In a landmark decision to enhance transparency, authenticity, and fairness in the conduct of national-level entrance exams, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced a major change in how exam centres will be assigned for key tests such as JEE Main, NEET-UG, and CUET-UG. Beginning from the 2026-27 academic session, candidates will no longer be allowed to select their preferred exam cities. Instead, exam centres will be allocated strictly based on the address mentioned on the candidate’s Aadhaar card, the NTA stated in an official notice.
This decision is part of NTA’s effort to strengthen the integrity of the examination process by curbing impersonation, cheating, and malpractices that have occasionally marred high-stakes entrance exams. Until now, candidates could select three to four preferred exam cities while filling out their application forms. The new policy, however, links centre allocation directly to Aadhaar verification, ensuring that candidates are assigned centres near their registered residential address.
Impact on Students and Parents
While the move has been widely welcomed for its potential to curb fraud, it has also triggered concerns among students and parents, especially those who live or study far from their permanent address. Many students studying in urban centres might now have to travel to their hometowns to take the exam, depending on what is listed in their Aadhaar database.
The NTA has advised all candidates to verify their Aadhaar details well before the application window opens. Those who have changed their residence or are living away from their registered address are urged to update their Aadhaar information immediately. Once the new system is implemented, no requests for changes in exam city or centre will be entertained.
The first exam to follow this new system will be the January 2026 session of JEE Main, followed by NEET-UG 2026 and CUET-UG 2026.
Strict Document Verification Norms
In addition to Aadhaar-based allocation, the NTA has announced stricter document verification rules. The details on a candidate’s Aadhaar card—including name, date of birth, and spelling—must exactly match those on their Class 10 marksheet. Even minor discrepancies may lead to the rejection or cancellation of an application.
Students are encouraged to visit the nearest UIDAI enrolment or update centre to correct any inconsistencies. The agency emphasized that the Aadhaar-linked address will be the decisive factor for determining exam centre location, making accuracy essential.
Why the Change Matters
This major shift reflects NTA’s commitment to ensuring fairness, uniformity, and transparency in India’s largest entrance examinations. By eliminating the option to choose cities, the system aims to reduce fraudulent registrations, prevent impersonation, and ensure a level playing field for students from both urban and rural regions.
As the education landscape becomes increasingly competitive, the NTA’s Aadhaar-based allocation model is expected to set a new benchmark in digital identity verification and secure examination management.
