NEET Exam Alert: Fingerprint Not Working? Here’s What Next

Synopsis:

With the introduction of the biometric verification system in NEET 2026, technical failures or human faults can cause device malfunctioning. A device malfunction can lead to the aspirant's non-identification, preventing them from entering the NEET examination room. In such a scenario, NTA has made alternative arrangements for NEET candidates to take the examination. 

Key procedure to validate the NEET 2026 exam:  

1. About 24 lakh students have aspired to participate in the NEET 2026 examination nationwide on May 3. NTA advises NEEET candidates to read the instructions carefully at least a day before the exam. A candidate will have to pass through a multi-layered verification process, including frisking, admit card check, valid photo ID, and biometric authentication, just before making entry into the exam hall. Biometric authentication is a mandatory step to ensure transparency and avoid impersonation in the exam hall. 

2. On many occasions, candidates may not be able to complete the authentication process, either due to a manual error or technical glitches. In this issue, the NTA provides an advisory note on what to do if the biometric device fails to capture the required candidate imprint on the exam day. 

3. NTA states that, in the event of biometric verification failure, the candidate may continue with the upcoming examination, provided they submit a written undertaking. 

4. In addition, the NTA clarifies that after the submission of the undertaking letter, the candidate shall not be disturbed for any reason whatsoever during the 3-hour exam, or during the 4-hour exam for PwD candidates. However, the candidates are expected to follow the exam guidelines and not to panic.  

Summary:

The NEET is a nationwide examination taken by at least 24 lakh students every year. And biometric verification is one of the methods it uses to verify a candidate's authenticity. But at times, due to human error or a technical glitch, the biometric may not function properly. In such circumstances, according to the NTA guidelines, the candidate should furnish a written undertaking and is thereafter eligible to appear for the exam.