Can I do PG in India after completing MBBS abroad?

31st March

4 minute read 33K Views

Introduction

Many students choose to pursue MBBS from foreign countries due to affordability, better facilities, and high-quality education. However, after completing MBBS abroad, many wonder if they can return to India for a Postgraduate (PG) medical degree. This blog provides a comprehensive guide on eligibility, entrance exams, and the process for foreign medical graduates to pursue PG in India.

Eligibility Criteria for PG in India After MBBS Abroad

Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) must fulfill the following criteria to be eligible for PG courses in India:

Completion of MBBS from a recognized medical university abroad.
Successful clearance of the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE), also known as the MCI Screening Test.
Compulsory one-year internship in India after passing FMGE.
Qualifying the NEET-PG or NExT exam (as per upcoming regulations).

Entrance Exams Required for PG in India

FMGE (MCI Screening Test)

Foreign medical graduates must pass the FMGE to be eligible for medical practice and higher education in India. The exam is conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) twice a year.

NEET-PG

After clearing FMGE and completing the internship, candidates must qualify for NEET-PG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test - Postgraduate) to secure admission in medical PG programs.

NExT (National Exit Test)

The Government of India is introducing NExT. Which will replace FMGE and NEET-PG. NExT will serve as a common licensure and entrance exam for medical graduates, including foreign medical graduates.

Top PG Medical Courses in India for FMGs

After clearing the required exams, foreign medical graduates can choose from various postgraduate courses in India, including:

Doctor of Medicine (MD) – Various Specializations
Master of Surgery (MS) – Various Specializations
Diplomate of National Board (DNB)
Postgraduate Diploma Courses in Medical Specialties

Challenges Faced by Foreign Medical Graduates

FMGs may face several challenges while pursuing PG in India:

High competition for NEET-PG seats.
Limited availability of PG seats for FMGs.
Changing regulations regarding FMGE and NExT.
Recognition of foreign degrees and equivalency issues.

Conclusion

Yes, foreign medical graduates can pursue PG in India, but they must clear FMGE, complete their internship, and qualify NEET-PG or NExT. Due to high competition and limited seats, proper planning and preparation are crucial. For aspirants looking to pursue PG in India after MBBS abroad, staying updated with MCI/NMC guidelines and entrance exam updates is essential.

1. Can I pursue PG in India after doing MBBS abroad?: Yes, but you must qualify the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) conducted by the National Medical Commission (NMC).
2. What is the FMGE?: The Foreign Medical Graduate Examination is a licensure exam for Indian citizens with a medical degree from abroad to practice or pursue PG in India.
3. Is FMGE mandatory to do PG in India?: Yes, clearing the FMGE is mandatory for medical graduates from abroad before applying for PG courses in India.
4. What is the next step after clearing FMGE?: After clearing FMGE, you must complete a one-year compulsory internship in an NMC-recognized hospital.
5. Can I apply for NEET PG after doing MBBS abroad?: Yes, once you clear FMGE and complete your internship, you are eligible to appear for NEET PG.
6. What is NEET PG?: NEET PG is the national eligibility test for admission to MD/MS and PG diploma courses in India.
7. Is NEET PG competitive for FMGs?: Yes, it is highly competitive. FMGs compete with Indian MBBS graduates for limited PG seats.
8. Do FMGs have a reservation quota in NEET PG?: No, there is no separate reservation for foreign medical graduates.
9. What is the passing percentage for FMGE?: The FMGE passing percentage varies annually but is generally low, around 15-20%.
10. How often is FMGE conducted?: FMGE is conducted twice a year—typically in June and December.
11. Can I practice in India without clearing FMGE?: No, it is mandatory to clear FMGE to practice medicine or pursue PG in India.
12. Are Chinese medical degrees accepted in the USA or UK?: Yes, graduates can appear for USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), or other licensing exams after meeting eligibility criteria.
13. Can I do PG abroad after MBBS abroad instead of India?: Yes, many countries allow foreign graduates to pursue PG after clearing respective entrance or licensing exams.
14. Is the internship abroad valid in India?: No, you need to complete a one-year internship in India after clearing FMGE, even if you’ve done one abroad.
15. Do all countries’ MBBS degrees qualify for FMGE?: Only those MBBS degrees obtained from institutions recognized by the NMC are eligible for FMGE.
16. How do I find out if my foreign medical college is NMC approved?: You can check the list of approved institutions on the official NMC website.
17. What documents are required to apply for FMGE?: Documents include your MBBS degree, mark sheets, eligibility certificate, passport, and visa details.
18. Do FMGs face difficulty getting PG seats in India?: Yes, due to limited PG seats and high competition, it is challenging but not impossible.
19. Are there coaching centers for FMGE and NEET PG?: Yes, several reputed institutes in India offer coaching for FMGE and NEET PG preparation.
20. Can FMGs apply for AIIMS PG or INI-CET?: Yes, if you have cleared FMGE and meet all eligibility criteria, you can apply for AIIMS PG or INI-CET.
21. Is PG from India valid internationally?: Yes, MD/MS from India is recognized in many countries, but you may need to pass licensing exams there.
22. Can I get a government PG seat after MBBS abroad?: Yes, but you must clear NEET PG and secure a high rank. No separate quota exists for FMGs.
23. What is the cost of PG in India for FMGs?: The cost depends on the institution—government colleges are cheaper than private ones.
24. Can FMGs apply under NRI quota for PG?: Yes, some private colleges offer NRI/management quota seats open to FMGs.
25. How long is PG in India after MBBS?: Most PG courses like MD/MS are 3 years long. Diploma courses are 2 years.
26. What are some popular PG specializations?: Popular choices include General Medicine, Pediatrics, Radiology, Dermatology, and Surgery.
27. Can I do DNB instead of MD/MS?: Yes, FMGs can also apply for DNB programs through NEET PG.
28. What is the difference between DNB and MD/MS?: DNB (Diplomate of National Board) is considered equivalent to MD/MS but is conducted by a different board.
29. What is the eligibility certificate from NMC?: It is a mandatory document issued by NMC before you go abroad for MBBS, required to appear for FMGE later.
30. Is PG in India after foreign MBBS worth it?: Yes, if you are determined, clear FMGE and NEET PG, PG in India offers strong clinical training and career growth.