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FMGE is the current licensing exam for foreign MBBS graduates (single paper, 300 Qs, no negative marking). NEXT (National Exit Test) will eventually replace FMGE as a combined licensing + PG entrance exam, but the rollout has been delayed. As of 2026, FMGE remains the mandatory screening exam.
Choose FMGE if…
Choose NEXT if…
| Dimension | FMGE | NEXT |
|---|---|---|
| Conducting body | NBE (on behalf of NMC) | NMC / NBE (planned) |
| Pattern | 300 Qs, single paper, 150 min, CBT | Single computer-based exam with multiple sections |
| Negative marking | No negative marking | No negative marking (proposed) |
| Frequency | Twice a year (June + December) | Expected twice a year (not confirmed) |
| Pass mark | 150/300 (50%) | Competency-based threshold (not defined yet) |
| Outcome | License to practise in India + internship | License to practise + PG entrance rank |
| Eligibility | Foreign MBBS graduates with ECFMG equivalency | All MBBS graduates (Indian + foreign) |
| Internship | 12-month Indian internship required before practice | Likely integrated into exam structure |
Yes, NEXT is planned to replace FMGE for foreign graduates and will also serve as the PG entrance exam replacing NEET PG. However, the rollout has faced repeated delays. As of 2026, FMGE remains the active exam.
Absolutely — until NEXT is officially implemented, FMGE is the only way for foreign graduates to get licensed in India. Your FMGE preparation overlaps heavily with NEXT preparation (clinical subjects, preventive medicine).
FMGE pass rate hovers around 15-25%, making it a challenging exam. NEXT, when implemented, is expected to have a more structured competency-based approach.