When you are reading this article, let’s assume you are from a medical background or you are an aspiring MBBS student. Hopping you may come across the term FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) It is an examination for medical students who passed their MBBS/MD from foreign countries for candidates who chose MBBS abroad.

Why FMGE?

In a nutshell, FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) allows medical graduates to start their medical career in India or any other country that conducts this examination. After passing this exam, students are awarded a license to practice in India or that particular country. If you still think you have very little info about this exam, you can browse our other blogs for know.

Coming to the main point recorded passing percentage of FMGE to date. The FMGE i.e. Foreign Medical Graduate Examination Dec 2022, which was conducted by the National Board of Examinations on the 12th of January 2023, announced the result on the 3rd of February 2023.

The passing percentage was 39.6%, which was truly an amazing thing that happened this year. It is no doubt outstanding results that rose high compared to the last few years. Unfortunately, the passing percentage of the FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) has always been low, sometimes between 10 to 20%, which was not outstanding for sure. Furthermore, this year witnessed a maximum passing percentage and a large number of students qualified for the examination.

The high passing percentage has also been reasoned with the supposed uncertainty as well as fear of the NExT Exam i.e. National Exit Test which is scheduled to be introduced in the next academic year. Needless to say, the majority of students who sat for this exam know the FMGE pattern then NExT. They seem to have worked hard. Thus, we gave an outstanding result this time!

Let’s see the FMGE Session and Passing Percentage in detail.

A reputed daily stated with a general conversation of Union Health Ministry that this is an examination medical students have worked hard, therefore, the difficulty index might also have been slightly lower this DECEMBER 2022 exam.

FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) is no doubt a tough exam in the country, and students show truly super results. In the end, it can be said, that it does not matter what the reason behind this excellent result in the passing percentage of the medical licensing exam in the country. It certainly seems promising, and at the same time assuring all Indian medical students who completed MBBS from foreign countries prepare their turn to excel in the FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) or NExT (National Exit Test).

Also Read: FMGE Passing Percentage of Top Countries for MBBS

Overseas graduates will be expected to pass the new National Exit Test (NExT) instead of the Foreign Medical Graduate Exam beginning at an undetermined date (FMGE). Applicants who want to practice in India must pass NExT within two years of finishing their medical education overseas.

What exactly is the NEXT Exam?

The National Exit Test is now both the licentiate test and the national medical postgraduate exam that students/MBBS hopefuls must pass to receive a "Doctor" tag next to their name. The central government of India included the test in the National Medical Commission Bill 2019. The NEXT test will be established and rolled out in 2023 and will serve as a substitute for both the FMGE Exam and the NEET-PG Exam.

According to the presented by the National Medical Commission (NMC), all medical graduates who finished their MBBS abroad must also pass the National Exit Test within two years of their MBBS. This is because, as previously stated, it will replace the FMGE test, which was formerly the licentiate exam for practicing in India. Candidates must pass the NEXT test to be registered for medical practice in India. PG admission in Indian medical institutes will be solicited and determined based on the results of the Upcoming medical test. The NEET-PG exam, which is meant to assess the abilities and knowledge of final-year medical students, is also likely to be changed.

The new medical bill's goal is to provide a single-window exit test for final-year medical students. After the new legislation is in effect, there will only be one test for a final year degree, medical practice license, and medical PG admittance.

What are the benefits of the NExT Exam?

• The National Exit Test will make sure that education is the same and the same all over the country. This is because it will be a pan-Indian test that every state will be required to take, including the same curriculum system for medical studies. In reality, it must also provide an equitable and consistent educational quality. Karnataka, Punjab, and Delhi have the most significant medical institutions today, but due to the NEXT Exam, other states will be able to compete as well. Colleges will raise their educational standards as their students compete in the same tests as overseas medical graduates.
• In some ways, it will compel/persuade medical colleges to raise their educational standards since their students will be competing against international medical graduates in the same test.
• If the president signs the measure into law, it will require people to work toward raising the standard of medical education in the country, which will contribute to an overall improvement. This would also lead to India adopting the same (or comparable) educational culture as industrialized nations.
• Foreign graduate physicians will no longer need to take separate tests thanks to the NEXT Exam since they will get a practicing license if they pass the National Exit Test. There will be a consolidated test in which they would compete against Indian students.

Are you planning to earn a medical degree from abroad? If your answer is ‘yes’, then you have certainly come to the right place. We are here to guide you to choose an appropriate path for your medical studies abroad.

According to reliable sources, every year the application to study MBBS abroad is increasing. Though from the year 2019 to 2020 there was a deep fall in graph of aspiring students who were interested to study abroad due to pandemic COVID19. Thereafter, the number of applicants who are seeking various degrees including MBBS from abroad has started growing again.

So before you choose the right university abroad to study MBBS, there are five important things that you need to know!

Choose the Medium of Instruction Wisely

Every medical student should select those universities that follow an English medium curriculum as some of the universities don't have an English medium curriculum. There are some universities that follow bi-lingual curriculum that can create a troublesome in understanding to the Indian students. So, it would be a wise decision if students choose the university that offer to teach the syllabus fully in English language only.

Calculate the Budget

Aspiring MBBS students should calculate one more important thing that is - total expenditure for studying and staying abroad. You can enlist some points given below:

• Fees of the university and other tuitions, if any
• Residential charges, like hostel or mess rent
• Cost of food and other day to day living cost

Student services and amenities fees that students contribute for non-academic services as well as program of the university

Finally, one needs to calculate the travel cost, including the year visa renewal fee

It can be said without any shred of a doubt that total calculation of the final budget can be a deciding factor when MBBS aspirants choose a particular university or country to pursue medicine.

Choose an Authorised Medical School

Always make decisions wisely while choosing a medical school for studying MBBS abroad. It is seen that most of the time medical aspirants forget to check out the recognition or accreditation of the selected university which already matches their budget. But they should remember that, passing out from any university abroad can't add any value in a medical career only because the university is in 'Abroad'.

So, try only short listing those universities which are accredited and recognized by the National Medical Commission and World Health Organization. If you are from India, you must check if the medial school is approved by the NMC or not. You also need to see the below mentioned accreditation of approval.

• WDOMS – World Directory of Medical Schools
• Medical council of governing body of that country
• ECFMG – Educational Commission for Foreign medical graduates
• FAIMER – Foundation of advancement of international medical education and research

Standard of Education & Other Factors Offered by the University

Do not judge by how many students are getting admitted from other countries, but look for how many native aspirants taking admission in that university because, they have more options to choose; but if they prefer that medical school worthy, you can talk to the already passed out candidates.

Now look into the other important factors offered by the University like laboratories, libraries, classrooms with modern facilities as well as academic competitions. You can also see if the university offers extra curriculum activities like sports, cultural celebrations for the personality development of students, or so forth.

One thing is very essential to looking for the residential facility by the University. Because, it can be a bigger problem than anything if any aspirant can't find mess or hostel near the institute, it would be a problem for him or her. So, if the university offers accommodation- it will be best for the students from different countries.

Be Aware of the Fraudulent Activities of the Study Abroad Agencies

Don't step into any trap of fake marketing. Many agencies are reliable but many are not, so do the research on your own and then select the perfect path of your medical school by remembering the above key points.

The Bottom Line

Keep in mind that the ultimate goal of studying MBBS abroad is not getting the degree, but practising as a doctor in the country to come back to your home country and practice there. For this, you need to qualify the medical licence exam FMGE, USMLE and others as per your choice should your plan.

There are many medical schools that offer on campus coaching for preparing medical licensing exams, such as: FMGE/NExT, USMLE etc.  

If you pursue any of these careers in 2023, you will have the highest chance of being employed. As the world changes at a quick pace, introducing new possibilities and sectors, so are our employment alternatives. Students are no longer confined to conventional vocations like engineering and medicine, but may also study and pursue a wide variety of fascinating and inspirational careers.

The medical sector, notably MBBS, is expected to flourish in 2023. The MBBS degree is one of the most sought-after and recognized in the world of healthcare, and it is an excellent option for people who wish to make a difference in the lives of others.

MBBS graduates may look forward to a variety of fascinating job opportunities. They may pursue careers in medical research, education, public health, or even clinical practice. In each of these areas, MBBS professionals may have a significant influence and contribute to enhancing patients' quality of life.

MBBS professionals may pursue other fascinating and inspirational jobs, such as medical journalism, publishing medical publications, or working as medical consultants in the corporate sector, in addition to being highly sought-after in the medical area. These are all excellent possibilities for folks who wish to go out while still using their medical knowledge and expertise. 

MBBS graduates may also look forward to a promising career in artificial intelligence (AI). Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an increasingly significant aspect of the medical industry, and MBBS professionals may use their knowledge and abilities to create and work on cutting-edge AI technology. This is a very intriguing area with the potential to change the way we practice medicine.

Nurse Practitioner is the second most common profession.

It's hardly surprising that this "hero career" has remained at the top for 2023. You may expect to earn about $111,680 per year and be recognized as someone who saves lives. Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) include Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Anesthetists, and Nurse-Midwives. They coordinate patient care and may offer general care as well as special treatment. Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Anesthetists, and Nurse-Midwives are all examples of advanced practice registered nurses, or APRNs. They may offer general and even specialty healthcare as well as coordinate patient care.

The third most popular profession is that of a Health Specialty Teacher.

If you love teaching adults, this might be a good profession for you. A postsecondary education and health specialties teacher's annual salary is $102,720. Colleges and universities employ the vast majority of health specialty instructors. Others, however, work in medical facilities, trade schools, or junior colleges. Further licensing and certifications may be necessary depending on the field in which you teach.

The fourth-highest-paying job is that of a Medical and Health Services Manager.

You might consider a career as a Medical and Health Services Manager if you enjoy the pay and security of medical professions but would prefer to sit at a desk in a setting with healthy people. At the desk, your daily tasks will be to organize, lead, and manage the business activities of healthcare providers. 

You will be assisting medical professionals in managing the business part of their practice and keeping them organized if you do so. True, you'll be busy pushing paperwork and talking with physicians at the medical office, but not too busy to go to the bank and cash your huge wage check of about $100,980 every year! 

Assuming you are an Indian medical aspirant, you are going to study MBBS abroad very soon. You must have heard about NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test). Simply put, it is nothing but an entrance test conducted by the NTA i.e. National Testing Agency for medical aspirants seeking admission to medical schools in India.

Needless to say, it is one of the toughest exams in the country and a mandatory exam for sure for aspiring medical students who want to pursue medical science (MBBS) in India. Now, let’s take it as an example, if you have decided to study MBBS in Russia not in India, then what will you do? Do you need to have a valid NEET score with qualified marks to study MBBS there?

At this juncture, the majority of medical aspirants opt for studying MBBS abroad because of the high medical fees charged by private medical colleges in India. Unless you have a decent NEET score, you can’t occupy a seat in government medical colleges in India. Therefore, you have only one option, either you go to private medical school or give up your dream to become a doctor in India.

NEET 2023 to Study MBBS in Abroad

The good news is – you don’t need to have a high NEET score to study MBBS abroad. You just need to have a valid NEET score with good marks overall to study medicine there. At the same time, you don’t need to give any capitation or bribe to get a medical seat. The admission process is super smooth and free of glitches. If you meet basic eligibility criteria, like 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry & Biology with 55 percent marks and English is one of the subjects, you are eligible to pursue MBBS there. The minimum age for admission to most medical schools is 17 years.

To get a seat in a foreign medical school, you must pass the NEET 2023 exam with good marks, that’s all. The Indian Embassy asks for a valid NEET score for granting a VISA to study in any medical school abroad. Therefore, the NEET 2023 score is important for students planning to study MBBS abroad. Once again, a high score in NEET is not mandatory to study MBBS in a government medical college in India.

Endnote - NEET 2023 is a crucial exam for medical aspirants who wish to pursue a career in medicine. Let us close by saying that NEET is important to get admission into the MBBS program in a foreign medical school. Suppose you have met other eligibility criteria along with your age then also you have to have the valid NEET score. Also, ensure you acquire a good score in the NEET exam. With hard work as well as dedication, you can certainly attain your dream of pursuing MBBS abroad. 

United States: The United States Medical Licensing Examination, also known as the USMLE, is a three-part examination that evaluates a physician's capacity to apply knowledge, concepts, and principles, as well as to demonstrate fundamental patient-centered abilities that are necessary for providing safe and effective patient care. In order to become a licensed physician in the United States, one must first pass the USMLE.

The three steps of the USMLE are as follows:

• USMLE Step 1: This is a computer-based exam that tests the candidate's understanding of basic medical sciences. The exam consists of 280 multiple-choice questions and is administered over a period of one day (eight hours).

• USMLE Step 2: This is further divided into two parts - Clinical Knowledge (CK) and Clinical Skills (CS).

• USMLE Step 2 CK: This is a computer-based exam that assesses the candidate's medical knowledge and clinical decision-making abilities. The test lasts for one day (nine hours) and consists of 318 questions with multiple-choice answers. The questions are spread out over the course of the day.

• USMLE Step 2 CS: This is a clinical skills exam that evaluates the candidate's ability to gather information from patients, perform a physical examination, and communicate effectively with patients and colleagues. The exam is administered in person and consists of 12 standardized patient encounters.

• USMLE Step 3: This test is administered on a computer and evaluates the candidate's capacity to apply medical knowledge as well as their comprehension of biological and clinical science, all of which are necessary for the practice of medicine without supervision. The exam consists of 233 multiple-choice questions and is administered over a period of two days (14 hours). Each step of the USMLE must be successfully completed in order to practice medicine in the United States. The National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) and the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) are responsible for administering the USMLE.

United Kingdom: The General Medical Council (GMC) is the regulatory body for doctors in the United Kingdom. Its primary role is to protect, promote, and maintain the health and safety of the public by ensuring that doctors meet the standards of practice and conduct required in the UK.

The GMC has several key functions, including:

• Registration: The GMC maintains a register of all licensed doctors in the UK. In order to practice medicine in the UK, one must first become registered with the General Medical Council (GMC).

• Education and Training: The GMC sets the standards for medical education and training in the UK. This includes the approval of medical schools and postgraduate training programs.

• Professional Standards: The GMC sets the standards of practice and conduct required of doctors in the UK. This includes the investigation and adjudication of complaints against doctors.

• Revalidation: The GMC requires all doctors to undergo revalidation every five years in order to maintain their license to practice medicine in the UK. This includes the completion of continuing professional development and the evaluation of the doctor's practice by their peers.

The GMC also oversees the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB), which is the licensing exam for doctors who have qualified overseas and wish to practice medicine in the UK. The PLAB consists of two parts: Part 1 is a written exam, and Part 2 is a practical exam that assesses the candidate's clinical skills and communication abilities.

These are just a few examples of the medical licensing exams required in different international countries. It's important to research the specific requirements of the country where you wish to practice medicine.

We have identified some things that all medical aspirants who will be traveling to a new nation for their MBBS abroad should concentrate on in order to finish their degree of MBBS successfully. Let us begin with the most significant aspect:

In MBBS, at least, self-study is more important than classroom learning: 

Candidates should keep in mind that whatever theory they read will be retained in their memory mostly because they read it themselves, rather than because someone else taught them. As a result, you must read extensively and devote your full attention to it. Aspirants wishing to study MBBS should get used to reading extensively. Hence, once again, the sooner you begin, the easier it is for you to get in-depth information on your own.

• Examine previous year's papers: As examinations are coming, be sure you solve as many prior year question papers and previous year MCQs as you can since they are the questions that will make up your new question paper as everything will be merged with your final question paper. Thus, even if you're unsure about what to study for your examinations, simply look at the relevant pdf or look at which questions have been asked earlier, and read all those subjects and comprehend them so that you can confidently write your exam. 

• Practical classes are essential: Candidates should keep in mind that the practical courses are just as vital as the academic ones, if not more so. The reason for this is that although you may study the theory at your leisure at your hostel or at home, the practical lessons will never return. As a result, it is strongly advised for all hopefuls to never miss a histology practical lesson. So, fundamentally, histology is the examination of tissue specimens to determine what the tissue is comprised of, the various kinds of cells, and the shape of the different cells. Similarly, in the physiology practical, you will have things like graphs or clinical exams, and if you miss it, there is no chance you will get it back until you put in extra work.

• Take part in social activities: The first year of medical school is a tremendous change, and it is difficult. But so is the rest of medical school, which is why maintaining a solid social network is so important for staying motivated and inspired. You can't put aside your desire for human connection and compassion just because you're studying to be a doctor, so interacting with others who understand what you're going through is crucial. Another important skill for a doctor is the ability to communicate effectively, so spending time with other students going over the material and practicing questions is excellent preparation.

• Relationships, friendships, and family: When you go to a new nation and meet new people for the first time, it is possible that the strangers you meet for the first time in your life may become your new family in the future. You will initially be friends with everyone in your class, but as time goes on and your medical career progresses, you will find yourself devoted to just a few individuals. Those few individuals will be unlike the multitude you were first drawn to at the new institution. Aspirants should keep in mind that detachment and attachment are entirely acceptable and natural.

Many MBBS aspirants ask a question whether pursuing MBBS in abroad is safe for girls. The answer is pretty simple! Yes, pursing MBBS abroad from the perspective of female students is a great opportunity. Whilst there are many different advantages you get when you choose one of the best medical schools abroad for doing MBBS program. Here, we have also discussed the additional risks they may face.

• Consider the Safety of the Country - Female MBBS aspirants should consider the safety of the country. This should be the first and foremost priority. If you are planning to apply without the assistance of an overseas education consultant, then you need to research the safety of the city, public transportation and the rate of crime. You also need to know the legal rights in that particular country where you are going to study.

• Consider the Supportive Environment for Women - Female students should ensure that the medical schools they are considering if offer any supportive environment for women. This includes, school’s policies on sexual harassment or gender discrimination, counselling services and so forth.

• Consider the Economic Implications of Studying Abroad - Female MBBS aspirants should consider the economic implications of studying abroad. You should know the cost of living in that particular city and country, financial aid if there is any and scholarships. It’s true that after completing MBBS you will come back to your country, but you should know the potential career option, if you can get any employment over there for a few years.

• Considering the Cultural Differences - One should consider the cultural difference. Yes, this is important, because you are going there to study for a couple of years. You will stay longer period of time, if there is any working opportunity after completing MBBS program. In this situation, if you don’t know the cultural differences between the host country and your home country, there can be a shock. You should know something about their language(s) they speak, their customs, and their religions practices and so on. In addition, female MBBS aspirants should look into the availability of the support networks, local women’s organizations, if any; cultural resources etc. that can help the international medical students adjust to their new environment.

• MBBS Abroad Can Be A Great Opportunity for Female Students - In a nutshell, pursuing MBBS abroad can be a great opportunity for female students. Moreover, female MBBS aspirants should take into account some additional risks that they may face, and some of are already discussed here in this post. By choosing your study abroad destination wisely, your overall experience will be good. It is, therefore, important to research the safety of the city, country or region that candidates are considering. They should make it sure to check with the local authorities about the safety concerns first. Let’s assume, you are about to travel to Russia for studying MBBS, then you need to aware of the laws and orders regarding the women’s rights in Russia. This will help you live there more freely. When you consider the above mentioned facts, your safety will be ensured by yourself without any disruption of your study. 

Preparing for USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) or PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) while studying for MBBS can be challenging, but it's possible with proper time management and dedication. 

Here are some steps you can take to prepare for and enroll in USMLE or PLAB while studying:

Research exam requirements: The first step is to research the requirements for USMLE or PLAB, including exam format, eligibility criteria, and registration process. The requirements for USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) and PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) exams are different. Here are the general requirements for each exam:

USMLE:

• Educational Requirements: To be eligible to take the USMLE, you must have completed or been enrolled in a medical degree program at a medical school that is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools.

• ECFMG Certification: For international medical graduates, passing the three steps of the USMLE and obtaining certification from the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) is required to apply for medical licensure in the United States.

• Identification: You must have a valid, government-issued identification document that includes your signature and photograph.

• Exam Fees: You must pay the required exam fees to register for each step of the USMLE.

• Scheduling: You must schedule your exam appointment in advance through the USMLE website or by phone.

PLAB:

• Medical Degree: To be eligible to take the PLAB, you must have a primary medical qualification from a medical school outside of the United Kingdom, European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and countries with a mutual recognition agreement with the UK.

• English Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate English language proficiency by passing an approved English language test, such as IELTS or OET.

• GMC Registration: You must be registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) in the UK and have a GMC reference number.

• Identification: You must have a valid, government-issued identification document that includes your signature and photograph.

• Exam Fees: You must pay the required exam fees to register for the PLAB.

• Scheduling: You must schedule your exam appointment in advance through the GMC website.

NOTE: Note that country and jurisdiction restrictions differ. For USMLE and PLAB criteria, consult their websites.

• Create a study schedule: Creating a study schedule that incorporates your MBBS curriculum and USMLE or PLAB preparation is crucial. Allocate specific times for studying and stick to the schedule to ensure you cover all the material.

• Use study resources: There are many study resources available for USMLE and PLAB, such as books, online courses, and practice tests. Choose resources that suit your learning style and schedule.

• Join study groups: Joining a study group can be helpful in preparing for USMLE or PLAB. You can maintain accountability and motivation by studying with others.

• Take advantage of clinical rotations: Clinical rotations during MBBS can provide hands-on experience and exposure to various medical conditions. Try to learn as much as you can during your rotations, as this knowledge will be helpful in both the exams and your future medical career.

• Register for the exam: Once you feel confident in your preparation, register for the USMLE or PLAB exam. Make sure to meet the eligibility criteria and deadlines.

• Take the exam: On the day of the exam, make sure to arrive early and bring all necessary documents. Stay calm and focused during the exam, and use your preparation to answer questions to the best of your ability.

Remember, preparing for the USMLE or PLAB while studying for MBBS requires dedication and hard work. With proper planning and time management, you can successfully prepare for and enroll in these exams.

USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) is a medical licensing exam to practise medicine in the United States of America. If you want to practise as a medical doctor in the US, you should have this licence. This exam assesses the important skills for safe as well as effective patient care, and shows a common standard of assessment of medical licensure.

Here, in this blog, we will help you know about USMLE, before you apply and/or undertake the exam, such as, eligibility criteria, registration process, fees and more. 

What is USMLE?

USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) simply refers to the medical exam required to gain a medical licence within the United States. The exam is conducted, sponsored and regulated by two non-profit organisations, one is – the FSMB (Federation of State Medical Boards) and the other one is - National Board of Medical Examiners i.e. NBME.

This exam was designed to provide a single national level examination to be used by all states/provinces medical boards for the medical licensure of physicians of western medicine. One thing you should keep in mind is - COMLEX-USA is used for osteopathic physicians.

This exam not only ensures that all practising doctors in the United States have met the same assessment standards, but also their previous training or which state/province they practise in.

USMLE assesses doctors’ capability to apply medical skills and knowledge, concepts and principles, understanding and evaluates their patient-centred medical skills. The examination is classified into three multiple-choice tests – Step 1, Step 2 Clinical Knowledge and Step 3 – which are covered in more info or detail in the USMLE.

Who Needs This USMLE?

All practising medical doctors in an unsupervised setting, for example, outside of postgraduate training, within the United States of America, need this USMLE. This is because a valid medical licence to practise medicine as a doctor is mandatory. The USMLE is an important requirement for being granted a medical licence in the United States.

This requirement is also same for graduates who already have qualified in the United States or internationally and at the same time ensures that those who trained outside of the United States are assessed against the same standards as US medical university students as well as graduates.

Eligibility - Let’s discuss the eligibility for the USMLE examination. You must meet the below mentioned requirements, at the time of your application and the exam day.

Clinical Knowledge: Step 1 & Step 2

You must be in one of the following categories:

A graduate of a United States or Canadian medical school program or medical student leading to the MD (doctor of medicine) degree that is accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education aka LCME.

A medical graduate or medical student of a United States medical school leading to the DO degree that is accredited by the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation aka COCA.

A graduate of a medical school or medical student outside of the United States and Canada that are listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools as meeting the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates i.e. ECFMG eligibility requirements and the student meets other eligibility criteria for the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates.

Step 3 - Medical graduates to be eligible for Step 3 must have already successfully completed the above Step 1 & Step 2 of the USMLE, prior to submitting their application.

Medical graduates must also hold one of the following:

Need MD or the DO degree from a United States or Canadian medical school, which is accredited by the LCME or COCA. The equivalent of the MD or DO degree from a medical school outside of the United States of America and Canada which is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools as meeting the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates eligibility requirements.

Medical graduates must also have Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates Certification if they qualified outside of the United States and Canada. USMLE website provides further information on eligibility requirements, and attempts as well as time limit for the examination.

Duration of the USMLE

The length of the examination varies across the different steps, but the length or duration of the examination is given here.

• Step 1 – 8 Hours Approx

• Step 2 – (Clinical Knowledge) – 9 Hours Approx

• Step 3

• Day First - 7 Hours Approx

• Day Second – 9 Hours Approx

What To Do After USMLE?

After completing USMLE Step 1 and Step2 – Clinical knowledge and the Step 3, you will be able to apply for the licence to practise as a medical doctor in the United States of America. The exam also permits you to practise in an unsupervised medical setting that is outside of PG training

MBBS is a popular career path in India. Students from various socioeconomic backgrounds aspire to be doctors and study science in the 12th grade. Preparing for MBBS is a rigorous process in and of itself. It is not easy for any of the students preparing for medical school in India. Aspirants in India take the NEET exam in order to gain admission to medical schools. Students must have studied science in the 12th grade, including Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

However, some students join MBBS because of peer pressure, and there is obviously a high risk of failure in both the MBBS study and the profession. Due to a lack of career options, many people pursue preparation for a medical career after taking biology.

• Medical Alternatives: Aside from MBBS, there are numerous courses in medicine that one can pursue. You may have heard of many different types of medicinal studies such as homoeopathy, Unani, Ayurveda, and, more recently, Naturopathy. These are the courses available:

1. BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery)

2. BUMS (Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery)

3. BHMS (Bachelor of Homeopathy and Surgery)

4. BNYS (Bachelor of Naturopathy and Yoga Sciences)

All of these courses have different durations and are available both in India and abroad. In India, the course duration for BAMS is 4.5 years, while the course duration for BUMS, BHMS, and BNYS is 5.5 years each, with NEET qualification required. If you want to work in these fields, you must have a NEET qualification. These courses have been around for a long time and have grown in popularity over the years.

• Pharmaceuticals: They are a medically underappreciated field. The pandemic has highlighted the significance of these studies. Students interested in this field can pursue a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree as well as other related courses such as B. Pharm. (Hons. ), B. Pharma. in Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Pharmaceutics, Pharmacognosy, Pharmacology, and Ayurvedic medicine. These courses last four years, with the option of completing an integrated MBA in five years.

• Biotechnology: This field is quite multidisciplinary and has long attracted students. Genetic Engineering, Environment Technology, Molecular and Cellular Engineering, Industrial Microbiology, Bioinformatics, and other disciplines are included in this field. In various engineering colleges in India, this course is taught as a B. Tech. in Biotechnology. These courses are also beneficial in terms of job opportunities.

• Forensic Sciences: They have been around for a long time. Used in police and criminal investigations, as well as many other research areas that require specialists for this thing, it is a viable career option for students studying biology in 12th grade. It offers good opportunities for research and work in police and other departments, as well as good pay.

• Hospital and Healthcare Administration: A master's degree in hospital administration or a master's degree in healthcare administration is currently one of the most sought-after degrees. Normally, the programme lasts four years. Graduates of these programmes may not directly contribute to patient care, but they play an important role in monitoring the healthcare process in large medical organisations. Communication between various departments in hospitals is usually more coordinated and efficient when they are involved.

It is an all-India entrance examination conducted by the NTA in India. NEET is the primary entrance test for students seeking admission to undergraduate medical and dental courses (MBBS & BDS) in government or private medical and dental colleges across the country.

NMC issued guidelines for students planning to pursue MBBS degrees abroad. The guidelines & regulations may be subject to change, so it's essential to verify the latest information from official sources or the NMC's website.

Some key points from the NMC guidelines for MBBS abroad were as follows:

• NEET Requirement: Medical aspirants or students who wish to study MBBS abroad are required to qualify for the NEET conducted by the NTA in India. NEET is a mandatory entrance exam for all medical aspirants in India, including those who are planning to study medicine overseas.

• Recognized Institutions: Students were advised to choose only those medical institutions abroad that are recognized by the respective country's medical authorities. Additionally, the institutions should be listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools.

• Eligibility Certificate: Before leaving India to pursue MBBS abroad, students needed to obtain an eligibility certificate from the NMC. This certificate will be confirmed that the student was eligible to study medicine in a foreign institution.

• FMGE Examination: Upon completion of the MBBS degree abroad, students were required to appear for the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) conducted by the NMC. This examination evaluates the knowledge and skills of medical graduates who studied abroad before they can practise medicine in India. In some cases, students are required to execute a bond with the Indian government, or relevant authority, promising to return to India after completing their studies abroad.

• Language Proficiency: Students are expected to have proficiency in the language of instruction in the foreign medical institution. Although, the majority of medical schools in the world offer MBBS courses in English language, therefore, language will not be a barrier for medical aspirants. You need to remember that guidelines and regulations are subject to change, and it is crucial to verify the most current information from the official sources, such as the NMC's website or relevant government authorities, before making any decisions related to studying MBBS abroad.

In addition to that, you are advised to get in touch with MBBS abroad consult(s) who are knowledgeable about MBBS programs and admissions to get accurate and up-to-date information. When it comes to pursuing an MBBS degree abroad, it is essential to be aware of the guidelines set by the NMC. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that Indian students who choose to study medicine in foreign universities receive quality education and are eligible to practise medicine in India upon their return.

The guidelines provided by the NMC serve as a framework for students aspiring to pursue MBBS abroad. These guidelines outline various aspects such as eligibility criteria, recognized institutions, curriculum requirements, and licensing examinations that students need to adhere to. One of the primary concerns for students considering MBBS abroad is the recognition of foreign universities. The NMC provides a list of recognized institutions where Indian students can pursue their medical education. This ensures that students are enrolling in institutions that meet certain quality standards and have a reputation for delivering excellent medical education.

Additionally, the NMC guidelines also highlight the importance of curriculum requirements. It ensures that the curriculum followed by foreign universities is on par with Indian standards, covering essential subjects and practical training necessary for medical professionals. Furthermore, these guidelines also address licensing examinations that need to be cleared by students who complete their MBBS studies abroad. These exams play a vital role in assessing the competency of individuals and ensuring they possess adequate knowledge and skills required for medical practice in India. By following these guidelines set by the NMC, aspiring doctors can make informed decisions about pursuing an MBBS degree abroad. It not only ensures quality education but also guarantees eligibility for practising medicine back home. 

In conclusion, being aware of the NMC guidelines is crucial for those considering studying MBBS abroad. These guidelines provide valuable information about recognized institutions, curriculum requirements, and licensing examinations necessary for practising medicine in India after completing their studies overseas.

Aware of unforeseen circumstances in the world, the National Health Commission has now allowed Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) who have not completed their internships due to “limited circumstances” such as: War and Covid-19 to register for internships in India if they are able to pass the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE). The National Health Commission has also issued guidelines for the registration of foreign medical graduates. Aware of unforeseen circumstances in the world, the National Health Commission has now allowed Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) who have not completed their internships due to “limited circumstances” such as: War and Covid-19 to register for internships in India if they are able to pass the FMGE. The National Health Commission has also issued guidelines for the registration of foreign medical graduates.

How when why and till when

Yes, of course, there are a lot of questions regarding the concerned decision of NMC.  Well, let's dig up a bit, The National Health Commission (NMC) has relaxed the standards for one year, allowing foreign medical graduates who have passed a drug test to intern at non-teaching hospitals. Internships at 679 designated hospitals across the states will be allowed through May next year. The easing was announced as some students - especially those who completed training in China and Ukraine last year - had to complete a two-year internship to fill a gap in the process. The actual learning process has been hampered by pandemics and wars.

The National Health Commission made it clear on Wednesday that accredited non-university hospitals will be allowed to do internships for foreign medical graduates until May 2024. 

This is going to be a reasonable step from the side of NMC, and this is a good approach towards helping the other students. 

“This relaxation is granted only as one-time measure. The allotment of FMGs in these non-teaching hospitals shall also be done through concerned state medical councils,” said the circular.

GMF is allowed to apply for internships in India

“In addition to the above, it has also been observed that there are also foreign medical graduates who have not completed their internship due to a compelling situation beyond their control, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. -19 and war, and so on." 

As per the official notification, "Given the pain and stress faced by these foreign medical graduates, their application to complete the remainder of their internship in India is considered an eligible:

“Accordingly, the state medical board can deal with the same issue provided that the applicant obtains an FMGE licence before applying to complete the internship in India,” the announcement added. 

Guidelines for internships for foreign medical students in India

Considering all relevant NMC regulations and circumstances, the committee has issued a set of guidelines for FMG registration by the State Health Board, as noted. 

• A medical degree or GMF degree must be registered to practise medicine in the country where it is issued and must be equivalent to a licence to practise medicine issued to citizens of that country.

• If completed at a foreign institution, documentary proof of successful completion of physical training or internship in the course of medical certification equivalent to MBBS.

• A copy of passport with VISA details from immigration.

• Candidates who wish to apply to India must pass the FMGE conducted by the National Examination Board (NBE).

• The State Board of Health may enrol applicants who meet the above criteria for a 12-month period or a balanced period, if applicable. 

• Internships will be authorised at hospitals of the medical faculty or at hospitals affiliated with the medical faculty, as authorised by the committee.

• The maximum quota for the distribution of internships to FMGs in the medical faculty should be capped at an additional 7.5% of the total authorised places.

• State medical boards must obtain assurance from the medical faculty that the medical faculty will not charge FMGs any money/fees to allow them to practise.

• GMF will receive a grant and other benefits equivalent to the training of Indian medical graduates in government medical colleges at the discretion of the relevant authorities applicable to institution/university or state. 

FMGE: Number of hospitals offering internships