The National Testing Agency (NTA), a self-sustained and autonomous organization, has recently announced the results of the National Eligibility Cum Entrance Test (undergraduate medical entrance exam). Established under the Indian Societies Registration Act, 1860, NTA is entrusted with conducting competitive entrance examinations such as NEET, JEE, CTET, GATE, GPAT, GMAT, CAT, UGC NET and more.
About National Testing Agency
Founded to conduct transparent and efficient tests of international standards, NTA assesses the competency of candidates for admission and recruitment purposes. As an independent testing authority, it shoulders the responsibilities of conducting entrance exams for higher education institutions.
Role and Functions
Part of NTA’s key roles includes identifying partner institutions possessing the necessary infrastructure for conducting online exams without disrupting their routine academic activities. This agency is also responsible for building a question bank across various subjects using modern techniques and creating a pool of experts specializing in different aspects of testing.
Collaborations and Services
NTA provides training and advisory services to Indian institutions. It collaborates with global organizations like ETS (Educational Testing Services) and undertakes any other examination as directed by Indian ministries/departments or State Governments. Moreover, it embarks on the reforms and training of school boards and other bodies to ensure their testing standards are comparable with entrance exams.
NTA Governance Structure
The governance structure of the NTA comprises an eminent educationist chairing it, appointed by the Ministry of Human Resource Development. The Chief Executive Officer, who also serves as the Director-General, is appointed by the Government. The board of governors includes members from user institutions.
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Establishment Year | Established as a Society under Indian Societies Registration Act, 1860 |
| CEO/Director-General | Appointed by the Government |
| Chairman | An eminent educationist appointed by the Ministry of Human Resource Development |
| Collaborations | Works with global organizations like ETS (Educational Testing Services) |
Significance of NTA
The establishment of NTA has relieved other agencies, such as CBSE and AICTE, from the responsibilities of conducting entrance examinations. NTA conducts exams online at least twice a year to provide candidates with ample opportunities. It also serves rural students by setting up centers at sub-district and district levels. The NTA has recently launched a mobile app and Test Practise Centres (TPC’s) allowing students to practise or take mock tests on their computers or smartphones.
