PGIMER 2026: Application Form, Dates, Eligibility, Pattern, Syllabus, Preparation Tips

The PGIMER 2026 Exam is scheduled for the first week of November 2025 and stands as a significant national-level admission process orchestrated by AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Science). It serves as a gateway to the esteemed PGIMER (Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research), located in Chandigarh. Admission into various courses including MD/MS (6-year course) and DM/M.Ch and MDS (3-year course) is facilitated through the INI CET and INI SS exams. 

Ranked second in the ‘Medical’ category by NIRF 2022 Rankings, PGIMER sets the bar high for medical education. To secure admission, aspiring candidates must ace the INICET entrance exam and navigate the online application process seamlessly. Renowned for its excellence, PGIMER stands as a beacon of medical education in India.

This comprehensive article delves into the intricacies of the PGIMER 2026 Exam, shedding light on vital aspects such as the application process, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, and beyond.

PGIMER 2026 Highlights

The PGIMER 2026 is considered to be a remarkable event in the medical education realm, showcasing the highlights of the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research. 

PGIMER 2026 Exam Dates

The PGIMER 2026 exam dates outline the schedule for various crucial events in the medical entrance examination. 

Through INI-CET:

Through INI-SS:

PGIMER 2026 Application Form

The PGIMER 2026 Application Process conducted online begins in the third week of September 2025 for INI CET aspirants. Before proceeding, candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria. Careful attention is required while entering personal, educational, and category details in the application form. 

• The PGIMER 2026 application form will be released through online mode.
• The registration will be started in the third week of September 2025 for INI CET.
• Candidates must fulfil eligibility criteria before filling out the application form.
• Enter the details carefully such as personal, educational, category details etc.
• The authority will also provide the correction facility to modify the application form.
• The last date to fill out the application form will be the third week of October 2025 for INI CET.
• Students must not forget to take a printout of the application form.
• Attention to detail during the application process is crucial to avoid discrepancies.
• Any necessary supporting documents should be uploaded in the prescribed format.
• Applicants should stay updated with the website for any announcements or updates regarding the application process.

PGIMER 2026 Application Fee

Candidates applying for PGIMER 2026 can conveniently pay the application fee online using a debit card, credit card, or net banking. The fee is non-refundable in any situation, for all categories applying for INI SS, with PWBD candidates being the sole exemption.

How to Fill the PGIMER 2026 Application Form?

Unlock the secrets to navigating the PGIMER 2026 application form seamlessly, ensuring a streamlined path towards your academic aspirations.

• Step 1: Visit the PGIMER Website – Access the official PGIMER website using the provided link.
• Step 2: Registration and Basic Details –Complete the registration process and input basic information such as name, email ID, date of birth, etc.
• Step 3: OTP Verification – Upon registration, an OTP will be sent to the registered contact details for verification.
• Step 4: Fill Application Form – Proceed to fill out the application form with the required details including communication and personal information.
• Step 5: Upload Scanned Images – Upload scanned images of your photograph and signature in the specified format.
• Step 6: Application Fee Payment – Submit the application fee as per your category and review the application form before final submission.
• Step 7: Confirmation – Once submitted, a confirmation page will be displayed on the screen indicating successful submission.
• Step 8: Print Application Form – Take a printout of the application form for future reference and usage.

PGIMER 2026 Eligibility Criteria

The PGIMER 2026 eligibility criteria outline the requirements for aspiring medical candidates aiming to enrol in postgraduate programs. These criteria serve as benchmarks to ensure candidates possess the requisite qualifications and meet the standards set by the institution. 

For INI CET:

• Qualification: Candidates must possess an MBBS degree for MD/MS/DM-6 years or a BDS degree for MDS courses.
• Marks: OBC/EWS candidates need 55% aggregate marks, while ST/SC candidates need 50%.
• Appearing: Candidates appearing in the final examination in 2026 are eligible.

For INI SS:

• Qualification: Candidates must have an MBBS or equivalent degree.
• Marks: UR/OBC/EWS/Sponsored candidates need 55% aggregate marks, while SC/ST candidates need 50%.
• Appearing: Final-year candidates can apply.
• Experience: Candidates need three years of experience in a Govt. Hospital in the relevant field or five years in general practice.

PGIMER 2026 Exam Pattern

The PGIMER 2026 exam pattern delineates the structure and format of the upcoming entrance examination for medical aspirants. With a focus on online mode, the exam’s duration, question distribution, and marking scheme are designed to assess candidates’ aptitude and knowledge comprehensively. 

• Exam Mode: The exam will be conducted online only.
• Exam Duration: Candidates will have 90 minutes for INI SS and 180 minutes for INI CET.
• Language: The exam will be conducted solely in English.
• Number of Questions: INI SS will consist of 80 questions, while INI CET will have 200 questions.
• Total Marks: The exam will be worth 80 marks.
• Type of Questions: Objective-type questions will be presented in the exam.
• Marking Scheme: Candidates will be awarded one mark for each correct answer.
• Negative Marking: There will be negative markings, with 1/3 marks deducted for each incorrect answer.

PGIMER 2026 Syllabus

The PGIMER 2026 syllabus outlines the comprehensive range of topics and subjects essential for aspiring medical professionals preparing for the entrance examination. Covering key areas of medical education and research, the syllabus ensures candidates are well-prepared to demonstrate their proficiency in various disciplines. 

PGIMER 2026 Preparation Tips

Preparing for PGIMER 2026 requires a strategic approach and diligent effort. Here are tips to help you ace the exam:

1. Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the exam pattern, including the number of questions, marking scheme, and duration, to tailor your preparation accordingly.
2. Create a Study Schedule: Develop a realistic study schedule that allocates sufficient time for each subject and topic, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the syllabus.
3. Focus on Conceptual Clarity: Emphasize understanding core concepts rather than rote memorization, as PGIMER tests your ability to apply knowledge in clinical scenarios.
4. Practice Regularly: Solve previous years’ question papers and mock tests to gauge your preparation level and improve your time management skills.
5. Strengthen Weak Areas: Identify your weaker subjects or topics and allocate extra time to strengthen them through focused study and practice.
6. Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Keep abreast of current medical developments, healthcare policies, and research findings to tackle questions on recent advancements.
7. Utilize Online Resources: Make use of online platforms, video lectures, and study materials to supplement your preparation and gain insights into complex topics.
8. Revise Strategically: Plan regular revision sessions to reinforce learned concepts and ensure the retention of crucial information closer to the exam date.

PGIMER 2026 Books

For PGIMER 2026, aspirants can enhance their preparation with a variety of comprehensive study materials. These books serve as indispensable resources, covering a wide range of topics and providing valuable insights into the examination pattern. From specialized guides to review books authored by experts, candidates have access to resources tailored to their needs for optimal exam readiness.

PGIMER 2026 Exam Centre

The PGIMER 2026 exam will be held at various designated centres across the nation, ensuring accessibility for candidates from diverse regions. These exam centres are strategically chosen to accommodate the convenience and preferences of aspirants appearing for the examination. 

PGIMER 2026 Admit Card

The PGIMER admit card for 2026 specifically for INI CET, is slated for release in the fourth week of October 2026. It can be downloaded via a login using the registration ID, password, and exam unique code. Candidates must ensure to download their admit card within the specified timeframe.

The admit card will only be issued to applicants who have completed all stages of the application form. It’s crucial for candidates to meticulously review their admit card, and in case of any discrepancies, promptly notify the Examination Section, AIIMS, New Delhi.

PGIMER 2026 Answer Key

The PGIMER answer key for 2026 will be released shortly after the exam, accessible to candidates via their login credentials in PDF format. Utilizing the answer key, students can estimate their probable scores and gain insights into their performance.

In case of discrepancies, candidates can raise objections against the answer key. The authority will review these objections and subsequently release the final answer key. Candidates need to download and retain the answer key for future reference and usage.

PGIMER 2026 Result

The PGIMER results for 2026 will be disseminated online, separately for INI CET and INI SS across both sessions. For INI SS, the result will be available in the 4th week of October 2024, and for INI CET (January session), it will be released in the 2nd week of November 2024. Aspirants can access their results using their login credentials.

Candidates are advised that the authority will not furnish results individually; instead, they must check the website for updates. Applicants must safeguard their results for future use during the counselling process.

PGIMER 2026 Cut-Off

The PGIMER cut-off for 2026 will be unveiled shortly after the announcement of results, delineating the minimum marks required for candidates to qualify for the exam. Subsequently, the authority will compile a merit list based on the cut-off scores, determining admissions.

As the cut-off list will not be dispatched individually to applicants, candidates are required to access it via the website using online mode. Below are the expected category-wise cut-off scores for PGIMER 2026:

PGIMER 2026 Counselling Procedure

PGIMER counselling for 2026, scheduled for June/July, will facilitate the admission process for the INI CET exam. The counselling for MD/MS (6-year course) will span four rounds. Candidates securing a place in the merit list are eligible to partake in the counselling sessions, with seat allotments based on their exam rank.

In cases where candidates are not allotted seats in the initial round, subsequent rounds of counselling are available. During counselling, candidates are required to remit a fee and undergo document verification procedures.

Documents Required for PGIMER 2026 Counseling:

• MBBS mark sheet
• MCI registration certificate
• MBBS Internship mark sheet
• Class 10th mark sheet and certificate
• Multiple passport size photograph
• Category certificate
• Valid ID proof etc.

PGIMER 2026 Participating Colleges

The participating colleges affiliated with PGIMER offer diverse opportunities for medical education and research, catering to the aspirations of aspiring healthcare professionals. 

PGIMER 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.