National Exit Test (NExT) Deferred by 3–4 Years: NMC to Conduct Mock Exams Before Implementation

In a significant development for medical students nationwide, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has announced that the National Exit Test (NExT) will be deferred for at least three to four years. Instead of immediate implementation, the Commission will conduct a series of mock NExT exams to assess feasibility and preparedness.

The decision came after a high-level meeting between NMC Chairman Dr. Abhijat Sheth and members of the Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) in New Delhi on Wednesday.

Mock Exams to Assess Feasibility

According to Dr. Sheth, the NMC will organize nationwide mock NExT exams, fully funded by the Commission, to test the exam structure, logistics, and institutional readiness.

“The National Exit Test will not be implemented immediately. Over the next few years, we will conduct mock exams to evaluate feasibility, gather student feedback, and strengthen infrastructure before final rollout,” said Dr. Sheth.

These mock tests will help identify practical challenges, from exam design to technical execution, ensuring the final version is fair and efficient.

FAIMA’s Concerns Considered

During the meeting, FAIMA submitted an evidence-based report summarizing student concerns regarding training quality, workload, and preparedness. The organization emphasized that most medical colleges still lack adequate infrastructure and faculty alignment for NExT-level assessments.

Dr. Sheth appreciated FAIMA’s analytical inputs and confirmed that their suggestions will be reviewed and possibly integrated into future medical education reforms.

About the National Exit Test (NExT)

The National Exit Test is a proposed common examination for MBBS graduates, designed to serve a dual purpose — acting as both a licensing exam to practice medicine and a qualifying test for postgraduate admissions.

Initially planned for an August 2025 launch, NExT faced multiple delays due to legal challenges, infrastructural gaps, and academic concerns. With the new timeline, implementation is expected only after 2028, giving colleges and regulatory bodies time to adapt.

What This Means for Medical Students

The deferment brings major relief to lakhs of MBBS students across India who had expressed anxiety over the uncertainty surrounding NExT. The Commission’s decision to conduct mock tests first will help ensure a smooth transition when the exam is finally introduced.

By prioritizing readiness and student feedback, the NMC aims to establish a robust and transparent framework that enhances the quality and credibility of India’s medical education system.