NEET 2025 Zoology Syllabus: Class 11 & 12 Breakdown

Latest Update: The National Medical Commission (NMC) and the National Testing Agency (NTA) have confirmed that the NEET 2025 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. Official analysis by NTA shows Zoology questions constitute approximately 55–60% of the total Biology questions. High-weightage topics include Human Physiology (20%), Genetics and Evolution (15%), and Reproduction (12%).

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.

This blog covers the NEET 2025 Zoology syllabus, chapter-wise weightage, study plans, top books, and expert tips to help you maximize your Zoology score and ace NEET 2025 Zoology.

What is the complete NEET Zoology syllabus for 2025?

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.

As per the latest National Testing Agency’s (NTA) update, there are no changes in the NEET 2025 syllabus. All questions will be based on the rationalized NCERT content, so any content removed from the official textbooks will not be tested.

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

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?

What are the Class 11 Zoology chapters for NEET 2025?

Zoology in Class 11 forms the base for many high-weightage NEET topics. Here’s a list of Class 11 chapters that cover important Zoology topics for NEET 2025:

NCERT Unit	Chapters (Zoology – Class 11)
Diversity of Living Organisms	• Animal Kingdom
Structural Organisation in Animals	• Structural Organisation in Animals
Cell Structure and Function	• Cell – The Unit of Life  • Biomolecules  • Cell Cycle and Cell Division
Human Physiology	• Digestion and Absorption  • Breathing and Exchange of Gases  • Body Fluids and Circulation  • Excretory Products and Their Elimination  • Locomotion and Movement  • Neural Control and Coordination  • Chemical Coordination and Integration

This table is based on the official NCERT Class 11 syllabus.

Which Class 11 Zoology Chapter is Most Important for NEET?

Some chapters in Class 11 Zoology are more important for NEET than others. 

If you want to score well, focus more on the following chapters:

• Animal Kingdom – Very important for classification and taxonomy-based questions. Expect direct NCERT-based questions.
• Digestion and Absorption – This chapter is simple but highly asked. Pay close attention to the digestive enzymes and labelled diagrams.
• Neural Control and Coordination – Slightly complex, but 2–3 questions often come from here. Focus on the structure and function of neurons and reflex arcs.
• Chemical Coordination and Integration – Important for understanding hormones and the endocrine system. NEET often includes tricky hormone-based questions.
• Body Fluids and Circulation – You can expect numerical and diagram-based questions. Know the heart’s structure, cardiac cycle, and blood types.
• Breathing and Exchange of Gases – This one is scoring if your basics are clear. Focus on respiratory volumes and the mechanism of breathing.

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.

What are the Class 12 Zoology chapters for NEET 2025?

If you're preparing for NEET 2025, Class 12 Zoology is just as important as Class 11. Most questions come directly from NCERT, so knowing all chapters well is key. 

The syllabus focuses a lot on human reproduction, genetics, health, and diseases.

Here are the Class 12 Zoology units and the chapters under each:

Unit Name	Chapters Covered
Reproduction	• Reproduction in Organisms  • Sexual Reproduction in Flowering Plants  • Human Reproduction  • Reproductive Health
Genetics and Evolution	• Principles of Inheritance and Variation  • Molecular Basis of Inheritance  • Evolution
Biology and Human Welfare	• Human Health and Disease  • Strategies for Enhancement in Food Production  • Microbes in Human Welfare
Biotechnology and Its Applications	• Biotechnology: Principles and Processes  • Biotechnology and Its Applications
Ecology and Environment	• Organisms and Populations  • Ecosystem  • Biodiversity and Conservation  • Environmental Issues

Also Read: Botany Syllabus for NEET Preparation

What are the highest-scoring Class 12 Zoology topics for NEET?

Some Class 12 chapters are more important for NEET than others. 

These are the ones that are asked again and again in the exam, based on past paper analysis:

• Human Reproduction – Diagrams and hormones are common questions
• Molecular Basis of Inheritance – Often 2–3 questions, needs concept clarity
• Principles of Inheritance and Variation – Genetics questions are frequent
• Human Health and Disease – Includes immunity and disease types
• Biotechnology: Principles and Processes – Easy to score if understood well
• Reproductive Health – Simple but usually carries 1 question
• Organisms and Populations – Good for direct theory-based questions

Try to cover NCERT line by line for these topics, including diagrams, tables, and examples.

Which topics are removed from NEET Zoology syllabus in 2025?

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 2025?

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

What are the excluded NCERT topics in NEET 2025 Zoology?

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 high-weightage topics in NEET Zoology?

Zoology makes up almost half of the Biology section in the NEET exam. While all topics are important, some chapters are asked more often than others based on past year trends. These are considered high-weightage topics.

Most of these questions come straight from the NCERT textbook, especially from diagrams and key concepts in areas like Human Physiology, Genetics, and Reproduction. These chapters are not only common but also score highly if you’ve studied them well.

If you want to score above 650, focusing on these Zoology topics first can help you revise smart and stay ahead.

Here are the most important Zoology topics that repeatedly appear in NEET:

Topic	Class	Average No. of Questions
Human Physiology	11	5–6
Human Reproduction	12	2–3
Animal Kingdom	11	2–3
Biomolecules	11	2–3
Reproductive Health + Genetics	12	3–4

Tip: Focus more on NCERT diagrams, tables, and examples from these chapters. NEET often frames direct and indirect questions based on them.

How many Zoology questions are asked in the NEET exam?

NEET Biology has 100 questions: 50 from Zoology and 50 from NEET Botany. Out of these, candidates must attempt 45 questions from each section. Zoology alone carries 180 marks, forming 50% of the total Biology section. In NEET 2024, around 18–22 questions in the Zoology part were from Class 11 topics, while 23–27 questions were from Class 12. 

Most questions are directly based on NCERT, with Human Physiology, Biomolecules, and Reproductive Health contributing the highest number of questions.

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!

What is the best way to cover NEET Zoology syllabus?

If you're targeting NEET, Zoology is a high-scoring section if prepared smartly. Since most questions are directly based on NCERT and focus heavily on human physiology, reproduction, evolution, and ecology, a clear plan is essential. 

The best approach is to combine theory, revision, and daily practice in a structured way.

How can I complete NEET Zoology syllabus in 2 months?

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 is the daily study plan for NEET Zoology prep?

A disciplined daily routine can help you complete the entire Zoology syllabus while keeping time for revision and mock tests. 

Here's a recommended 3-hour daily study plan ideal for focused NEET Zoology preparation.

Time Slot	Task	Purpose
Morning (1.5 hrs)	Read 1 chapter from NCERT + make crisp notes	Build concepts + create revision base
Afternoon (1 hr)	Practice 80–100 MCQs (MTG, Dinesh, Trueman)	Strengthen application & accuracy
Night (30–45 mins)	Revise diagrams + solve 25-question mini mock	Visual memory + quick recall boost
Weekly (1 day)	Revise 1 full chapter + attempt 10–15 assertion-reason Qs	Reinforce learning + identify gaps

Stick to this plan consistently, and you’ll be able to cover, revise, and master NEET Zoology well before the exam.

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.

What are the common mistakes in NEET Zoology preparation?

Many students make these common mistakes while preparing for NEET Zoology:

• Skipping NCERT textbook
• Not making short and clear revision notes
• Ignoring diagrams from the textbook
• Memorising facts without understanding concepts
• Postponing difficult chapters till the end
• Not revising regularly
• Using too many reference books
• Ignoring previous years' NEET questions

Which chapters are commonly skipped in NEET Zoology prep?

These are the chapters students often skip, but they are frequently asked in NEET:

• Animal Kingdom
• Biomolecules
• Excretory Products and Elimination
• Human Reproduction
• Evolution

Tip: Always cover these chapters. Even one question can make a big difference in your NEET rank.

How have Zoology trends changed in previous NEET exams?

The type of questions asked in NEET Zoology has changed a lot over the years. Here's what has been noticed in the last few exams:

• More NCERT-based questions
  Most questions now come straight from the NCERT textbook, often using exact lines or diagrams.
• Focus on understanding, not just facts
  Earlier, questions were mostly memory-based. Now, many questions test how well you understand the concepts.
• Application-based questions are common
  You may be asked to apply what you know to real-life examples or simple data.
• Class 11 topics are gaining importance
  Earlier, more questions came from Class 12 chapters. Now, Class 11 chapters like Animal Kingdom and Structural Organisation are often asked.
• Diagrams are being used in questions
  Simple NCERT diagrams are used to frame questions, so understanding them is very helpful.
• Hot chapters change every few years
  Human Physiology and Reproduction have been favorites for a few years now. Keeping track of such trends can help you plan better.

Are previous year Zoology questions still useful for NEET 2025?

Yes, solving past years' questions is still one of the best ways to prepare. Here's how they help:

• Questions get repeated
  NEET often repeats the same questions, sometimes with small changes. Practicing them increases your chances of scoring.
• You understand which chapters are important
  When you solve older papers, you start to see which chapters are asked more often.
• You learn how questions are framed
  It helps you get familiar with how NEET asks things, whether it’s one-liners, diagrams, or tricky options.
• It tells you if you’re studying the right way
  If you can’t solve past questions even after studying, you know you need to change your strategy.
• Great for revision and time management
  Solving these questions under a time limit trains you for the real exam.

Tip: Try solving at least the last 8–10 years of NEET Zoology questions. Review your mistakes to improve faster.

Conclusion

Zoology is one of the most important parts of the NEET Biology section. If you follow NCERT closely, revise all chapters, and focus on diagrams and key terms, you can score well. Understanding the pattern of past NEET papers can also guide your preparation in the right direction.

Make sure to solve previous year questions regularly and focus more on high-weightage chapters like Human Physiology, Genetics, and Reproduction. With the right mix of revision, practice, and smart strategy, you can handle the Zoology section with confidence in NEET 2025.

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!