ Not Allowed for Females
- Full-sleeve tops, kurta with heavy embroidery, or frilled clothing.
- Jeans with multiple pockets, jeggings, or skin-tight outfits.
- High heels, shoes, or footwear with thick soles.
- Jewelry, earrings, nose rings, bangles, or any ornaments.
- Hair clips, pins, or accessories (loose hair is recommended).
Special Guidelines for Religious/Customary Dress
NTA allows candidates wearing religious or cultural attire (such as burqa, turban, or kara) but they must report at least 1 hour early for proper security checks.
Key Points to Remember for NEET Dress Code 2026
- Keep your clothing simple, light, and comfortable.
- Avoid metallic items, watches, or jewelry.
- Carry only NEET Admit Card 2026, a passport-size photo, and a valid ID proof.
- Reach the exam center early to avoid frisking delays.
1. NEET 2026 Exam Day Guidelines
The exam day guidelines issued by NTA include reporting time, prohibited items, and dress code. Students should carefully read the instructions on their admit card to avoid last-minute confusion.
2. NEET 2026 Admit Card Dress Code Instructions
The NEET 2026 Admit Card will contain specific NEET Dress Code 2026 reminders. Candidates must strictly follow them, as any violation can lead to denial of entry inside the exam hall.
3. NTA NEET 2026 Prohibited Items
Electronic gadgets, smartwatches, calculators, wallets, belts, and metallic items are strictly prohibited inside the exam center to maintain transparency and fairness.
4. NEET Dress Code for Female 2026
Female candidates are advised to wear light-colored, half-sleeve salwar, kurta, or T-shirts with slippers. Heavy jewelry, ornaments, and fancy clothing are not allowed.
5. NEET Dress Code for Male 2026
Male aspirants should wear half-sleeve shirts or T-shirts with simple trousers. Shoes and full-sleeve clothes are not permitted.
6. NEET 2026 Religious Dress Guidelines
Candidates wearing religious or cultural attire like burqa, turban, or kara are allowed, but they must reach the center early for thorough frisking and security checks.
7. NEET 2026 Security Check Rules
Every candidate has to undergo strict frisking. Wearing light clothes without metallic items ensures a faster security clearance on exam day.
FAQs on NEET Dress Code 2026
Q1. Can I wear full-sleeve clothes in NEET 2026?
No, full-sleeve clothing is not allowed unless there is a valid medical or religious reason.
Q2. Are jeans allowed in NEET 2026?
Yes, simple jeans without multiple pockets, zippers, or designs are allowed.
Q3. Can I wear a watch during the NEET exam?
No, watches and electronic gadgets are strictly prohibited.
Q4. What type of footwear is allowed in NEET 2026?
Only slippers or sandals with low heels and thin soles are permitted.
Q5. Are religious dresses allowed in NEET 2026?
Yes, but students must report early for proper frisking and security checks.
- NEET 2026 Exam Day Guidelines – Rules to be followed inside and outside the exam center.
- NEET 2026 Admit Card Dress Code Instructions – Key dress-related points printed on admit cards.
- NEET Prohibited Items 2026 – List of banned gadgets, footwear, and accessories.
- NEET Dress Code for Female 2026 – NTA rules for simple clothing, footwear, and accessories.
- NEET Dress Code for Male 2026 – Guidelines for male candidates on clothing and footwear.
- NEET 2026 Religious Dress Guidelines – Rules for students wearing religious attire.
- NEET 2026 Security Check Rules – Frisking and checking instructions on exam day.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) issues strict guidelines every year to ensure smooth conduct of the NEET UG examination. These rules cover NEET Dress Code 2026, prohibited items, reporting time, and frisking procedures. Following these instructions is compulsory for all candidates.
Clothing: Only light, simple, half-sleeve clothes are allowed. Avoid heavy embroidery, frills, or layered outfits.
Footwear: Slippers and sandals with thin soles are permitted. Shoes and high heels are not allowed.
Accessories: Watches, belts, wallets, jewelry, and metallic items are banned inside the exam hall.
Religious Attire: Students wearing burqa, turban, kara, or other religious dresses must report at least one hour early for security checks.
Admit Card Instructions: Every candidate must follow the guidelines mentioned on the admit card, as they may include center-specific instructions.
Prohibited Items: Electronic devices like mobile phones, calculators, smartwatches, and Bluetooth devices are strictly banned.
Conclusion
The NEET Dress Code 2026 is designed to ensure fairness and prevent the use of unfair means. Both male and female candidates must strictly adhere to the NTA guidelines to avoid disqualification or entry issues. Preparing well for the exam is important, but following the dress code is equally crucial for a stress-free exam day.