Major relief for MBBS students: 5 opportunities to be provided to pass the first year; NMC approves 'mercy attempts'..

There is welcome news for MBBS students. The National Medical Commission (NMC) has decided to provide an additional opportunity to pass the first-year examinations for students who were admitted in the 2019-20 academic year or thereafter. Under this provision, eligible students will now have a total of five attempts to clear their first-year examinations—an increase from the previous limit of four. This decision is expected to benefit students whose academic progress has been stalled due to backlogs in first-year subjects or other challenges. However, certain conditions have been set for availing this concession.

**Fifth Opportunity for First-Year Examinations**
According to the new decision by the NMC, eligible students who enrolled in an MBBS program in 2019-20 or later will be granted an additional "mercy attempt" to pass their first professional examination. This will provide students with another chance to clear any remaining first-year subjects. This relief may also apply to students who have already exceeded the prescribed four-year duration for completing the first-year course; however, their admission must remain valid, and it must not have been cancelled by the respective university or college.

**Decision Taken in Response to Student Requests**
The proposal to grant an additional attempt was discussed during the 18th meeting of the NMC, held on September 23, 2026. The Commission had received numerous requests regarding this matter from students, universities, and other stakeholders. Students had sought an additional opportunity, citing disruptions to their studies caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as health-related issues and personal circumstances.

**A One-Time Concession**
The NMC has clarified that this decision serves as a one-time special concession for pending cases and should not be considered a permanent rule. Students who have already exhausted their previous mercy attempts—thereby completing all five available chances—will not be granted a sixth opportunity. 

MBBS must be completed within 10 years
Despite the provision of an additional opportunity, the maximum time limit for completing the MBBS course remains unchanged. Students are required to complete the course within 10 years from the date of admission. The NMC has instructed all medical colleges and universities to process the cases of eligible students in accordance with this decision.

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