FMGE Exam Results Reveal Licensing Crisis for MBBS Graduates
Mumbai, November 12: The recent results of the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) have left thousands of aspiring doctors in India disheartened. Conducted by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences, the October 2026 FMGE results show that a staggering 77.07% of candidates failed to qualify for the medical eligibility exam in India.
Students who have pursued their MBBS degrees abroad, particularly from countries like Russia, China, Kazakhstan, the Philippines, and Georgia, face significant challenges. The average expenditure for medical education in these countries ranges from ₹30 to ₹50 lakhs. Many middle-class families invest their savings, sell land, or take loans to send their children abroad, only to find that their foreign degrees are not recognized in India until they pass the FMGE.
Hope Dashed by Narrow Margins
This year’s FMGE was held on October 31, where candidates needed to score a minimum of 150 out of 300 marks to pass. The results revealed that 5,365 candidates fell short, scoring between 140 and 149 marks. Many students missed passing by just one or two marks, with some scoring as high as 148 or 149. Unfortunately, the FMGE does not allow for rechecking or grace marks, forcing these candidates to await the next exam opportunity.
Understanding the FMGE
The FMGE is a screening test for students returning to India after completing their MBBS abroad. To pass, candidates must achieve at least 50% of the total marks. There are no age or attempt limits for the exam, which is essential for obtaining medical registration and practicing as a doctor in India. Without passing the FMGE, graduates cannot open private clinics, treat patients, prescribe medications, or issue death certificates.
Why is the FMGE Mandatory?
The medical curriculum, disease knowledge, and practical training in foreign countries differ significantly from those in India. The FMGE ensures that doctors possess adequate understanding of the Indian healthcare system. Without passing this exam, candidates cannot obtain a registration number from the National Medical Commission or state medical councils, making it illegal for them to practice medicine in India.
Important Considerations for Students Pursuing MBBS Abroad
Students are advised to verify the validity of their university and degree with the medical regulator of the respective country after passing NEET in India. They should also check the World Directory of Medical Schools, as being listed does not guarantee eligibility with the National Medical Commission in India. Additionally, it is crucial to confirm whether internships will be completed at the same university and to budget for tuition, accommodation, food, travel, insurance, and other expenses. Preparing for the FMGE/NExT licensing exam should begin alongside medical studies.
Top Countries and Colleges for Indian Medical Students
Russia: Leading medical colleges include Shchekin First Moscow State Medical University, Kazan State Medical University, and Pavlov First St. Petersburg Medical University. Many universities offer courses in English and provide modern labs and clinical training opportunities.
Kazakhstan: Notable institutions are Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Semey Medical University, and Karaganda Medical University, which also offer programs in English with lower living and educational costs compared to Western Europe.
Kyrgyzstan: Key colleges include International School of Medicine, Asian Medical Institute, and Kyrgyz Russian Slavic University, where students can find practical training opportunities in hospitals at a lower budget.
Georgia: Prominent medical colleges are Tbilisi State Medical University, University of Georgia, and European University Georgia, featuring modern medical simulation labs and various programs for international students.
Bangladesh: Major institutions include Dhaka Medical College, Bangladesh Medical College, Ibrahim Medical College, and Holy Family Red Crescent Medical College, with a curriculum similar to Indian MBBS and ample clinical exposure.
Nepal: Important colleges are BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, and Manipal College of Medical Sciences, offering easy access and familiarity with Indian patients.
