Supreme Court Upholds NEET is Mandatory For MBBS Abroad

The Supreme Court has upheld NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test – Undergraduate) is mandatory for students who wish to pursue MBBS abroad. The National Medical Commission made this rule for Indian MBBS aspirants.

The Supreme Court, on Wednesday, approved the Medical Council of India (MCI) regulation that makes it compulsory for students to clear the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET UG) to study undergraduate medical courses in foreign institutions. The regulation, which came into effect from 2018, is designed to ensure that Indian students studying medicine abroad are well-equipped to practice in India.

The court held that the regulation is transparent, fair, and legally sound, reiterating that it does not go against any statutory provision. The condition to qualify for NEET UG is over and above the eligibility criteria specified in the Graduate Medical Education Regulations, 1997.

A bench of Justices B.R. Gavai and K. Vinod Chandran of the Supreme Court heard the petition against the regulation. According to the petitioners, the rule was promulgated without changing the Indian Medical Council Act, of 1956. The court, however, ruled that the Medical Council could enact such a regulation based on Section 33 of the Act.

Is NEET UG Mandatory For MBBS abroad?

Yes, National Eligibility cum Entrance Test – Undergraduate is mandatory for all Indian citizens who wish to pursue an MBBS degree abroad. This ruling was recently upheld by the Supreme Court of India.

What are NMC regulations for MBBS Abroad?

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has established this regulation for Indian MBBS students who are willing to pursue MBBS abroad. These regulations aim to ensure the quality of education. The students who pursued MBBS abroad in a NMC approved are eligible to practice in India. Key NMC regulations include:

Qualification: As mentioned, clearing NEET UG is a mandatory requirement.
Recognition of Foreign Medical Colleges: The NMC maintains a list of recognized medical colleges abroad. Students must ensure that the chosen institution is listed and meets NMC standards.
Screening Test (FMGE): Upon completion of MBBS abroad, students must pass the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) conducted by the NMC. This exam assesses their knowledge and clinical skills to ensure they meet Indian medical standards.

What qualification is required for NEET UG?

To be eligible for the NEET UG the candidates must:

Age: 17 years old or more
Education qualification: Candidate must have passed 12th or equivalent diploma with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

What is the Upper age limit for NEET UG?

There is no upper age limit for NEET UG. However, the aspiring candidates must be 17 or older.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Supreme Court’s recent judgment that NEET UG is mandatory for all Indian students who wish to pursue an MBBS degree, including those studying abroad. Therefore this decision aims to ensure the quality of medical education and the competence of future doctors in India.

NTA has been releasing the latest updates on NEET UG 2025, therefore aspirants must verify updates every day. Registration began a few days ago, therefore, register for NEET UG as early as possible (7 March 2025 is the deadline for NEET registration)