NEET Aspirants & NEET Passed Students: Challenges, Benefits, and Insights

Abstract

The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is a pivotal pre-medical entrance examination in India, catering to both government and private institutions. It aims to standardize the evaluation process and provide equitable admission opportunities to medical colleges. This research paper investigates the perspectives of NEET aspirants and successful candidates, examining the necessity and effectiveness of NEET as an entrance exam for medical education in India. Through a survey involving 52 respondents, including current aspirants and former students, this study explores the challenges faced during preparation, the benefits of NEET, and a comparison with the previously utilized Pre-Medical Test (PMT) regarding difficulty. The survey, conducted via Google Forms and distributed through email, gathered responses over three weeks. The data was analyzed using Excel-generated tables and graphs. The findings indicate that 88.2% of respondents perceive the NEET exam as either moderate or difficult, highlighting its challenging nature. Without being excessively daunting. Approximately 5% found the exam very difficult, while only 6% rated it as easy or very easy, underscoring the need for thorough preparation and effective exam strategies. In terms of study material quality, 76.5% of respondents provided positive feedback, with 51% rating the materials as "Good" and 25.5% as "Excellent." However, 19.6% rated the materials as "Average," pointing to areas needing improvement, such as more detailed explanations and better practice questions. A minimal 3.9% rated the materials as "Poor" The study concludes with recommendations for extending the exam duration to reduce rushing, organizing workshops on stress management and study techniques, providing counseling services to address exam-related anxiety, and incorporating more practical, application-based questions to enhance analytical skills. These insights aim to inform potential reforms in medical entrance procedures, contributing to a more effective and supportive examination system.