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 andnmc.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 90questions 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.
NEET 2025 Zoology Syllabus Overview
Zoology constitutes around 55-60% of the NEET Biology section, contributing to your overall NEET score. NEET Botany is also a key factor in your overall percentile. Mastering NEET topics is very crucial because they carry nearly 35-40% weightage within Zoology. On scoring high marks, you can get into the medical science field or the best medical college in India.
Each correct Zoology answer earns 4 marks, contributing to 198-216 marks of the total 720. Learning topics like Human Physiology, Genetics, and Evolution enhances your scoring potential.
Here's a comprehensive overview of the NEET 2025 Zoology Syllabus, including chapter-wise weightage, average number of questions, and estimated marks contribution:
Chapter/Topic
Avg. No. of Questions
Weightage (%)
Estimated Marks (4 marks per question)
Animal Kingdom
4
8%
16
Structural Organisation in Animals
2
4%
8
Biomolecules
1
2%
4
Cell: The Unit of Life
2
4%
8
Cell Cycle and Cell Division
2
4%
8
Human Physiology
10
20%
40
Human Reproduction
3
6%
12
Reproductive Health
3
6%
12
Genetics and Evolution
7
14%
28
Biotechnology – Principles and Processes
2
4%
8
Biotechnology and Its Applications
2
4%
8
Human Health and Disease
3
6%
12
Strategies for Enhancement in Food Production
1
2%
4
Microbes in Human Welfare
1
2%
4
Ecology and Environment
3
6%
12
Total
50
100%
200
For NEET 2025, focus on key high-weightage Zoology topics frequently appearing in the exam. Here are the essential chapters to prioritize.
Key Topics in the NEET 2025 Zoology Syllabus
The Zoology section tests core concepts in animal biology, physiology, genetics, and ecology that are vital for medical entrance success. Learning these topics is crucial since they frequently appear in exams and often carry high marks.
Here’s a closer look at the essential chapters you should focus on to maximize your score:
Topic
Approximate Weightage (%)
Importance
Diversity of Living Organisms
10-12%
Classification and characteristics of animals.
Structural Organization in Animals
8-10%
Anatomy, tissues, and body organization.
Human Physiology
18-20%
This includes the digestive, circulatory, nervous, and respiratory systems.
Reproduction
10-12%
Covers reproductive systems and reproductive health.
Genetics and Evolution
15-18%
Heredity, Mendelian genetics, and evolutionary biology.
Genetic engineering, applications in medicine and agriculture.
Ecology and Environment
7-9%
Ecosystems, biodiversity, and environmental issues.
Animal Kingdom
5-6%
Study of different phyla and their characteristics.
Cell Structure and Function
3-4%
Basics of cell biology and functions.
Molecular Basis of Inheritance
4-5%
DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis fundamentals.
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Now that we’ve covered the key topics, let’s dive deeper into the detailed NEET 2025 Zoology syllabus to understand the specific concepts and chapters you must learn.
Detailed NEET 2025 Zoology Syllabus
Understanding the detailed syllabus helps you focus on the precise concepts and subtopics essential for the exam. NEET 2025 has emphasized diagram-based questions and application-oriented problems, particularly in chapters like Structural Organization in Animals and Human Physiology. For full focussed preparations you can also make use of scholarships.
Starting with the Class 11 topics is essential to building a strong foundation for NEET 2025 Zoology, as they form the core principles on which advanced Class 12 concepts are based. Let’s explore the key areas from Class 11.
Class 11 Zoology Topics
Class 11 forms the conceptual backbone of NEET Zoology. A strong command over these fundamentals is essential, as around 45–48% of Zoology questions in NEET are based on Class 11 topics.
Here’s a structured overview of Class 11 Zoology topics as per the official syllabus:
Class 12 Zoology covers advanced, application-based topics like physiology, genetics, and biotechnology. It contributes around 52–55% of NEET Zoology questions, with chapters like Molecular Basis of Inheritance and Human Reproduction alone accounting for 12–14% in recent years.
Below is a structured breakdown of the key Class 12 Zoology topics:
Unit
Key Topics Covered
Human Reproduction
Male & female reproductive systems
Gametogenesis
Menstrual cycle
Fertilization
Reproductive Health
Birth control methods
STDs
Infertility
Assisted reproductive technologies (ART)
Principles of Inheritance and Variation
Mendel’s laws
Deviations (codominance, multiple alleles)
Pedigree analysis
Molecular Basis of Inheritance
DNA structure
Replication
Transcription
Translation
Genetic code
Mutations
Evolution
Darwin’s theory
Hardy-Weinberg principle
Speciation and molecular evolution
Human Health and Disease
Immune system (innate & acquired)
Vaccines, pathogens, diseases (AIDS, cancer)
Strategies for Enhancement in Food Production
Animal breeding
Tissue culture
Aquaculture
Single-cell protein
Microbes in Human Welfare
Industrial use of microbes
Sewage treatment
Antibiotics
Biogas production
Biotechnology – Principles and Processes
Genetic engineering
Cloning vectors
PCR
Bioreactors
Biotechnology and Its Applications
GM crops
Gene therapy
Transgenic animals
Biopesticides
Ecology and Environment
Ecosystem
Biodiversity
Ecological succession
Environmental issues
To plan your preparation effectively, it’s essential to understand the weightage each Zoology chapter carries in NEET 2025. This insight helps focus on high-impact topics that can maximize your score.
NEET 2025 Zoology Syllabus Weightage
Understanding the chapter-wise weightage in NEET 2025 Zoology helps prioritize high-mark topics, enhancing preparation efficiency. Focusing on key chapters can significantly improve scores with Biology worth 360 marks and Zoology nearly half.
The table below reflects the average chapter-wise weightage based on an analysis of NEET 2021–2024 question papers aligned with the official NTA NEET UG 2025 syllabus.
Chapter
Average No. of Questions
Estimated Marks
Relative Importance
Human Physiology (Class 11)
10–11
40–44 marks
Very High
Reproduction (Class 12)
4–5
16–20 marks
High
Genetics & Evolution (Class 12)
5–6
20–24 marks
Very High
Human Health and Disease (Class 12)
2–3
8–12 marks
Medium
Biotechnology (Principles + Applications)
3–4
12–16 marks
High
Structural Organisation in Animals (Class 11)
2–3
8–12 marks
Medium
Neural Control & Coordination (Class 11)
2
8 marks
Medium
Excretory Products & Elimination (Class 11)
2
8 marks
Medium
Body Fluids and Circulation (Class 11)
2
8 marks
Medium
Evolution (Class 12)
2
8 marks
Medium
Locomotion and Movement (Class 11)
1–2
4–8 marks
Low
Microbes in Human Welfare (Class 12)
1
4 marks
Low
Ecology and Environment (Class 12)
1–2
4–8 marks
Medium
Planning to appear for NEET 2024? Get complete details on eligibility, age limit, attempts, and key exam updates. Check the official NEET 2024 Eligibility & Exam Guide now!
Choosing the right books that effectively cover core concepts and advanced topics is essential for building a strong foundation and enhancing your preparation.
Best Books for NEET 2025 Zoology Preparation
Choosing the right NEET study material is key for NEET Zoology success. Over 90% of questions come from NCERT, making it essential. Supplementing with reference books helps tackle application-based questions and deepen understanding.
With the right resources, developing an effective preparation strategy is the next crucial step to confidently tackle the NEET 2025 Zoology section.
NEET 2025 Zoology Preparation Strategy
To excel in NEET 2025 Zoology, build strong concepts, prioritize key topics, and practice regularly. Mock tests can enhance scores by 20%. Use diagrams and mnemonics, and revise consistently for best results.
Prioritize NCERT Textbooks: First, cover all Class 11 and 12 NCERT Zoology chapters as they form the foundation of the exam.
Focus on High-Weightage Topics First: Prioritize chapters like Human Physiology, Genetics, and Reproduction, which contribute over 40% of Zoology questions.
Create a Realistic Study Schedule: Allocate daily time slots for Zoology, balancing learning new topics and revising old ones.
Regular Revision: Dedicate 20-30% of your study time to revisiting previous chapters to reinforce retention.
Incorporate Conceptual & Application Questions: NEET increasingly tests application-based questions, so practice those beyond rote learning.
Use Visual Aids: Diagrams and flowcharts help in quick recall and better understanding, especially for complex processes.
Adhering to these strategies will ensure steady progress and maximize your scoring potential in the Zoology section of NEET 2025.
5-Step Zoology Preparation Plan
A focused and systematic approach can significantly enhance your NEET 2025 Zoology score. A clear preparation plan is essential since Zoology covers over 50% of the Biology section.
Here’s a 5-step plan to help you stay on track:
Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly: Familiarize yourself with all topics and subtopics to ensure complete coverage.
Practice Diagrams and Labeling: Diagrams make up about 15-20% of Zoology questions; practicing them improves accuracy and saves time.
Use Mnemonics for Quick Recall: Memory aids help effectively retain complex processes and terms.
Take Mock Tests Regularly: Regular tests improve speed and identify weak areas; students must increase their scores through consistent mock practice.
Review Mistakes and Weak Areas: Analyze errors carefully and revise those topics to avoid repeating mistakes in the exam.
Following this plan consistently will build confidence and sharpen your Zoology skills for NEET 2025.
Recognizing and avoiding common mistakes can help you improve accuracy and enhance your overall score in the NEET Zoology section.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in NEET Zoology
Avoiding common mistakes is essential for maximizing your NEET Zoology score. Even top-performing students can lose valuable marks due to simple errors such as misreading questions or neglecting diagram-based answers.
According to the National Testing Agency (NTA) analysis, around 12-15% of candidates lose marks due to avoidable mistakes in Biology. You must be aware that there are many scholarships to study medicine abroad.
Key mistakes to watch out for include:
Common Mistakes
Impact on Score
Skipping diagram labeling
Loss of 10-15% of questions
Misinterpreting multiple-choice options
Negative marking risks
Ignoring time management
Incomplete question attempts
Overlooking revision of weak topics
Repeated errors in similar areas
Not practicing previous years’ papers
Lower accuracy and confidence
Partnering with the right learning platform can provide the guidance and resources needed to tackle NEET 2025 Zoology and secure a top rank confidently.
How upGrad Can Help You Ace NEET 2025
upGrad offers comprehensive NEET preparation courses to help aspirants excel in Zoology and other subjects. With personalized mentorship, doubt clearance sessions, and regular assessments, upGrad ensures that students stay on track and continuously improve.
Key Features of upGrad’s NEET Prep:
Personalized Mentorship: Tailored guidance to address individual learning needs and strengthen weak areas.
Doubt Clearance: Dedicated sessions for resolving queries promptly, enhancing clarity and confidence.
Regular Assessments: Frequent tests to monitor progress and refine exam strategies.
Interactive Classes: Engaging live sessions that enhance understanding through real-time interaction.
AI-Powered Study Plans: Customized schedules based on performance data to optimize study time and focus areas.
Students using upGrad’s NEET programs see an average score enhancement of 15–18% through expert guidance and innovative learning tools, helping them confidently crack 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!
FAQs
How many Zoology questions are there in the NEET 2025 exam?
NEET 2025 includes 180 questions, with Biology accounting for 90. Approximately 50-54 questions are from Zoology, making up around 55-60% of the Biology section. This highlights the significant role Zoology plays in the exam, and focusing on this section can significantly impact your overall score.
What percentage of the NEET Biology section is Zoology?
Zoology comprises about 55-60% of the total Biology questions in NEET 2025. Since Biology contributes 50% of the total exam marks, Zoology effectively covers around 27.5-30% of the entire NEET exam, highlighting its importance in the preparation strategy.
How much weightage does Human Physiology carry in NEET 2025?
Human Physiology holds significant weight in NEET Zoology, accounting for roughly 20-25% of the Zoology questions. This translates to around 10-13 questions, making it a critical topic for aspirants to focus on to maximize their NEET scores.
What is the approximate number of questions from Genetics in NEET?
Genetics typically contributes around 8-10 questions in the NEET Biology section, with about 60-65% falling under Zoology. That means roughly 5-7 Genetics questions come from the Zoology syllabus, reflecting its moderate but crucial presence in the exam.
How many chapters are covered in the NEET Zoology syllabus?
The NEET Zoology syllabus spans approximately 15-18 chapters across Class 11 and 12 topics. This includes units like Diversity of Living Organisms, Human Physiology, Genetics, and Ecology, each contributing variably to the question pool.
What is the ideal study time for NEET Zoology preparation?
Experts recommend dedicating at least 150-180 hours specifically for Zoology preparation, spread over 4-6 months, depending on individual strengths. This timeframe allows thorough coverage of concepts and diagrams and regular revision, improving retention and exam readiness.
How many mock tests should I take for NEET Zoology?
Taking at least 15-20 full-length mock tests with a strong focus on Zoology is ideal. Studies show candidates who consistently take mock tests improve their scores by 15-20% due to better time management and question familiarity.
What is the average score needed in Zoology to secure a medical seat?
To secure a medical seat, aspirants typically score around 120-140 marks out of 180 in Biology, with Zoology contributing about 60-70 marks. This is based on cutoff trends in previous years, where strong Zoology performance enhances overall scores.
How many times should I revise the Zoology syllabus before NEET?
For effective retention, the Zoology syllabus should be revised at least 3-4 times. Frequent revisions help reinforce concepts and improve recall speed, which is critical given the conceptual and diagram-based nature of Zoology questions.
What is the percentage of NCERT-based questions in NEET Zoology?
Over 90% of NEET Zoology questions are directly based on NCERT textbooks, making them the primary study material. This strong alignment emphasizes the importance of thoroughly understanding and practicing the NCERT content.
How much weightage do diagrams have in NEET Zoology?
Diagrams account for approximately 15-20% of the Zoology questions in NEET. Proficiency in drawing and labeling these diagrams accurately can help gain crucial marks and improve overall exam performance.
