For medical graduates, one of the most important decisions after completing their MBBS or postgraduate studies is choosing the right exam that aligns with their career goals. With a range of options like MRCP, MRCOG, USMLE and NEET SS doctors often struggle to choose the right pathway. Each exam is designed with different objectives; some open global opportunities (USMLE, MRCP, MRCOG) while others secure advanced career growth in India (NEET SS). 

If you are aiming for a super-speciality seat in India, NEET SS is the primary route. However, if your goal is to practice in the UK, the Middle East, or the USA, exams such as MRCP, MRCOG, or USMLE are more relevant. This blog breaks down all four exams- eligibility, structure, cost, difficulty and career prospects to help you make the best choice for your future. 

Overview of MRCP, MRCOG, USMLE and NEET SS

What is the MRCP Exam? 

The MRCP exam (Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians) is a UK-based postgraduate qualification that tests clinical knowledge and skills for physicians. 

• MRCP exam overview: It is widely recognised in the UK, the Middle East and other Commonwealth countries. 
• MRCP exam in India: Many Indian doctors attempt the MRCP to boost their career prospects internationally. 
• MRCP full form: Membership of the Royal College of Physicians. 

What is the MRCOG Exam? 

The MRCOG exam (Membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists) is a globally respected qualification in obstetrics and gynaecology. 

• MRCOG exam details: Divided into three parts, it tests theoretical knowledge, a computer-based written exam testing the application of knowledge in clinical practice, and lastly is a clinical assessment that evaluates practical skills. 
• MRCOG exam for gynaecologists: Ideal for those pursuing a career in women’s health. 
• MRCOG eligibility India: Open to MBBS graduates with an interest in obstetrics and gynaecology. 

What is the USMLE Exam? 

The USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) is a three-step exam required for practising medicine in the US. 

• USMLE exam explained: It assesses medical knowledge, clinical reasoning and patient care. 
• USMLE steps: Step 1 (basic sciences), Step 2 (clinical knowledge) and Step 3 (clinical management). 
• USMLE for Indian doctors: A must for those planning residency and practice in the US. 

What is the NEET SS Exam?

The NEET SS (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test- Super Speciality) is India’s gateway for DM/MCh super-speciality courses. 

• NEET SS exam details: Computer-based test for super-speciality admissions. 
• NEET SS super speciality exam: Covers subjects related to the chosen speciality. 
• NEET SS for PG students: Exclusively for MD/MS/DNB-qualified doctors in India. 

Eligibility Criteria Comparison 

MRCP Eligibility 

• MRCP eligibility for Indian doctors: MBBS with 12 months of internship. 
• Who can give the MRCP exam? Any doctor with a recognised primary medical qualification. 

MRCOG Eligibility 

• MRCOG exam eligibility: MBBS equivalent degree with internship. 
• MRCOF eligibility India: No PG degree required, but postgraduate experience in OBGYN is recommended. 

USMLE Eligibility 

• USMLE exam for Indian students: MBBS or equivalent from a recognised medical school listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools. 
• USMLE eligibility after MBBS: Students can start with Step 1 while pursuing MBBS.

NEET SS Eligibility 

• NEET SS eligibility: Must have an MD/MS/DNB degree in the relevant speciality. 
• Who can give the NEET SS exam? Only doctors with postgraduate qualifications in India. 

Exam Structure and Pattern 

MRCP Exam Stages (Part 1, Part 2, PACES)

• MRCP Exam Stages: Written exams (Part 1 & Part 2) + clinical skills assessment (PACES)
• MRCP Part 1 and Part 2: MCQ-based theory exams. 
• MRCP PACES explained: Clinical assessment of examination skills. 

MRCOG Exam Stages (Part 1, Part 2, Part 3) 

• MRCOG exam pattern: 

• Part 1: Basic sciences 
• Part 2: Clinical application
• Part 3: OSCE-style communication & practical skills. 

• MRCOG Part 1 syllabus: Basic sciences applied to OBGYN 
• MRCOG Part 3 exam: Clinical scenario-based OSCE. 

USMLE Exam Steps (Step 1, Step 2, Step 3)

• USMLE Step 1 explained: Test basic sciences
• USMLE Step 2: Assesses clinical knowledge
• USMLE Step 3: Two-day exam testing clinical reasoning, patient management and simulations. 

NEET SS Pattern 

• 150 MCQs, single session.
• NEET SS syllabus: Focused on the speciality chosen (e.g. Cardiology from a general medicine base). 
• NEET SS paper structure: Questions are drawn from feeder speciality (e.g. MD General Medicine for DM Cardiology). 

Difficulty Level & Preparation Strategy 

Is MRCP Tougher than USMLE? 

• MRCP vs USMLE difficulty: USMLE is lengthier, requires years of preparation and is highly competitive for residency. MRCP is focused on clinical knowledge and bedside skills. 
• MRCP vs USMLE, which is tougher? For international students USMLE is more demanding due to visa/residency hurdles. 

MRCOG vs NEET SS Difficulty 

• MRCOG vs NEET SS, which is difficult? NEET SS is highly competitive due to the limited seats in India. MRCOG, while rigorous, offers broader opportunities abroad. 
• NEET vs MRCOG difficulty level: NEET SS requires mastering a wide syllabus, whereas MRCOG tests both theoretical and soft skills. 

Preparation Resources and QBank Support 

• MRCP preparation resources: MRCP Part 1 preparation online, clinical case banks. 
• MRCOG preparation books: Past papers, MRCOG Part 1 preparation online platforms. 
• Best NEET SS online course:  Speciality-specific QBanks (e.g. NEET SS paediatrics preparation). 
• USMLE preparation strategy: NBME practice exams. 

Cost and Time Investment 

MRCP Exam Cost 

• MRCP exam fees India: INR 60,000-65,000 per part 
• MRCP exam cost in INR: Around INR 2.5 lakhs total
• Duration: Can be completed in 2-3 years 

MRCOG Exam Cost 

• MRCOG exam fees: INR 60,000-70,000 per stage 
• MRCOG cost in India- 2.5-3 lakhs 
• Duration: 3-5 years to clear all stages

USMLE Exam Cost 

• NEET SS exam fee: INR 4250 (most affordable)
• NEET SS cost: Minimal compared to international exams 
• Duration: Depends on securing a DM/MCh seat (3 years training) 

Career Opportunities After Each Exam 

Career Scope After MRCP 

• Eligible for GMC registration 
• MRCP career opportunities: Internal medicine training in the UK, the Middle East, and Singapore. 
• Jobs after MRCP in the UK: Registrar posts in the NHS. 

Career Scope After MRCOG 

• Globally recognised in OBGYN 
• MRCOG career scope: Specialist training in women’s health. 
• MRCOG opportunities abroad: NHS UK, the Middle East, and Australia.

Career Scope After USMLE 

• USMLE career in the USA: Entry into residency programs.
• Residency after USMLE: Pathway to board certification in the US. 
• High salary and structured training opportunities. 

Career Scope After NEET SS 

• NEET SS scope in India: Consultant super-specialist roles. 
• Jobs after NEET SS exam: DM/MCh graduates become senior consultants, professors or private practitioners. 

Which Exam Should You Choose? 

• If your goal is an India-focused specialisation: Choose NEET SS. 
• If you want to practice internal medicine abroad, the MRCP is ideal. 
• If you are passionate about gynaecology with global recognition, go for MRCOG. 
• If your dream is to practice in the USA, the USMLE is the only route. 

Consider: 

• Career goals (India vs Abroad)
• Specialization interests 
• Cost and time availability 
• Long-term recognition 

The choice between MRCP, MRCOG, USMLE and NEET SS depends entirely on your career goals, budget and preferred country of practice. If you want to stay in India, NEET SS is your path to becoming a super-specialist. For global careers, MRCP and MRCOG are often recognised in internal medicine and gynaecology, while USMLE opens doors to the US healthcare system. 

Before making a decision, evaluate the eligibility, structure, costs, difficulty and long-term opportunities of each pathway carefully. The right exam will align with both your professional aspirations and personal life goals. 

Frequently Asked Questions: 

Q1. Which is tougher MRCP or the USMLE? 

Ans – USMLE is tougher in terms of competition and preparation duration, but MRCP is challenging in its clinical depth. 

Q2. Is MRCOG better than NEET SS for Gynaecology? 

Ans –  MRCOG has global value while NEET SS is limited to India. Your choice depends on whether you want an Indian or an international career. 

Q3. Can I prepare for the USMLE and NEET SS together? 

Ans –  It’s difficult because both have very different formats and focuses. Most doctors choose one based on long-term goals. 

Q4. Which exam is best for Indian doctors planning to settle abroad? 

• USMLE: For the US. 
• MRCP: For UK & Commonwealth. 
• MRCOG: For gynaecology abroad.