Becoming a doctor is a dream for many students in India. However, due to the intense competition and limited seats in Indian medical colleges, many students choose to pursue their MBBS degree abroad. While studying medicine in countries like Russia, Ukraine, China, the Philippines, and others has become common, returning to India and practicing as a doctor involves several steps. If you have completed your MBBS from abroad and wish to work as a doctor in India, this blog will guide you through the process.
Step 1: Obtain Your MBBS Degree from a Recognized University
The first and foremost requirement is to complete your MBBS degree from a medical university recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC), formerly known as the Medical Council of India (MCI). If your university is not recognized, you may face challenges in obtaining a license to practice in India.
Step 2: Clear the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE)
To practice medicine in India, foreign medical graduates must pass the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE). This exam is conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) twice a year, in June and December.
FMGE Exam Details:
The FMGE is a computer-based test with 300 multiple-choice questions.
It is divided into two parts, each consisting of 150 questions.
You need to score at least 50% (150 out of 300 marks) to pass.
There is no negative marking.
If you clear the FMGE, you become eligible to apply for further licensing procedures in India.
Step 3: Complete the Mandatory Internship in India
After passing the FMGE, foreign medical graduates must complete a one-year internship at a medical college or hospital recognized by the NMC. The internship ensures that graduates receive practical exposure to medical cases under supervision before they start practicing independently.
During this internship, you will gain experience in:
General Medicine
Surgery
Pediatrics
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Community Medicine
Orthopedics, and more.
Step 4: Obtain the Provisional Registration from the State Medical Council
Once you clear the FMGE, you must register with the respective State Medical Council (SMC) to get a Provisional Registration Certificate. This certificate allows you to undergo the mandatory internship in India. Each state has different guidelines, so it is advisable to check with the concerned medical council for specific requirements.
Step 5: Apply for Permanent Registration with the NMC
After successfully completing your internship, you must apply for permanent registration with the National Medical Commission (NMC) or the respective State Medical Council (SMC). Once registered, you will receive a license to practice as a doctor in India.
Step 6: Prepare for NEET-PG or Other Career Options
After obtaining your permanent registration, you have multiple career options:
1. Pursue Postgraduate Medical Education (MD/MS/DNB)
If you want to specialize in a particular medical field, you must appear for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Postgraduate (NEET-PG). Admission to postgraduate medical courses such as MD/MS/DNB in India is based on your NEET-PG score.
2. Work as a General Practitioner
If you do not wish to pursue higher studies immediately, you can start working as a general physician in hospitals, clinics, or even set up your own private practice.
3. Join Government or Private Hospitals
Many hospitals in India hire foreign medical graduates who have cleared the FMGE and completed their internship. You can apply for jobs in government hospitals, private healthcare institutions, or corporate hospitals.
4. Appear for UPSC CMS Exam
If you are interested in working in the public health sector, you can appear for the UPSC Combined Medical Services (CMS) Exam. This exam offers opportunities to work as a medical officer in government organizations like Railway Hospitals, Municipal Corporations, and other Public Health Departments.
5. Pursue Higher Studies or Specialization Abroad
Some students choose to pursue higher studies in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, or Australia. You may need to clear additional exams like USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), or AMC (Australia) for further studies and practice.
Challenges Faced by Foreign Medical Graduates
While becoming a doctor in India after studying abroad is possible, foreign medical graduates face several challenges, such as:
Low FMGE Passing Rate: The FMGE is considered a tough exam, with a passing rate of 10-25%.
Internship Availability: Some states have limited seats for FMGE-passers in internship programs.
NEET-PG Competition: Even after clearing FMGE, getting into a good postgraduate medical course is highly competitive.
Recognition of Degree: Some foreign medical degrees are not recognized in India, which may cause difficulties in obtaining registration.
Tips to Clear FMGE Successfully
Since FMGE is a crucial step, here are some tips to help you clear the exam:
Start preparing early while pursuing MBBS abroad.
Study from standard textbooks like Harrison’s Internal Medicine, Bailey & Love’s Surgery, and Robbins Pathology.
Solve previous years’ question papers and take mock tests regularly.
Focus on clinical and conceptual learning rather than rote memorization.
Join FMGE coaching institutes or online platforms for guidance and practice.
Conclusion
Becoming a doctor in India after completing MBBS from abroad requires dedication and perseverance. The most important steps include clearing FMGE, completing an internship, and obtaining permanent registration. Once these are completed, you can either start practicing as a general physician, pursue postgraduate studies, or explore career opportunities in the medical sector.
Though the journey may seem challenging, with proper preparation and determination, you can successfully achieve your dream of becoming a doctor in India. Best of luck!
