Good news for foreign medical graduates. The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) has started registration for the FMGE October 2026 session. Applications open today, September 11, 2026, at 5 PM. The last date to apply is September 25, 2026, till 11:55 PM. The exam will take place on October 31, 2026. Results are expected by November 30, 2026.
This is an extra chance for many students. Earlier, FMGE happened twice a year. From 2026, NBEMS plans three sessions each year. The October exam came after student concerns about the June 2026 paper. It gives eligible candidates another try sooner.
FMGE is the screening test for Indian citizens and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI). If you studied MBBS or an equivalent degree outside India, you must clear this exam to practise medicine or study further in India. It checks if your training meets Indian standards.
The June 2026 session had a low pass rate. Many students asked for an earlier next chance. NBEMS listened and scheduled this October test. The next regular session will shift to later in January or February 2027.
Here are the key dates you need to remember:
Do not wait for the last day. Technical issues or heavy traffic can slow things down. Apply early and keep a copy of your confirmation.
The fee is straightforward. You pay Rs 5,250 as the exam fee plus Rs 945 as GST (18%). The total comes to Rs 6,195. This amount is the same for all candidates. There is no fee concession based on category.
You must pay online through the official portal. Options usually include UPI, credit card or debit card issued by Indian banks. The fee is non-refundable once paid. Extra bank or gateway charges may apply in some cases.
The process is fully online. Follow these simple steps:
Read the Information Bulletin thoroughly before you start. It contains full eligibility rules, document lists and instructions. NBEMS will not accept applications after the window closes. Submit only one form. If more than one form is found, the board may keep only the one with the higher application number and cancel the rest without refund.
You should be an Indian citizen or OCI. You need a primary medical qualification (MBBS or equivalent) from a recognised foreign institution. The Indian Embassy in that country must confirm that the degree allows medical practice there. Your final exam result should meet the cutoff date given in the Information Bulletin.
Candidates from certain countries (like the US, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand) with postgraduate qualifications may have different rules. Always check the official bulletin for exact requirements. Missing documents can lead to rejection.
The exam is a computer-based test held at centres across India. It has 300 multiple-choice questions in English. The paper is split into two parts:
Questions cover pre-clinical, para-clinical and clinical subjects from the standard MBBS curriculum. Focus on high-weight areas such as Medicine, Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Community Medicine and Paediatrics.
Start by downloading and reading the Information Bulletin the moment it is available. Keep scanned copies of your passport, degree certificates (with embassy attestation if needed), Class 12 marksheets, photographs and signature ready in the prescribed size and format.
Choose your exam city carefully during registration. Prepare a study plan that covers the full syllabus. Practise previous patterns and take mock tests on a computer so the CBT format feels familiar. Since there is no negative marking, manage your time well and attempt all questions.
Stay calm. This extra October session gives many candidates a fresh opportunity. Focus on consistent revision rather than last-minute panic.
Visit only the official website natboard.edu.in for all updates. Ignore unofficial links or messages. For any payment or form-related issues, use the NBEMS candidate care support through the applicant login.
Registration is open now. Complete your form on time, prepare steadily and give your best on October 31. Clearing FMGE opens the door to practising medicine in India. All the best to every student preparing for this important exam!
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