NExT exam is a proposed test intended to replace NEET PG and FMGE for admission to postgraduate medical courses. The exam has been postponed by NMC. While the delay aims to improve the process of exam.
National Medical Commission announced that NExT exam has been postponed for a period of three to four years. The commission said that delaying the exam process is necessary to conduct mock trials and gather feedback from students, medical colleges, and other stakeholders before the exam is implemented nationwide.
According to reports, Dr. Abhijat Sheth, Chairperson of FAIMA, has confirmed that the board plans to conduct a series of mock tests for NExT exam over the next few years instead of implementing it immediately. These NExT mock test trials are designed to provide NMC with valuable feedback from students, medical colleges, and institutions regarding the exam’s practicality, logistics, and fairness.
Dr. Sandeep Dagar, Patronof the Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA), stated that following a recent discussion with the Hon’ble NMC Chairman, NeXT exam is now expected to be implemented in 3 to 4 years. For the first 2 to 3 years, the exam will be conducted only as mock tests, with all associated costs covered by NMC.
Dr. Dagar added that the final phase will focus on the standardization of teaching methods, updating the curriculum, and faculty training to make the exam effective. Once fully implemented, NeXT has the potential to improve the quality and consistency of medical education across India.
Dr. Lakshya Mittal, Chairperson of the United Doctors Front, stressed that students should be included in major decision-making processes. He stated, "The main issue isn’t just delaying NExT exam, but it is about improving medical education. Exams like NEET or NExT should be announced well in advance, with a clear plan and a minimum of six months’ notice”.
He further added, "Students concerns must be considered through proper consultations with all stakeholders. For example, this year, NEET PG was held in a single shift only after intervention by medical fraternity, which ensured fairness and transparency". Dr. Mittal’s statement shows that clear planning and involving all stakeholders are needed to keep India’s medical education fair and improve its quality.
A doctor, who wished to remain anonymous, shared concerns about the implementation of NeXT exam for in-service candidates. He stated, "It is a good decision that this time NMC will launch NEXT exam after taking feedback from students. As it is a licensing exam, it will improve the quality of medical education in India. As the exam will be conducted on multiple days as per the earlier plan, how will in-service candidates get leave to appear in this exam to get a PG seat?"
NMC has said that NExT exam is being delayed to make the system fairer. Other reasons for the postponement include limited infrastructure, the need for standardization across medical colleges, and concerns raised by students and stakeholders. These steps aim to make the exam run smoothly while keeping medical education transparent and high-quality across India.
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