Mock NExT Exams Planned
NMC Chairman Dr. Abhijat Sheth confirmed that instead of immediate implementation, the Commission will organize mock NExT examinations, fully funded by the NMC. These tests will be conducted over the next few years to assess the feasibility, logistics, and effectiveness of the proposed system. The mock exams will also help gather feedback from students, faculty, and institutions to refine the test structure.
Dr. Sheth emphasized that the step is aimed at ensuring adequate readiness in terms of infrastructure, legal clarity, and academic integration before making NExT a mandatory examination.
FAIMA’s Role and Recommendations
During the meeting in New Delhi, FAIMA shared insights from a nationwide survey highlighting key concerns among medical students and resident doctors. These included issues related to training quality, workload, and institutional preparedness for NExT.
Dr. Sheth welcomed FAIMA’s evidence-based approach and assured that their recommendations would be reviewed for inclusion in future policy discussions on medical education reform.
About the National Exit Test (NExT)
The National Exit Test was conceptualized as a single comprehensive exam for MBBS graduates, designed to serve two key purposes:
- Licensing test for practicing medicine in India.
- Common entrance examination for postgraduate (PG) medical admissions.
Initially proposed to be implemented from August 2025, the rollout has been delayed due to legal, structural, and logistical challenges. With the latest decision, its introduction is now deferred for at least three to four years, pending the outcome of mock assessments and stakeholder feedback.
The postponement brings temporary relief to thousands of medical students while ensuring that the system, once implemented, is robust, fair, and feasible for all stakeholders.