FMGE

The Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) — also known as the Screening Test — is conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) for Indian nationals and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) who have obtained a primary medical qualification (MBBS or equivalent) from a foreign medical institution outside India. Passing FMGE is mandatory for such graduates before they can be registered with the Medical Council of India (now NMC — National Medical Commission) and practice medicine in India.

FMGE is a 300-question multiple choice exam testing the same competencies as MBBS from Indian medical colleges. Historically, the pass rate has been low — typically 10–20% — because many foreign-trained graduates find the breadth of the Indian curriculum challenging. The exam is conducted twice a year (June and December).

From 2024, Indian students who complete MBBS abroad must also clear the NExT (National Exit Test) in addition to or as a replacement for FMGE — the transition is ongoing. Our editorial team recommends that students currently abroad or planning to study medicine abroad closely follow the NMC notifications for the latest requirements, as the regulatory framework for foreign medical graduates is actively changing. Information reviewed against NMC and NBE official portals, July 2026.