Exam overview Background
Logo

INI CET

INI CET Exam Pattern 2026: Structure, Marking Scheme & Syllabus

Updated on June 16, 2026

INI CET Exam Pattern 2026 outlines a single-stage, online computer-based test featuring 200 multiple-choice questions, to be completed within 180 minutes for a total of 200 marks. This examination applies negative marking, generally deducting 1/3 mark for each incorrect answer, though specific question types may vary. The paper is divided into four sections, each with 50 questions and a 45-minute time limit, preventing candidates from revisiting previous parts. Understanding this structure is essential for aspirants.

Table of Contents

INI CET Exam Pattern 2026: Overview of Test Format and Structure

The INI CET Exam Pattern 2026 details a single-stage, online computer-based test. This examination comprises 200 multiple-choice questions, to be completed within 180 minutes, for a total of 200 marks. Negative marking is applied, with 1/3 mark deducted for each incorrect answer.

Particular INI CET Exam Pattern 2026 Details
Mode of Examination Online CBT - Computer Bases Test
Number of Stages One
Total Number of Papers One
Type of Questions Objective Type Questions - Single Correct Choice - Multiple Correct Choice
Exam Duration 3 Hours (180 minutes) * 20 minutes per hour compensatory time for PwBD candidates.
Total Number of Questions 200
INI CET Total Marks 200
Medium / Languages English
Marking Scheme - For every correct choice: 1 - For every incorrect choice: -1/3 * No negative marking for unattempted questions.
Number of Sections/Parts 4
Questions per Section 50
Sectional Time Limit Each part of the question paper has a duration of 45 minutes. Only one part will be visible at a given duration. Once the given time is over, candidates will not be able to see or edit the selected answers of the previous part.
Subjects Covered Pre-clinical (Biochemistry, Physiology, Anatomy), Para-clinical (Pathology, Microbiology, Forensic Medicine, Pharmacology, Community Medicine), and Clinical (Obstetrics, Gynaecology, Community Medicine, Paediatrics, Clinical Postings, Surgery & Allied Subjects, Medicine & Allied Subjects) subjects from the undergraduate medical curriculum.
Calculators Allowed No
Rough Sheets Provided at the exam center for calculations.

The table above provides a comprehensive overview of the INI CET Exam Pattern 2026, highlighting its online format, detailed marking scheme, and the structured division into four timed sections. This structure emphasizes both subject knowledge across medical disciplines and time management skills.

INI CET 2026 Marking Scheme: Positive, Negative, and Unattempted Marks

The INI CET 2026 marking scheme generally awards 1 mark for each correct answer, while deducting 1/3 mark for every incorrect response. Unattempted questions receive no marks, neither added nor deducted. This section details the positive, negative, and unattempted marks for the INI CET Exam Pattern 2026.

Type of question Marking scheme Examples
Single best answer 1 mark is granted for every correct answer while 1/3 mark is subtracted for every incorrect answer Bile helps in _________ a) Breaking down of nucleic acids b) Digestion of proteins c) Emulsification of fats d) Phagocytosis Answer: C
Multiple completion 1 mark is granted for every correct answer while 1/4 mark is subtracted for every incorrect answer Such questions will have responses like (1) If a and c are correct (2) If a, b, c are correct (3) If b and d are correct (4) If all four (a, b, c, & d) are correct
Match the following 1/4 mark is granted for every correct answer while 1/4 mark is subtracted for every incorrect answer -
Multiple true-false 1/5 mark is granted for every correct answer while 1/5 mark is subtracted for every incorrect answer -
Sequential arrangement 1 mark is granted for every correct answer while 1 mark is subtracted for every incorrect answer -
Extended matching items/questions 1/2 mark is granted for every correct answer while 1/2 mark is subtracted for every incorrect answer -
Reason assertion 1 mark is granted for every correct answer while 1/4 mark is subtracted for every incorrect answer -

This table illustrates the varied marking rules across different question types in the INI CET Exam Pattern 2026, highlighting that both positive and negative marks can differ substantially based on the question format.

INI CET Question Paper Pattern 2026: Types of Questions and Sections

The INI CET Exam Pattern 2026 features a single online paper comprising 200 multiple-choice questions, to be completed within 180 minutes. This section details the structure, question types, and marking scheme for the examination conducted by AIIMS Delhi.

Particulars INI CET Pattern
Mode of Exam Online (Computer-Based Test)
Number of Stages One
Total Number of Papers One
Types of Questions Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQ)
Duration of Exam 180 minutes (3 hours)
Total Marks 200
Medium of Exam English
Negative Marking Yes

The examination is divided into 4 sections, each containing 50 questions and allotted 45 minutes. Each section combines preclinical, para-clinical, and clinical questions, and revisiting a part after completion is not possible.

The syllabus covers Pre-clinical, Para-clinical, and Clinical subjects from the undergraduate medical curriculum.

  • Pre-clinical Subjects: Biochemistry, Physiology, Anatomy
  • Para-clinical Subjects: Pathology, Microbiology, Forensic Medicine, Pharmacology, Community Medicine
  • Clinical Subjects: Obstetrics, Gynaecology, Community Medicine, Paediatrics, Clinical Postings, Surgery & Allied Subjects, Medicine & Allied Subjects

Clinical vignettes, presenting patient scenarios, are the dominant question type, reaching 55-65% in the 2024 and 2025 sessions. Image-based questions are also common, comprising 30 to 40 questions (about 15 to 20 percent) in the 2024 and 2025 sessions.

  • Image Examples: Histopathology slides, X-rays, CT scans, ECGs, blood smears, fundoscopy, dermatological photographs

Other question types include Extended Matching Questions (EMQs), Assertion-Reason type Questions (ARQs), Multiple completion, Match the following, Multiple true-false, and Sequential arrangement.

Type of question Marking scheme
Single best answer 1 mark is granted for every correct answer while 1/3 mark is subtracted for every incorrect answer
Multiple completion 1 mark is granted for every correct answer while 1/4 mark is subtracted for every incorrect answer
Match the following 1/4 mark is granted for every correct answer while 1/4 mark is subtracted for every incorrect answer
Multiple true-false 1/5 mark is granted for every correct answer while 1/5 mark is subtracted for every incorrect answer
Sequential arrangement 1 mark is granted for every correct answer while 1 mark is subtracted for every incorrect answer
Extended matching items/questions 1/2 mark is granted for every correct answer while 1/2 mark is subtracted for every incorrect answer
Reason assertion 1 mark is granted for every correct answer while 1/4 mark is subtracted for every incorrect answer

This detailed marking scheme illustrates the varied positive and negative marking rules applied across different question formats in the INI CET exam.

Candidates scoring over 85% are recommended to attempt 170 to 185 out of 200 questions. Random guessing can be detrimental to the score if more than 15 to 20 questions are guessed.

Mastering INI CET 2026 Exam Pattern: Effective Preparation Strategies

INI CET Exam Pattern 2026: Detailed Overview

The INI CET Exam Pattern 2026 will feature a significant structural change, continuing the format introduced in January 2024. The exam will consist of 200 questions divided into four distinct sections, each with specific time limits and no option to revisit previous parts.

  • Exam Format: 200 questions, four sections, 50 questions per section, 45 minutes each, no revisits.
  • Clinical Vignettes: Projected 55 to 65 percent of questions for 2026 sessions.
  • Image-Based Questions: 30 to 40 questions per paper, 15 to 20 percent of total questions.
  • Question Type: Shifted from simple recall to real-life scenarios requiring application of knowledge.
  • Pharmacology Trend: Focus on real-life scenarios for medicine choice with multiple health issues.
  • Microbiology Trend: Questions emphasize vaccine schedules and laboratory tests.

Beyond these structural and content shifts, specific subject areas also show evolving question patterns, reflecting a move towards more integrated and practical knowledge.

Subject Area Question Trend
Biochemistry More about molecular biology and genetics.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to prepare for INI CET 2026?

Prepare for INI CET November 2026 by mastering the full MBBS/BDS curriculum. Understand the 200-MCQ, 3-hour computer-based test in English with a +1/–⅓ marking scheme.

What are effective preparation strategies for INI CET 2026?

For INI CET 2026, adopt a structured, phase-wise strategy. Focus on clinical subjects (45–50% weightage), practice PYQs and image-based questions daily, and take regular mock tests, prioritizing concept clarity and revision.

What is the step-by-step process to prepare for INI CET 2026?

Prepare by checking exam details, completing AIIMS online Basic and Final Registration, then follow a strategy with Qbank, video lectures, and revision for INI CET 2026.

What is INI CET Exam Pattern 2026?

The INI CET Exam Pattern 2026 for MBBS graduates pursuing PG courses includes question trends, subject-wise weightage, image-based questions, and a scoring strategy.

What are the eligibility requirements for INI CET Exam Pattern 2026?

Candidates must complete a 12-month internship by January 31, 2026. General/OBC/EWS require 55% aggregate in MBBS/BDS, while SC/ST need 50%.

How do I apply for INI CET Exam Pattern 2026?

Apply for INI CET 2026 when registration opens, expected in September 2026. Details on the application process will be available at that time.

READ MORE