FMGE Will Be Replaced by NExT
NMC (National Medical Commission) is planning to phase out FMGE and introduce the NExT exam for foreign medical graduates.
Tentative from 2025 or later (official date pending).
🧠 NExT Will Be More Than Just a Written Exam
Unlike FMGE (MCQ-only), NExT will include:
Written test (like FMGE)
Clinical skills test
Viva-voce/oral examination
Possibly OSCE-style (Objective Structured Clinical Examination)
🏥 Conducted at State Government Medical Colleges
NMC plans to hold NExT clinical tests in selected Indian medical colleges.
Evaluators may be state-appointed professors/doctors.
There are concerns of bias or tough evaluation – especially for foreign medical graduates.
⚠️ Why This Makes It Tougher
Clinical and viva components are subjective.
Many students worry evaluators may be harsh or discourage FMGs.
You must choose a university that trains you well in practicals and prepares you for real hospital exposure.
🎯 Choosing the Right MBBS Abroad University is Crucial
Pick universities that offer:
Strong clinical rotation
English-speaking hospitals
Indian faculty or Indian-oriented coaching support
Internal mock tests or FMGE/NExT support
📢 Students Must Be FMGE/NExT-Ready from Day One
Do not choose based only on low fees.
Always check: Does this university prepare me for NExT/FMGE?
🛑 NExT will be the toughest test Indian FMGs have ever faced.
❗ Choose wisely, train from 1st year, and ensure your university gives real hospital expos
Studying MBBS abroad is becoming increasingly popular among Indian students due to the high cost of private medical colleges in India and limited government seats. Here’s what you need to know about the future of MBBS abroad, upcoming changes in 2025 and beyond, and key points on NMC rules, MCI, and Indian government regulations:
NEXT Exam*: The National Exit Test (NEXT) will replace the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) starting from 2024-25. This exam will assess clinical practice and viva skills, ensuring Indian medical standards are met.
NMC Recognition*: The National Medical Commission (NMC) recognized medical universities abroad, and students must ensure the university they choose is listed in the NMC’s approved medical colleges abroad.
Global Recognition*: Many medical universities abroad are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER), and UNESCO .
Bangladesh*: 6-year program, ₹3-5 lakhs per year, English medium, NMC approved
Russia*: 6-year program, ₹3-5 lakhs per year, English medium, NMC approved
Bulgaria*: 6-year program, ₹3-5 lakhs per year, English medium, NMC approved
Moldova*: 7-year program, ₹3-5 lakhs per year, English medium, NMC approved
– *Georgia*: 6-year program, ₹4-6 lakhs per year, European lifestyle, NMC approved
Egypt*: &-year program, ₹3-5 lakhs per year, English medium, NMC approved
– *Kazakhstan*: 5-year program, ₹2.5-4 lakhs per year, affordable fees, Indian mess options
– *Kyrgyzstan*: 5-year program, ₹2.5-4 lakhs per year, budget-friendly
– *Uzbekistan*: 5-year program, ₹2.5-3.5 lakhs per year, rapidly growing medical education sector
– *Philippines*: 5.5-year program, ₹3-5 lakhs per year, US-based curriculum
Benefits of Studying MBBS Abroad:
– *Affordability*: Tuition fees are significantly lower compared to private medical colleges in India.
– *Global Exposure*: Students gain international clinical experience and exposure to diverse medical practices.
– *No Donation or Capitation Fee*: Admissions are merit-based, and there are no hidden charges.
– *Recognized Degrees*: Many universities abroad offer NMC-approved degrees, allowing graduates to practice in India and abroad
