Facing Equal Scores in NEET PG Exam? Be Prepared in Advance

NEET PG is a gateway to higher education for medical aspirants. This challenging exam, featuring a vast syllabus, measures their knowledge and ability to perform under pressure. It is a little-known fact that students often receive tied scores in the final marks. This situation can arise for various reasons, such as a highly competitive environment, tie-breaker rules, the impact on ranking and admission, standardized question patterns, a uniform marking scheme, repetition in the question bank, and others.  

Tied scores can lead to different consequences. They may affect the availability of choices for which candidates can apply, increase competition among applicants for ranks and seats, and, while reconsidering the applicant’s age, the number of correct answers may be considered, complicating the admission process.  

This blog will guide you on how to handle the same marks in the NEET PG situation.

What is a Tie-breaking Situation 

A tie-breaking situation appears when more than one applicant receives equal marks in NEET PG. To break the tie, certain criteria are used. They are the least incorrect answers, scores in key sections and the candidate’s age. These measures ensure fairness in rank and seat allocation.    

The examination board is expecting to see more candidates this year compared to previous years. Based on statistics, 2,42,678 students have applied for the exam this year. In 2024, 2,16,136 students appeared for the exam. The reasons for the increase in the number of students could be increasing awareness and participation, single-shift exam format, availability of online study materials, and focus on accuracy. The possible increase in participants can create tie-breaking situations, so it is best to focus section-wise and stay confident to tackle the exam.  

How Equal Scores are  Handled in NEET PG?  

To declare the tiebreaker, the seven-point method independent expert committee has some rules. They are:  

1. 1. Higher number of correct responses – When two or more applicants’ papers are tied up with the same marks in NEET PG, their answer sheets will be compared. Each response in every subject will be checked, so, each subject can be considered as a level. The subject in which a candidate has more correct answers than the other candidate will be considered a tiebreaker. The candidate with the highest number of correct responses in one or more subjects will be given the highest rank. 
   2. Fewer negative responses – A candidate with the fewest incorrect answers compared to correct answers in all subjects will be given a better rank. If the scores of the correct answers of the tied-up candidates are equal, then the comparison factor is who has written the least negative responses. In this criterion too, each subject is seen as a level. The candidate who has given fewer negative responses in one or more subjects is rewarded with the highest rank.
   3. Older age – When one or more applicants’ scores get tied up and cannot break the tie according to the above criteria, the age of the candidates will be considered a tie-breaking factor. The older applicant will be considered the tiebreaker and given the rank.
   4. Greater MBBS Aggregate Marks – If the above three criteria do not break the tie, the scores you have attained during your MBBS program will be considered. The candidate with the greater aggregate marks will be given a higher rank. It indicates that your school performance throughout medical school still matters.

Strategies to Avoid Tie-Breaking Situations in NEET PG

By using the right strategies, you can reduce tie-breaking instances. Some practices that can help you prepare effectively are prioritizing accuracy to reduce careless mistakes, minimizing negative marking, revising your notes, practicing regular mock tests, learning from past mistakes, understanding NEET PG tie-breaking rules, and maintaining a strong academic record in NEET UG.

You can score above the NEET PG cut-off by focusing on precision, reading each question carefully, and thinking about the answer. Go for the questions you’re extremely confident about. This reduces negative marking. Create a strong foundation by thoroughly revising topics. Check your speed in finishing the papers by practicing the mock papers and improve your speed if necessary. Align your preparation with the tie-breaking rules to reduce incorrect answers and get the preference during the tie-breaking system. Including these tips in your preparation will guarantee that you successfully pass the competitive exam, including the tie-breaking level.

Conclusion

Patience, resilience, hard work, smartness, and a sharp mind are the elements of success in the NEET PG exam. Kottayam Academics is here to guide you at every step of your way to transform you from just an applicant to a rank holder of NEET PG 2026. Our face–to–face classes and online 360-degree plan and test and discussions, along with our expert faculty, will ensure you face the tie-breaking level smoothly. All you must do is be thorough with your lessons, stay healthy, motivated, calm, focused, and never stop working hard.