In a relief to many students, the National Board of Examinations (NBE ) has announced that the NEET-PG examination will be conducted for entrance into post graduate medical education in 2024, and not the new National Exit Test (NExT).

The NBE had been developing NExT as a common examination for completing MBBS, grant of medical licences, and entering PG courses. It was scheduled to be launched in 2023, but has been delayed due to concerns from students and medical professionals.

Many students have expressed concerns about the new format of NExT, which will be a two-part exam: a multiple choice part and a practical part. They worry that the practical part will be too difficult and that it will disadvantage students from rural areas who may not have access to good clinical training.

Medical professionals have also raised concerns about NExT, arguing that it will reduce the flexibility of the medical education system and make it more difficult for students to specialize in their chosen field.

The decision to conduct the NEET-PG examination for entrance into PG medical education in 2024 is a welcome relief to many students and medical professionals. It will give students more time to prepare for the exam and it will allow the NBE to address the concerns that have been raised about NExT.

It is still unclear when NExT will be launched, but it is likely to be several years before it is used for entrance into PG medical education. In the meantime, the NEET-PG will continue to be the primary pathway for students to pursue post graduate medical education in India.