The National Medical Commission (NMC) has issued a directive to all medical colleges in India, advising against granting leave to students on May 2 and 3, 2026, ahead of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET UG) scheduled for May 3. This decision, communicated in a public notice dated April 23, 2026, aims to ensure the integrity and smooth conduct of the examination, particularly in light of past incidents where students engaged in activities that compromised the exam's fairness. The NEET UG 2026 will be conducted by the National Testing Agency across 552 cities in India and 14 cities abroad, from 2 pm to 5 pm. Students must arrive at the examination center by 1 pm and are prohibited from bringing any barred items. The NMC has emphasized the need for coordinated efforts among all stakeholders to maintain the examination's sanctity and has instructed colleges to educate students on the importance of adhering to these guidelines.