A total of 6,384 candidates appeared for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET-UG) 2026 conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), in Madurai district on Sunday.

The district recorded a present percentage of 75%. Of the 8,565 registered candidates, 2,181 were absent. The examination was held at 15 centres in the district.

The examination for admission to Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) and Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) courses was conducted from 2 p.m. to 5.20 p.m. The candidates were permitted for the examination between 11 a.m. and 1.30 p.m.

As smart watches and jewellery were not permitted, candidates were mandated to deposit such items with parents and were allowed after security screening.

Security arrangements were in place. Officials said that necessary arrangements were on board for the smooth functioning of the examination.

The NEET for medical courses for the academic year 2026-27 was held across the country on May 3.

Following allegations of a question paper leak in the exam, which was investigated and confirmed, the Union Government announced the cancellation of the NEET exam.

While the district recorded a present percentage of 95.76 in the exam held on May 3, it has reduced by 20.76% in the re-exam.

While just 364 of the total 8,578 registered candidates were absent on May 3, on Sunday, close to 2,181 candidates were recorded absent.