Is FMGE Tough for MBBS Graduates from Abroad?

Understanding if FMGE is tough for MBBS graduates from abroad has become an important question for medical students. This is because the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) has become a major milestone for many Indian students who study MBBS abroad. This screening test, organized by the National Board of Examinations (NBE), decides if an international medical graduate can practice medicine in India. It is conducted twice a year, usually in June and December. Over the years, FMGE is known to be one of the toughest exams for MBBS graduates. In 2024, the total number of students who appeared for FMGE was 79,000, out of which 20,382 students cleared the exam. This makes the passing percentage of FMGE 2024 25.80%. The statistics clearly show that the passing percentage is quite low. This article will discuss how difficult FMGE is and why so many find it so challenging.

This Story also Contains

1. FMGE Latest Trends
2. Reasons Why FMGE is Tough for MBBS Graduates
3. FMGE Preparation Tips
4. Conclusion

FMGE Latest Trends

Each years, thousands of students appear for FMGE, however, few pass this exam. To understand if FMGE tough for MBBS graduates from abroad, let us explore the previous year’s passing percentage to compare the performance.

FMGE Latest Trends

The table mentioned above clearly states that in the last 4 years, the FMGE passing percentage has not crossed 30%. These latest trends indicate that FMGE is a tough exam to crack. In 2022, the percentage dropped from the previous year by 1.21%. Then in 2023, the FMGE passing percentage increased by 7.42%. Then again, in 2024, the percentage went down by 4.97%.

Reasons Why FMGE is Tough for MBBS Graduates

A common query amongst students is FMGE tough for MBBS graduates. Based on previous years' data, not many students were able to clear the examination. There are various reasons why students find FMGE to be a tough examination.

Different Curriculum in MBBS Universities Abroad

When it comes to MBBS universities abroad, particularly in places like China, Russia, Ukraine, the Philippines, and Kazakhstan, they often have a curriculum that differs quite a bit from the Indian MBBS system. The FMGE assesses knowledge based on Indian medical standards, which can be quite unfamiliar for many students who have trained abroad. Although there is no negative marking in the FMGE but the standard of questions is pretty high.

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Inadequate Preparation

A lot of students only start their FMGE preparation after they have finished their MBBS abroad. This late preparation, along with limited access to coaching that meets Indian standards, study materials, and proper guidance, can result in not clearing the examination. FMGE usually demands about 4 to 6 months of focused study to prepare effectively. However, if you want to prepare more thoroughly, prepare for 6 to 12 months. Ultimately, how long you need to prepare depends on your learning style, study habits, and how much practice you feel you need.

Vast Syllabus

The FMGE tests knowledge across all 20 subjects of the MBBS curriculum, ranging from anatomy and physiology to surgery and medicine. With such a broad syllabus and not much time to study, it gets very pressurizing for medical students. The subjects involved in FMGE are:

• Anatomy

• Physiology

• Biochemistry

• Pathology

• Microbiology

• Pharmacology

• Pediatrics

• Ophthalmology

• Otorhinolaryngology

• Obstetrics & Gynaecology

• Community Medicine

• General Surgery

• Anesthesiology

• Orthopedics

• Forensic Medicine

• Radiodiagnosis

• Medicine

• Radiotherapy

• Dermatology & Std

• Psychiatry

Sectional Timing in FMGE

When it comes to the FMGE exam, timing is crucial. With 300 questions to answer in just 2 hours and 30 minutes, the clock becomes difficult. This time is divided into sections, which means candidates have a limited time window to answer each question. Many find it tough to complete the entire exam within the allotted time.

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FMGE Preparation Tips

There are a few preparation tips that can help you with the FMGE, as a lot of students wonder is FMGE tough for MBBS graduates from abroad. Follow the tips mentioned below to successfully pass the FMGE exam.

• Start Early - Start your FMGE preparation while you are still in your MBBS program, rather than waiting until after you graduate. Getting familiar with the MCQs of previous years’ FMGE will make the exam a little easier. In addition, studying relevant topics early on will help ease the pressure.

• Use the Right Resources - There are some great online and offline resources specifically designed for FMGE preparation. Many platforms concentrate on important topics and offer mock tests that can provide an actual exam experience.

• Prioritizing Difficult Topic - Do a self-assessment, which will help you identify the areas that need more focus. Make sure to invest extra time and resources to improve these weak points. This strategy will not only boost your confidence but also significantly increase your chances of achieving a high rank.

• Practice MCQs Consistently - Solving thousands of MCQs builds speed, accuracy, and confidence, which is an important factor for cracking FMGE.

• Join Coaching or Peer Groups - Group studies, coaching centers, or mentorship from seniors who cleared the FMGE can provide motivation and strategic direction.

Conclusion

The FMGE can be quite challenging because it requires a great understanding of both theoretical and clinical concepts as per Indian medical standards. For MBBS students abroad, there might be some initial difficulties, but with good preparation, dedication, and a solid strategy, passing the FMGE is possible. The key is to stay consistent, plan, and focus on your learning.

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