What NEET Score Do You Need for Nursing Admission in South India? (2026)

One of the most common questions students ask is: "Is my NEET score enough for nursing?" The answer depends on the state, college, and admission category. Here's a clear breakdown.

NEET Requirement for BSc Nursing

BSc Nursing requires a valid NEET UG score in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. The minimum qualifying score is:

• General category: 107 marks (50th percentile)
• OBC/SC/ST: 97 marks (40th percentile)

This is just the qualifying minimum. For government quota seats, the competition is much higher.

Realistic NEET Cutoffs by State (2025 Reference)

Tamil Nadu — Government Quota (Merit)

• General: 400–500+
• OBC: 280–350
• SC/ST: 180–280

Tamil Nadu — Management Quota

• 107+ (minimum qualifying) often sufficient for private colleges

Kerala — Government Quota

• General: 450–550+
• OBC: 320–400
• SC/ST: 200–320

Kerala — Management Quota

• 119+ (minimum qualifying), most private colleges accept 120–200 for management seats

Karnataka — Government Quota (KEA)

• General: 400–500+
• OBC: 300–380

Karnataka — Management Quota

• 105+ (minimum qualifying)

What if My NEET Score is Below 200?

If your NEET score is below 200, government quota seats are very difficult to secure. However:

• Private management quota seats are still possible in many colleges
• Some private colleges in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka accept NEET qualifying scores (107+) for management quota
• GNM Nursing (3.5-year diploma) may not require NEET in some states

What Should I Do?

1. Know your NEET score and category.

2. Use Campus Search to filter colleges that match your score.

3. Talk to our counsellors — we have updated seat availability data for 200+ colleges.

4. Apply to 3–5 colleges simultaneously to maximise your chances.

Our counselling service is free. We help you find the best college within your score and budget.