The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) UG and Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main are highly competitive exams in India that serve as the pathway to admission into esteemed medical and engineering colleges across the country.
These exams are notably competitive due to several factors. First, the number of seats available in medical and engineering colleges is limited. Second, these colleges offer courses that are highly sought after and lead to lucrative job opportunities upon completion. Medical and engineering are among the most popular and well-paid professions in India.
Every year, a significant number of students appear for these exams. In 2023, over 18 lakh students took the NEET UG, while more than 9 lakh students sat for the JEE Main. A high score in these exams can unlock opportunities for admission into the best colleges in India.
Clearing NEET or JEE demands discipline, focus, and hard work from aspiring candidates. Furthermore, it necessitates expert guidance and access to various resources like libraries, computer labs, and study halls. Coaching institutes provide these infrastructural advantages, enabling students to create an environment conducive to studying.
Various states in India offer state-sponsored coaching programs for NEET UG and JEE exams, either as free residential coaching or exclusive coaching for students from specific categories like the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. Here is a state-wise list of where aspirants can avail these state-sponsored coaching programs:
DELHI
The Delhi government provides free coaching for JEE Main, JEE Advanced, and NEET UG exams to engineering and medical aspirants. This coaching is facilitated through the Jai Bhim Mukhyamantri Pratibha Vikas Yojana initiative under the SC and ST welfare scheme. The application dates and program details are announced by the Delhi government’s department for the welfare of SCs, STs, and OBCs. Government school students have exclusive access to free coaching for IIT JEE and AIIMS medical exams.
Official website: scstwelfare.delhi.gov.in
UTTAR PRADESH
In Uttar Pradesh, the government offers free guidance to IIT JEE Main and NEET UG aspirants through the Abhyudaya Scheme. Students are selected for free coaching centers based on an entrance test. Registration for the UP state free engineering and medical entrance test typically commences in March.
Official website: abhyuday.up.gov.in
TELANGANA
In Telangana, the Tribal Welfare Residential Educational Institutions Society (TTWREIS) collaborates with the Social Welfare Residential Educational Institutions Society (TSWREIS) to provide free IIT JEE and NEET coaching to SC and ST category aspirants. The coaching centers are exclusively located in Hyderabad, and students are chosen based on their scores in the Telangana State Engineering, Agriculture, and Medical Common Entrance Test (TS EAMCET).
Official website: tgtwgurukulam.telangana.gov.in
WEST BENGAL
The West Bengal government extends free coaching for NEET and JEE Main specifically to students from the ST and SC communities. The application period for this free coaching program begins in March-April and is managed by the Department of Backward Class Welfare and Tribal Development of the West Bengal government.
Official website: wbbcdev.gov.in
BIHAR
In Bihar, the Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) provides free food and lodging to JEE and NEET aspirants as part of their coaching program. The application process for this free coaching program starts in August, with the selection test taking place in September. The coaching centers for the free non-residential programs are located in Patna, Muzaffarpur, Chhapra, Darbhanga, Saharsa, Purnia, Bhagalpur, Munger, and Gaya.
Official website: coaching.biharboardonline.com
ASSAM
In the state of Assam, the government provides a complimentary mentoring program for students aspiring to appear for the JEE Main and NEET UG exams. To enroll in this program, students are required to submit an application and take a selection test. The application procedure is carried out offline and generally commences in June, while the selection test is conducted in August.
For further information, interested individuals can visit the official website at directorwptbc.assam.gov.in.