The National Medical Commission (NMC) has announced a one-time additional attempt for eligible MBBS students who were admitted from the 2019-20 academic year onwards. This decision aims to assist students who have already utilised the standard four attempts to pass the First Professional MBBS Examination. The announcement was made through a public notice issued by the NMC’s Undergraduate Medical Education Board (UGMEB) on October 15, 2026.

This decision was reached during the NMC’s 18th meeting, held on September 23, 2026, following requests from students, universities, and other stakeholders. The notice highlighted that the additional attempt was warranted due to exceptional circumstances, which included disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, health-related issues, and various personal challenges faced by students.

The notice clearly states that students admitted to the MBBS programme from the 2019-20 academic year onwards will be allowed one extra attempt, bringing the total number of attempts to five. This measure is intended to provide relief for students struggling to meet the examination requirements.

Eligibility Criteria for Additional Attempt

The additional attempt will be available to students who have exceeded the standard four-year period for completing the First Professional MBBS course, as long as their admission remains valid and has not been cancelled by the respective university or college. This provision aims to support those students who may have faced unforeseen challenges during their academic journey.

However, the relief does not apply to students who have already taken advantage of a mercy attempt and have exhausted five attempts under previous NMC decisions or court orders. The NMC has specified that these students “shall not be entitled to any further mercy attempt under the present decision.” Additionally, the notice makes it clear that the new provision will not allow for a sixth attempt.

Furthermore, the NMC has stated that this additional attempt will not extend the maximum duration prescribed for completing the MBBS course, which includes the period allocated for the Compulsory Rotating Medical Internship (CRMI). This stipulation ensures that the overall timeline for the programme remains intact.

Transitional Measure with Specific Conditions

The NMC has characterised this decision as a limited transitional measure, aimed at providing relief for eligible students currently facing challenges. The notice emphasised that this relaxation is a one-time exceptional measure, specifically designed for pending cases before the Commission. It is not intended to set a precedent for future academic batches or to be applied retrospectively to modify existing regulations regarding permissible examination attempts.

In light of this decision, the NMC has urged all relevant universities, medical colleges, and stakeholders to take note and process the cases of eligible students in accordance with the conditions outlined in the public notice. This call to action aims to ensure that the relief reaches those who are most in need in a timely manner.

The NMC’s decision reflects an understanding of the unique challenges faced by medical students in recent years and aims to provide a fair opportunity for those who have struggled to meet examination requirements. The Commission’s approach underscores its commitment to supporting students while maintaining the integrity of the medical education system in India.

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