NEET SS 2026 ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

The eligibility criteria for NEET SS 2026 primarily require candidates to hold a recognized postgraduate medical degree such as MD, MS, or DNB, or an equivalent qualification in the relevant broad specialty from a recognized medical institution. Candidates who have completed or are likely to complete their postgraduate qualification by the cutoff date, which is typically April 30, 2027, are eligible to apply. Those appearing in their final year of postgraduate courses during 2026 can also apply, provided they meet the qualification deadline by the specified date.

The detailed eligibility criteria for NEET SS 2026 are as follows:

• Educational Qualification: Candidates must possess a valid postgraduate medical degree (MD/MS/DNB) or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institution. This includes those who hold a provisional pass certificate in these fields.

• Registration Requirement: Candidates must be registered with the Medical Council of India (MCI) or the respective State Medical Council. However, foreign nationals are exempt from this requirement if they are already registered with their country's medical authority. They will receive temporary registration from the MCI for the duration of their postdoctoral course.

• Age Limit & Attempts: There is no upper age limit to appear for NEET SS 2026. Candidates can attempt the exam multiple times as long as they meet the qualification criteria. Candidates who are currently pursuing a super specialty course (DM/M.Ch/DrNB) via NEET SS are generally not permitted to join another super specialty course simultaneously.

For International Students:

• Applicants must have a postgraduate degree from an accredited university or its equivalent.

• Students in their last year can also apply for NEET-SS 2026

• As long as they hold a valid registration in their home country, international students are exempt from the Medical Council Registration requirement. MCI provides them a temporary registration number that is good for the duration of their course if they are not registered.

NEET SS 2026 Eligibility Criteria FAQs

Ques.1 What is the minimum educational qualification required for NEET SS 2026?

Ans. Candidates must have a recognized postgraduate medical degree such as MD, MS, or DNB, or an equivalent qualification in the relevant broad specialty. Those appearing in the final year of their postgraduate course in 2026 can also apply, provided they complete the qualification by April 30, 2027.

Ques.2 Is there any age limit or restriction on the number of attempts for NEET SS?

Ans. There is no upper age limit for NEET SS 2026. Candidates can appear multiple times, provided they meet the qualification requirements.

Ques.3 Do foreign medical graduates need MCI registration?

Ans. No — but you must be licensed in your home country. MCI may grant temporary registration for your period of study in India.

Q4. What if I already hold a super-specialty degree?

Ans. If you have already completed or are pursuing a superspecialty via NEET SS or INI-SS, you are not eligible to apply for another superspecialty through NEET SS.

NEET SS 2026 EXAM PATTERN