For years students abroad have heard that the FMGE “is ending” and the National Exit Test (NExT) is coming. As of October 2026, the FMGE continues and NExT has not been implemented. Here is what we know, what is uncertain, and how to prepare so the change, whenever it comes, does not catch you out.
What NExT is meant to be
The National Medical Commission Act, 2019 provides for a National Exit Test as a common final exam for all MBBS graduates, Indian and foreign. It is intended to serve as a licensing exam, a basis for postgraduate admissions and, for foreign graduates, a replacement for the FMGE. FMGL 2021 also refers to NExT as the exam foreign graduates must pass.
Current status
- July 2023: NMC deferred NExT “till further directions” from the Ministry of Health.
- Since then: various timelines have been discussed, and some reports in 2026 suggest implementation is unlikely before about 2028-29. No firm exam date has been notified.
- Meanwhile: the FMGE continues, conducted by NBEMS, usually in June and December. After the June 2026 session’s low pass rate, an NBEMS committee reportedly suggested changes such as more sittings a year, but these had not been notified as of this update.
Because plans have changed several times, check NMC’s website and NBEMS notices before each exam cycle.
FMGE vs NExT: what is known
| FMGE (current) | NExT (proposed) | |
|---|---|---|
| Who takes it | Foreign medical graduates only | All MBBS graduates, Indian and foreign |
| Conducted by | NBEMS | To be notified |
| Format | 300 MCQs, pass at 150 | Proposed in steps, including a theory step and a practical/clinical step |
| Purpose | Licensing screening test | Licensing, PG admission ranking and FMG screening |
| Status | Running twice a year | Deferred; no date notified |
How to prepare for either exam
- Build concepts, not just recall. Both exams reward understanding and clinical reasoning. Concept videos from Lecturio can help when textbook explanations fall short.
- Follow an India-focused plan. FMGE-oriented courses such as DocTutorials cover the Indian syllabus, community medicine and the question style.
- Develop clinical skills seriously. If NExT includes a practical step, hands-on skills from your clinical years will matter. Learn the local language so you can examine patients. See local language guide.
- Follow a long-term plan. Our year-by-year FMGE strategy applies to NExT too.
Frequently asked questions
Has NExT replaced the FMGE?
Not as of October 2026. The FMGE continues, and NExT remains deferred without a notified exam date.
When will NExT start?
No date has been officially notified. Reports in 2026 suggest it may not start before about 2028-29, but this is not confirmed.
Will NExT be harder than the FMGE?
It is not yet known. It is expected to include a clinical or practical component, so strong clinical skills will matter.
Should I wait for NExT instead of taking the FMGE?
No. Take the FMGE when you are eligible and prepared. Waiting for an exam without a confirmed date only delays your career.
Sources
- NExT deferral notice (July 2023): Careers360
- NExT status overview 2026: Career Plan B
- FMGE June 2026 and NBEMS committee: russianmbbs.com
- National Medical Commission: nmc.org.in
Always verify: NExT plans have changed several times. Check NMC and NBEMS notices. Last checked: October 2026.
