NTA invites institutions to host exams; 285 workstations required for CBT

In a move to strengthen its examination infrastructure following the NEET paper leak controversy, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has invited educational institutions and private testing agencies to set up examination centres across the country.The agency is seeking applications from schools, colleges, universities and dedicated test service providers for conducting computer-based tests (CBT) and pen-and-paper tests (PPT).Through an Expression of Interest (EoI), NTA aims to expand its nationwide assessment infrastructure and increase the availability of examination centres for various tests conducted by the agency.According to the official notification, interested institutions and service providers can submit their applications online by December 6, 2026. The examination authority has also invited applications from serving and retired government personnel for appointment as observers during various CBT and PPT examinations. WHO CAN APPLY FOR NTA EXAM CENTRE EMPANELMENT?NTA has opened the application process to a wide range of institutions and organisations that meet its prescribed infrastructure and operational requirements.Eligible applicants include government, government-aided and private schools, colleges, universities, and institutions of national importance such as IITs, NITs, IIITs, IIMs, IISERs and AIIMS. Polytechnics, Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), educational and training establishments, government skill development centres and dedicated CBT service providers can also apply.Other organisations that fulfil the prescribed infrastructure requirements are also eligible to submit applications.NTA EXAM CENTRE REQUIREMENTS: 285 WORKSTATIONS FOR CBTInstitutions seeking empanelment must meet different infrastructure requirements depending on the examination format they intend to accommodate.For computer-based tests, the standard minimum requirement is 285 workstations per shift. Applicants must also have at least four separate computer laboratories or examination halls, each equipped with a minimum of 30 workstations, or an equivalent arrangement.However, institutions with fewer than 285 workstations can also apply. Such centres will be considered in locations where the availability of examination infrastructure is limited, according to NTA.For pen-and-paper examinations, institutions must have a minimum seating capacity of 250 candidates per shift. They should also provide at least six separate examination halls, each capable of accommodating 40 candidates, or an equivalent arrangement.The prescribed requirements are aimed at ensuring that examination centres have adequate infrastructure to accommodate candidates and facilitate the smooth conduct of tests.NTA INVITES APPLICATIONS FOR EXAM OBSERVERSAlongside the empanelment of examination centres, NTA has invited applications from eligible personnel for appointment as observers during its CBT and PPT examinations.Individuals currently serving in government institutions, as well as retired government personnel, can apply for these positions, subject to the eligibility conditions prescribed by the agency.Observers will be responsible for overseeing examination-related activities and ensuring that the prescribed procedures are followed at test centres.HOW TO APPLY FOR NTA EXAM CENTRE EMPANELMENTInstitutions and eligible service providers interested in joining NTA's examination network can submit their Expressions of Interest through the official portal, eoi.nta.gov.in.Applicants should carefully review the detailed notification to understand the eligibility conditions, infrastructure specifications, documentation requirements and application procedure before submitting their applications.With the application deadline set for December 6, interested institutions and service providers should ensure that their facilities meet the prescribed standards and complete the process within the stipulated timeline.- Ends