Each Indian student pursuing MBBS in foreign institutions knows that the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) is a significant milestone along the way toward becoming a physician in India. However, with time, this licensing test has been marred with false information, beats and all kinds of myths that misinform and intimidate learners.
If you are studying MBBS in Russia, Guyana, Barbados or some other country abroad, you need to differentiate between the facts and fiction. The FMGE is no worse than it is being presented to the students of medical colleges - especially if you know the truth behind the common myths. So, in this blog, we intend to debunk the most prevalent myths surrounding FMGE and provide you with the actualities of expectations and preparation.
Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) is a licensure examination that is administered by National Board of Examinations (NBE) in India. Indian Passport holders or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) who have done their MBBS degree in a foreign university and want to become a medical practitioner in India are required to write the test.
FMGE exam is on a half-yearly basis, i.e. once a year in June and December, and the pass mark is often 150 out of 300 marks.
Here are some of the top FMGE myths that you need to know:
Fact: However, FMGE is very tough, but it is not impossible. The low rates of pass usually disappoint students who historically range from 10% to 25%. However, the truth is:
Success Story Example: Many students graduating from universities such as Perm State Medical University (PSMU), Tver State Medical University (TSMU) or Lincoln American University (LAU) have cracked FMGE in their own first attempt.
Fact: FMGE is not discriminative about foreign MDs. Its syllabus remains the same as the Indian MBBS one, so it would check your basic knowledge in the sphere of medicine. One of the important FMGE facts is that direct entry students overseas are capable and do clear FMGE with good marks when they are:
Tip: Please remember that going abroad to study does not mean that you are at a disadvantage, but it only means that you will have to study in a way that will be expected in India through medicine.
Fact: All the exam papers can be moderately different in terms of their structure or difficulty, but when it comes to FMGE for Indian students, it follows a well-known and consistent pattern.
Pro Tip: By solving previous year papers on a regular basis and by participating in test series and doing mock tests, students are already acquainted with the pattern and do well.
Fact: Waiting to start FMGE 2025 preparation after graduating may be one of the worst mistakes made by any medical student abroad. In reality:
Begin small but stick to the program, as even 1 hour per day in your 3rd year can count a lot.
Fact: Coaching classes assist; however, they are not essential. Self-study, where thousands of qualifiers in the FMGE examination have passed through studying on their own using:
Coaching provides guidelines, but it is your disciplines, resources and time management that count the most.
Following are the few FMGE exam strategies suggested by top-performing students:
FMGE fear discourages many students from studying abroad. However, in reality, foreign MBBS universities offer:
The students attending their institutions, such as PSMU (Russia), LAU (Guyana), or VUB (Barbados), get quality education and personal assistance that helps them prepare for FMGE and medical practice abroad.
FMGE can easily be defeated, with proper attitude, resources, and preparation plan in hand.
Having debunked the popular myths concerning FMGE, the reality of the matter is that there is nothing to fear about the exam; there is something to study about. Early planning, regular hard work, and proper counselling help many thousands of foreign Indian students to successfully clear it every year.
It does not matter which university you study in, whether Russia, Guyana, Armenia, Barbados, etc., but it is a matter of approach to the journey that defines success. So, clearing FMGE is possible with appropriate attitude, solid materials and consistent encouragement. Further, feel free to contact our experienced professionals to get answers to your questions, doubts, or myths. We will support you on your path to success.
Q.1 What is the passing score for FMGE?
Answer- To pass, you have to get 150 out of 300 (50%).
Q.2 Is there a limit to FMGE attempts?
Answer- No, there is no limit to attempts at the moment since your degree is valid.
Q.3 Can I practice in India without clearing FMGE?
Answer- No, all the foreign graduates are required to take FMGE unless you are a medical graduate of the US, UK, Canada, Australia or New Zealand.
Q.4 How many times is FMGE conducted each year?
Answer- The exam is carried out twice a year (usually in June and in December).
