NTA Releases Provisional Answer Keys for GAT-B and BET 2026
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially released the provisional answer keys for the Biotechnology Eligibility Test (BET) and the Graduate Aptitude Test in Biotechnology (GAT-B) 2026. Along with the answer keys, the agency has also published the question papers and the recorded responses of all candidates who appeared for the examinations. This release allows test-takers to verify their answers and raise objections if they identify any discrepancies in the questions or the answer options provided.
Candidates who participated in the exams can now cross-check their responses against the provisional keys. If any candidate believes there is an error in a question or an answer, they are permitted to submit a formal challenge within the stipulated deadline. Once the objection window closes and all challenges are reviewed, the NTA will release the final answer keys followed by the results.
Exam Conducted Across 54 Cities and 79 Centres
The computer-based tests were held on 17 May 2026 at 79 examination centres spread across 54 cities nationwide. According to official records, a total of 26,662 candidates had registered for the examinations. The large-scale conduct of the test reflects the significant interest among aspirants seeking eligibility in the field of biotechnology.
Challenge Fee and Submission Window
The NTA has opened the objection facility for candidates wishing to contest any answer in the provisional key. A non-refundable fee of ₹200 per question will be charged for each challenge submitted. The objection window opened on 23 May 2026 and will remain active until 11:50 PM on 24 May 2026. Candidates must complete their payment through debit card, credit card, net banking, or UPI within this timeframe. Challenges submitted without successful payment will not be considered valid.
The agency has advised candidates to carefully review their question IDs in a sequential manner while raising objections. This step is important to ensure that the correct questions are referenced during the challenge process.
Exam Structure and Question Distribution
The GAT-B examination consists of two parts: Part A contains 60 questions, while Part B includes 100 questions. In contrast, the BET examination features a different distribution, with Part A comprising 50 questions and Part B containing 150 questions. Candidates should be aware of this structure when reviewing their answer keys and preparing their objections.
Step-by-Step Guide to Submit an Objection
Candidates can follow the procedure outlined below to file their challenges against the provisional answer keys:
- Visit the official NTA website for GAT-B and BET examinations.
- Click on the link labelled “Challenge Regarding Answer Key” on the homepage.
- Log in using your application number and password.
- Select “View Question Paper” to access and download or print your question booklet along with your recorded responses.
- Click on “View/Challenge Answer Key” to proceed.
- Select “Save Your Objections” to begin the process.
- Choose the correct answer option and upload supporting documents in PDF format, ensuring the file size does not exceed 500 KB.
- Click on “Save Challenge and Pay Fee” to complete the submission.
- Once the payment is successfully processed, your objection will be recorded. Keep a copy of the payment receipt for future reference.
Candidates are encouraged to act promptly and submit their challenges well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues. The NTA will review all valid objections and subsequently publish the final answer keys, which will serve as the basis for declaring the results. Aspirants are advised to monitor the official website for further updates regarding the result announcement and subsequent counselling procedures.
