INI-CET 2025 Exam Day Guidelines—Dress Code, Documents Required & Checklist

The exam is just approaching, and we are sure that you must be feeling that mix of excitement and anxiety. The months that you’ve been studying for will come down to a few crucial hours. These couple of hours are going to make or break your performance in the exam. 

This is why it is crucial that you do all the right things before entering the exam hall. Following all the exam guidelines is as vital as acing your syllabus. 

If you miss a document, or bring a prohibited item, or even violate the dress code, it can cause unnecessary panic.  

In this blog, we have compiled everything you need to know about the exam details, including the dress code and required documents.. We also have gotten a comprehensive checklist to ensure that your exam day goes smoothly without any hiccups. 

INI-CET 2025–2026 Exam Day Guidelines

Reporting Time & Entry Rules

The exam is conducted by AIIMS in strict, time-bound sessions. Candidates must reach the test centre at least 90 minutes before the start time. Entry gates generally open around 7:00 AM and close by 8:45 AM. Once closed, no candidate is allowed inside, regardless of the reason.

Upon arrival, you’ll undergo security screening and identity verification as part of the exam day guidelines. Being punctual ensures you remain composed and ready for the computer-based test without last-minute stress.

Biometric Verification & ID Check

Biometric verification and ID authentication is made mandatory by AIIMS in order to maintain fairness. All the aspirants are required to carry a valid admit card and one approved photo ID with them. The biometric process typically includes fingerprint or photo capture and iris scanning. 

In case of any discrepancy or mismatch between your admit card details and your ID, your entry can be denied. Therefore, it is crucial to review all your exam information beforehand. 

List of Allowed and Prohibited Items

Security is strict, and the list of items allowed is very short. You’re permitted to carry:

• Printed INI-CET admit card
  
• One valid photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, or Driving Licence)
  
• Small transparent water bottle (if allowed by centre)

And, when it comes to the items that are prohibited, all the electronic devices including smartwatches, calculators, mobile phones, earphones, pens, and wallets are among the list. Food items, metallic accessories, and notes or books are also banned under the exam day guidelines.

Health & COVID Safety Protocols

Even though the concerns regarding COVID have eased a tad, practicing basic hygiene is still  a mandate. It is advisable that you carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer, wear a mask if you’re feeling under the weather, and maintain distance in queues. AIIMS may issue specific INI-CET dates and centre-specific instructions if health advisories are updated before the exam.

Documents Required for INI-CET 2025–2026

Admit Card 

The admit card is your primary entry document. Candidates must bring a color printout downloaded from the official AIIMS portal. The admit card should contain your photograph, signature, exam date, and allotted centre.

Keep it unwrinkled and safe, as it will also be used during the result and counselling process.

Accepted Photo ID Proofs

The documents required for identity verification include:

• Aadhaar Card (original or e-Aadhaar)
  
• Voter ID
  
• Passport
  
• PAN Card
  
• Driving Licence
  

Make sure your name and date of birth match exactly with the admit card — even a spelling error can delay your entry.

PwD & Special Category Documents

If you fall under the PwD category, bring your official medical certificate. Candidates with special medical needs should inform the invigilator early. Those under reserved categories should have original caste or disability certificates ready for verification during entry.

Dress Code

Recommended Attire for Male & Female Candidates

AIIMS follows a modest dress code for both male and female candidates.

For males: Half-sleeve shirts or t-shirts without pockets or big buttons. Avoid jackets or hoodies.
For females: Half-sleeve tops or kurtas without embroidery or metal zippers. Avoid high heels and large accessories.

Keeping your attire simple ensures a smooth security check and avoids delays at the entrance.

Footwear & Accessory Rules

Shoes with thick soles or heavy buckles are not allowed. Choose simple footwear like sandals or slippers. Watches, bracelets, bangles, and metallic accessories are prohibited under exam day guidelines.

Special Cases (Religious or Medical Attire)

If you wear religious attire like turbans, veils, or headscarves, or require medical clothing (for example, orthopaedic footwear), inform the authorities at entry. Such cases are allowed but subject to detailed frisking for security.

Exam Day Do’s and Don’ts

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Arriving just before the reporting time: entry might close early.
  
• Bringing prohibited electronic devices or large bags.
  
• Mismatched ID/name against the admit card.
  
• Carrying new topics or books instead of focusing on revision.
  
• Ignoring health or meal prep before the exam.
  

Pre-Exam Checklist

• Admit card ✅
  
• Original photo-ID ✅
  
• Passport-size photographs (if required)
  
• Simple attire, minimal accessories
  
• Arrive at least 90 minutes before gate-close
  
• No gadgets, bags, or watches that could be flagged

Inside the Exam Hall

CBT Process & Rough Sheet Rules

You must already know that the INI-CET exam is a computer-based Test that spans over 3 years. You’ll be required to log in using your credentials, peruse all the instructions, and start answering questions with confidence. You will be given a rough sheet that must be returned after the exam. 

Make sure that you don’t carry any personal stationery. Everything that you need will be provided to you at the center. 

What Happens After Submission

Once you are done with the paper and submit it, you will have to wait for the invigilator's confirmation before leaving the hall. You are only allowed to exit after biometric verification and collection of rough sheets. 

Your exam result will be declared a few weeks later on the AIIMS website, along with your scorecard.

Last-Minute Checklist for INI-CET

Exam Morning Prep Plan

You cannot afford to lose your cool on exam day. Make sure that you wake up early, double check all your documents, and stay hydrated. You must avoid heavy meals and attempting new topics on the morning of the exam. Nothing is better than having a calm mind. 

Travel & Center Recheck

Panicking on the exam day just because you forget to confirm your route and verify center location would cost you your performance in the exam. It is imperative that you check your exam date and reporting time again just to be 100% sure. 

It’s better not to rely solely on navigation apps, and instead always keep a backup route in mind. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What documents are required to carry for the INI-CET exam day?

The most necessary documents to carry with you are a printed admit card, one valid photo id, and PwD or category certificate. 

2. What is the reporting time for the exam?

Candidates are expected to report at least 90 minutes before the exam starts. This gives them enough time to get all the formalities covered and settle in. 

3. What is the dress code for male and female candidates in the exam?
Simple half-sleeve clothing, no metallic accessories, and light footwear as per dress code.

4. Can I wear jeans or shoes for the INI-CET exam?

You can wear simple jeans but nothing with metal designs. However, you must avoid wearing shoes with thick soles. 

5. Are smartwatches, calculators, or mobile phones allowed in the exam?
No, electronic devices are not permitted under the exam day guidelines.

6. Can I carry a transparent water bottle or pen for the exam?
Only a clear bottle may be allowed; pens are not needed for the CBT format.

7. Will rough sheets be provided during the exam?
Yes, rough sheets will be given and must be returned before leaving the hall.

8. What happens if I reach the exam center?
You won’t be allowed entry once gates close, regardless of the reason.

9. Are food items or medicines allowed inside the exam hall?
Only medicines with medical proof are allowed; food is generally prohibited.

Wrapping Up 

Getting prepared for the exam just doesn’t involve studying. It goes way beyond that. You must know how well to follow the INI-CET exam guidelines, stay organized, follow your checklist, carry all the necessary documents, and amidst all the chaos, keep your mind calm. 

Every small step that you take during this time has the ability to make or break your performance. If you wish to experience a smooth and confident exam day, you need to pay attention to every small thing including printing your admit card to dressing appropriately. 

You’ve done all the hard work and dedicated all your time to your dream, now is the time to make it a reality. 

All the best to all INI-CET 2025 aspirants! Stay focused, stay prepared, and ace the exam!

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