AIIMS INI CET 2025 Exam for January 2026 Session Scheduled today across Multiple Test Centres in India

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) is all set to conduct the prestigious INI CET 2025 exam for the January 2026 session on November 9, 2025. This national-level, computer-based test is the crucial gateway to coveted postgraduate seats (MD, MS, MCh, DM, MDS) in Institutes of National Importance, including AIIMS, PGIMER, JIPMER, and NIMHANS. Aspirants must note the strict timing: the examination runs from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. This article provides essential exam-day guidelines, pattern insights, and last-minute preparation tips to help candidates ace this high-stakes exam and realize their dream of joining India's premier medical institutions.

The Institute of National Importance Combined Entrance Test (INI CET), conducted by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, is arguably the most significant postgraduate medical entrance examination in India. It determines admission to various postgraduate courses like MD, MS, MCh (6 years), DM (6 years), and MDS across top institutions of national importance, including all AIIMS centers, PGIMER-Chandigarh, JIPMER-Puducherry, and NIMHANS-Bengaluru. For medical aspirants targeting the January 2026 session, the final and most critical step is here. The examination is officially scheduled to take place on Sunday, November 9, 2025. This computer-based test (CBT) will be administered across various centers nationwide, running for three hours, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. With the exam just hours away, every aspirant must be fully informed and prepared for a seamless experience on D-Day. The meticulous planning and execution by AIIMS ensure that this highly competitive test maintains the highest standards of fairness and security.

​ Essential Exam Day Protocol for November 9th

​Candidates are strongly advised to adhere to a strict timetable and follow all official guidelines to avoid any last-minute stress or disqualification. The INI CET is known for its rigorous security and administrative protocols.

• ​Mandatory Reporting and Entry Timings:
  • ​Reporting Time: Candidates must aim to reach the designated examination center well in advance. While the official reporting time is often early (typically 6:30 AM onwards, as per previous notifications), arriving by 7:00 AM allows ample time for frisking, document verification, and check-in.
  • ​Strict Gate Closure: The entry gate will close strictly at a predetermined time (usually 8:30 AM). No candidate, under any circumstances, will be permitted entry after the gates close.
  • ​Exam Duration: The test will officially begin at 9:00 am and conclude sharply at 12:00 pm. No extra time will be provided, except to candidates with specific official accommodations (like PwBD candidates).
• ​Documents to Carry: 
  • ​Printed Copy of the Admit Card: The official admit card, downloadable from the AIIMS exam portal (aiimsexams.ac.in), is a non-negotiable requirement.
  • ​Valid Photo Identity Proof (Original): Acceptable IDs include Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving Licence. The name on the ID must match the name on the admit card.
  • ​Attested Copy of MCI/NMC/SMC Registration: Aspirants must carry a copy of their Medical/Dental Council registration certificate.
  • ​Category Certificate (If applicable): SC/ST/OBC (NCL)/EWS certificate, if claiming reservation, for verification purposes.
• ​Prohibited Items: 
  • ​Strictly prohibited within the exam venue are electronic devices (mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators), study material, and any metallic items (jewelry, belts). Only the admit card, ID proof, and a clear, simple pen (if required by the center) are allowed.

​Decoding the INI CET 2025 Exam Structure

​Understanding the final exam blueprint is crucial for an effective attempt strategy on November 9th. The INI CET is structured to test the applicant's clinical acumen and knowledge integration comprehensively.

• ​Computer-Based Test (CBT) Format: The examination is completely online. Candidates will answer 200 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) over a duration of three hours (180 minutes).
• ​Question Distribution and Subject Focus:
  • ​The paper typically covers subjects from all three phases of MBBS: Pre-Clinical (Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry), Para-Clinical (Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, Forensic Medicine, Community Medicine), and most significantly, Clinical Subjects (Medicine, Surgery, Obs & Gynae, Paediatrics, etc.).
  • ​A significant portion of the paper focuses on Clinical/Application-based MCQs and Image-Based Questions, emphasizing practical and integrated medical knowledge over rote learning.
• ​Marking Scheme — The Critical Factor:
  • ​Correct Answer: +1 Mark
  • ​Incorrect Answer: -1/3 Mark (Negative Marking)
  • ​Unanswered Questions: 0 Marks
  • ​Candidates must exercise caution due to the negative marking. It is advisable to attempt questions with a reasonable degree of certainty and avoid blind guessing to protect the overall score and rank.

​ Last-Minute Preparation and Strategy for Success

​With the exam just around the corner, aspirants should transition from intensive study to focused revision and mental conditioning. A calm and strategic approach in the final hours is a game-changer.

• ​High-Yield Revision Focus: 
  • ​Review Short Notes: The last 48 hours should be dedicated solely to revising self-made, concise, high-yield notes, tables, and flowcharts. Avoid starting any new topics.
  • ​Image-Based & Clinical Questions: Give a final pass to critical Image-Based questions (e.g., X-rays, ECGs, Dermatology images) and high-yield clinical scenarios, as these form the core of the INI CET.
  • ​Pharmacology and PSM (Community Medicine): Review key classifications, drug names, and public health programs/dates, as these are often tested with factual precision.
• ​Mastering Exam Temperament:
  • ​Mock Test Analysis: Do a final review of the mistakes noted from previous full-length mock tests. Identify and understand the concepts behind recurring errors.
  • ​Time Management Strategy: Be prepared for the section-wise time limit. Plan your attempt strategy in advance: First Pass (Answer all known questions), Second Pass (Attempt questions where you can eliminate 2 options), Third Pass (Review marked questions). Stick rigidly to your time allocation to ensure all 200 questions are at least scanned.
  • ​Prioritize Sleep and Hydration: Ensure a full 7-8 hours of sleep the night before the exam. Stress management and physical well-being are as important as subject knowledge.

​Conclusion

​The INI CET 2025 on November 9th is the culmination of months of relentless hard work for thousands of medical graduates. AIIMS has set the stage for a fair and rigorous selection process that rewards comprehensive clinical knowledge and sharp test-taking skills. Aspirants are urged to strictly follow all exam-day instructions, maintain composure, and execute their study plan with confidence. Success in this exam is not just about knowledge; it is about strategy, discipline, and nerve. Best of luck to all the candidates—your medical dream is now within reach.

For regular updates follow Only Education News. For more details on medical entrance exams and courses, check here: Medical Exams List.