The cancellation of NEET-UG 2026 has plunged more than 22 lakh candidates into a state of uncertainty, sparking widespread concern over the mental and physical toll on these young aspirants. Students have likely been in a "fight or flight" mode for several months, sustained by cortisol and adrenaline. A sudden cancellation creates a physiological "crash."
The decision has been taken on the basis of inputs examined by the National Testing Agency (NTA) in coordination with the central agencies. The exam was set to be conducted on May 3. On the approval of the Government of India, the revised exam date will be notified later.
Students preparing for the NEET exam go through very meticulous and rigorous preparation for more than a year. Some may have been preparing for this exam for so many years, and there are also those repeating and re-repeating for the exam.
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Dr Arun B. Nair, professor of Psychiatry, Government Medical College, Thiruvanathapuram, opines that it is extremely important for the agency conducting such an exam to take all the precautions to ensure that the question papers are kept very confidential and not leaked to any agents, especially against the backdrop of allegations that commercial coaching institutions are influencing the exams.
"Students appearing for the exam thought that their long-term efforts were finally over, allowing them to relax and pursue the hobbies and interests that had taken a backseat during their preparations," he said. He added that these students are now experiencing extreme stress as the cancellation has created a sense of panic.
Students are likely to experience anxiety, sleeplessness, and stress due to the sudden cancellation of the NEET exam. "Candidates who performed well according to the available answer keys will be shattered, as the next exam may not be conducted in the same manner, and the question patterns could differ," said Dr Arun.
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"Even those who did not perform well are left with little time to regroup, as many had already mentally prepared to take a break or pursue other courses. This uncertainty has pushed them into a confused state of mind that could lead to anxiety, sleep disturbances, and depression," Dr Arun added.
Anticipatory anxiety is another possible issue that may occur. It is an excessive worry, dread, or fear focused on a future event or potential threat.
"Students these days are really worried about their future. These students may develop anticipatory anxiety regarding their performance in the upcoming exam. This fear could lead them to take drastic measures. Therefore, it is important not to pressurise them further. Parents and their mentors should understand this," said Dr Sherin Raj, a psychiatrist based in Delhi.
Dr Neelam Verma, consultant clinical psychologist at Narayana Health, said that the cancellation of the exam would be emotionally distressing to students. "For many students, the exam represents years of discipline, family expectations, identity and also future security. So sudden uncertainty can definitely feel like a loss of control in this situation. The key message here is that their distress is valid, but their preparation is not wasted.
"Students should be encouraged to pause, regulate their routine, limit repeated news checking, continue light revision and also seek support if distress becomes overwhelming for them. An exam may be cancelled, but the student's effort, learning and future are not cancelled. They can definitely continue with sufficient support by the family, and also if needed by a professional counsellor or psychologist," said Verma.
Ways to cope with extreme exam stress
*Keep the mind as calm as possible. Don't overthink, discuss or deliberate about the previous exam. Just focus on the present situation.
*Ensure sleep for six hours every night, as consolidation of memory is very important. Whatever you read and learn during the daytime gets organised in the brain during the night. Not getting adequate sleep can make you feel tired and lethargic, which would affect your performance.
*Practice sleep hygiene techniques. Avoid tea, coffee and cola after 4 pm.
*Exercise with exposure to sunlight for at least one hour.
*Take a shower in cold water.
*Avoid all screen devices for at least one hour before sleeping.
*Practice deep breathing exercises. (Deep inhalation, taking one second and very slow exhalation, taking 5 seconds. Do this 25 times immediately before going to bed and immediately waking up in the morning. This will help to reduce your stress.)