What is NExT Exam? Everything You Need to Know

What is NExT Exam: The National Exit Test (NExT) is a comprehensive postgraduate medical examination designed to serve multiple functions within the Indian medical education system. It functions not only as a qualifying examination for MBBS students in their final year but also as a licentiate examination, allowing individuals to practise modern medicine in India. In addition, the NExT serves a crucial role in the admissions process for postgraduate programmes based on merit.

NExT is intended to streamline and standardise the evaluation procedure for aspiring Indian postgraduate medical professionals. In addition, the NExT serves as a licence exam, making it a prerequisite for those who wish to practise modern medicine in India.

NExT is also anticipated to serve as a merit-based admissions system for postgraduate programmes. This merit-based approach is said to ensure that qualified and meritorious individuals have equal opportunities to pursue a medical specialisation in the nation.

NExT Eligibility

(i) All undergraduate medical students pursuing the MBBS degree at Medical Colleges approved by the National Medical Commission via the Medical Assessment and Rating Board and the Undergraduate Medical Education Board.

(ii) All Foreign Medical Graduates approved by the National Medical Commission for the purpose of obtaining a licence to practise medicine in India as a registered medical practitioner and for enrolment in the State Register or the National Register in accordance with regulations.

(iii) Any other person with a medical degree for purposes such as pursuing an academic course, or observership. Any other purpose specified and approved from time to time by the National Medical Commission through proper notification or regulations.

National Exit Exam: Exam Format

The NExT will consist of two distinct examinations known as “Steps.”

The Next Step

• The examination will be a theory-based computer-based test (CBT).
• The examination will comprise of six sections covering MBBS/Final MBBS topics.
• There is no limit on the number of trials you may make to pass the NExT Step 1.

Next Phase

• The examination will consist of a practical/clinical and oral portion encompassing seven clinical subjects/disciplines.
• The examination will be administered in person/live by the respective state Health Universities/Institutions in accordance with the Commission’s standards and guidelines.
• There is no limit on the number of NExT Step 2 attempts, provided the candidate has passed both NExT Step 1 and NExT Step 2 examinations within 10 years of enrolling in an MBBS programme.

When will NExt become operational?

The All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) will likely administer the National Exit Test (NExT) beginning in 2024. In this regard, however, an official confirmation is anticipated.

What is the purpose of the NExT exam?

The purpose of NExT is to standardise the summative evaluation of medical graduates across the nation based on minimum common standards of education and training.

What is the minimum score required to accomplish NEXT Step 1?

The minimum passing grade for NExT Step 1 is 50%, or half of the utmost possible Raw score.

Who administers the NExT Exam?

AIIMS Delhi, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, is anticipated to administer the NExT examination beginning in 2023. Nonetheless, an official confirmation has not yet been made.

Will there be negative markings on the NExT examination?

No, the NExT will be a qualifying exam with no negative marking.

What will occur if you do not pass NExT Step 1?

Candidates who have failed one or more subjects must take the NExT Step 1 Supplemental Exam.