Zoology syllabus for NEET 2026

Latest Update: The National Medical Commission (NMC) and the National Testing Agency (NTA) have confirmed that the NEET 2026 syllabus strictly follows the NCERT Class 11 and 12 biology curriculum, emphasizing Botany and Zoology sections. The syllabus was officially released on nta.ac.in and nmc.org.in.

NEET is the only entrance exam for MBBS/BDS admissions in India, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). Over 18 lakh candidates compete annually for about 80,000 medical seats, making it one of the most competitive exams for medical aspirants nationwide.

Understanding the Zoology syllabus is crucial for NEET 2025. Biology has 90 questions out of 180, with Zoology covering 55-60% of those. To study for an MBBS in top universities, you must pass the NEET exam, a mandatory requirement for studying medicine in India.

Class	Key Topics	Approx. Weightage (Marks)
11	Diversity of Animal Kingdom, Structural Organisation, Cell Structure & Function, Human Physiology, Reproduction	35–40
12	Genetics and Evolution, Human Physiology (continued), Reproduction (continued), Ecology & Environment	40–45

This article will help you get to know about the complete Zoology syllabus for NEET, chapter-wise weightage, important topics, preparation strategies, and tips to maximise your score. 

Chapter-wise Detailed Syllabus for NEET Zoology 

Zoology makes up nearly half of the 50 Biology questions in NEET 2025. That’s around 20–25 questions directly from Zoology, based fully on the NCERT Class 11 and 12 books. It covers core areas like animal biology, human physiology, genetics, reproduction, and biotechnology.

This syllabus is the same for every student, whether you're from CBSE, ICSE, or any state board. 

Diversity of the Animal Kingdom (Class 11) 

• Classification of animals up to phyla level 
• General characters and examples of non-chordates and chordates 
• Locomotion, symmetry, and coelom types 
• Economic importance of selected phyla 

Structural Organisation in Animals (Class 11) 

• Animal tissues: Epithelial, connective, muscular, and nervous 
• Morphology and anatomy of cockroach 
• Organ systems: Digestive, circulatory, excretory, respiratory, nervous 

Cell Structure and Function (Class 11) 

• Cell theory and cell organelles 
• Structure and function of nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes 
• Cell division: Mitosis and Meiosis 
• Transport across membranes: Diffusion, osmosis, endocytosis, exocytosis 

Human Physiology (Class 11 & 12) 

• Digestive system, respiration, circulation, excretion 
• Neural coordination and hormonal regulation 
• Musculoskeletal system basics 
• Immunity: Innate and adaptive 

Reproduction (Class 11 & 12) 

• Sexual and asexual reproduction in animals 
• Male and female reproductive systems 
• Gametogenesis, fertilization, embryonic development 
• Reproductive health and birth control methods 

Genetics and Evolution (Class 12) 

• Mendelian genetics, monohybrid and dihybrid crosses 
• DNA, RNA, and genetic code 
• Human inheritance patterns and disorders 
• Evolution: Theories and evidences 

Ecology and Environment (Class 12) 

• Ecosystem components, energy flow, and nutrient cycles 
• Population ecology and growth patterns 
• Biodiversity, conservation, and sustainable development 
• Environmental issues: Pollution, climate change 

Deciding between MCAT and NEET? Understand the differences in difficulty level, syllabus, and exam format. Read our expert guide: MCAT vs NEET - Which is More Challenging?

 

NEET Zoology Syllabus: Class 11 & 12 Chapters & Weightage 

Class 11: Chapter / Topic	Key Concepts	Approx. Weightage (Marks)
Diversity of Animal Kingdom	Classification, characteristics of major phyla	8–10
Structural Organisation in Animals	Tissues, anatomy, organs	6–8
Cell Structure & Function	Cell organelles, biomolecules, cell cycle	5–6
Human Physiology	Digestion, respiration, circulation, excretion, locomotion	10–12
Reproduction	Human & plant reproduction, reproductive health	5–6

 

Class 12: Chapter / Topic	Key Concepts	Approx. Weightage (Marks)
Genetics & Evolution	Mendelian genetics, molecular genetics, evolution theories	10–12
Human Physiology (continued)	Nervous, endocrine, immune systems	8–10
Reproduction (continued)	Reproductive cycles, technologies	4–5
Ecology & Environment	Ecosystems, biodiversity, conservation, environmental issues	6–8

Important Chapters & High-Yield Topics for NEET Zoology 

To maximize NEET scores, candidates should focus on high-yield chapters that frequently appear in exams. The table below categorizes chapters into high, medium, and low weightage based on past NEET trends. 

Weightage	Chapters / Topics	Key Focus Areas
High	Human Physiology (Class 11 & 12)	Circulation, respiration, excretion, nervous system, endocrine system, immune system
High	Genetics & Evolution (Class 12)	Mendelian genetics, molecular basis, evolution theories, speciation
Medium	Diversity of Animal Kingdom (Class 11)	Phyla characteristics, classification
Medium	Reproduction (Class 11 & 12)	Human reproductive cycles, reproductive technologies, plant reproduction
Medium	Structural Organisation in Animals (Class 11)	Tissues, anatomy of organ systems
Low	Ecology & Environment (Class 12)	Ecosystems, biodiversity, conservation, environmental issues
Low	Cell Structure & Function (Class 11)	Cell organelles, biomolecules, cell cycle

Allocate study time proportionally focus 60% on high-yield chapters, 30% on medium, and 10% on low-weightage topics to optimize NEET performance. 

Chapter-Wise Tips and Strategy for NEET Zoology 

To score well in NEET Zoology, a strategic approach is essential. Focus on understanding concepts, practicing diagrams, and revising high-yield points. The table below outlines chapter-wise tips, time allocation, and common mistakes to avoid: 

Chapter / Topic	Time Allocation	Common Mistakes to Avoid
Human Physiology	20–25% of total study time	Ignoring hormones, skipping lesser-known processes
Genetics & Evolution	15–20%	Confusing gene symbols and inheritance patterns
Diversity of Animal Kingdom	10–12%	Memorizing entire phyla without understanding traits
Reproduction	8–10%	Skipping plant reproduction or IVF processes
Structural Organisation in Animals	8–10%	Mixing up organ system functions
Ecology & Environment	5–7%	Overlooking ecosystems interactions or conservation terms
Cell Structure & Function	5–7%	Neglecting biomolecules and functions

Study Strategy: 

• Start with high-yield chapters to build confidence. 
• Use flowcharts and diagrams for memorization. 
• Revise medium and low-weightage chapters weekly. 
• Practice previous NEET papers to identify recurring questions. 

Tips for Preparing Zoology for NEET 

Zoology makes up a significant share of the NEET Biology syllabus, so preparing it strategically can boost your overall score. Use these targeted tips to strengthen fundamentals, improve retention, and master high-weightage chapters efficiently.

Time Management Strategies 

• Allocate daily time for theory and diagram practice. 
• Prioritize high-weightage chapters like Human Physiology, Reproduction, and Genetics. 
• Use weekly revision sessions to consolidate Class 11 & 12 topics. 
• Attempt previous years’ NEET questions to identify weak areas. 

Important Reference Books 

• NCERT Biology (Class 11 & 12) – Core syllabus coverage, diagrams, and examples. 
• Trueman’s Objective Biology – For practice questions and concept clarity. 
• Objective Biology by Dinesh – Quick revision and MCQ practice. 
• Pradeep’s Biology – For detailed explanations and illustrations. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid 

• Ignoring Class 11 topics: Many NEET questions come from Class 11 chapters. 
• Memorizing diagrams without understanding: Practice labeling and functional aspects. 
• Skipping NCERT examples: They are crucial for conceptual clarity. 
• Over depending on reference books: Focus on 1–2 main texts for clarity and practice. 

Also Read: Botany Syllabus for NEET Preparation

Class 11 vs Class 12 Comparison Table 

Below is a comparison of NEET Zoology topics from Class 11 and 12 with approximate marks based on previous years’ exams. 

Class	Topics Covered	Approx. Marks (out of 180 Biology marks)
11	Diversity of the Animal Kingdom, Structural Organisation in Animals, Cell Structure & Function, Human Physiology	75–80;   Weightage: 42%
12	Reproduction, Genetics & Evolution, Human Physiology, Ecology & Environment	100–105;  Weightage: 58%

Prioritize high-weightage chapters from both years but don’t neglect medium- and low-weightage chapters. 

H3: Topic-wise Weightage Table 

This table shows key NEET Zoology topics and their expected marks to help plan revision effectively. 

Topic	Approx. Marks	Weightage Level
Diversity of Animal Kingdom	15–18	Medium
Structural Organisation in Animals	10–12	Low–Medium
Cell Structure & Function	12–14	Medium
Human Physiology	25–30	High
Reproduction	18–20	High
Genetics & Evolution	15–18	High
Ecology & Environment	10–12	Medium

Allocate more time to Human Physiology, Reproduction, and Genetics as they contribute the most marks in NEET. 

Tip: Learn all NCERT diagrams and definitions by heart. These chapters form the base of most Zoology questions in NEET and can help you pick up easy marks.

Which topics are removed from NEET Zoology syllabus in 2026?

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has revised the NEET 2025 syllabus based on the updated NCERT (National Council of Educational Research and Training) textbooks. In Zoology, certain topics have been fully removed, while others have been simplified or trimmed. These changes aim to reduce overlap and focus on core learning.

Has NTA deleted any Zoology chapters for NEET 2026?

Yes, a few complete chapters and several subtopics have been removed from both Class 11 and Class 12 Zoology portions. 

Here's a summary of full deletions and major reductions:

Class	Chapter	Change Description
11	Biomolecules	• Enzyme classification (oxidoreductases, transferases) • Cofactors and coenzymes • Enzyme inhibition (competitive vs non-competitive) • Properties of enzymes
11	Digestion and Absorption	• Bile juice composition • Action of specific enzymes (e.g., chymotrypsin) • Digestive disorders like jaundice, vomiting, and indigestion
12	Reproductive Health	Entire chapter removed
12	Human Reproduction	• Hormonal control of the menstrual cycle • Fertilisation process • Embryo development stages
12	Evolution	• Origin of life (e.g., Miller-Urey experiment) • Hardy-Weinberg principle • Evolutionary examples (industrial melanism, etc.) • Brief history of evolutionary thought

Apart from full chapters, several specific NCERT topics and concepts have been dropped from the NEET Zoology syllabus. 

These include minor headings, theories, and content blocks across Class 11 and 12.

Class	Chapter	Removed Topics
11	Animal Kingdom	Topics on Porifera canal system, Ctenophora characteristics, and some lesser-known phyla
11	Structural Organisation in Animals	Frog anatomy (reproductive and digestive systems)
11	Biomolecules	Action of enzymes, co-factors, and inhibition types
11	Digestion and Absorption	Composition and function of bile, minor digestive enzyme pathways
12	Human Reproduction	Hormonal control of reproductive system, gamete transport, and hormonal feedback loops
12	Evolution	Concepts like adaptive radiation examples, Hardy-Weinberg principle applications, and molecular evolution theories
12	Reproductive Health	Entire topics like birth control methods, MTP (Medical Termination of Pregnancy), STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases), and infertility treatments

These are finer NCERT-level removals that students should be aware of while studying from old books or previous-year materials.

What are the most difficult questions from Zoology in NEET?

Every NEET aspirant knows that Zoology can be scoring, but it's also the section where tricky questions sneak in. Over the years, nearly 8–10 questions in Zoology have consistently been tagged “difficult” by toppers and coaching experts. 

These aren't just fact-based but test your ability to apply NCERT concepts, make cross-topic connections, and handle questions designed to confuse.

Here’s a breakdown of the types of questions students find most difficult in NEET Zoology:

Type of Question	Topics Commonly Asked About	Why It's Difficult
Assertion-Reason Questions	Biomolecules, Reproduction	Statements are close in meaning; requires deep NCERT clarity
Diagram-based Labeling	Neural Control, Animal Tissues	Labels look similar; tests detailed recall of visual concepts
Cross-topic Conceptual Linkage	Endocrine + Reproduction, Movement + Physiology	Involves applying two chapters in one question
Genetics-based Numericals	Principles of Inheritance	Needs 2–3-step logic, Punnett square mastery, and concept clarity
Twisted NCERT Lines	Human Physiology, Animal Kingdom	Rephrased lines confuse students even if they’ve read NCERT
Rare NCERT Intext Facts	Locomotion, Excretion	Based on obscure lines or tables many skip while revising

If you’re aiming for 650+ in NEET, mastering these question types can make a big difference!

How can I complete NEET Zoology syllabus in 60 days?

To finish the Zoology syllabus in 60 days, you need a clear weekly structure. 

Here’s a complete 8-week plan:

Week	Focus Area	Topics to Cover
1	Human Physiology - Part 1	Digestion & Absorption, Breathing & Exchange of Gases
2	Human Physiology - Part 2	Body Fluids & Circulation, Excretory Products, Locomotion
3	Human Physiology - Part 3	Neural Control, Chemical Coordination
4	Reproduction & Development	Human Reproduction, Reproductive Health, Embryonic Development Basics
5	Genetics & Evolution	Principles of Inheritance, Molecular Basis of Inheritance, Evolution
6	Biology in Human Welfare	Human Health & Disease, Strategies for Enhancement in Food Production
7	Ecology & Environment	Organism & Population, Ecosystem, Biodiversity, Environmental Issues
8	Final Revision	PYQs, Mock Tests, Weak Topics, Quick Diagrams & AR Questions

Stick to this plan without skipping, and make sure you test yourself often.

What are the best books to prepare for NEET Zoology?

Clearing Zoology in NEET starts with choosing the right study material. Since this section carries a solid weightage in Biology, it's important to use books that build both concept clarity and exam-level problem-solving skills. While NCERT is the go-to for theory, pairing it with reference books gives you an edge for tricky application-based questions and diagrams.

Here’s a quick comparison of recommended books:

Book Title	Why It’s Good for NEET Zoology
NCERT Class 11 & 12 Biology	Most NEET questions come directly or indirectly from NCERT. A must-read line by line.
Trueman’s Elementary Biology Vol 1 & 2	Great for deep concept understanding and MCQ practice.
MTG NCERT at Your Fingertips – Biology	Ideal for quick revision + lots of topic-wise NEET MCQs.
GRB’s Objective Biology by Dr. Ali	Helpful for mastering high-level questions.
Saras NEET Guide for Zoology	Clear explanations, chapter-wise summaries, and good for Tamil Nadu board students.
Dinesh Objective Biology	Useful for a mix of board-level and entrance-level prep.

Is NCERT sufficient for NEET Zoology preparation?

Yes, NCERT Biology textbooks for Class 11 and 12 are the backbone of NEET Zoology preparation. Most NEET questions are either directly picked or heavily based on NCERT lines, diagrams, and definitions. You need to read it line by line, multiple times. Every term, label, and example matters.

In addition to NCERT, many schools and coaching centres use TLM (Teaching-Learning Material) like charts, flashcards, labelled models, and diagrams to make complex Zoology topics easier to grasp, especially in chapters like Human Physiology, Reproduction, and Biomolecules.

Here’s how NCERT + TLM help together:

• Concept Clarity: NCERT explains concepts in a concise and clear format. TLM adds visual understanding.
• Retention Boost: Diagrams and charts from TLM improve long-term memory, especially in structural topics.
• Exam Relevance: NEET directly picks concepts, terminologies, and figures from the NCERT.
• Time Efficiency: Sticking to the NCERT avoids confusion from unnecessary extra content.
• Revision Aid: TLM makes quick topic-wise revision easier through visuals and summaries.

Stick to NCERT as your primary book and use TLM only as a visual reinforcement tool. This combination is often enough to confidently tackle the Zoology portion in NEET.

Conclusion 

Zoology carries a significant portion of the NEET Biology section, with high-weightage topics like Human Physiology, Reproduction, and Genetics often deciding scores. A structured study plan focusing on high- and medium-weightage chapters, along with regular revisions and mock tests, can enhance preparation efficiency.

Get personalized guidance on NEET 2025 Zoology preparation, study plans, high-weightage topics, and scoring strategies from expert mentors. Book Your FREE 1:1 Counselling Session with upGrad experts Today - and take the first step toward securing your dream medical seat!