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Biology Syllabus - NEET

Biology Syllabus - NEET 2026: Exam Date, Syllabus, Eligibility, Pattern, Registration

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Abhijeet Chatterjee

Updated on December 9, 2025

The NEET 2026 Biology Syllabus carries the highest weightage in the entire NEET UG examination. Biology accounts for 90 questions out of 180 total questions. It contributes 360 marks out of 720 total marks. The National Testing Agency (NTA) released the official NEET 2026 syllabus based on the NCERT curriculum for Class 11 and Class 12. Medical aspirants must thoroughly understand the Biology syllabus to plan their preparation effectively for the May 4, 2026 examination.

The NEET Biology section is divided into two equal parts: Botany and Zoology. Each section contains 45 questions worth 180 marks. The syllabus covers 38 chapters across 10 units from Class 11 and Class 12 NCERT textbooks. Students can download the official NEET 2026 Biology Syllabus PDF from neet.nta.nic.in or nmc.org.in websites.

Table of Contents

NEET Biology Syllabus: Topic-Wise Weightage

Understanding the topic-wise weightage helps students prioritize their preparation. The NEET Biology section contributes 50% of total marks. Certain chapters consistently carry higher weightage based on previous year analysis. Students should allocate more study time to high-weightage topics.

Unit Name

Class

Expected Questions

Expected Marks

Weightage (%)

Diversity in Living World

11

8-10

32-40

9-11%

Structural Organisation in Animals and Plants

11

5-7

20-28

6-8%

Cell Structure and Function

11

8-10

32-40

9-11%

Plant Physiology

11

10-12

40-48

11-13%

Human Physiology

11

12-15

48-60

13-17%

Reproduction

12

8-10

32-40

9-11%

Genetics and Evolution

12

15-18

60-72

17-20%

Biology and Human Welfare

12

5-7

20-28

6-8%

Biotechnology and Its Applications

12

6-8

24-32

7-9%

Ecology and Environment

12

12-15

48-60

13-17%

High-Scoring Topics in NEET 2026 Biology Syllabus

Certain topics consistently yield more questions in NEET Biology. Focusing on these high-scoring topics can significantly improve overall marks. These chapters form approximately 60-70% of the Biology section.

Most Important Chapters for NEET Biology 2026

Chapter Name

Class

Expected Questions

Priority Level

Molecular Basis of Inheritance

12

6-8

Very High

Principles of Inheritance and Variation

12

5-7

Very High

Human Reproduction

12

4-6

Very High

Ecosystem

12

4-5

High

Biotechnology: Principles and Processes

12

3-5

High

Plant Kingdom

11

3-5

High

Animal Kingdom

11

5-7

Very High

Cell: The Unit of Life

11

3-5

High

Biomolecules

11

3-5

High

Digestion and Absorption

11

2-4

Medium-High

Breathing and Exchange of Gases

11

2-3

Medium

Body Fluids and Circulation

11

2-4

Medium-High

Evolution

12

3-4

High

Human Health and Disease

12

3-5

High

Biodiversity and Conservation

12

2-4

Medium-High

Deleted Topics from NEET 2026 Biology Syllabus

The National Medical Commission (NMC) revised the NEET Biology syllabus by removing approximately 5-7% of the content. These deletions were introduced in 2024 and continued for NEET 2026. Students should not waste time studying deleted topics.

Class 11 Biology Deleted Topics

Chapter

Deleted Topics

The Living World

Three domains of life; Tools for study of Taxonomy (Museums, Zoos, Herbaria, Botanical gardens)

Biological Classification

Angiosperms classification up to class with characteristic features and examples

Structural Organisation in Animals

Morphology, anatomy, and functions of digestive, circulatory, respiratory, nervous, and reproductive systems of cockroach

Transport in Plants

Long-distance transport (Absorption, Apoplast, Symplast, Transpiration pull, Root pressure, Guttation)

Mineral Nutrition

Uptake and translocation of mineral nutrients; Transport of food; Phloem transport; Mass flow hypothesis

Plant Growth and Development

Vernalization; Seed dormancy

Digestion and Absorption

Detailed alimentary canal; Gastrointestinal hormones; Peristalsis; Absorption of carbohydrates and fats

Neural Control and Coordination

Reflex actions; Sense organs (detailed structure and function of eye and ear)

Class 12 Biology Deleted Topics

Chapter

Deleted Topics

Reproduction in Organisms

Entire chapter removed (Modes of reproduction; Asexual reproduction)

Strategies for Enhancement in Food Production

Entire chapter removed (Animal husbandry; Plant breeding; Single cell proteins; Tissue culture)

Environmental Issues

Radioactive waste management; Greenhouse effect and global warming; Ozone depletion; Deforestation

Organisms and Populations

Population and ecological adaptations; Population interactions detailed

Ecosystem

Ecological succession; Nutrient cycling (Carbon and Phosphorus cycles)

Microbes in Human Welfare

Tobacco abuse and its effects

Newly Added Topics in NEET 2026 Biology Syllabus

  • Classification and nomenclature of enzymes
  • Protein biosynthesis
  • Dengue and Chikungunya (detailed)
  • Pathogens causing human diseases
  • Sacred groves

NEET 2026 Biology Exam Pattern

The NEET 2026 exam will be conducted on May 4, 2026, in offline (pen-and-paper) mode. Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for effective time management during the examination.

Particulars

Details

Exam Mode

Offline (Pen and Paper)

Exam Duration

3 hours (180 minutes)

Total Questions

180 (compulsory)

Biology Questions

90 (45 Botany + 45 Zoology)

Total Marks

720

Biology Marks

360 (180 Botany + 180 Zoology)

Marks per Correct Answer

+4

Marks per Wrong Answer

-1 (Negative Marking)

Marks for Unanswered

0

Question Type

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Medium of Exam

13 Languages (English, Hindi, and 11 Regional Languages)

Biology Section Structure in NEET 2026

Section

Total Questions

Total Marks

Botany

45

180

Zoology

45

180

Total Biology

90

360

Preparation Tips for the NEET 2026 Biology Exam

Biology is considered the most scoring subject in NEET. Strategic preparation can help students achieve 300+ marks in Biology. Following proven preparation strategies ensures comprehensive coverage and better retention.

Essential Preparation Strategies

  • NCERT is the Bible: Read NCERT Biology Class 11 and 12 textbooks line by line. Approximately 90-95% of Biology questions come directly or indirectly from NCERT.
  • Focus on Diagrams: Practice and memorize all diagrams, flowcharts, and labeling. Many questions are diagram-based.
  • Create Short Notes: Prepare concise notes for each chapter including definitions, scientific names, examples, and exceptions.
  • Solve Previous Year Questions: Practice at least 10 years of NEET Biology previous year papers to understand question patterns.
  • Regular Revision: Revise each chapter at least 3-4 times before the exam. Biology requires repetitive reinforcement.
  • Time Management: Complete Biology section in 40-45 minutes during actual exam to save time for Physics and Chemistry.
  • Focus on Tables: Memorize comparison tables, disease tables, and classification tables thoroughly.
  • Use Mnemonics: Create memory techniques for remembering sequences, classifications, and lists.

NEET 2026 Biology Syllabus: Complete Breakdown

Class 11 NEET Biology Syllabus

Unit

Chapters

Key Topics

Diversity in Living World

The Living World, Biological Classification, Plant Kingdom, Animal Kingdom

What is living; Taxonomy; Five kingdom classification; Viruses; Viroids; Lichens; Salient features of plant and animal kingdoms

Structural Organisation in Plants and Animals

Morphology of Flowering Plants, Anatomy of Flowering Plants, Structural Organisation in Animals

Root, stem, leaf, flower morphology; Tissues; Anatomy of dicot and monocot; Animal tissues

Cell Structure and Function

Cell: The Unit of Life, Biomolecules, Cell Cycle and Cell Division

Cell theory; Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells; Organelles; Carbohydrates; Proteins; Lipids; Nucleic acids; Enzymes; Mitosis; Meiosis

Plant Physiology

Transport in Plants, Mineral Nutrition, Photosynthesis in Higher Plants, Respiration in Plants, Plant Growth and Development

Water transport; Transpiration; Essential minerals; Photosynthesis mechanism; Glycolysis; Krebs cycle; Plant hormones

Human Physiology

Digestion and Absorption, Breathing and Exchange of Gases, Body Fluids and Circulation, Excretory Products and Elimination, Locomotion and Movement, Neural Control and Coordination, Chemical Coordination and Integration

Digestive system; Respiratory system; Blood; Heart; Kidney; Skeletal system; Muscular system; Nervous system; Endocrine system

Class 12 NEET Biology Syllabus

Unit

Chapters

Key Topics

Reproduction

Sexual Reproduction in Flowering Plants, Human Reproduction, Reproductive Health

Flower structure; Pollination; Fertilization; Male and female reproductive systems; Gametogenesis; Menstrual cycle; Pregnancy; Contraception

Genetics and Evolution

Principles of Inheritance and Variation, Molecular Basis of Inheritance, Evolution

Mendel's laws; Inheritance patterns; DNA replication; Transcription; Translation; Genetic code; Origin of life; Evidences of evolution; Human evolution

Biology and Human Welfare

Human Health and Disease, Microbes in Human Welfare

Pathogens; Diseases; Immunity; AIDS; Cancer; Drugs; Microbes in food; Industrial products; Biogas; Sewage treatment

Biotechnology and Its Applications

Biotechnology: Principles and Processes, Biotechnology and Its Applications

Genetic engineering; rDNA technology; PCR; Gene cloning; Transgenic animals; Biopiracy; GMOs; Gene therapy

Ecology and Environment

Organisms and Populations, Ecosystem, Biodiversity and Conservation

Organism and environment; Population attributes; Ecosystem structure; Food chain; Ecological pyramids; Biodiversity; Conservation strategies

NEET Biology Study Notes

Effective note-making is essential for NEET Biology preparation. Well-organized notes help in quick revision before the exam.

Tips for Making Effective Biology Notes

  • Use different colored pens for headings, definitions, and examples
  • Include all diagrams with proper labeling
  • Create comparison tables for similar topics
  • Write scientific names separately with correct spellings
  • List all exceptions and special cases
  • Add previous year question patterns for each topic
  • Keep notes concise (maximum 2-3 pages per chapter)
  • Include flowcharts for biological processes

Best Books for NEET 2026 Biology Syllabus

Selecting the right books is crucial for NEET Biology preparation. NCERT should be the primary resource followed by reference books for practice.

Book Name

Author/Publisher

Purpose

NCERT Biology Class 11

NCERT

Primary Resource (Must Read)

NCERT Biology Class 12

NCERT

Primary Resource (Must Read)

Trueman's Elementary Biology Vol. 1 & 2

K.N. Bhatia & M.P. Tyagi

Conceptual Clarity and Practice

Objective Biology

Dinesh Publications

MCQ Practice

MTG NCERT at Your Fingertips - Biology

MTG Editorial Board

NCERT-Based MCQ Practice

Pradeep's Biology

Pradeep Publications

Detailed Concepts

Objective Botany

Ansari

Botany Practice

GR Bathla Publications Biology

G.R. Bathla

Theory and Objective

35 Years NEET Chapter-wise PYQs

MTG/Disha

Previous Year Practice

Class 11 Biology Topic-Wise Weightage

Class 11 Biology contributes approximately 45-50% of total Biology questions in NEET. Understanding chapter-wise weightage helps prioritize preparation.

Chapter

Expected Questions

Weightage (%)

Difficulty

The Living World

1-2

2-3%

Easy

Biological Classification

2-3

3-4%

Moderate

Plant Kingdom

3-5

5-7%

Moderate

Animal Kingdom

5-7

7-9%

Moderate-High

Morphology of Flowering Plants

2-3

3-4%

Easy

Anatomy of Flowering Plants

2-3

3-4%

Moderate

Structural Organisation in Animals

2-3

3-4%

Moderate

Cell: The Unit of Life

3-5

5-6%

Moderate

Biomolecules

3-5

5-6%

Moderate

Cell Cycle and Cell Division

2-4

3-5%

Moderate

Photosynthesis in Higher Plants

3-4

4-5%

Moderate-High

Respiration in Plants

2-3

3-4%

Moderate

Plant Growth and Development

2-3

3-4%

Easy-Moderate

Digestion and Absorption

2-4

3-5%

Easy

Breathing and Exchange of Gases

2-3

3-4%

Easy

Body Fluids and Circulation

2-4

3-5%

Moderate

Excretory Products and Elimination

2-3

3-4%

Moderate

Locomotion and Movement

2-3

3-4%

Easy-Moderate

Neural Control and Coordination

3-4

4-5%

Moderate-High

Chemical Coordination and Integration

2-3

3-4%

Moderate

Class 12 Biology Topic-Wise Weightage

Class 12 Biology contributes approximately 50-55% of total Biology questions. Genetics and Evolution carries the highest weightage from Class 12.

Chapter

Expected Questions

Weightage (%)

Difficulty

Sexual Reproduction in Flowering Plants

3-5

4-6%

Moderate

Human Reproduction

4-6

5-7%

Moderate

Reproductive Health

2-3

3-4%

Easy

Principles of Inheritance and Variation

5-7

7-9%

Moderate-High

Molecular Basis of Inheritance

6-8

8-10%

High

Evolution

3-4

4-5%

Moderate

Human Health and Disease

3-5

4-6%

Easy-Moderate

Microbes in Human Welfare

2-3

3-4%

Easy

Biotechnology: Principles and Processes

3-5

4-6%

Moderate-High

Biotechnology and Its Applications

2-4

3-5%

Moderate

Organisms and Populations

3-4

4-5%

Easy-Moderate

Ecosystem

4-5

5-6%

Easy-Moderate

Biodiversity and Conservation

2-4

3-5%

Easy

NEET 2026 Botany Marks Distribution

Botany constitutes 50% of the NEET Biology section with 45 questions worth 180 marks. The distribution covers chapters from both Class 11 and Class 12.

Unit/Topic Area

Expected Questions

Expected Marks

Key Chapters

Plant Diversity

5-8

20-32

Biological Classification, Plant Kingdom

Plant Morphology and Anatomy

4-6

16-24

Morphology of Flowering Plants, Anatomy of Flowering Plants

Cell Biology (Plant-related)

4-6

16-24

Cell Structure, Biomolecules, Cell Division

Plant Physiology

8-12

32-48

Photosynthesis, Respiration, Plant Growth

Plant Reproduction

3-5

12-20

Sexual Reproduction in Flowering Plants

Genetics (Plant-related)

5-7

20-28

Principles of Inheritance, Molecular Basis of Inheritance

Ecology (Plant-related)

6-8

24-32

Ecosystem, Biodiversity

Biotechnology

4-6

16-24

Biotechnology Principles and Applications

NEET 2026 Zoology Marks Distribution

Zoology constitutes 50% of the NEET Biology section with 45 questions worth 180 marks. Human Physiology and Genetics carry the highest weightage in Zoology.

Unit/Topic Area

Expected Questions

Expected Marks

Key Chapters

Animal Diversity

5-7

20-28

Animal Kingdom

Structural Organisation in Animals

2-4

8-16

Animal Tissues

Human Physiology

12-15

48-60

Digestion, Respiration, Circulation, Excretion, Neural Control, Endocrine System

Human Reproduction

5-7

20-28

Human Reproduction, Reproductive Health

Genetics and Evolution

8-10

32-40

Inheritance, Molecular Genetics, Evolution

Human Health and Disease

3-5

12-20

Diseases, Immunity, AIDS, Cancer

Microbes in Human Welfare

2-3

8-12

Useful Microbes

Preparation Strategy for Scoring 340+ in NEET Biology in One Month

Scoring 340+ marks in NEET Biology within one month requires focused preparation on high-weightage topics and extensive revision. This strategy is suitable for students who have already completed the syllabus at least once.

Week-by-Week Study Plan

Week

Focus Areas

Activities

Week 1

Genetics, Evolution, Biotechnology

Revise NCERT thoroughly; Solve 100+ MCQs daily; Focus on DNA replication, transcription, translation, Mendelian genetics, rDNA technology

Week 2

Human Physiology, Reproduction

Complete all diagrams; Memorize hormones and their functions; Practice circulatory system, nervous system, reproductive system questions

Week 3

Ecology, Plant Physiology, Diversity

Master food chains, ecological pyramids; Revise photosynthesis, respiration; Complete Animal Kingdom and Plant Kingdom classification

Week 4

Revision and Mock Tests

Solve 5-6 full-length mock tests; Analyze mistakes; Quick revision using short notes; Focus on weak areas identified in mock tests

Daily Schedule for One-Month Preparation

  • Morning (6 AM - 9 AM): Read NCERT chapters (fresh mind for new concepts)
  • Mid-Morning (10 AM - 1 PM): Solve MCQs and previous year questions
  • Afternoon (3 PM - 6 PM): Diagram practice and table memorization
  • Evening (7 PM - 9 PM): Revision of morning topics using short notes
  • Night (10 PM - 11 PM): Quick flashcard revision before sleep

Key Tips for 340+ in One Month

  • Read NCERT Biology 3-5 times focusing on examples, diagrams, and boxed text
  • Solve minimum 50-100 MCQs daily from each chapter
  • Take 2-3 full-length mock tests every week
  • Analyze every mistake and note down weak areas
  • Focus 70% time on high-weightage chapters (Genetics, Human Physiology, Ecology)
  • Create one-page summary for each chapter for last-day revision
  • Memorize all scientific names, diseases, hormones, and enzymes
  • Sleep adequately (6-7 hours) for better retention

NEET Biology Previous Year Question Paper Analysis

Analyzing previous year question papers reveals important patterns and frequently asked topics. Students should solve at least 10 years of NEET Biology papers.

Year

Difficulty Level

Most Questions From

Observation

NEET 2024

Easy to Moderate

Genetics, Human Physiology, Ecology

More NCERT-based direct questions; Lengthy paper

NEET 2023

Moderate

Molecular Biology, Plant Physiology, Human Reproduction

Conceptual questions increased; Diagram-based questions

NEET 2022

Moderate to Difficult

Genetics, Biotechnology, Ecology

Application-based questions; NCERT examples asked

NEET 2021

Moderate

Human Physiology, Genetics, Animal Kingdom

Balanced paper; Statement-based questions

NEET 2020

Easy to Moderate

Genetics, Human Physiology, Reproduction

Direct NCERT questions; Less calculation-based

Previous Year Questions Download Resources

  • Official NTA website: neet.nta.nic.in 
  • MTG 35 Years NEET Chapter-wise Solved Papers
  • Disha NEET Previous Year Papers
  • Allen Test Series Question Banks
  • Aakash NEET Archives

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is NCERT enough for NEET Biology 2026?

Yes, NCERT is sufficient for NEET Biology. Approximately 90-95% of Biology questions come directly or indirectly from NCERT textbooks. Students should read NCERT Biology Class 11 and Class 12 line by line, including diagrams, examples, and boxed information. Additional reference books like Trueman's Biology and MTG Fingertips are useful only for MCQ practice after completing NCERT.

2. How many questions come from Class 11 and Class 12 in NEET Biology?

NEET Biology has 90 questions divided almost equally between Class 11 and Class 12. Typically, 40-45 questions come from Class 11 (Diversity, Cell Biology, Plant Physiology, Human Physiology) and 45-50 questions from Class 12 (Reproduction, Genetics, Ecology, Biotechnology). Class 12 chapters like Molecular Basis of Inheritance and Principles of Inheritance carry slightly higher weightage.

3. Which chapters should I focus on for scoring maximum marks in NEET Biology?

High-scoring chapters include Molecular Basis of Inheritance (6-8 questions), Principles of Inheritance and Variation (5-7 questions), Human Physiology chapters (12-15 questions combined), Animal Kingdom (5-7 questions), Ecology (10-12 questions), and Biotechnology (5-7 questions). Mastering these chapters can fetch you approximately 200-220 marks out of 360. Never skip NCERT examples and diagrams from these chapters.

4. How to prepare Biology for NEET in the last 30 days?

In the last 30 days, focus on revision rather than learning new topics. Read NCERT at least 2-3 times during this period. Solve 50-100 MCQs daily from previous year papers. Take full-length mock tests every alternate day. Create one-page summaries for quick revision. Focus 70% of your time on high-weightage chapters. Practice all diagrams and memorize scientific names, diseases, and enzyme classifications.

5. What is the ideal time to complete Biology section in NEET exam?

Students should complete the Biology section in 40-50 minutes during the actual exam. This leaves adequate time for Physics and Chemistry. Biology questions are relatively easier and direct from NCERT. Start the exam with Biology as it builds confidence. Attempt Botany first followed by Zoology. Do not spend more than 30 seconds on a single question. Mark doubtful questions for review and move on.

6. Can I score 300+ marks in NEET Biology without coaching?

Yes, scoring 300+ marks in NEET Biology is achievable without coaching. Self-study using NCERT textbooks forms the foundation. Students on platforms like Reddit and Quora have reported achieving 320-340 marks through self-study by following a disciplined study schedule. Key requirements include multiple NCERT readings, solving 10+ years of previous papers, and taking regular mock tests. Online resources like YouTube lectures and free test series supplement self-preparation effectively.

7. Are deleted topics from NEET Biology syllabus completely removed?

Yes, deleted topics will not be directly asked in NEET 2026. Topics like Three Domains of Life, Cockroach anatomy (detailed), and Environmental Issues (Ozone depletion, Greenhouse effect) have been removed. However, students should understand that Biology is interconnected. Basic understanding of deleted topics helps comprehend related concepts. For example, understanding Mineral Nutrition helps in Plant Physiology questions. Do not waste extensive time on deleted topics but maintain basic clarity.

8. How important are diagrams in NEET Biology?

Diagrams are extremely important in NEET Biology. Approximately 10-15 questions are directly diagram-based. Questions involve identifying parts, labeling structures, and matching diagrams with functions. Important diagrams include human heart structure, nephron, neuron, cell organelles, flower parts, DNA structure, and reproductive system diagrams. Practice drawing and labeling diagrams daily. Many students lose marks due to poor diagram preparation.

9. What books should I refer to after completing NCERT for NEET Biology?

After completing NCERT, refer to MTG NCERT at Your Fingertips for NCERT-based MCQ practice. Trueman's Elementary Biology provides conceptual clarity and additional practice. For previous year questions, use MTG or Disha 35 Years Chapter-wise PYQs. For weak topics, refer to coaching modules from Allen, Aakash, or Physics Wallah. Avoid studying from too many books. Stick to NCERT + one MCQ book + PYQ book for comprehensive preparation.

10. Is it possible to score 360 marks (full marks) in NEET Biology?

Scoring 360 marks in NEET Biology is challenging but achievable. NEET toppers have scored 350-360 marks in Biology. This requires reading NCERT at least 5-7 times, memorizing every diagram and example, solving thousands of MCQs, and excellent time management during the exam. Avoid silly mistakes and careless reading of questions. Focus on accuracy over speed. Many students lose 20-40 marks due to careless errors rather than lack of knowledge.

 

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