The National Medical Commission (NMC) has granted MBBS students admitted from the 2019‑20 academic year onwards an additional attempt to clear their First Professional MBBS Examination, raising the limit from four to five attempts.
The decision follows appeals from students, universities and other stakeholders who cited exceptional circumstances, including Covid‑19 disruptions, health issues and personal difficulties, that affected their ability to complete the first‑year exam within the prescribed limit.
One‑Time Relaxation for Eligible Students
Under the approved measure, eligible students will receive one extra attempt beyond the existing four to pass the first‑year exam. The relaxation also applies to those who have exceeded the four‑year period for completing the first professional course, provided their admission remains valid and has not been cancelled by their university or college.
However, students who have already used a mercy attempt or exhausted all five attempts under earlier NMC or court decisions will not be eligible for another chance. The Commission clarified that this relaxation does not permit a sixth attempt.
10‑Year Cap for Course Completion
The NMC reiterated that the total duration for completing the MBBS course, including the Compulsory Rotating Medical Internship (CRMI), must not exceed 10 years from the date of admission. The additional attempt will not extend this maximum timeframe.
Describing the move as a one‑time transitional relief, the Commission said it aims to resolve pending cases affected by extraordinary circumstances and will not serve as a precedent for future batches.
Universities and medical colleges have been advised to process eligible cases in line with the decision.