NBEMS Examinations Schedule (Tentative)
| Exam Name | Exam Date | Exam Timings |
| DrNB (SS) Final (Theory Exam) – October 2025 | 29th, 30th, 31st October 2025 (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday) | 09:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
| NEET-SS 2025 | 7th and 8th November 2025 (Friday, Saturday) | 09:00 AM to 11:30 AM
02:00 PM to 04:30 PM |
| DNB (BS) Final (Theory Exam) – December 2025 | 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st
December 2025 (Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday) |
09:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
| Diploma Final (Theory Exam) – December 2025 | 6th, 7th, 8th January 2026
(Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) |
02:00 PM to 05:00 PM |
| FMGE – December 2025 | 17th January 2026 (Saturday) | 09:00 AM to 11:30 AM
02:00 PM to 04:30 PM |
Note: The above schedule of forthcoming examinations is tentative. The exact dates will be published in the Information Bulletin, which will be posted on the NBEMS website (natboard.edu.in) in due course.
About NBEMS Examinations
NBEMS is responsible for standardising postgraduate and postdoctoral medical education in India by conducting high-quality, fair, and uniform entrance and exit examinations. The institution also plays a pivotal role in accrediting hospitals and medical institutions to conduct a variety of specialised training programs, including:
| Full Name | Program Type |
| Diplomate of the National Board (DNB) | Broad speciality programs |
| Doctorate of the National Board (DrNB) | Super speciality programs |
| Fellowship of the National Board (FNB) | Postdoctoral fellowships in sub-specialities |
| Diploma Courses (Diploma) | Targeted two-year diploma programs in select specialities |
All these qualifications are recognised by the National Medical Commission (NMC) as equivalent to the MD, MS, DM, and MCh degrees awarded by other Indian universities, ensuring parity in academic standing and professional recognition.
Significance & Types of NBEMS Examinations
The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) conducts some of the most pivotal examinations for medical graduates and practitioners aspiring to pursue advanced training in broad specialities, super-specialities, and fellowship programs. These assessments serve as a merit-based, transparent, and uniform gateway, ensuring that selection across both public and private healthcare institutions in India is firmly rooted in academic excellence and clinical competence.
Over the decades, NBEMS has consistently demonstrated adaptability to changing circumstances and emerging challenges. A notable example was during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the Board swiftly transitioned to computer-based testing (CBT) and implemented rigorous safety protocols. This decisive action ensured the uninterrupted conduct of examinations while upholding both integrity and candidate safety.
| Examination Name | Full Form | Purpose |
| Entrance Examinations | ||
| NEET-PG | National Eligibility cum Entrance Test – Postgraduate | For admission to MD, MS, and PG Diploma courses |
| NEET-SS | National Eligibility cum Entrance Test – Super Speciality | For admission to DM, MCh, and DrNB super-speciality courses |
| NEET-MDS | National Eligibility cum Entrance Test – Master of Dental Surgery | For admission to MDS courses |
| FET | Fellowship Entrance Test | For admission to the Fellowship of National Board (FNB) programs |
| DNB-PDCET | Post Diploma Centralised Entrance Test | For admission to DNB courses after a recognised medical diploma |
| Screening Tests | ||
| FMGE | Foreign Medical Graduate Examination | Mandatory for foreign medical graduates seeking to practice in India |
| Other Equivalence Tests | For certain international medical qualifications (e.g., USMLE Step 3) | |
| Exit Examinations | ||
| DNB Final Examinations | Diplomate of National Board Final Examinations | For candidates completing DNB broad speciality programs |
| DrNB Final Examinations | Doctorate of National Board Final Examinations | For candidates completing DrNB super speciality programs |
| FNB Exit Examinations | Fellowship of National Board Exit Examinations | For candidates completing FNB programs |
| NBEMS Diploma Final Examinations | National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences Diploma Final Examinations | For candidates completing two-year diploma courses |
CLICK HERE to Apply for NEET Scholarship Interest Form 2025
NBEMS Eligibility Criteria
| Examination Name | Purpose | Eligibility |
| NEET-PG | Single entrance exam for admission to MD, MS, PG Diploma, and DNB seats. | MBBS degree, permanent/provisional NMC/SMC registration, and completion of a 12-month rotating internship. Foreign medical graduates must pass the FMGE. |
| NEET-SS | Entrance for super speciality courses (DM/MCh/DrNB). | Postgraduate degree (MD/MS/DNB) in a relevant broad speciality and NMC/SMC registration. |
| NEET-MDS | Entrance for MDS courses in various dental specialities. | BDS degree, completion of a rotating internship, and NMC/Dental Council registration. |
| FMGE | A biannual screening test for foreign medical graduates to obtain registration to practice in India. | Primary medical qualification from a recognised foreign institution. No internship is required before the exam. |
| DNB/DrNB/FNB Exit Exams | Final assessments for trainees completing NBEMS-accredited programs. | Enrollment in and completion of the required training period for the respective program (e.g., DNB, DrNB, or FNB). |
Also Read: How to Apply for NEET UG 2025 Scholarship
NBEMS Examination Fees
| Examination | Fees (approximate) |
| NEET-PG | ₹4,250 for General/OBC/EWS ₹3,250 for SC/ST/PwD (plus payment gateway charges) |
| NEET-SS | ₹4,250 for all categories |
| NEET-MDS | ₹3,750 for General/OBC/EWS ₹2,750 for SC/ST/PwD |
| FMGE | Exam fee is ₹6,000, with an additional 18% GST, totalling approximately ₹7,080. |
| DNB/DrNB/FNB Exit Exams | The fees for these exams vary and are typically paid via the online portal. The exact amount depends on the specific exam and session. |
Note: All the above-mentioned fees are non-refundable.
NBEMS Examination Pattern & Syllabus
| Examination | Exam Pattern | Syllabus |
| NEET-PG | 200 MCQs in a 3.5-hour CBT session. Marking scheme: +4 for a correct answer, -1 for an incorrect answer, and 0 for an unattempted question. |
Covers all subjects from the MBBS curriculum, including Pre-Clinical (Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry), Para-Clinical (Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, etc.), and Clinical subjects (Medicine, Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, etc.). |
| NEET-SS | 150 MCQs in a 2.5-hour CBT with sectional timings. Marking scheme: +4 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer. |
Focuses on the feeder broad speciality (60%) and the chosen super speciality (40%). |
| NEET-MDS | 240 MCQs in a 3-hour CBT, divided into two parts. Marking scheme: +4 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer. |
Based on the entire BDS curriculum, covering Pre-Clinical, Para-Clinical, and Clinical dental subjects. |
| FMGE | 300 MCQs are divided into two parts (Part A and Part B) over a 5-hour CBT. No negative marking. The passing score is 150 out of 300. |
Follows the MBBS curriculum as per the Medical Council of India, with a higher weightage on clinical subjects (200 marks) compared to pre- and para-clinical subjects (100 marks). |
| DNB/DrNB/FNB Exit Exams | The structure and content of these exams vary significantly by speciality. They typically consist of both a theory component (papers or MCQs) and a practical/clinical exam. | The syllabus is based on the specific NBEMS curriculum for the program the candidate is completing. |
NBEMS Examination Formats and Process
Most NBEMS examinations are administered as computer-based tests (CBTs), ensuring uniformity and minimising logistical challenges. Depending on the course, the assessment includes:
- Theory Components – Written or computer-based multiple-choice questions.
- Practical/Clinical Assessments – Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCE) or viva voce.
Additionally, NBEMS publishes a comprehensive annual examination calendar, allowing candidates to plan their preparation well in advance.
How to Apply for NBEMS Examinations
Students who are eligible for the NBEMS examinations can apply using the following steps:
Step 1: Go to the official website of NBEMS at natboard.edu.in/index
Step 2: Navigate to the ‘Examinations’ option on the top dashboard of the page, and from the dropdown menu, select the NBEMS exam you wish to apply for.
Step 3: Let’s say you want to apply for NEET-PG. Click on the respective option. Now you’ll see the Information Page link and Application Link on the right-hand side to start your application. Click on the ‘Application Link’ to proceed with the NEET-PG application.
Step 4: Now, read the instructions carefully before applying for the NEET-PG examination.
Step 5: Click on the given ‘Registration’ link or navigate to the ‘Register’ option in the right-hand top corner of the dashboard.
Step 6: Fill in the required details and register for the examination.
Step 7: Once registered, log in using valid credentials. Fill in the required details, upload the documents in the prescribed format & size, and submit the respective NBEMS application form.
NBEMS Examinations Important Links
| NBEMS Examination Name | Application Links |
| NEET-PG | Click Here |
| NEET-MDS | Click Here |
| NEET-SS | Click Here |
| FET | Click Here |
| DNB-PDCET | Click Here |
| Payment for Miscellaneous fee of NBEMS | Click Here |
| Online Centralized Merit-Based Counseling | Click Here |
| Test Day Advisory for NEET-PG 2025 applicants | Click Here |
NBEMS Examinations – FAQs
What is the purpose of NBEMS examinations?
The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) conducts examinations to standardise postgraduate and postdoctoral medical education in India. These include NEET-PG, NEET-SS, NEET-MDS, FMGE, and exit exams for DNB/DrNB/FNB courses, ensuring merit-based admissions and uniform academic standards. NBEMS also accredits hospitals for training programs, with results declared within weeks and centralised counselling for seat allocation.
Who can apply for NEET-PG?
Eligible candidates must have an MBBS degree or provisional pass certificate recognised by the National Medical Commission (NMC), NMC or State Medical Council registration, and a completed 12-month internship by the specified cutoff. Foreign graduates require FMGE qualification and internship completion. Applications are online at nbe.edu.in, with fees of ₹4,250 (General/OBC) or ₹3,250 (SC/ST/PwD).
How is the NEET-PG exam structured?
NEET-PG is a 3.5-hour computer-based test with 200 MCQs in English. Marking: +4 for correct, -1 for incorrect, 0 for unattempted. Syllabus follows the MBBS curriculum (Pre-Clinical, Para-Clinical, Clinical). Results are percentile-based and counselling is conducted by MCC.
What is the syllabus for NEET-SS?
NEET-SS tests feeder speciality knowledge (60%) and super speciality knowledge (40%). The 2.5-hour CBT has 150 MCQs (+4/-1 marking). Syllabus aligns with MD/MS/DNB feeder courses. Applications are online with fees around ₹4,250.
What are the eligibility criteria for FMGE?
FMGE is for Indian citizens or OCIs with a recognised foreign medical qualification. No internship is needed before the exam. It is held biannually, with 300 MCQs in two parts; passing requires 150/300 marks. Applications cost ₹6,000 + GST via nbe.edu.in.
How do I prepare for NBEMS exit exams (DNB/DrNB/FNB)?
Follow NBEMS curriculum PDFs, study standard textbooks, and practise clinical scenarios. Exams include theory (MCQs/papers) and practical/OSCE components. Applications are via accredited institutes. Regular revisions, case discussions, and mock tests are important.
How does counselling work for NBEMS exams?
MCC conducts counselling for All India Quota (50%), deemed/central universities, and open DNB seats; state authorities manage state quotas. Candidates register online, select preferences, and are allotted seats based on rank, category, and availability, as per GOI reservation norms.
What are the application steps for NBEMS exams?
Apply online at nbe.edu.in or natboard.edu.in. Register, fill personal/academic details, upload documents, select exam city, and pay fees. Correction windows are available. Download admit cards 4–7 days before the exam and follow bulletin guidelines for documents and deadlines.