NExT 2026: Application Form, Dates, Eligibility, Syllabus, Preparation Tips, Admission Procedure

The National Exit Test (NExT) 2026, slated for release in the last week of October 2025, marks a significant evaluation milestone for aspiring postgraduate medical students. Administered potentially by the National Medical Commission (NMC), NExT serves as a gateway to admission into postgraduate medical courses.

NExT holds paramount importance for all undergraduate medical aspirants, serving as a mandatory examination for licensure practice in India. This comprehensive assessment determines the eligibility and ranking of candidates seeking admission to various PG medical programs.

While the official announcement regarding the NExT 2026 examination remains pending, the anticipated transition from 2025 sees NExT being supplanted by the FMGE and NEET PG exams. The envisioned format for NExT 2026 entails two sessions scheduled for May and November, comprising Step 1 (CBT exam) and Step 2 (Practical or clinical/viva voce exam).

NExT 2026 Highlights

Here are the highlights of NExT 2026 showcasing its prominent features and key points.

NExT 2026 Important Dates

Here are the important dates for NExT 2026, ensuring you stay updated on the exam schedule.

NExT 2026 Application Form

The NExT 2026 application process is set to commence in late October 2025, unfolding in three distinct stages. Beginning with online registration and basic information input, applicants will progress to generating an Exam Unique Code (EUC) and completing their application forms. 

• NExT 2026 application form release is scheduled for the last week of October 2025.
• The application process Details three stages: online registration and basic information, EUC code generation, and completing the application form.
• Exclusively online mode will be available for candidates to fill out the application form; no offline method is permitted.
• Starting from the second week of July 2026, applicants can track their registration status, with final updates on application status.
• Exam unique codes (EUC) will be generated from the last week of June to the second week of July 2026, accepting basic information.
• Candidates should exercise caution during registration, as the authority may or may not offer a correction window.
• An active email ID and mobile number are prerequisites for candidates to receive further communication.
• The application deadline for the practice test is set until the second week of July 2026.
• Candidates must adhere to all instructions and guidelines provided during the application process.
• It is essential to verify all entered information for accuracy before final submission to avoid discrepancies.

NExT 2026 Application Fee

For NExT 2026 mock/practice tests application fees must be paid exclusively through digital modes. The available options for payment include debit cards, credit cards, and net banking methods, ensuring convenient transactions for candidates. This digital payment facility enhances accessibility and streamlines the fee submission process for aspirants preparing for the examination.

How to Fill NExt 2026 Application Form?

Master the art of completing the NExT 2026 application form with precision and ease, paving the way for a promising academic journey ahead.

• Step-1: Visit the NExT Online Website – Access the official website of NExT by clicking on the provided link.
• Step-2: Proceed to Basic Registration Form – Once on the homepage, locate and click on the “Proceed to Basic Registration Form” button.
• Step-3: Navigate to New Registration Zone – Select the “New Registration Zone” option from the menu.
• Step 4: Review Instructions and Accept – Carefully read the instructions and click the “Accept” button to proceed.
• Step-5: Fill out the Application Form – Complete the application form by entering personal details, contact information, address, and any other required information.
• Step-6: Upload Requisite Documents – Upload scanned copies of necessary documents such as photographs, signatures, category certificates, etc., ensuring they meet the specified requirements.
• Step-7: Submit Application Fee – Make the payment of the application fee through the available payment gateway options.
• Step-8: Review and Generate Confirmation Page – Double-check all the entered details for accuracy. Once confirmed, a confirmation page will be generated.
• Step-9: Print Confirmation Page – Print a hard copy of the filled application form and keep it safe for future reference and use in subsequent processes.

NExT 2026 Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for NExT 2026 include various factors determining candidate qualifications. Applicants must meet specific requirements regarding their educational background and current status to be eligible to participate in the examination.

Eligibility for Final Year MBBS Students:

• Applicants enrolled in the final year of their MBBS course at recognized medical institutions in India, as approved by the National Medical Commission (NMC), are eligible to apply.

Eligibility for Foreign Medical Graduates:

• Foreign medical graduates, recognised and approved by the NMC to obtain a license to practice medicine as a registered medical practitioner in India, are eligible to apply.

Eligibility for Medical Degree Holders for Academic Purposes:

• Candidates possessing a medical degree for purposes such as pursuing an academic course, observership, or any other purpose specified and approved by the NMC, are also eligible to apply.

NExT 2026 Exam Pattern

The NExT 2026 exam pattern outlines the structure and format of this licensure examination for medical professionals. Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for candidates to prepare effectively and perform well. Here’s an overview of the key aspects of the NExT 2026 exam pattern.

• Mode of Exam: Mock/practice tests will be conducted through Computer-Based Testing (CBT).
• Duration: Paper I will have a duration of 3 hours, while Paper II will have a duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes.
• Type of Questions: The exam will consist of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with a single correct answer.
• Shift & Time: The exam will be conducted in two shifts: from 9 AM to 12 Noon and from 2:30 PM to 6 PM.
• Number of Questions: Paper I will have a total of 120 questions, while Paper II will have 140 questions.
• Marks: Each correct answer will be awarded 1 mark.
• Negative Marking: There will be a deduction of ¼ marks for every incorrect answer.

NExT 2026 Syllabus

The NExT 2026 syllabus outlines the subjects and topics that medical graduates need to study for the National Exit Test. Covering a wide range of medical disciplines, the syllabus aims to comprehensively assess candidates’ knowledge and skills required for medical practice.

NExT 2026 Preparation Tips

Preparing for the NExT exam requires strategic planning and focused effort. Here are ten tips to help candidates excel in their preparation:

1. Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the structure and format of the NExT exam to tailor your study plan accordingly.
2. Create a Study Schedule: Develop a realistic study timetable that allocates sufficient time for each subject and allows for regular breaks.
3. Focus on Basics: Strengthen your foundational knowledge in all relevant subjects, paying particular attention to core concepts and principles.
4. Utilize Quality Resources: Invest in reputable study materials, textbooks, and online resources that align with the NExT syllabus.
5. Practice Regularly: Solve practice questions and previous years’ papers to gauge your progress and identify areas for improvement.
6. Mock Tests: Take full-length mock tests to simulate exam conditions and enhance your time management skills.
7. Revision Strategy: Dedicate time for regular revision sessions to reinforce learning and retain information effectively.
8. Stay Updated: Stay abreast of current medical advancements and updates in your field to ensure your knowledge is up-to-date.

NExT 2026 Admit Card

Registered candidates for the NExT 2026 entrance exam can download their admit cards online. Admit cards for the mock/practice test will also be accessible through online mode.

Candidates will need their login credentials, including the registration number and password, to access the admit card. The admit card is a crucial document and must be presented at the exam centre for entry. Candidates should carefully review all the information provided on the admit card.

NExT 2026 Result

The NExT 2026 results for the Practice/Mock test will be announced in July 2026. The results will be released separately for the Computer-Based Test (CBT) and the Practical/Clinical/Viva Voce sections.

Candidates can obtain their results by visiting the official website and downloading them. Only candidates who pass the CBT will be eligible to sit for the Practical/Clinical/Viva Voce examination. Access to the results will require login credentials.

NExT 2026 Mock Test

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi will oversee the administration of the NExT mock test. Interested candidates must register online to participate in the mock test.

The registration link for the mock test will be available on the official website. This mock examination serves as a preparatory tool for medical graduates aiming to familiarize themselves with the format and content of the actual NExT exam.

NExT 2026 Practical or Clinical/ Viva Voca

The practical/ clinical/ viva voce exam, constituting NExT 2026 Step 2, will be administered in person by state Health Institutions/ Universities, with a focus on 7 clinical subjects/ disciplines.

This examination format will assess candidates’ practical/ clinical skills, clinical decision-making abilities, and communication skills through clinical cases and simulated patients/ scenarios.

NExT 2026 FAQ’s

Sunil Kushwaha

As a dedicated Biology Science graduate, I’m passionate about sharing the latest updates in national and state entrance exams through my blog. I aim to keep aspiring students informed about exam trends, important dates, and changes in syllabi. With a keen interest in education, I strive to offer valuable insights for students navigating the competitive landscape of entrance examinations and admission tests. Stay updated with me.