1 in 4 Kerala candidates skips NEET, Rajasthan posts 69% success
Data from the 2026 NEET-UG medical entrance exam shows a significant rise in absenteeism in southern Indian states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu, while Rajasthan has seen increased participation and success rates. Rajasthan continues to solidify its reputation as a primary hub for medical entrance coaching.
Why it matters
The regional disparity in exam participation highlights shifting trends in medical education access and the concentration of coaching infrastructure in specific Indian states.
NEW DELHI: NEET-UG's nationwide attendance fall acquired a regional pattern in 2026, with Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka recording high absenteeism while Rajasthan expanded its candidate base and posted the strongest qualification rate among large states.Kerala had 1.14 lakh registrations, but only 84,664 candidates appeared, leaving 29,122 absent (25.6%). Tamil Nadu lost 33,893 of its 1.42 lakh registrants (23.8%), while Karnataka recorded 28,288 no-shows (19.4%). Maharashtra's absentee rate was lower, but still elevated at 9.8%, with 21,749 candidates staying away. The rates are computed on registrations. The contrast was stark in the north, where absenteeism stood at 7.9% in Rajasthan and 7.6% in UP.
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