The National Medical Commission (NMC) has officially released the Guidelines on Assessment of Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) for Admission to the MBBS Course, 2026. Issued on July 27, 2026, the new guidelines aim to ensure a fair, transparent and standardized assessment process for candidates with benchmark disabilities seeking admission to MBBS courses across India.

The revised guidelines have been issued under the provisions of the National Medical Commission Act, 2019 and in accordance with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016. They supersede the earlier PwBD assessment guidelines issued by the NMC and will be applicable for the 2026 admission process.

According to the notification, the objective of the guidelines is to establish a uniform framework for evaluating the eligibility of PwBD candidates for MBBS admissions. The document provides a standardized approach to disability assessment, ensuring that candidates are evaluated consistently while safeguarding their rights and promoting equal access to medical education.

The NMC's latest move reinforces its commitment to making medical education more inclusive and accessible. By aligning the admission process with the RPwD Act, the Commission aims to create equal opportunities for aspiring medical students with benchmark disabilities while maintaining the required academic and professional standards.

Medical colleges, state counselling authorities, designated disability assessment boards, and MBBS aspirants are advised to review the revised guidelines carefully before the commencement of the 2026 admission process to ensure compliance with the updated assessment criteria.

Key Highlights

• NMC issued the PwBD Assessment Guidelines for MBBS Admission 2026 on July 27, 2026.
• The guidelines replace the previous assessment framework.
• Issued under the National Medical Commission Act, 2019 and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016.
• Introduces a standardized assessment process for PwBD candidates applying for MBBS admissions.
• Applicable to the 2026 MBBS admission process across India.