FMGE vs NExT Exam: NMC Licensing Guidelines
A comprehensive guide explaining the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) screening test and the transition to the upcoming National Exit Test (NExT) for MBBS abroad aspirants.
NExT / FMGE Quick Summary
For any Indian student who completes their MBBS abroad, passing a licensing screening exam in India is mandatory to register with the State Medical Councils. Historically, this has been the **FMGE**. However, under the National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines, the **NExT** (National Exit Test) will soon act as the single licensing exam for both Indian and Foreign medical graduates.
What is the FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination)?
The FMGE is a screening test conducted twice a year by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) in India. Candidates need a score of 50% (150 out of 300 marks) to qualify. There is no negative marking, and the questions are multiple-choice.
The National Exit Test (NExT): The Future of Licensing
The National Exit Test (NExT) is proposed by the NMC as a unified two-step exam:
- NExT-1: A computer-based theoretical examination comprising multiple-choice questions testing clinical knowledge.
- NExT-2: A practical and viva-voce examination assessing clinical and practical skills.
Comparison Matrix: FMGE vs NExT
| Feature | FMGE | NExT Exam |
|---|---|---|
| Applicability | Only Foreign Medical Graduates | Both Domestic and Foreign Graduates |
| Number of Steps | Single Step MCQ Exam | Two Steps (NExT-1 & NExT-2) |
| Purpose | Licensing only | Licensing + PG Admission merit |
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