NIOS Students Eligible for NEET UG 2025: NMC Confirms

NMC confirms NIOS students can appear for NEET UG 2025, provided they meet subject requirements and study through authorized institutions.

In a significant clarification, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has affirmed that students who have completed their education through the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) are eligible to sit for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET UG) 2025. This announcement brings relief to numerous NIOS students aspiring to pursue medical education in India.

NMC's Clarification on NIOS Eligibility

The NMC addressed concerns regarding the eligibility of NIOS students through a response to a Right to Information (RTI) query. The commission stated, "The students are permitted to study an additional subject from NIOS with the condition that the study needs to be carried out from any authorized institutions."

This means that NIOS students who have completed their 10+2 education, including the required subjects, are eligible to appear for NEET UG 2025.

Historical Context and Legal Standpoint

The eligibility of NIOS students for NEET has been a topic of debate in the past. In 2017, the Medical Council of India (MCI) released a circular stating that NIOS candidates were not eligible to appear for the NEET exam. This decision faced legal challenges, leading to a Supreme Court ruling in 2018 that reaffirmed the right of NIOS students to appear in NEET. The recent clarification by the NMC aligns with this ruling, ensuring that NIOS students have equal opportunities to pursue medical education.

Subject Requirements and Authorized Institutions

To be eligible for NEET UG 2025, NIOS students must have completed their 10+2 education with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English as core subjects. Additionally, the NMC emphasizes that the study of these subjects should be undertaken through authorized institutions. This ensures that the education received meets the standards required for medical education in India.

Conclusion

The NMC's confirmation provides clarity and assurance to NIOS students aiming for a career in medicine. By meeting the specified subject requirements and ensuring their education is through authorized institutions, NIOS students can confidently prepare for NEET UG 2025 and pursue their medical aspirations.