Screening Test Regulations 2002 vs FMGL 2021
18 November 2021 was a turning point for MBBS abroad. What changed, and what the special Ukraine provision means.
What changed on 18 November 2021?
The FMGL 2021 (Foreign Medical Graduates Licentiate Regulations) came into effect on 18 November 2021, replacing the older Screening Test Regulations 2002 for new enrolments. The key changes were:
- Transfers to a different university or country became strictly prohibited.
- Internship must now be at the same university, in the same country.
- Minimum 54-month course duration codified.
- English medium made explicit requirement.
- NEET UG requirement (already in effect since May 2018) was reinforced.
Regulation comparison table
| Aspect | Before 18 Nov 2021 Screening Test Regs 2002 | On/After 18 Nov 2021 FMGL 2021 | Ukraine-returned NMC Circular Jul 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Applicable batch | Enrolled before 18 November 2021 | Enrolled on or after 18 November 2021 | Special cohort — enrolled before 18 Nov 2021, war-displaced Feb 2022 |
| Governing regulation | Screening Test Regulations 2002 | FMGL 2021 (Foreign Medical Graduates Licentiate Regulations 2021) | NMC Circular NMC/20659(Legal)/2022/UGMEB (28 July 2022) |
| Transfer to another university/country | Permitted (with conditions) | NOT permitted | Permitted — exception for war displacement |
| Internship requirement | Internship completion required but country/university rules less strict | Must be at SAME university, SAME country (12 months) | 2-year CRMI in India (for those who pass FMGE) |
| NEET UG requirement | Not required (for students enrolled before May 2018) | Mandatory — must have NEET score before enrolment | Pre-existing NEET UG scores apply as per enrolment date |
| Screening exam | FMGE (Screening Test Regulations 2002) | FMGE (currently); NExT Step 1 when NExT launches (deferred) | FMGE — same as pre-18 Nov batch |
| Duration requirement | No strict 54-month minimum in Screening Test Regs 2002 | Minimum 54 months (excluding internship) | Depends on stage of course at time of displacement — verify with NMC |
| Maximum duration | 10 years from course start | 10 years from course start | War years may be considered — verify with NMC |
Which regulations apply to you depends on your enrolment date. If you enrolled before 18 Nov 2021, Screening Test Regs 2002 apply — but some FMGL 2021 provisions (like the internship location requirement) may still be relevant. Always verify your specific situation with NMC or a qualified counsellor.
Not sure which regulations apply to your situation?
Our counsellors can help you identify which regulations govern your case and what steps to take.
Book a counselling sessionNMC — FMGL 2021 Regulations
Source: National Medical Commission (NMC) · Published 18 Nov 2021 · EduPath verified Jun 2026
Visit official sourceNMC Circular — Ukraine-returned students (NMC/20659(Legal)/2022/UGMEB)
Source: National Medical Commission (NMC) · Published 28 Jul 2022 · EduPath verified Jun 2026
Visit official source