Indian Students Can Now Take FMGE, NExT After Philippines M.D. Program Gets National Medical Commission Nod

In a move that brings long-awaited clarity to Indian students pursuing medical education abroad, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) of the Philippines has officially confirmed that its Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) programs align with the latest eligibility norms set by the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India.

This assurance was issued through a formal communication between CHED and the Embassy of India in Manila. In a recent advisory, the embassy stated that Indian individuals who graduate from Philippine medical schools accredited by CHED are now qualified to sit for both the forthcoming National Exit Test (NExT) and India's Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE).

M.D. Curriculum Matches NMC’s Requirements

The CHED clarification puts to rest lingering doubts around whether Philippine medical degrees meet India’s evolving licensure regulations. As per the latest details, the Philippines’ M.D. program fulfils all the mandatory components outlined by the NMC, including:

  • A 54-month Doctor of Medicine program, not including the undergraduate pre-medical course

  • English-medium instruction throughout the duration of the course

  • All necessary subjects are covered in accordance with NMC Schedule I (Gazette Notification dated November 18, 2021).

  • A one-year internship at the same institution or an affiliated hospital

  • A degree that can be registered and used in the Philippines

"This confirmation from CHED ends years of uncertainty for Indian students," said Mr. Kadwin Pillai, managing director of Transworld Educare and director of Kings International Medical Academy. It demonstrates that Philippine medical education not only satisfies the stringent requirements of the NMC but also prepares our students for professions around the world. The fact that CHED has officially recognised the eligibility of Indian students and clarified that degrees from countries such as the US, UK, and Canada are acceptable is a significant advancement.

What Students Must Keep in Mind

While this update is a major relief for the over 2,000 Indian students who travel to the Philippines each year for medical education, the Embassy has urged aspirants to follow a few important guidelines:

  • Ensure that the pre-medical (Bachelor’s) degree is CHED-accredited and matches the required course duration and structure

  • Before starting an M.D. program, you must pass the National Medical Admission Test (NMAT).

  • Before submitting an application, review the most recent NMC and CHED advisories.

  • Get authentic receipts and pay tuition directly to the universities.

  • Get degree and academic documents apostilled by the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs to ensure validity in India

A Boost for Medical Education Abroad

The action is expected to enhance the Philippines' reputation as a top destination for Indian medical students. It has long been a desirable choice due to its reasonably priced tuition, English-speaking campuses, curriculum influenced by the United States, and cultural familiarity. With regulatory alignment now confirmed, the path ahead looks smoother for aspiring doctors eyeing a global medical career.

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