ArdorComm Media News Network
November 12, 2026
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has invited schools, colleges, universities and examination service providers across India to apply for empanelment as examination centres for conducting computer-based tests (CBT) and pen-and-paper tests (PPT).
The move is part of the agency’s efforts to strengthen and expand its nationwide examination infrastructure following concerns over examination security in the wake of the NEET paper leak controversy.
In its Expression of Interest (EoI) notice, NTA has called upon eligible institutions and organisations to register as examination centres. The deadline for submitting applications is December 6.
The agency has also opened applications for serving and retired personnel from government institutions who wish to work as observers for various CBT and PPT examinations conducted by NTA.
Eligible applicants include government, government-aided and private schools, colleges, universities, polytechnics, Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), and institutions of national importance such as IITs, NITs, IIITs, IIMs, IISERs and AIIMS. Educational and training institutions, government skill development centres and authorised CBT service providers with dedicated testing facilities can also apply.
Infrastructure requirements for examination centres
According to the NTA guidelines, institutions seeking approval as CBT examination centres must have a minimum capacity of 285 computer workstations per shift. For pen-and-paper examinations, centres must provide at least 250 seats per shift.
CBT facilities with fewer than 285 workstations may also be considered, but only in locations where the availability of examination infrastructure is limited.
Additionally, applicants for CBT centres must have at least four separate computer laboratories or halls, each equipped with a minimum of 30 workstations, or an equivalent infrastructure arrangement.
For PPT examinations, institutions must provide at least six separate examination halls, with each hall accommodating 40 candidates, or an equivalent seating arrangement.
Interested institutions and eligible government personnel can refer to the detailed notification on the NTA’s official website for information on eligibility conditions, infrastructure standards and the application process.
Source: Indian Express