Are you gearing up for NEET and wondering how the reservation policy can work for you? This guide breaks down everything in simple terms so you know exactly where you stand and how to claim your seat in medical, dental, or AYUSH courses.
Two Main Quota Systems in NEET REservation
1. All India Quota (15%):
- Across India, Not Just Locals: Candidates from any state can compete for these seats.
- Category Breakdown:
- Other Backward Classes (OBC): 27%
- Scheduled Castes (SC): 15%
- Scheduled Tribes (ST): 7.5%
- Economically Weaker Sections (EWS): 10%
2. State Quota (85%):
- Local Opportunities: These seats are allocated by individual states using their specific reservation rules.
- Check Your State’s Guidelines: Since each state has its own criteria, make sure to review the latest local instructions.
Horizontal Reservation for All
- Persons with Disabilities (PwD): 5%: This reservation cuts across all categories, ensuring a fair chance for everyone.
Below is a clear and easy-to-read table that breaks down the NEET reservation categories for the All India Quota:
| Reservation Category | Percentage Allocation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Castes (SC) | 15% | Applies to candidates belonging to SC communities. |
| Scheduled Tribes (ST) | 7.5% | Reserved for candidates from ST communities. |
| Other Backward Classes (OBC-NCL) | 27% | For eligible OBC candidates (Non-Creamy Layer only). |
| Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) | 10% | Based on income criteria for EWS candidates. |
| Horizontal Reservation | 5% (applicable across) | For Persons with Disabilities (PwD) across all categories. |
*Note:
- The above percentages apply specifically to the 15% All India Quota seats.
- The 5% horizontal reservation for PwD is in addition to the category-wise reservations.
- The remaining 85%—the State Quota—is managed by individual states and may follow additional criteria.*
This table provides an at-a-glance reference to understand how NEET reservation categories are structured, ensuring transparency and clarity for applicants navigating the admission process.
How to Claim Your Reservation
- Application Stage: Choose the correct category while filling out your NEET application form.
- Document Verification: Submit updated and valid certificates (caste, economic status, or disability) as required during counselling.
- Stay Informed: Rules might change slightly each year, so always check the latest updates from the National Testing Agency (NTA) and your state’s education board.
Why It Matters
The reservation system in NEET isn’t just an administrative detail—it’s a step towards equal opportunity in education. By setting aside seats for students from diverse backgrounds, it helps create a more inclusive and balanced medical community.
