The Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) is a licensure test conducted by the National Board of Examination (NBE) for Indian and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) who have completed their MBBS degree abroad. Before applying for the FMGE exam, candidates must carefully review the eligibility criteria, internship rules and validity of their medical degree. In this blog, we will cover all essential details, including nationality requirements, degree recognition, country-specific rules, internship completion and documents needed for registration. 

If you’re preparing for FMGE, enrolling in the best online coaching for FMGE or a structured FMGE preparation course with FMGE online classes, video lectures, crash courses, and Qbank can boost your success. 

What is the FMEG Exam? 

The FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) is a screening test mandatory for foreign medical graduates who want to practice medicine in India. It is conducted twice a year (June and December sessions) by the NBE. Only candidates who meet the eligibility criteria can apply and appear for the exam. 

FMGE Eligibility Criteria 

Nationality Requirement 

• The applicant must be an Indian citizen or an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI). 
• Foreign nationals are not eligible to appear for FMGE. 

Recognised Foreign Medical Qualification 

• The candidate should hold a primary medical qualification (MBBS or equivalent) from a recognised university/institution abroad. 
• The qualification must be recognised by the Indian Embassy of that country. 
• Provisional or unrecognised degrees are not accepted. 

Country-Specific Degree Validity 

Some countries have special considerations regarding degree recognition. 

MBBS from China or Russia 

• Many universities in China and Russia are recognised, but students must confirm that their degrees are listed and accepted by the Indian Embassy. 
• Only full-time MBBS degrees are valid (not online or distance learning). 

MBBS from Ukraine or the Philippines 

• Students graduating from Ukraine or the Philippines must ensure their medical curriculum aligns with NMC guidelines. 
• For the Philippines, only degrees that include the Doctor of Medicine (MD) program with mandatory internship are valid. 

Internship Completion Rules for FMGE 

• Candidates must have completed a one-year internship in the country of study, wherever applicable. 
• Internship certificates should be issued by the respective medical university or hospital. 
• If the internship is incomplete, candidates must complete it before applying for provisional/permanent registration in India. 

Is There Any Age Limit or Attempt Limit? 

• No age limit is prescribed for appearing in FMGE. 
• Candidates can take multiple attempts until they pass the exam. 

Documents Required for FMGE Registration 

Candidates must upload the following documents while applying for FMGE: 

• Passport (with students’ visa and entry-exit details)
• MBBS degree certificate (foreign qualification)
• Internship completion certificate (if applicable)
• Eligibility certificate issued by NMC (if required)
• Recent passport-sized photographs 
• Identity proof (Aadhar, PAN, Passport, etc.) 

Clearing the FMGE starts with ensuring that your degree, internship and eligibility documents meet the NMC and NBE requirements. Once eligibility is confirmed, focus on exam preparation with the help of FMGE online coaching, crash courses, Qbank and FMGE video lectures. Choosing the best FMGE online coaching platform will give you structured guidance, updated notes and mock tests to boost your confidence for the exam. 

Frequently Asked Questions: 

Q1. Who can apply for FMGE? 

Ans – Indian citizens/OCI holders with a recognised MBBS degree from abroad 

Q2. Is an internship abroad mandatory for FMGE?

Ans – Yes, if it is part of the curriculum in that country. 

Q3.  Can foreign nationals apply for FMGE?

Ans – No, only Indian citizens and OCI cardholders are eligible. 

Q4. Is there any limit to the number of attempts in FMGE? 

Ans – No, candidates can attempt until they qualify. 

Q5. Is an online or distance MBBS degree valid for FMGE? 

Ans – No, only full-time, regular medical qualifications are valid.