NEW DELHI — The National Medical Commission (NMC) has issued an official gazette notification proposing a key structural change to the maximum duration allowed for completing an undergraduate medical degree (MBBS) in India. Published on May 18, 2026, the draft notification introduces the “Graduate Medical Education (Amendment) Regulations, 2026,” which aims to modify the existing guidelines established under the principal 2023 regulations.
The proposed amendment alters Chapter V, Clause 21 of the Graduate Medical Education Regulations, 2023, shifting the total time limit allowed for completion while maintaining strict rules regarding first-year academic attempts.
Understanding the Proposed Shift: 9 Years vs. 10 Years
The core change focuses on expanding the total timeline to account for the mandatory internship phase, offering clarity on the absolute time limit a student can spend in the medical program.
| Component | Under GMER 2023 (Old Policy) | Proposed Under GMER 2026 Amendment |
| First-Year Attempts | Maximum of four (04) attempts allowed for the First Professional MBBS. | Unchanged. Maximum of four (04) attempts remains strictly enforced. |
| Total Course Timeline | No student allowed to continue MBBS after nine (09) years from the date of admission. | No student allowed to continue MBBS after ten (10) years of joining, explicitly including the continuous rotatory medical internship. |
Public Consultation and Invitation for Feedback
As this is currently a draft regulation, the NMC has opened a 30-day window from the publication date for stakeholders, medical professionals, and the general public to submit their feedback, suggestions, or objections.
The Commission has emphasized that inputs will only be considered if they are formatted correctly and sent via the designated digital channel.
Important Submission Guidelines:
- Deadline: Within 30 days from the public availability of the gazette (issued May 18, 2026).
- Submission Mode: Strictly via email at ug_gmer_amend_2026@nmc.org.in.
- Note: Physical letters or alternative modes of submission will not be entertained by the authority.
Submissions must include the sender’s full details, contact information, the specific section of the draft being referenced, and a clear rationale for the proposed suggestion. The official draft template and full notification can be accessed directly on the NMC’s official website.