NEET vs JEE: Which is Better? Difficulty Level, Differences
NEET vs JEE - Which is Better? Find out which of the two exams you should be aiming for after the 12th grade. Also, compare NEET vs JEE key differences in terms of eligibility criteria, salary etc. in this article.
NEET vs JEE: Which is Better? Is a common question that comes to the mind of students who have cleared their higher secondary exams. In India, both the JEE and NEET exams are considered to be the toughest and prestigious entrance exams in India. Applicants have the option to choose either the NEET or JEE exams to start their journey toward a bright future. However, there are major differences between the two. In order to understand NEET vs JEE which is better, we need to make a thorough comparison between the two entrance exams. The key difference between NEET and JEE is that the former is the entrance exam for medical studies, while the latter is the entrance test for engineering courses.
The NEET vs JEE eligibility criteria are mostly similar, except for JEE students having to study Mathematics at the 10+2 level instead of Biology. To understand the concept of NEET vs JEE: Which is Better, students must go through the syllabus for both the exams. Apart from that, the personal interests of the applicants are also to be considered. If applicants are more interested in studying engineering subjects, they should appear for the JEE exam. On the other hand, applicants who are planning to study medicine, have to clear the NEET 2025 Exam. Read the article below for more detailed information on NEET vs JEE: Which is Better, exam pattern, syllabus, selection process, and other latest updates.
Latest - Free NEET 2025 Practice Questions with SolutionsNEET vs JEE Which is better?
Students who have cleared their higher secondary exam often wonder NEET vs JEE which is better?. There is no straight forward answer to this question. However, whether NEET is better or JEE, often depends on the personal choice of students. To analyse NEET vs JEE, we need to make a thorough comparison between the two. The NEET 2025 Exam serves as the single entrance exams for all medical and nursing courses across India. On the other hand, the JEE Exam 2025 is the entrance exam for all the engineering courses in India. It is important to mention that NEET and JEE both are highly competitive and tough entrance exams. Students who wish to pursue their higher education at their dream colleges, must study hard to clear the exam of their choice in the chosen field. Students wondering NEET vs JEE salary, there is not much difference. The top level earners of NEET graduates earn an average of INR 8,00,000 to 50,00,000 per annum, while JEE clearers earn an average of INR 10,00,000 to INR 50,00,000 yearly. Additionally, these exams serve as a benchmark for excellence in the field of science and act as a stepping stone toward a successful and fulfilling career.What is NEET?
NEETor National Eligibility cum Entrance Test is a national-level entrance examination conducted for candidates aiming for Undergraduate and Postgraduate degrees in the medical field, such as MBBS/BDS/MS/MD. Students qualifying for the NEET exam are eligible for admission to various government and private medical colleges in India. The exam is conducted annually by the National Testing Agency (NTA).What is JEE?
JEE or Joint Entrance Examination is a national-level entrance exam conducted for admission of eligible students to the top Engineering colleges in India. JEE Main is conducted by NTA for admission to NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs. Candidates qualifying for the exam and securing a position among the top 2,50,000 rank holders are then considered eligible for JEE Advanced administered by the 7 IITs.Also Check - JEE Main 2025 Mathematics Chapter Wise Weightage
NEET vs JEE – Key Differences
While the major difference between NEET vs JEE is undoubtedly the field of study, there are other dissimilarities in terms of the exam pattern, syllabus, frequency, NEET vs JEE eligibility etc. that aspirants must be aware of before they start their preparations. The table below highlights the NEET vs JEE key differences –Parameters | NEET | JEE Main | JEE Advanced |
Name of the Exam | National Eligibility cum Entrance Test | Joint Entrance Examination (Main) | Joint Entrance Examination (Advanced) |
Field of Study | Medical | Engineering/Architecture | Engineering/Architecture |
Exam Mode | Offline (Pen and Paper-based) | Online (Computer-based Test) | Online (Computer-based Test) |
Frequency | Once a year | Twice a year | Once a year |
Purpose | Admission to UG and PG level Medical courses in private and government colleges | Admission to UG level Engineering/Architecture courses in 31 NITs, 26 IIITs and 38 GFTIs in India | Admission to UG level Engineering/Architecture courses in 23 IITs in India |
Subjects | A single paper on Biology, Chemistry, and Physics | Paper 1: Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics | Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics |
Marks Allotted | 720 | 300 | 306 |
Eligibility Criteria | Minimum percentage of marks in 10+2: | Minimum percentage of marks in 10+2: | Minimum percentage of marks in 10+2: |
NEET vs JEE Eligibility Criteria
NEET vs JEE eligibility criteria include parameters such as the candidate’s age limit, educational qualifications, qualifying marks, number of attempts, and so on. Candidates can check the detailed eligibility criteria for both exams in the section below –Parameters | NEET Eligibility Criteria | JEE Main Eligibility Criteria |
Nationality | Must be an Indian citizen | Must be an Indian citizen |
Age Limit | Minimum age criteria: 17 years | No age limit applicable |
Educational Qualifications | The candidate must have passed 10+2 with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks (45% for OBC candidates; 40% for SC/ST/PWD candidates) | Candidate must have passed 10+2 with a minimum of 75% aggregate marks (65% for Reserved category candidates) |
Number of Attempts | No restrictions within the specified age limit | Twice a year, for 3 consecutive years |
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Also Check - 7 Easy Steps to Score 95+ Percentile in JEE Main 2025
NEET vs JEE Syllabus
NEET focuses on a syllabus that encompasses Biology, Physics, and Chemistry, making it more suitable for medical aspirants. On the other hand, JEE covers Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Aptitude, covering a wider range of technical and engineering topics. Candidates intending to appear for either of the two exams must be well-versed with the NEET vs JEE syllabus. The subjects included in the syllabus of JEE and NEET are different except for the Chemistry and Physics sections. However, the topics included in the NEET syllabus, JEE Main syllabus, and JEE Advanced Syllabus 2025 are based on the curriculum of Classes 11 & 12. Students can check the detailed syllabus of NEET vs JEE exams in this section to ace their preparations.NEET 2025 Syllabus
Here is an overview of the subject-wise NTA NEET Syllabus 2025 PDF –Subject | Topics from Class 11 | Topics from Class 12 |
Physics | Physical World, Units and Measurement | Electrostatics |
Laws of Motion | Magnetic effects of Current and Magnetism | |
Kinematics | Current Electricity | |
Work, Energy, and Power | Electromagnetic Induction and Alternating Currents | |
The Motion of Systems of Particles and Rigid Body | Electromagnetic Waves | |
Thermodynamics | Atoms and Nuclei | |
The Behaviour of Perfect Gas and Kinetic Theory | Electronic Devices | |
Gravitation | Optics | |
Properties of Bulk Matter | Dual Nature of Matter and Radiation | |
Oscillations and Waves | - | |
Chemistry | Some Basic Concepts of Chemistry | Solid State |
Classification of Elements and Periodicity in Properties | Electrochemistry | |
Structure of Atom | Solutions | |
Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure | Chemical Kinetics | |
Thermodynamics | General Principles and Processes of Isolation of Elements | |
Equilibrium | P Block Elements | |
States of Matter: Gases and Liquids | Surface Chemistry | |
Redox Reactions | D and F Block Elements | |
Hydrogen | Coordination Compounds | |
s-Block Elements (Alkali and Alkaline Earth Metals) | Haloalkanes and Haloarenes | |
Organic Chemistry – Some Basic Principles and Techniques | Aldehydes, Ketones and Carboxylic Acids | |
Some p-Block Elements | Alcohols, Phenols, and Ethers | |
Hydrocarbons | Organic Compounds Containing Nitrogen | |
Environmental Chemistry | Biomolecules, Polymers, and Chemistry in Everyday Life | |
Biology | Structural Organization – Plants and Animals | Genetics and Evolution |
Cell Structure and Function | Biology and Human Welfare | |
Diversity in the Living World | Reproduction | |
Human Physiology | Ecology and Environment | |
Plant Physiology | Biotechnology and Its Applications |
Also Check - NEET 2025 Exam Date
JEE 2025 Syllabus
Check out the complete JEE Main Syllabus 2025 PDF topics for Papers 1 and 2 in this section –PAPER 1 – PCM
Students can refer to the table below to learn in detail about the Paper 1 JEE 2025 Physics Syllabus.
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Subject | Section A | Section B |
Physics |
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JEE 2025 Chemistry Syllabus
Interested students are recommended to check the table below to get an idea about the chapters included in the JEE 2025 Chemistry Syllabus.Subject | Physical Chemistry | Inorganic Chemistry | Organic Chemistry |
Chemistry |
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JEE 2025 Mathematics Syllabus
Here we have provided in detail about the topics included in the JEE 2025 Mathematics Syllabus for the reference of students.
Subject | Topics |
Mathematics |
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PAPER 2 Architecture & Planning
Paper 2A – B. Arch
Interested students are recommended to check out the table below to get a detailed insight about the chapters included in the Paper 2A – B. Arch for JEE exams.Section | Topics |
Aptitude |
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Drawing |
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Paper 2A – B. Plan
Students can refer to the table below to learn more about the topics included in the Paper 2A – B. Plan of JEE exam.
Section | Topics |
General Awareness |
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Social Sciences |
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Analytical Skills |
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NEET vs JEE Salary
Annual income serves as a major parameter when it comes to determining NEET vs JEE which is better. Candidates willing to pursue a career in engineering or medicine must be aware of NEET vs JEE salary. The earning potential of a doctor and an engineer from IIT/BITS/NIT can vary widely based on many factors such as specialization, experience, location, and industry. Generally, doctors can earn high salaries, especially if they are specialized in fields such as neurosurgery or cardiology. Similarly, engineers from prestigious institutions like IITs, IIITs and NITs can also command high salaries, particularly in fields such as computer science, electrical engineering, or mechanical engineering. It is important to note that individual circumstances can greatly influence earning potential.
NEET vs JEE Salary - Highest Salary for Engineers
In the field of engineering, several specializations tend to have higher earning potential compared to others. For instance, in India, the highest-paid engineering field is Computer Science and Engineering with an average annual salary of up to Rs. 42 lakhs. However, the salaries can vary based on factors such as location, industry, experience, and demand-supply dynamics. Here are a few engineering specializations that often have higher salaries.Specialization | Highest Salary Package (Approx.) |
Computer Science and Engineering | Rs. 42LPA |
Software Engineering | Rs. 16LPA |
Electrical Engineering | Rs. 8.1LPA |
Aerospace Engineering | Rs. 26LPA |
Chemical Engineering | Rs. 30LPA |
Petroleum Engineering | Rs. 20.4LPA |
NEET vs JEE Salary - Highest Salary for Doctors
In the field of medicine, certain specializations tend to have higher salaries compared to others. The highest-paid profession in India is that of a Neurosurgeon with an average annual package of up to Rs. 90 lakhs. Here are some medical specializations that are commonly associated with higher earning potential.Specialization | Highest Salary Package (Approx.) |
Neurosurgery | Rs. 90LPA |
Orthopedic Surgery | Rs. 42LPA |
Cardiology | Rs. 50LPA |
Radiology | Rs. 48LPA |
Anesthesiology | Rs. 24LPA |
NEET vs JEE - Competition Level
In terms of NEET vs JEE competitiveness, NEET exam has more competition than JEE Main owing to the number of candidates appearing for the exams. The aspirants of the NEET exam are higher than JEE largely because of the higher number of NEET droppers than the JEE ones. Moreover, the number of medical seats in government colleges is less compared to the number of engineering seats.
NEET vs JEE - Seat Intake
In terms of NEET vs JEE seat intake, the number of MBBS and BDS seats offered via NEET is higher than the total number of seats for JEE qualifiers across IITs, NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs along with engineering seats via States’ CETs. There are a total of 91,927 MBBS seats across 612 colleges and 26,773 BDS seats in 313 colleges. As per the JoSAA seat matrix, the total seats in IITs are 17385, while the number of seats in IIITs and NITs is 7746 and 23954 respectively.
NEET vs JEE - Number of Attempts
The NEET examination takes place annually, whereas the IIT JEE examination consists of two stages. The first stage, JEE Mains is conducted twice a year, while the second stage, JEE Advanced, is conducted once. There is no restriction on the number of attempts for NEET, but JEE Mains can be attempted for a maximum of three years, and JEE Advanced can be attempted for a maximum of two years.NEET vs JEE - Success Rate
The success rate of the NEET exam is around 7-8% for total candidates qualified against the number of seats. In NEET 2023, out of the 20,38,596 candidates who appeared for NEET, 11,45,976 qualified the exam. The success rate of IIT JEE is approximately 25-30 %, meaning nearly 25 to 30 candidates out of 100 students appearing for the JEE Advanced exam crack it.
Are JEE Main Questions Repeated in NEET?
When a candidate is attempting both papers, there is a common question that arises in their mind: Are JEE Main questions asked in NEET? As it is known that both papers have Chemistry and Physics as their common subjects, that question is only natural to come to one’s mind. Though the subject and even the course that one has to study can align together, the difficulty level differs.
If one is preparing for the JEE Main exam, it will act as a support for the preparation of NEET and visa versa. But candidates shouldn't assume that enough JEE Main questions will be repeated in NEET as it might lead to unfavourable outcomes. Candidates will have to prepare for both exams so that they both will help the other paper with supportive and complementary topics and help solve the papers speedily.
Preparation Tips for NEET and JEE Exams
If candidates want to understand how to prepare for competitive exams, they must note that proper planning and unwavering focus are important. Some of the tips to help candidates prepare for the NEET and JEE exams have been mentioned below.
Devise a study plan: Before beginning your studies, make sure to chalk out a study plan that outlines the topics you need to study, the time you need to allot on each subject, and the prescribed dates of the exams. This will assist you in staying organized and motivated to study.
Manage your time effectively: Time management is of utmost significance for scoring good marks in any exam. Be sure to create a time-table that enables you to study for a specific number of hours every day, and also provides you time to take breaks and relax.
Familiarize yourself with the exam formats: Ensure that you habituate yourself with the exam formats and the topics that are covered. Devote necessary time going through the previous year's question papers and practice papers to develop a clear understanding of how the exam is structured.
Find a dedicated study group: Find a group of like-minded fellow candidates who are also preparing for the exams. This will enable you to stay motivated, share ideas and resources, and even get assistance when required.
Revise religiously: The key ingredient for achieving success in any exam is practice. Ensure to practice as many questions as you can and pay attention to the topics that you find to be difficult.
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NEET vs JEE - College Options
For students wondering NEET vs JEE which is better in terms of admission prospects, it must be stated that both NEET and JEE exams are gateways to the top government and private colleges of the country. Hence, candidates must understand the NEET vs JEE college options available after qualifying for these exams.
If you prefer to appear for JEE, then based on the paper you appeared on any stage you cleared you can have the following college options:
After qualifying JEE Main: You can apply for admission into NITs, IIITs, DTU, NSUT, and other top colleges.
After qualifying JEE Main Paper 2: You can apply to SPAs across the country for a Bachelor of Planning.
After qualifying JEE Advanced: You can apply for admission into the top IITs such as IIT Kanpur, IIT Bombay, and IIT Kharagpur.
On the other hand, if you appear for NEET, then you can apply for admission into the top medical and dental colleges such as:
Top All India Medical Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) colleges across the country
JIPMER Puducherry, GMCH, UCMS Delhi and Armed Forces Medical College
The college fee is usually higher for the majority of the medical colleges than the engineering colleges thus limiting options for candidates after NEET.
NEET vs JEE - Career Opportunities
While determining NEET vs JEE which is better, one thing that all aspirants must take into consideration is career opportunities and scope of growth. Career prospects are based on the course which you selected at the time of your graduation. After qualifying for NEET or JEE, the candidates are generally asked to take admission into the college and course of their choice which largely determines their career.
Career Opportunities after JEE
Candidates can take up BTech, B.E., or B Planning courses of four-year duration
Candidates can become electrical engineers, computer engineers, mechanical engineers, or civil engineers depending on their chosen discipline
Pursuing engineering will enable candidates to work in the ever-growing field of technology such as AI, Machine learning, and robotics.
Candidates can work in top organizations such as TCS, DRDO, and ISRO after selecting this field.
Career Opportunities after NEET
Based upon their preference, candidates might select an MBBS of five and half years duration or BDS/BPT of four and half years duration.
Candidates can become gynaecologists, surgeons, ayurvedic doctors, orthopaedics, or dentists based on their course.
A medicine career requires higher specialization for which candidates might have to appear for NEET PG or NEET MDS
Candidates can find employment in top government and private hospitals of the country and appear in top examinations like UPSC CMS.
NEET vs JEE: Which is Tough?
Both NEET and JEE exams present their own unique challenges in terms of NEET vs JEE Advanced vs JEE Mains difficulty level. Going by the detailed JEE vs NEET syllabus, both exams can be labelled as difficult to crack. When it comes to the marking scheme, NEET implements a negative marking system, where incorrect answers result in a deduction of marks. Conversely, JEE does not have a negative marking scheme. Moreover, the limited availability of seats and the increasing number of applicants each year make it all the more challenging for the students. Statistically, the number of seats offered at medical institutes is far less than those available at engineering colleges in India. Keeping these in mind and going by the previous year’s NEET vs JEE exam analysis, NEET is slightly tougher than JEE Mains. However, when it comes to NEE vs JEE Advanced, students may find NEET easier to qualify owing to the complex question pattern and high competitiveness among peers to get into the top IITs.Students can refer to the table below to understand the NEET vs JEE, which is tough. We have highlighted the exams in terms of difficulty level in the highest to the lowest order –
Exam Name | Difficulty Level |
JEE Advanced | Most difficult |
NEET | Moderately difficult |
JEE Mains | Least difficult |
Students, who are still not sure about NEET vs JEE which is better, may intend to appear for both entrance exams anticipating the increased chances of selection. However, in such cases, one should know that the questions in JEE are sometimes repeated in NEET. This is true for the common sections viz. Chemistry and Physics. Therefore, if you are preparing for both, make sure you go through the syllabus and the important topics thoroughly. Solving previous year’s questions and sample papers can also help comprehend the NEET vs JEE paper pattern better.
We hope this article on ‘NEET vs JEE Which is better’ has helped address your queries. Check out more relevant posts on JEE Main 2025 Preparation Tips and the best books for NEET 2025 preparation.
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FAQs
NEET vs JEE which is better?
Both IIT JEE and NEET exams are widely recognized and challenging national entrance exams. A key distinction between the two lies in the destination they lead to. Clearing the JEE exam opens doors to prestigious Indian universities, whereas success in NEET paves the way for admission into medical colleges.
How to choose IIT or NEET?
Students may choose their path based on their interests in different subjects, seat intake in colleges and other factors. They need to weigh NEET vs JEE salary and career opportunities before making a decision. Remember, scoring well in NEET can secure a spot in a prestigious medical college while excelling in IIT JEE can open doors to a renowned engineering institution.
What is IIT salary?
In India, the average salary for IIT Engineer is approximately Rs. 13 lakhs per annum.
Is NEET related to IIT?
No, NEET and JEE are two different exams. NEET is organized for admission to medical colleges in India for undergraduate medical programs, whereas IIT JEE is organized for admissions to undergraduate programs in engineering colleges.
Is it possible to prepare for both JEE and NEET?
Yes, it is possible. Whether you are aiming for JEE or NEET, your preparation strategy should include understanding the complete syllabus, preparing notes and solving sample papers, attempting regular mock tests and referring to the best books recommended by toppers.
Does JEE and NEET have same Chemistry syllabus?
Chemistry is a part of both the JEE and NEET exams. The approach to preparing for Chemistry in these exams is pretty different. However, the syllabus for Chemistry in both NEET and IIT JEE is identical. Thus, students planning to sit for both entrance exams can benefit.
NEET vs JEE which is tough?
Both JEE and NEET are difficult to crack. However, going by the difficulty level of the questions asked over the last years, limited seats and high level of competition, NEET is slightly tougher than JEE Mains but relatively easier than JEE Advanced.
What is NEET vs JEE success rate?
The NEET success rate is relatively low, with only 6.5-7% of candidates who qualified in relation to the number of available seats. In contrast, the success rate of IIT-JEE is higher, at approximately 25% to 30%.
How long will it take me to cover the entire syllabus for JEE and NEET exams?
JEE vs NEET exams will take different duration to prepare for the exams. In the end, it depends upon the candidates’ planning and your focus. Candidates can take the help of competitive exam books to prepare well for both the exams. There are many JEE preparation books and NEET books available in the market dedicated to scoring well in both the exams.
Which is more valuable IIT or NEET?
IITs are certainly the most prestigious institutes for Engineering courses in India as it opens up excellent opportunities for aspirants. It is also better suited for students who have a good grip on PCM subjects. On the other hand, NEET will give you a scope to build your career as a medical specialist or doctor, which is a far more respectable profession.