Can I Start Practicing in India Without Clearing FMGE After Completing MBBS from a Foreign University?

Every year the dream of becoming a doctor takes thousands of Indian students to pursue their MBBS abroad, attracted by opportunities at universities like BAU International University Batumi in Georgia. Low tuition fees, a hassle-free admission process, and a new culture make studying abroad an attractive option. But a big question looms large when these aspiring doctors return to India: Can they start practicing without clearing the FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination)?

The simple answer is no. Without passing the FMGE (or its expected replacement, the National Exit Test, or NExT), practicing medicine in India is not legally allowed. Let’s dive into the reasons behind this requirement and explore the detailed steps to kickstart your medical career back in India.

Why is FMGE Mandatory?

FMGE, conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) in India, is a gatekeeper. It’s a licensing exam that ensures foreign-trained doctors have the necessary skills and knowledge to meet Indian medical standards. Graduates from countries like Russia, China, Georgia, Ukraine, and many others must clear this exam. But those lucky enough to have completed their MBBS from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand are exempt, as their medical degree is directly recognized due to established equivalence in educational standards.

FMGE exists to safeguard the quality of healthcare in India by verifying that all practicing doctors, regardless of their alma mater, are competent.

Steps to Start Practicing in India After MBBS Abroad

1. Confirm Your University’s Recognition:

Before setting foot on foreign soil for your MBBS, meticulously verify that your chosen university is recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India. If your medical degree is not recognized by NMC, you won’t be eligible to sit for FMGE, and your dream of practicing in India will be unachievable. This step is crucial and often overlooked.

2. Clear the FMGE:

• FMGE is conducted twice a year in June and December.
• The exam consists of 300 multiple-choice questions covering preclinical, paraclinical, and clinical subjects.
• Minimum 50% score is required to pass.
• The exam is tough and has a pass percentage of 15-20% annually. Preparation is key. Create a study plan, focus on your weak areas, and take mock exams regularly to gauge your preparedness.

3. Complete a One-Year Internship:

After passing the FMGE, you need to complete a one-year rotatory internship in an NMC-recognized hospital in India. This internship is mandatory and provides hands-on experience to get familiar with the Indian healthcare system. It’s a period of practical learning that bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and actual medical practice.

4. Register with the State Medical Council:

Once you complete your internship:

• Apply for permanent registration with the State Medical Council (SMC) in the state where you want to practice medicine.
• Submit all required documents meticulously, including your MBBS degree certificate, FMGE pass certificate, internship completion certificate, and any other documents required by the SMC.

This is a must for practicing medicine in India and should not be ignored.

5. Specialization:

If you want to do post graduation (MD/MS), you can appear for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Postgraduate Courses (NEET-PG) or other entrance exams after completing the above steps. Specializing in a particular field can enhance your career and help you focus on areas like surgery, pediatrics, or cardiology.

Future Changes: Introduction of NExT

Medical education in India is set to undergo major changes. From 2023 onwards, FMGE will be replaced by the National Exit Test (NExT) for foreign medical graduates. NExT is designed to be a common exit exam for all medical graduates (Indian and foreign) to standardize medical education outcomes.

What if You Don't Clear FMGE (or NExT)?

Unfortunately, if you don’t clear FMGE (or NExT), you won’t be legally allowed to practice as a doctor in India. But all is not lost. Some graduates opt for:

• Healthcare management or medical research.
• Medical assistants or medical educators.
• Focus on rigorous preparation for a reattempt of FMGE.

Tips For Success:

1. Start Early: Start your FMGE preparation early during your MBBS course abroad. Never too early to start building a strong foundation.
2. Join Coaching: Enroll in coaching programs designed to prepare students for FMGE. These programs offer focused study materials, practice exams, and expert guidance.
3. Stay Updated: Keep yourself updated with any changes in rules or exam pattern announced by NMC.

How HSA Visa World Can Help You Achieve Your Dreams

Studying MBBS in Georgia can be overwhelming—choosing a university, understanding visa requirements, and exploring post-study options are no small tasks. That’s where education consultancies like HSA Visa World come in.

HSA Visa World helps students achieve their dreams of studying medicine abroad at universities like BAU International University Batumi or others across Europe and beyond. Their team of experts guides students in selecting recognized universities that match their goals and ensures compliance with Indian regulations, such as NMC recognition requirements.

But that’s not all! HSA Visa World also assists with visa applications, pre-departure briefings, financial planning guidance (including scholarships) and even post-study support such as personalised counseling. With years of experience in education consultancy services since 2016, HSA Visa World ensures that every student’s journey—from admission abroad to practicing medicine back home—is smooth and stress-free.

MBBS abroad is just one step to becoming a doctor in India. Clearing FMGE/NExT seems daunting, but with proper preparation and expert guidance from consultancies like HSA Visa World, you can navigate this journey successfully! Remember, every challenge you face today will help you save lives tomorrow!

Disclaimer: This content is sponsored and does not reflect the views or opinions of Ground Report. No journalist is involved in creating sponsored material and it does not imply any endorsement by the editorial team. Ground Report Digital LLP. takes no responsibility for the content that appears in sponsored articles and the consequences thereof, directly, indirectly or in any manner. Viewer discretion is advised.

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