NEET UG 2025: Supreme Court upholds NEET-UG requirement for MBBS Admission abroad

In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court of India has confirmed that Indian students must clear the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) as a mandatory requirement for pursuing MBBS degrees from foreign medical institutions. The decision backs the regulation introduced by the National Medical Commission (NMC), formerly the Medical Council of India (MCI), which requires students to clear NEET-UG before gaining admission to medical colleges abroad.

NEET-UG Mandate for Medical Education Overseas

The Supreme Court ruling comes after a petition challenging the validity of the NMC’s regulation, which was introduced in 2018. This rule stipulates that Indian students who wish to study MBBS at foreign universities must pass the NEET-UG examination. Additionally, students returning to India after completing their medical education abroad must meet further criteria to practice as licensed medical professionals in the country.

While the petitioners argued that this regulation posed unnecessary barriers for students, the Supreme Court dismissed the plea, declaring the rule “fair and transparent” and legally valid. The Court emphasised that the regulation does not contradict any statutory provisions, upholding the importance of standardised testing to maintain the quality of medical education and professionals.

Supreme Court’s Rationale

Justices B.R. Gavai and K. Vinod Chandran, who were part of the bench, reaffirmed that the NEET-UG requirement ensures a uniform standard of medical education for all Indian students, regardless of where they study. The Court highlighted that this regulation serves to maintain consistency and uphold the quality of medical professionals entering India’s healthcare system.

The decision emphasizes the necessity of a common entrance test like NEET-UG to preserve the integrity and standardisation of medical education, both within India and internationally.

Impact of the Verdict

This ruling has significant implications for Indian students wishing to pursue MBBS abroad. They must now ensure that they clear the NEET-UG exam before seeking admission to any foreign medical institution. The Court’s decision further underscores the importance of meeting national medical education standards, even for those pursuing their degree outside India.

In conclusion, the Supreme Court’s verdict upholds the regulatory framework established by the NMC in 2018, reinforcing the critical role of NEET-UG in ensuring that medical professionals across the country maintain high educational and professional standards.