NMC Cancels NExT Mock Exam; Candidates To Get Refund

The National Medical Council has decided to cancel the National Exit Test (NExT) mock exam, which was originally scheduled for July 28. Many students had already registered for the mock exam and paid the application fees. However, the authorities have assured that all candidates will receive a refund of their registration fees.

The application fees varied based on the category of the candidates. General and OBC category candidates had to pay Rs 2,000, while SC, ST, and EWS category candidates had to pay Rs 1,000. Notably, candidates identifying as PwBD were exempt from paying any application fees. This decision to charge fees for mock exams drew criticism from students and physicians.

The postponement of the NExT exam was recommended by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and was subsequently implemented by the NMC on July 13. The purpose of the mock exam was to provide students with a glimpse of what the actual NExT exam would be like. Step 1 of the National Exit Test involves theory and computer-based assessments, while step 2, to be conducted in 2023, will include practicals and clinical examinations.

The NExT will replace the National Eligibility Entrance Test (NEET) PG for admission to postgraduate programs and medical practice in the country. Starting from the 2024 graduating class, all MBBS undergraduate students will be required to take the NExT.

The recent announcement from the NMC deferred the National Exit Test until further notice, as advised by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. In response to protests from various medical colleges and bodies like the Indian Medical Association (IMA), which demanded the repeal of the new exam, the NMC made this decision. Following the release of the notice, the Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA) expressed gratitude to the commission for its decision.