The NTA on Tuesday cancelled the NEET (UG) 2026 exam held on May 3 amid allegations of paper leak, with the government asking the CBI to carry out a comprehensive inquiry into the "irregularities". The examination for students seeking admission to undergraduate courses in medical colleges will now be held afresh on dates to be notified separately.
Many countries have their own versions of NEET exam for medical studies. Aspiring doctors worldwide face rigorous examinations to enter the medical profession. These tests are designed to select the most capable individuals for a career dedicated to saving lives. And like NEET, there have been controversies around the world too.
What are the toughest medical entrance exams globally?
Several exams stand out for their demanding nature. These include the USMLE in the United States, the MCAT for North America and other regions, India's NEET UG, the GAMSAT in Australia, Ireland, and the UK, the MRCP in the UK, and the PLAB in the UK.
Why are these exams so challenging?
These examinations require extensive preparation and test a wide range of knowledge and skills. They are designed to "filter out only the best," according to the source article.
USMLE: A Three-Step Challenge
The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) is a three-step process for doctors seeking to practice in the U.S. The first step focuses on basic science knowledge, with a pass rate of around 85% on the first attempt. Subsequent steps assess the application of medical knowledge and skills essential for unsupervised practice.
Notably, In early 2024, the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) program uncovered a massive cheating scandal primarily involving International Medical Graduates (IMGs) from Nepal, leading to the invalidation of hundreds of exam scores and triggering legal action. The scandal centered on the use of unauthorized "recall" materials—reproduced test questions—that were shared among examinees.
MCAT: Gateway to Medical School
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a prerequisite for medical school admission in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and the Caribbean. This seven-hour exam evaluates scientific reasoning, critical thinking, and psychological concepts. The average pass rate is between 65% and 70%.
GAMSAT: A Unique Assessment
The Graduate Australian Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT) is required for graduate entry into medical programs in Australia, Ireland, and the UK. It also serves as an entrance exam for dentistry, pharmacy, and veterinary programs. This exam assesses scientific knowledge, emotional intelligence, and ethical reasoning, with pass rates typically between 40% and 50%.
MRCP: Postgraduate Specialization
The Membership of the Royal College of Physicians (MRCP) in the UK is a postgraduate qualification for doctors specializing in internal medicine. This three-part exam is known for its difficulty, with pass rates around 50%.
PLAB: Licensing for International Graduates
The Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) examination in the UK is a licensing test for international medical graduates. It has two parts, assessing both knowledge and clinical skills, with pass rates for non-UK-trained doctors often between 40% and 50%.
India's NEET UG: High Stakes Competition
India's NEET UG is also recognized as a highly competitive medical entrance exam. The pressure surrounding this exam is significant, with a large number of candidates vying for a limited number of seats. In 2026, over 22 lakh candidates competed for approximately 1.3 lakh MBBS seats.
Disclaimer: Information on exam formats, pass rates, and requirements may change. Readers are advised to consult the official websites of the respective examination authorities for the most current details.
