NTA asks colleges to host JEE, NEET, CUET exams: 285 computers needed, apply by Dec 6
By TUF News Desk · Published 8 November 2026 · 3 min read
Fact-checked against 2+ independent sources · Editorial policy
The National Testing Agency wants more places to hold its exams. On November 7 it invited schools, colleges, universities and testing agencies across the country to apply as exam centres, and the window stays open till December 6, 2026.
The centres will host NTA’s largest exams in computer-based and pen-and-paper modes: NEET UG, JEE Main, CUET, UGC NET and CSIR NET. The call comes as NTA continues an overhaul of its exam system that followed the NEET paper leak row, and a wider network of venues is part of that work.
What a centre needs
The bar is set in numbers. A computer-based centre must have at least 285 workstations per shift, spread across at least four separate computer labs or halls of 30 workstations each, or an equivalent arrangement. A pen-and-paper centre needs seating for at least 250 candidates per shift, across at least six separate halls of 40 candidates each, or the equivalent.
Smaller computer centres are not shut out. NTA said centres with fewer than 285 workstations can also apply, but they will be considered only in locations where exam centres are in short supply.
Who can apply
The invitation covers government, aided and private schools, colleges and universities. Institutes of National Importance such as IITs, NITs, IIITs, IIMs, IISERs and AIIMS are eligible, along with polytechnics and ITIs, government training and skill development centres, and testing agencies with dedicated centres.
How to apply
Institutions apply through the official EoI portal, where the detailed expression of interest notice is also available. The notice sets out the full infrastructure and eligibility requirements, so an institution should read it before applying. The last date for applications is December 6, 2026.
NTA opened a separate call the same day for exam observers, aimed at serving and retired government officials, teachers and armed forces personnel. Our report on the observer empanelment has the eligibility rules and age limits for that drive.
What it means for students
For candidates, the practical hope is shorter travel and more seats in each exam shift. JEE Main 2027 Session 1 runs from January 20 to 28, so the new centres could be in use within weeks of the empanelment closing. The admit card and a valid photo ID remain the two documents every candidate must carry on exam day, and our admission documents checklist covers what exam portals usually ask for.
Frequently asked questions
What is the last date to apply for NTA exam centre empanelment?
December 6, 2026. Institutions apply through the official EoI portal, eoi.nta.gov.in.
How many workstations does a computer-based exam centre need?
At least 285 workstations per shift, spread across at least four separate computer labs or halls of 30 workstations each, or an equivalent setup.
Which exams will the empanelled centres host?
NEET UG, JEE Main, CUET, UGC NET and CSIR NET, in computer-based and pen-and-paper modes.
Can a smaller centre apply?
Yes. Centres with fewer than 285 workstations can apply, but NTA will consider them only in places where exam centres are in short supply.
Frequently asked questions
What is the last date to apply for NTA exam centre empanelment?
December 6, 2026. Institutions apply through the official EoI portal, eoi.nta.gov.in.
How many workstations does a computer-based exam centre need?
At least 285 workstations per shift, spread across at least four separate computer labs or halls of 30 workstations each, or an equivalent setup.
Which exams will the empanelled centres host?
NEET UG, JEE Main, CUET, UGC NET and CSIR NET, in computer-based and pen-and-paper modes.
Can a smaller centre apply?
Yes. Centres with fewer than 285 workstations can apply, but NTA will consider them only in places where exam centres are in short supply.
Sources: The Indian Express, Careers360