How to Get MCI Approval After Completing MBBS Abroad

Pursuing an MBBS degree abroad is an attractive option for many Indian students due to a secure future and position. When students completed their MBBS from Abroad then they require approval from the Medical Council of India - MCI which is now regulated under the National Medical Commission - NMC. Students are supposed to pass the Foreign Medical Graduates Examination (FMGE) and fulfilling specific eligibility criteria.

What is MCI Approval

MCI approval is nowadays known and governed by the National Medical Commission - NMC which is the official recognition required for foreign medical graduates to practice in India. The Foreign Medical Graduates Examination which short name called as FMGE which is the gateway to obtaining this approval. It is a mandatory screening test which is conducted by the National Board of Examinations - NBE to assess the competency of students who have earned their MBBS degree from international universities.

Why is MCI Approval Important for MBBS Graduates

MCI approval is essential for Indian students who complete their MBBS abroad reasons for Why is it Important for MBBS Graduates?-

It validates their medical degree in India.

It allows them to practice legally as a doctor in the country.

It is required for internships and postgraduate studies in India.

MCI approval enables the chance for MBBS graduates to apply for government and private sector jobs in the medical field. FMGE will not work to permit students to do work as doctors without MCI approval means foreign medical graduates cannot work as doctors in India which makes it a crucial step in their career.

Understanding FMGE – The Key to MCI Approval for Foreign Medical Graduates

The Foreign Medical Graduates Examination or FMGE is a licensure examination that is conducted twice a year in June and December month. Where students are supposed to qualify for this entrance with a minimum of 50% marks which is decided as 300 marks and students should obtain half of 300. The FMGE syllabus covers pre-clinical, para-clinical, and clinical subjects which are similar to the Indian MBBS curriculum.

Key Features of FMGE

• Conducted by NBE under NMC guidelines.

• Online, computer-based test.

• No negative marking.

• Candidates can attempt multiple times until they pass.

Once a student clears FMGE, they can apply for provisional registration with NMC and complete a mandatory internship in an NMC-recognized medical institution.

Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students Seeking MCI Approval

Students must meet eligibility criteria when deciding to apply for MCI approval after completing MBBS from abroad-

When and How to Apply for MCI Screening Test (FMGE)?

Recognized Medical University

The MBBS degree should be from a WHO and NMC-recognized foreign university.

Duration of MBBS

The course should be at least 5.5 years long, including one year of internship.

Higher Secondary Qualification

Candidates must have passed 10+2.

Eligibility Certificate

Students must obtain an Eligibility Certificate from NMC before enrolling in a foreign university.

FMGE Qualification

Clearing FMGE is mandatory to get MCI approval and practice in India

The FMGE application process involves some steps:

When to Apply?

FMGE is held twice a year – Month of June and December.

Applications are usually open 2-3 months before the exam date.

How to Apply?

Online Registration: Visit the official NBE website (natboard.edu.in) and create an account.

Fill out the Application Form- Provide personal, academic, and MBBS degree details.

Upload Documents- Submit the required documents in the prescribed format.

Pay the Exam Fee- Pay the FMGE application fee online.

Download Admit Card- Once verified, download the FMGE admit card before the exam date.

Appear for the Exam- Attempt the FMGE and secure at least 150 out of 300 marks.

Result Declaration- Check results on the NBE website.

Once the candidate clears FMGE, they can apply for provisional MCI registration, complete their internship, and then apply for permanent MCI registration.

Documents Required for MCI Registration After MBBS Abroad

After successfully passing the FMGE, candidates must submit the following documents to register with MCI/NMC-

1. MBBS Degree Certificate (from a recognized foreign university)

2. FMGE Pass Certificate (issued by NBE)

3. Internship Completion Certificate

4. Higher Secondary (10+2) Marksheet & Passing Certificate

5. Passport Copy & Visa Documentation

6. Eligibility Certificate (issued by NMC before foreign MBBS admission)

7. Birth Certificate or Aadhaar Card (as ID proof)

8. Passport-size Photographs

9. Medical Fitness Certificate

10. Application Form & Payment Receipt

All documents must be submitted to the State Medical Council (SMC) or NMC through an online or offline process. Upon verification, candidates receive MCI/NMC registration and can start practicing as a doctor in India.

Tips to Prepare for FMGE and Secure MCI Approval

The FMGE exam is conducted by the National Board of Examinations every year also known as NBE. this is important stage to clear FMGE for getting MCI approval.

Understand the FMGE Syllabus

FMGE syllabus is based on MBBS knowledge and the main focus is on Physics, Chemistry and Biology subjects. 

Use Standard Study Materials

Refer to books like “FMGE Solutions” by Deepak Marwah and “Self-Assessment & Review of FMGE” by Dr. Arvind Arora.

Enroll in Coaching Programs

Online and offline coaching classes help students understand exam patterns and solve previous years’ papers.

Practice Mock Tests

Attempting multiple mock tests helps improve time management and question-solving skills.

Revise Regularly

Make short notes for quick revisions, focusing on high-yield topics.

Stay Updated

Follow the latest FMGE guidelines and exam notifications from the NBE website.

Passing FMGE with the required 50% marks is mandatory for applying for MCI approval.

Internship and Practical Training Requirements for MCI Registration

After clearing the FMGE entrance exam, students who completed their MBBS from a foreign they must complete a compulsory internship in an NMC-recognized hospital. The internship helps students gain hands-on experience and develop clinical skills and there are some basic requirements for MCI registration like-

Internship Duration

The internship should last for 12 months.

Approved Hospitals

The internship must be completed in NMC-approved hospitals or medical colleges.

Rotational Posting

The training should be rotational in different departments as per requirements, and the candidate will get experience in all medical departments.

Logbook Maintenance

Maintain a logbook of daily activities and procedures performed.

Internship Completion Certificate

Obtain a certificate from the hospital, as it is required for permanent registration.

Steps to Apply for MCI Provisional and Permanent Registration

MCI registration is a two-step process that includes provisional registration and permanent registration. 

Provisional Registration

Visit the official NMC website and register online.

Upload necessary documents like the FMGE passing certificate, MBBS degree, and passport copy.

Pay the registration fee online.

Submit the application and await verification.

Permanent Registration

Complete the mandatory 12-month internship in an NMC-recognized hospital.

Obtain the internship completion certificate.

Submit the online application for permanent registration.

Pay the required fees and upload all necessary documents.

Appear for the document verification process.

After successful verification, NMC grants the permanent registration certificate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During MCI Registration Process

If students make any errors in their application, then it might be possible to face a delay in MCI approval due to errors in the application process. Here are few basic mistakes to avoid 

Incorrect Documentation

Ensure that all documents are valid, properly attested, and uploaded in the correct format.

Not Verifying University Recognition

Before enrolling abroad, confirm if the medical university is recognized by NMC.

Delaying FMGE Preparation

Early preparation for FMGE increases the chances of passing on the first attempt.

Failure to Complete Internship Properly

Ensure that the internship is completed as per NMC guidelines.

Ignoring NMC Notifications

Regularly check the NMC website for updates on registration policies.

Verification Process and Timeline for MCI Approval

The MCI/NMC approval process involves multiple verification stages. The typical timeline is:

The MCI/NMC approval process involves multiple verification stages. The typical timeline is-

FMGE Results Declaration which can be declared within 4-6 weeks after the exam.

Provisional Registration will take around 2-4 weeks after document submission.

Internship Completion will be completed in 12 months of training.

Permanent Registration Approval should usually be processed within 4-8 weeks.

Issuance of MCI Approval which is the final approval and permanent registration certificate are issued within a few weeks after successful verification.