MBBS admissions: NMC puts focus on ability, not disability

National Medical Commission issued new guidelines for MBBS admissions requiring individual assessment of functional abilities for students with benchmark disabilities.

Medical Assessment Boards will evaluate candidates' functional abilities and essential competencies under the Competency-Based Medical Education curriculum, rather than relying solely on diagnosis or disability percentage.

Reasonable accommodations such as assistive devices, adaptive technology, and communication support must be considered before declaring a candidate ineligible.

Any finding of ineligibility must be supported by objective medical and functional evidence and recorded in writing.

The guidelines include a uniform assessment process, standard eligibility certificates, and an appeal mechanism for candidates.