MBBS Abroad Guidelines by the National Medical Commission (NMC) for Indian Students

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  • Frequently Asked Questions

Key NMC Guidelines for MBBS Abroad

Requirement

Details

NEET Exam

Mandatory for Indian students planning to study MBBS abroad since May 2018.

Screening Test (FMGE/NEXT)

After completing MBBS abroad, students must qualify the FMGE (soon to be NEXT) to practice in India.

University Recognition

NMC does not endorse any specific foreign universities; students must verify recognition with the concerned medical council of the country.

Course Duration & Internship

The course structure must include a minimum 54 months (4.5 years) of study plus 12 months of internship at the same institution.

Eligibility Certificate

Not required for students who took admission before March 15, 2002. Those after this date must qualify NEET and fulfill the eligibility criteria.

Accepted Foreign Medical Qualifications

Graduates from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, and the USA who also complete a PG degree in the same country are exempt from FMGE.

Understanding the Screening Test (FMGE/NEXT)

Indian and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) who obtain their primary medical qualification from a foreign institution are required to clear a screening test before registering as a medical practitioner in India. The Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) is currently required, which will soon be replaced by the National Exit Test (NEXT) in August 2025.

Eligibility for Screening Test

  • Must be an Indian Citizen or OCI.

  • The medical qualification must be recognized in the country of study.

  • The student must have completed NEET before admission.

  • The student must have completed the required duration of study and internship.

Additional Important NMC Requirements

  • The entire MBBS program, training, and internship shall be done outside India in the same foreign medical institution throughout the study.

  • The curriculum must include essential subjects like General Medicine, Surgery, Community Medicine, Psychiatry, Paediatrics, Anaesthesia, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Orthopedics, Ophthalmology, and related specialties.

  • All theoretical, practical, and clinical training must align with the requirements of the Indian MBBS course.

  • The university must have English as the official medium of teaching.

  • Students must be at least 17 years old when applying and must have completed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) with minimum 50% marks (40% for SC/ST/OBC candidates).

Conclusion

Studying MBBS abroad is a great option, but students must be cautious and follow NMC guidelines. Choosing a well-recognized university, fulfilling eligibility criteria, and preparing for FMGE/NEXT are essential steps for a successful medical career in India.

Need help with MBBS admission abroad? Educafic by Academically provides expert guidance to help you secure admission to top medical universities worldwide.

Have more questions? Please visit the NMC Website.

Also Read: Top 5 Best Countries To Pursue Master of Pharmacy

Frequently Asked Questions

Is MBBS abroad valid in India?

Is NEET compulsory for MBBS abroad?

What is the duration of MBBS abroad?

Does NMC approve specific foreign universities?

What is the FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination)?

Can students work in India without clearing FMGE/NEXT?

What is the success rate of FMGE?

How much does it cost to study MBBS abroad?

How do I verify a foreign medical university's recognition?

Can I get a scholarship for MBBS abroad?

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