Mumbai: Several science students and their parents have expressed concern over the Maharashtra state board announcing the HSC results just a day before the NEET-UG, saying the timing has added to the pressure of an already highly competitive and stressful test. NEET-UG 2026, for admissions to health science courses, is scheduled on May 3, Sunday.Some students who have fallen short of the eligibility criteria by just one or two percentage points in their board exams are now feeling demotivated about appearing for the NEET-UG, said parent representative Sudha Shenoy. Since Saturday afternoon, a few parents have reached out to her, requesting she counsel their children and encourage them to appear for NEET. “While options such as revaluation or improvement remain open, the board results are likely to weigh on students’ minds during the entrance exam. State board assessments are generally stricter,” she added. An organisation working for student welfare, Care of Public Safety Association, has raised the issue with the school education department. “Education experts and counsellors have expressed concern over the results timing. This has led to significant anxiety and resentment,” said Amar Ekad from the organisation. tnn
