The National Testing Agency (NTA) has directed all candidates appearing for NEET-UG 2025, the national-level undergraduate medical entrance examination, to update their Aadhaar cards and obtain an APAAR ID. This measure has been introduced to address allegations of irregularities in previous NEET exams. The Union Ministry of Education has also mandated linking the APAAR ID with NEET-UG applications.

Both Aadhaar and APAAR IDs are now essential for application and other examination-related procedures. This new system will streamline candidate identification and ensure accuracy in personal details.

Ever since the announcement came, APAAR ID has been ranked top on Google Trends along with keywords including 'neet ug', 'nta neet' and 'neet ug 2025'.

What is an APAAR ID?
APAAR (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry) is a 12-digit identity number that serves as a permanent academic record for students. This initiative is part of the 'One Nation, One Student ID' program launched by the government, aligning with the new National Education Policy of 2020. It tracks their academic journey, including examination results, academic bank credits, and benefits like scholarships, there by ensuring a comprehensive and secure academic record system.

So far, over 30 crore APAAR IDs have been generated. Only authorised personnel can access this information, and parents’ consent is mandatory for access.

The introduction of face identification via the APAAR ID will help prevent errors in candidate details and improve efficiency in processes like attendance in examination halls. For candidates, this ensures secure handling of examination details as well.

For assistance, visit the NTA website at https://nta.ac.in or contact their helpline at 011-40759000 or neetug2025@nta.ac.in.

How to obtain an APAAR ID
The responsibility for issuing APAAR IDs to students lies with the schools concerned. Parents must submit a consent letter to the school, and if the candidate is a minor, a guardian must appear in person.

APAAR IDs can be generated using the UDISE system under the Union Ministry of Education’s School Education Department. A 11-digit Permanent Education Number (PEN) is required for this process. For PEN-related details, visit the National Informatics Centre at www.nic.in/blog/personal-education-number.

Once generated, the APAAR ID must be uploaded to the candidate’s Digi Locker account. For more details, visit https://apaar.education.gov.in. For assistance, contact the helpline at 1800-088-93511 or the support centre at https://support.abc.gov.in.

How to update Aadhaar?
Candidates can update their Aadhaar cards by linking them to their SSLC certificates. It is also mandatory to ensure that the mobile number is linked to the Aadhaar card. Key details such as the candidate’s name, date of birth, and facial identification must be accurate. If required, the service of Aadhaar enrolment centres can be made use of to complete the process.

Benefits of APAAR

Transparency and accessibility: Students can access their academic records anytime, from any location.

Real-time updates: Information is updated in real time, ensuring availability of the latest details.

Streamlined information: Includes admission records, examination results, grades, academic achievements, and data on marginalized community candidates.

Enhanced security: While ensuring accessibility, APAAR ID maintains the confidentiality of student information.