Blog

If you have completed your medical degree from a foreign country but wish to practice in your homeland, India, as a doctor, then FMGE and NExT are two terms you might have heard of. If you are confused about the key differences between FMGE and NExT, let’s unwrap the similarities and differences between these medical licensing exams.

What is FMGE?

FMGE, or Foreign Medical Graduate Examination, is the gateway for practicing medicine in India. You need to qualify for this medical licensing exam, conducted by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS), to obtain the license to practice in your home country. After qualifying for FMGE, you will receive a registration certificate from the National Medical Commission (NMC) or State Medical Council (SMC), opening your door to Indian healthcare.

What is NExT?

The National Exit Test (NExT) is the uniform national medical licensure exam for MBBS graduates, including those from foreign countries. The exam serves as a common licentiate exam to practice modern medicine, a merit-based admission test for postgraduate courses, and a screening exam for foreign medical graduates who want to practice in India.

FMGE and NExT: Key Differences

• FMGE is conducted twice a year and is solely for foreign medical graduates, while NExT is for all medical graduates, both Indian and foreign. NExT will be conducted once a year.
• FMGE is a completely theory-oriented exam, while NExT will assess both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
• Clearing FMGE allows you to start your internship, whereas clearing NExT will grant you a license to practice medicine in India and also determine your admission to postgraduate medical courses.

Transition from FMGE to NExT

As per reports, NExT will soon replace both the Foreign Medical Graduates Exam (FMGE) and the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test – Postgraduate (NEET-PG). The aim of this transition is to standardize the medical education sector in India and  to ensure that doctors are equipped with the necessary abilities to practice. This transition will surely be a significant step in the evolution of medical education in India.

If you are planning to take FMGE exam in the coming months, our team is here to guide you.

Connect with us to know more!

Authored By: Mariya P J