National Medical Commission (NMC) has released an important advisory regarding physical onsite compensation for foreign medical students who pursued their MBBS studies online during the pandemic period.

What the Advisory Says

The NMC has clarified that students who completed part of their MBBS course online from foreign medical institutions must undergo mandatory physical onsite training to compensate for the lack of in-person clinical exposure.

This move ensures that all students meet the required clinical and practical standards before becoming eligible to practice medicine.

Who Is Affected?

• Indian students studying MBBS abroad

• Those who attended online classes during COVID-19 restrictions

• Students planning to appear for licensing exams in India

Key Guidelines

• Students must complete onsite clinical training at their respective foreign universities

• The duration of compensation will depend on the extent of online study completed

• Proper documentation and certification from the institution will be required

Important Regulation Update

As per NMC clarification:

• Students admitted after 18 November 2021 will be governed by the Foreign Medical Graduate Licentiate Regulations, 2021

  • They must complete 1-year Compulsory Rotating Medical Internship (CRMI) in India after qualifying FMGE

• Students admitted before 18 November 2021 will be governed by the Screening Test Regulations, 2002

  • They are required to complete CRMI in India only if they did not complete mandatory internship during their MBBS abroad

Why This Matters

The NMC aims to maintain the quality of medical education and patient safety by ensuring that all graduates have sufficient hands-on clinical experience.

Impact on Students

• May extend course duration for some students

• Additional travel and accommodation costs

• Important for eligibility in licensing exams like FMGE/NExT

Expert Advice

Students are advised to:

• Stay in touch with their universities

• Keep all academic records updated

• Plan early for completing onsite requirements

This advisory by the NMC helps make medical education the same for all foreign students and ensures they have the right skills before they start practicing in India.