The National Medical Commission (NMC) has granted a one-time additional attempt, called a "mercy attempt," to eligible MBBS students admitted from the 2019-20 academic year onwards. This attempt is to help students pass the First Professional MBBS Examination. The decision aims to address the challenges faced by students due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other health-related difficulties.
- The mercy attempt applies to MBBS students admitted from 2019-20 onwards.
- The decision was made during the 18th NMC meeting on September 23, 2026.
- It responds to requests from students, universities, and stakeholders.
- The mercy attempt is a one-time transitional relaxation.
- Conditions and instructions are detailed in the public notice by the Undergraduate Medical Education Board (UGMEB).
Why did the NMC grant an additional mercy attempt?
The NMC considered multiple factors before granting the mercy attempt. The primary reason was the exceptional circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted regular academic schedules and examinations. Additionally, health-related issues and other personal difficulties faced by students were taken into account. The commission also reviewed its earlier decisions that allowed mercy attempts for students admitted in the 2019-20 and 2020-21 academic years.
What is the scope of this mercy attempt?
This mercy attempt is a one-time opportunity for eligible MBBS students to pass their First Professional MBBS Examination. It applies only to students admitted from the 2019-20 academic year onwards. The attempt is intended as a transitional relaxation to support students who could not clear the examination due to the pandemic and related challenges.
How was the decision made?
The decision was taken during the 18th meeting of the National Medical Commission held on September 23, 2026. The commission reviewed representations from students, universities, and other stakeholders requesting an additional attempt. After careful consideration of the exceptional circumstances and previous mercy attempts granted, the NMC approved the mercy attempt and issued a public notice through the Undergraduate Medical Education Board (UGMEB) on October 15, 2026.
What should students and universities know about the mercy attempt?
The NMC has advised students, universities, and other stakeholders to carefully review the conditions and instructions specified in the public notice. These details outline eligibility criteria and procedural guidelines for availing the mercy attempt. The communication was signed by NMC Secretary Dr. Raghav Langer on October 15, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is eligible for the mercy attempt?
A: MBBS students admitted from the 2019-20 academic year onwards who have not passed the First Professional MBBS Examination may be eligible, subject to conditions specified in the public notice.
Q: Is this mercy attempt a permanent change?
A: No, it is a one-time transitional relaxation to help students affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and other difficulties.
Q: Where can students find detailed information about the mercy attempt?
A: Detailed eligibility conditions and instructions are provided in the public notice issued by the Undergraduate Medical Education Board (UGMEB).
