NEET 2026 Physics Answer Key Controversy: Is 7.7 Correct Instead of 7.6?

NEET 2026 7.7 vs 7.6 Physics Question Number Across All Codes

NEET UG 2026 Physics Question Controversy Explained

The disputed question reportedly involves a numerical calculation based on significant figures and rounding rules in Physics. According to several coaching experts, the obtained value after calculation was approximately “7.654”. Under standard rounding rules used in Physics and NCERT methodology, many teachers argue that this value should be rounded to “7.7”.

However, the NTA NEET 2026 provisional answer key mentions 7.6 as the correct answer instead of 7.7. Many students who were earlier expecting a full +4 marks for this question now fear this might result in deduction of 5 marks from their earlier expected score (4 marks reduction plus one marks reduction as per negative marking scheme).

This small difference has created a massive controversy because even one mark can significantly affect NEET ranks and MBBS admission chances of several students. Many students who were earlier expecting a full score of 720 out of 720 now might not be able to achieve it if NTA considers 7.6 as the correct answer in its final answer key.

Why Experts Are Supporting 7.7 As Correct Answer

Various Physics educators and NEET coaching institutes have explained that standard scientific rounding principles support 7.7 as the correct answer. Several teachers have also pointed out that NCERT-based significant figure rules used in competitive exams favour 7.7 as the correct answer.

According to rounding method:

• If the digit after the decimal is exactly 5 or greater and followed by non-zero digits, the number is rounded upward.

• Since the calculated value was around 7.654, the number becomes greater than 7.65. Therefore, it should be rounded off to 7.7 instead of 7.6.

Students Demand Correction in NEET 2026 Answer Key

Following the release of the provisional answer key, many NEET 2026 aspirants fear that marking 7.6 as the only correct answer could unfairly reduce their scores. Although NTA will provide an objection window to challenge the provisional answer key, students are now requesting NTA to either revise the answer key, or accept both answers as correct and award full 4 marks to all candidates.

The controversy has become especially important because NEET UG is one of India’s most competitive entrance examinations and even a single marks difference can impact the candidate’s All India Rank (AIR), government MBBS seat allotment, and chances of admission into top medical colleges.

How to Challenge the NEET UG 2026 Answer Key

Candidates who believe that the Physics answer should be 7.7 can challenge the provisional answer key through the official NEET portal. Experts have recommended attaching the NCERT references and standard rounding explanations while submitting the challenge. To challenge the provisional answer key of NEET 2026, students can follow these steps:

• Visit the official NEET Website, neet.nta.nic.in

• Click on the “NEET UG 2026 objection window” link

• Log in using application number and password

• Open the “Answer Key Challenge” section.

• Select the disputed Physics question.

• Upload supporting documents or explanations.

• Pay the required challenge fee of Rs.200 and submit the objection.

Can NTA Change the Final NEET 2026 Answer Key?

Yes, NTA can revise answers after reviewing objections submitted by candidates. Every year, the NTA receives thousands of answer key challenges from students across India. If subject experts appointed by NTA find the objection valid, the final answer key of NEET 2026 may be updated before the declaration of results.

In previous years, NTA has revised the provisional answer key after expert review and in some cases has also awarded bonus marks. Therefore, students affected by the 7.6 vs 7.7 issue still have a chance to receive full marks if the objection is accepted by NTA.