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Key Highlights
The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) of the Philippines has officially confirmed that the Philippine Doctor of Medicine (MD) program meets the standards set by India’s National Medical Commission (NMC), making graduates eligible to take the Foreign Medical Graduates Examination (FMGE) and the National Exit Test (NExT) in India
The Philippine MD degree is considered equivalent to the Indian MBBS degree, with a course structure of 54 months (4.5 years) of academic training plus a compulsory 12-month internship—fully aligning with NMC norms
Indian students graduating from recognized Philippine medical colleges can now directly appear for FMGE and NExT exams to obtain licensure to practice in India, following the clearance by CHED in May 2025 and subsequent government and regulatory notices
The Philippine MD program follows an American-style curriculum conducted entirely in English and benefits from international recognition, opening pathways not only for India but also for countries like the USA (USMLE), UK (PLAB/UKMLA), Canada (MCCQE), Australia, and Middle East
Indian aspirants studying MBBS (MD) in the Philippines must qualify for the NEET exam before admission and complete the NMAT entrance exam for the MD program, as well as meet all regular admission criteria stipulated by NMC and Indian law
Graduates must apply for the NMC eligibility certificate before sitting for NExT, submit verified documents including degree certificate, transcripts, internship completion certificate, and comply with language and training requirements
Passing FMGE or NExT remains compulsory for all foreign medical graduates (FMGs) including Philippine MD holders before permanent registration and medical practice in India is permitted
The recognition lifts a significant barrier for Indian students pursuing affordable, high-quality medical education abroad and solidifies the Philippines as a top destination choice among Indian medical aspirants
Philippines MD Program: Structure and Recognition
The Philippine MD degree is a 5.5 to 6-year program comprising a pre-medical Bachelor of Science degree plus the professional MD course that combines classroom learning and clinical exposure. It is delivered in English with thorough training in biomedical sciences, clinical rotations, and community health.
The curriculum strictly follows NMC guidelines including course content, internship duration, and evaluation criteria
The MD degree offered is awarded officially by accredited Philippine medical schools recognized by CHED and listed by NMC as eligible institutions for Indian FMGs
Graduates earn a global medical degree recognized for licensure exams in various countries, widening employment and higher study prospects
Pathway for Indian Graduates to Practice in India
With CHED’s confirmation, Indian students completing their MD in the Philippines take these steps to gain licensure in India:
Become NEET-qualified before admission in the Philippines (mandatory for Indian students)
Successfully complete the MD program and internship in the Philippines
Apply to NMC for an Eligibility Certificate by submitting official documents
Clear the FMGE or the newly implemented NExT screening examination conducted by NMC, which tests medical knowledge, clinical skills, and medical ethics
Complete any additional mandated internships or bridging courses if directed
Obtain permanent registration with the Indian medical council and begin practice
Importance of FMGE and NExT
The FMGE has been the traditional mandatory licensure exam for foreign medical graduates returning to India. From 2024 onwards, NExT replaces FMGE as the single exit exam for both Indian and foreign medical graduates and acts as the qualifying exam for postgraduate admissions.
NExT comprises a theory paper followed by a clinical skills test, designed to standardize medical competence across all trainees
It ensures Indian patients receive care only from doctors meeting country-specific clinical standards
Philippine MD graduates who clear NExT join the pool of eligible doctors authorized to register and practice in India
Impact on Indian Medical Students and Aspirants
India has a large number of aspiring medical students facing intense competition for limited MBBS seats domestically. The recognition of Philippine MD degrees expands affordable and quality options abroad with instruction in English and international exposure.
It allows smooth transition and acceptance of Philippine medical education by India, reducing confusion and administrative hurdles
This alignment strengthens ties between Indian and Philippine educational systems and increases mutual exchange opportunities
Indian students benefit from a versatile, globally recognized degree providing multiple international career avenues alongside Indian practice
Conclusion
The official recognition of the Philippine MD program by India’s National Medical Commission and CHED’s endorsement is a watershed moment for Indian medical aspirants abroad. Those graduating from accredited Philippine medical colleges now have clear eligibility to appear for FMGE and the comprehensive NExT exam, paving the way for legal medical practice in India.
This development reassures students and parents about the validity and global standing of Philippine medical education, encouraging a growing number of Indian candidates to consider the Philippines as a preferred destination for their medical training journey.
Sources: Kings International Academy, Free Press Journal India, ImmigrationXperts India
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