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The NTA uses tie-breaker rules when candidates score the same marks in NEET UG to fairly determine the All India Rank (AIR) and identify the topper
NTA outlines tie-breaker rules annually to clarify how AIR 1 is decided when candidates have identical scores. (PTI/File)
Lakhs of candidates who appeared for NEET UG 2025 are eagerly awaiting their results, set to be released soon. Before the results are announced, it is important for candidates to understand the tie-breaker criteria, which will play a key role in determining ranks and interpreting scorecards. All updates on NEET UG 2025 results will be available on the official website, neet.nta.nic.in.
The National Examination Agency (NTA) employs a tie-breaking rule when two or more candidates achieve the same marks in the NEET UG exam. This systematic and transparent process facilitates the determination of the All India Rank (AIR) and the identification of the topper. NTA outlines these rules in its official notification annually, clarifying how ties are resolved to decide AIR 1 when candidates have identical scores.
The tie-breaking process for NEET UG 2025 involves the following criteria in order:
Higher marks in Biology: The candidate with higher marks in Biology (Botany + Zoology) will be ranked higher. Maximum marks: 360 (90 questions, each worth 4 marks).
Higher marks in Chemistry: If Biology marks are tied, the candidate with higher Chemistry marks takes precedence. Maximum marks: 180 (45 questions, each worth 4 marks).
Higher marks in Physics: If marks in Biology and Chemistry are also tied, the candidate with higher Physics marks is ranked higher. Maximum marks: 180 (45 questions, each worth 4 marks).
Lower ratio of wrong answers: If marks in all three subjects are equal, the candidate with the fewest wrong answers across all subjects is given preference.
Higher ratio of correct answers: If the number of wrong answers is also tied, the candidate with more correct answers receives the top rank.
For example, if two candidates, Ravi and Sonia, score 700 out of 720, their ranks will be determined as follows:
- Ravi: Biology (340), Chemistry (170), Physics (190)
- Sonia: Biology (350), Chemistry (160), Physics (190)
In this case, Sonia would be ranked higher due to her higher marks in Biology. If their Biology marks were tied, Chemistry marks would then be considered, followed by Physics marks, and the ratio of wrong/right answers if necessary.
Previous Year Tie-Breakers
In previous years, there have been notable instances of tie-breaking:
- In 2021, Mrinal Kutteri (Telangana), Tanmay Gupta (Delhi), and Karthika G Nair (Maharashtra) all scored 720/720. Based on tie-breaking rules, Mrinal Kutteri was awarded AIR 1, likely due to higher marks or fewer wrong answers in Biology or Chemistry.
- In 2024, 17 candidates scored 720/720. Following tie-breaking and adjustment of one Physics question as directed by the Supreme Court, all 17 candidates were initially given the same rank, but this number was later revised.
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