NMC Grants One-Time ‘Mercy Attempt’ to MBBS Students Admitted From 2019-20

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has granted an additional attempt, termed a “mercy attempt”, to eligible MBBS students admitted from the 2019-20 academic year onwards to clear the First Professional MBBS Examination. The decision provides a one-time transitional relaxation in pending cases, according to a public notice issued by the Undergraduate Medical Education Board (UGMEB) on October 15, 2026.

The commission considered the proposal during its 18th meeting held on September 23, 2026, following representations from students, universities and other stakeholders seeking an additional opportunity to clear the examination.

The requests cited exceptional circumstances, including disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, health-related issues and other personal difficulties. The NMC also took into account its earlier decisions granting a one-time mercy attempt to students admitted in the 2019-20 and 2020-21 academic years.

According to the public notice, the commission considered granting an additional mercy attempt to MBBS students to pass the First Professional MBBS Examination, subject to the conditions specified in the accompanying document.

The notice states that the matter was examined in view of representations received from students, universities and other stakeholders seeking additional opportunities because of exceptional circumstances.

The decision is intended to provide transitional relief to eligible students whose cases fall within the conditions laid down by the commission. However, the additional attempt is subject to the eligibility criteria and instructions specified in the public notice.

The NMC has advised students, universities and other stakeholders to take note of the conditions outlined in the notice. Eligible candidates should carefully review the detailed guidelines to determine whether they qualify for the additional attempt.

The public notice was issued by the UGMEB and signed by NMC Secretary Dr Raghav Langer on October 15, 2026.

Students are advised to consult the official NMC notice for complete information on eligibility, applicable conditions and the procedure to avail themselves of the one-time mercy attempt.