NEET PG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Postgraduate)

NEET PG is a nationwide competitive examination conducted in India for admissions into postgraduate medical courses such as MD (Doctor of Medicine), MS (Master of Surgery), and PG Diploma programs in various specialties. It is a gateway for medical graduates seeking advanced education and specialization after completing their MBBS degree. Here is a detailed overview:

Eligibility Criteria

1. Educational Qualification:
   • The candidate must have an MBBS degree or a Provisional MBBS Pass Certificate recognized by the Medical Council of India (MCI)/National Medical Commission (NMC).
   • They should have completed or be about to complete their one-year rotatory internship on or before the specified date (usually March 31 of the exam year).
2. Registration:
   • A valid permanent or provisional registration certificate issued by the MCI/NMC or the State Medical Council is mandatory

Exam Pattern

1. Mode: Computer-based test (CBT).
2. Duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes.
3. Language: English only.
4. Structure:
   • Number of Questions: 200 multiple-choice questions (reduced from 300 since 2021).
   • Subjects: Based on the MBBS curriculum, including Pre-Clinical, Para-Clinical, and Clinical subjects.
   • Marking Scheme:
     • +4 marks for each correct answer.
     • -1 mark for each incorrect answer.
     • 0 marks for unattempted questions.

Syllabus

The syllabus for NEET PG is vast and includes:

• Pre-Clinical Subjects: Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry.
• Para-Clinical Subjects: Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Forensic Medicine, Social and Preventive Medicine.

Clinical Subjects: Medicine, Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatrics, Orthopedics, ENT, Ophthalmology, Dermatology, Psychiatry, Radiology, and more

Application Process

1. Registration:
   • Online through the official website of the National Board of Examinations (NBE).
   • Candidates must provide personal, academic, and internship details.
2. Fee Payment:
   • Fee varies for different categories and must be paid online.
3. Documents Required:
   • Passport-sized photograph and signature.
   • MBBS degree certificate.
   • Internship completion certificate.

Registration certificate from MCI/NMC

Key Dates

• Notification Release: Generally in August/September.
• Application Period: Opens in October/November.
• Admit Card Release: About 1-2 weeks before the exam.
• Exam Date: Typically in January/February.

Results Declaration: Around March/April.

Preparation Strategy

1. Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with all subjects and prioritize high-weightage topics.
2. Mock Tests & Practice Papers: Practice regularly to improve time management and accuracy.
3. Study Resources:
   • Standard textbooks like Harrison’s (Medicine) and Bailey & Love (Surgery).
   • Question banks and NEET PG preparation apps.
4. Time Management: Allocate time effectively between subjects based on difficulty and importance.

Counseling Process

After qualifying for NEET PG, candidates participate in the counseling process conducted by:

1. MCC (Medical Counseling Committee) for AIQ (All India Quota) seats.
2. State Counseling Authorities for state quota seats.

Deemed and Central Universities: Separate counseling is held for these institutions

Importance of NEET PG

1. Specialization: Enables medical graduates to gain expertise in their chosen fields.
2. Career Advancement: Opens doors to higher earning potential and prestigious roles in the medical field.
3. Mandatory for Licensure: For those pursuing specialized practice in India.

By excelling in NEET PG, medical graduates can secure admissions to some of the top institutions in the country and build a rewarding career in medicine.