India’s national medical regulator has announced a one-time additional attempt for eligible MBBS students admitted from the 2019-20 academic year onward who have not passed the First Professional MBBS Examination. The decision, issued in a public notice dated October 15, 2026, provides transitional relief to students facing academic difficulties associated with exceptional circumstances, including disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, health-related issues, and personal challenges. Under the revised provision, eligible students may receive one additional attempt beyond the prescribed four attempts, allowing a maximum of five attempts to pass the First Professional MBBS Examination.

The additional attempt may be granted even if a student has exceeded the prescribed four-year period for completing the First Professional MBBS Course. Eligibility is subject to specific conditions.…