NEET essential for medical abroad
Last updated: April 20, 2026
Students dreaming of medical studies abroad will now have to take the NEET examination. The government has made this entrance test compulsory for admission to medical courses overseas. According to the Health Ministry, the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) is mandatory for students aspiring to study medicine abroad after May 2018. This month, the Ministry made the exam compulsory for admission to both government and private medical colleges in foreign countries.
In an official statement, the ministry said, "It is reported that Indian students who want to obtain a primary medical qualification from any medical institution outside the country will have to take a proper examination. This rule will be applicable from May 2018."
The Ministry also clarified that students already pursuing a primary medical qualification can still obtain eligibility certificates from the Medical Council of India under the old rules. The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) is held annually for admission to medical and dental courses (MBBS, MS, BDS, etc.) in government and private colleges within India. This year, the examination is scheduled for May 6th, 2018.
