Why Medical Students Should Start Preparing Early for FMGE or NEXT

Early preparation for FMGE or NEXT is key for medical graduates aiming to practise in India.

Every year, lakhs of students appear for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) with aspirations of becoming doctors. While many secure seats in Indian medical colleges, thousands pursue their MBBS abroad in countries such as Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, Kazakhstan, and the Philippines. However, many overlook a crucial step in their journey—the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) or the upcoming National Exit Test (NEXT).

The FMGE, conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE), is a mandatory licensure exam for Indian students with foreign medical degrees who wish to practise in India. Its purpose is to ensure that returning graduates meet the minimum knowledge standards required for safe and effective medical practice.

The Challenge of FMGE

Although FMGE is an eligibility test, it is widely regarded as tough. Historical pass rates have hovered around 10–20%, reflecting both the exam’s difficulty and the need for rigorous preparation. With NEXT set to replace FMGE in the future, the standards are expected to rise further, making early planning even more important for students.

Why Early Preparation Matters

1. Strong Knowledge Foundation – Preparing early allows students to build and revise their concepts alongside their medical curriculum rather than cramming at the last stage.

2. Better Time Management – Starting early reduces stress and helps balance preparation with clinical rotations or academic commitments.

3. Adaptation to Exam Pattern – Familiarity with FMGE/NEXT’s style of questioning requires consistent practice through mock tests and previous papers.

4. Higher Success Rates – Early and structured preparation significantly increases the chances of clearing the exam in the first attempt.

Preparing for the Future

As India moves towards implementing NEXT, students must understand that the exam will not only serve as a licensing test but also as a gateway to postgraduate admissions. Hence, building a strong academic base early in their medical journey will be critical for long-term career success.

For aspiring doctors, FMGE and NEXT are not just exams—they are milestones that determine their ability to practise medicine in India. Starting preparation early is the best strategy to overcome challenges and secure a successful medical career.