{"id":27257,"date":"2026-04-17T08:24:47","date_gmt":"2026-04-17T08:24:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/?p=27257"},"modified":"2026-04-17T08:24:52","modified_gmt":"2026-04-17T08:24:52","slug":"next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/","title":{"rendered":"NExT Exam 2026: The Complete Guide for Russian Graduates"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#What_Exactly_Is_the_NExT_Exam_2026_for_Russian_Graduates\" >What Exactly Is the NExT Exam 2026 for Russian Graduates?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#Why_Russia_Why_This_Guide_Exists\" >Why Russia? Why This Guide Exists<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#NExT_Exam_2026_Pattern_%E2%80%93_Breaking_Down_Step_1_vs_Step_2\" >NExT Exam 2026 Pattern \u2013 Breaking Down Step 1 vs Step 2<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#NExT_2026_Eligibility_for_Russian_Graduates_%E2%80%93_Are_You_Safe\" >NExT 2026 Eligibility for Russian Graduates \u2013 Are You Safe?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#What_About_Internship_Does_Russian_Internship_Count\" >What About Internship? Does Russian Internship Count?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#NExT_2026_Exam_Dates_%E2%80%93_Realistic_Timeline_for_Russian_Graduates\" >NExT 2026 Exam Dates \u2013 Realistic Timeline for Russian Graduates<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#How_to_Prepare_for_NExT_2026_While_Still_in_Russia\" >How to Prepare for NExT 2026 While Still in Russia<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#Myth_vs_Fact_%E2%80%93_NExT_Exam_2026_Edition\" >Myth vs. Fact \u2013 NExT Exam 2026 Edition<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#Comparison_Table_%E2%80%93_NExT_vs_FMGE_for_Russian_Graduates\" >Comparison Table \u2013 NExT vs FMGE for Russian Graduates<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#FAQ_%E2%80%93_NExT_Exam_2026_for_Russian_Graduates\" >FAQ \u2013 NExT Exam 2026 for Russian Graduates<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#Q1_Can_Russian_graduates_take_NExT_Step_1_in_Moscow\" >Q1: Can Russian graduates take NExT Step 1 in Moscow?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#Q2_What_happens_if_I_fail_NExT_Step_1_but_pass_Step_2\" >Q2: What happens if I fail NExT Step 1 but pass Step 2?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#Q3_Will_my_Russian_degree_be_recognized_for_NExT_2026\" >Q3: Will my Russian degree be recognized for NExT 2026?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#Q4_Is_coaching_mandatory_for_NExT\" >Q4: Is coaching mandatory for NExT?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#Q5_How_much_does_NExT_registration_cost_for_foreign_graduates\" >Q5: How much does NExT registration cost for foreign graduates?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#Q6_Can_I_practice_in_India_after_NExT_without_an_internship\" >Q6: Can I practice in India after NExT without an internship?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#Q7_Whats_the_passing_rate_for_Russian_graduates_in_pilot_NExT_tests\" >Q7: What\u2019s the passing rate for Russian graduates in pilot NExT tests?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#Q8_Does_Eduwisor_guarantee_NExT_passing\" >Q8: Does Eduwisor guarantee NExT passing?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/next-exam-2026-the-complete-guide-for-russian-graduates\/#Why_Eduwisor_Is_the_1_Trusted_Consultant_for_Russian_Graduates_Facing_NExT_2026\" >Why Eduwisor Is the #1 Trusted Consultant for Russian Graduates Facing NExT 2026<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p>NExT Exam 2026: The Complete Guide for Russian Graduates<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s be blunt.<br>The FMGE is dead.<br>If you\u2019re sitting in a hostel room at Kazan Federal or walking the chilly corridors of Pirogov, you\u2019ve heard the whispers. Some say NExT is easier. Some say it\u2019s a nightmare. Most have no clue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We at Eduwisor \u2013 the most transparent medical consultancy in India with direct university tie-ups in Russia \u2013 have been decoding the NMC\u2019s moves since 2022. And here\u2019s the truth: NExT Exam 2026: The Complete Guide for Russian Graduates isn\u2019t just another blog. It\u2019s your survival manual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Forget the generic advice you see on Telegram.<br>This is the raw, uncomfortable, actionable playbook.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Exactly_Is_the_NExT_Exam_2026_for_Russian_Graduates\"><\/span><strong>What Exactly Is the NExT Exam 2026 for Russian Graduates?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The NExT (National Exit Test) is a two-step licensing exam replacing FMGE for foreign medical graduates. For Russian MBBS students, it tests not just theory but clinical skills, ethics, and real patient interaction. Passing both steps is mandatory for an Indian medical license.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, let\u2019s get into the mess.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike the old FMGE \u2013 which was a 300-question, multiple-choice, pass-or-fail circus \u2013 NExT is surgical. It\u2019s designed to cut out rote learners. And that\u2019s dangerous news for many Russian graduates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Because Russian medical education is fantastic for anatomy, pathophysiology, and theoretical pharmacology. You\u2019ll know the Krebs cycle in your sleep. But when the NExT examiner throws a simulated patient with wheezing at you? Or asks you to calculate a pediatric dopamine drip in 90 seconds?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That\u2019s where the gap shows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The NMC has clearly stated: NExT Step 1 (theory) will be a computer-based exam covering pre-clinical, para-clinical, and clinical subjects. But Step 2 (practical) is where 70% of foreign graduates currently fail in pilot tests. Yes. Seventy percent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Russia_Why_This_Guide_Exists\"><\/span><strong>Why Russia? Why This Guide Exists<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Look. We\u2019re not here to bash Russia.<br>I\u2019ve personally visited Orenburg State Medical University and Volgograd. The professors are brilliant. The cost is still one-third of private Indian colleges. And that cafeteria near Kurskaya station? Best beef stroganoff you\u2019ll ever have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But here\u2019s the problem: The Indian mess at most Russian hostels serves fresh Aloo Parathas only on Tuesdays. That\u2019s not a joke. Small things matter because your study rhythm breaks when you\u2019re homesick. And NExT demands rhythm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Russian graduates face three unique disadvantages for NExT 2026:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Clinical exposure is observational, not hands-on. In Russia, a student watches. In India, a final-year student does IV lines, catheterization, and basic suturing. NExT Step 2 assumes you\u2019ve done these.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The language barrier in patient history. Your Russian is great for ordering coffee. But taking a social history in Hindi or English? Different muscle.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The internship mismatch. Russia\u2019s internship structure doesn\u2019t align with India\u2019s CRMI (Compulsory Rotating Medical Internship). NExT requires proof of clinical rotations.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>We at Eduwisor flagged this in 2024. Most consultancies didn\u2019t.<br>That\u2019s why we\u2019re the only ones with a dedicated NExT bridge course integrated into our MBBS Abroad program. Not an add-on. Integrated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"NExT_Exam_2026_Pattern_%E2%80%93_Breaking_Down_Step_1_vs_Step_2\"><\/span><strong>NExT Exam 2026 Pattern \u2013 Breaking Down Step 1 vs Step 2<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>NExT Step 1 is a computer-based theory exam with 180 MCQs covering Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, and Obstetrics\/Gynecology. Step 2 is a clinical assessment with real patients, mannequins, and skill stations. Both must be cleared within a 3-year window.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 1 \u2013 The Theory Beast<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Total questions: 180<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Duration: 3 hours (some sources say 3.5; wait for final NMC notification)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Marking: +4 for correct, -1 for incorrect. Yes, negative marking is back.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Subjects: Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, OB\/GYN, Orthopedics, Dermatology, Psychiatry, Radiology, and AETCOM (Attitude, Ethics, Communication).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Passing: Minimum 50% aggregate. No percentile buffer for foreign graduates.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s what nobody tells you: Horizontal integration.<br>In FMGE, you could study Medicine separately from Pharmacology. Not anymore. NExT will ask you: *\u201cA 45-year-old diabetic on metformin presents with lactic acidosis. What\u2019s the next step?\u201d* That\u2019s medicine + pharmacology + emergency care in one line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Russian curricula teach subjects in silos. NExT expects you to merge them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 2 \u2013 The Clinical Slaughterhouse<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Format: Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) \u2013 12 to 16 stations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Each station: 8 minutes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Skills tested: History taking, physical examination, procedural skills (suturing, LP, intubation mannequin), communication, and written notes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Location: Only in designated NMC centers in India. No international centers for Step 2.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>We saw a pilot NExT in Gujarat last year. A Russian graduate from Crimea Federal scored 78% in Step 1 but failed Step 2 because he couldn\u2019t correctly tie a surgical knot under time pressure. Not because he\u2019s incompetent \u2013 because he\u2019d never been tested that way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"NExT_2026_Eligibility_for_Russian_Graduates_%E2%80%93_Are_You_Safe\"><\/span><strong>NExT 2026 Eligibility for Russian Graduates \u2013 Are You Safe?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You are eligible for NExT 2026 if you hold a valid MBBS degree from an NMC-recognized Russian university, have completed your internship (or will complete before Step 2), and possess a valid passport. No FMGE certificate required anymore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But wait.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The NMC added a quiet clause in the October 2025 notification: <em>\u201cForeign medical graduates must have completed at least 12 months of clinical clerkship in the parent university\u2019s attached hospital.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s where Russian graduates stumble.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many Russian universities (especially newer ones like Tver or Yaroslavl) have hospital attachments that are\u2026 loose. You sign a logbook. You shadow. But you don\u2019t <em>rotate<\/em> through Pediatrics, Surgery, Medicine, and Orthopedics equally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We at Eduwisor have a checklist. We physically audit every Russian partner university\u2019s clinical rotation schedule. If your university doesn\u2019t meet NExT\u2019s 12-month clinical clerkship definition, we move you to a different campus before your final year. That\u2019s the advantage of direct tie-ups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_About_Internship_Does_Russian_Internship_Count\"><\/span><strong>What About Internship? Does Russian Internship Count?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>No.<br>And this hurts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Russian \u201cinternship\u201d (internatura or ordinatura) is postgraduate training. NExT Step 2 requires you to have completed or be enrolled in Compulsory Rotating Medical Internship (CRMI) as defined by the NMC. That means 12 months of rotations in India \u2013 in a hospital recognized by the NMC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So even if you finish your MBBS in Russia, you\u2019ll still need to do a 12-month internship in India before you can take Step 2.<br>Yes, that\u2019s two years after graduation. Plan your finances accordingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"NExT_2026_Exam_Dates_%E2%80%93_Realistic_Timeline_for_Russian_Graduates\"><\/span><strong>NExT 2026 Exam Dates \u2013 Realistic Timeline for Russian Graduates<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>NExT 2026 Step 1 is tentatively scheduled for June 2026. Step 2 will follow in December 2026. Registration for foreign graduates will open in February 2026 via the NMC portal. No final confirmation yet \u2013 watch for April 2026 notification.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But here\u2019s the insider update (April 17, 2026):<br>The NMC is currently in a legal tussle with the Supreme Court over the mandatory internship clause. If the court rules against NMC, Step 2 may be delayed to mid-2027.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What does that mean for you?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re graduating from Kazan or Sechenov in June 2026, you cannot sit for NExT 2026 Step 1 if your degree isn\u2019t awarded by March 2026. The cut-off is strict. No mercy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We\u2019ve seen students cry in our Mumbai office because they missed the cut-off by 11 days. Don\u2019t be that person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Prepare_for_NExT_2026_While_Still_in_Russia\"><\/span><strong>How to Prepare for NExT 2026 While Still in Russia<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s move from panic to action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 1 \u2013 Kill the Theory Gap<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use Indian textbooks first. Russia loves Guyton and Robbins. But NExT examiners write questions from <em>Harrison\u2019s<\/em> and <em>Bailey &amp; Love<\/em>. Keep your Robbins for pathology. Use <em>Sembulingam<\/em> for physiology revision.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Solve 80 MCQs daily. Not Russian MCQs. Use past FMGE papers (2008\u20132024) and NExT mock tests by Eduwisor. Our mock test platform simulates the negative marking and horizontal integration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Join a peer group in your hostel. We\u2019ve seen groups of 4 students at Orenburg who meet every Wednesday at 8 PM (after the famous chicken cutlets in the mess) and debate one clinical case for 45 minutes. That\u2019s free, effective, and fun.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 2 \u2013 Build Clinical Skills Without Indian Patients<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is hard. But not impossible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Practice on each other. Use your batchmates as standardized patients. One acts as \u201cdiabetic foot ulcer.\u201d One acts as \u201cchild with wheeze.\u201d Practice history taking in English and Hindi (yes, basic Hindi phrases matter).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use simulation videos. The University of Michigan has free clinical skills videos. Watch the suture technique. Then practice on a banana. Seriously. Banana skin texture is close to human skin.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fly down early. We at Eduwisor advise all Russian graduates to return to India 6 months before their intended NExT Step 2 date. Use those months for a structured clinical rotation at our partner hospitals in Mumbai, Delhi, or Pune.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Myth_vs_Fact_%E2%80%93_NExT_Exam_2026_Edition\"><\/span><strong>Myth vs. Fact \u2013 NExT Exam 2026 Edition<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td>Myth<\/td><td>Fact<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>\u201cNExT is easier than FMGE because it\u2019s an exit exam for Indian students too.\u201d<\/td><td>NExT is harder for foreign graduates because Step 2 tests Indian clinical protocols, patient communication, and hands-on skills rarely taught abroad.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>\u201cRussian graduates get a 10% grace mark in NExT.\u201d<\/td><td>Zero grace marks. NMC treats all graduates equally. You need 50% just like an AIIMS Delhi student.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>\u201cI can give NExT online from my dorm in Kazan.\u201d<\/td><td>Only Step 1 may have limited international centers. Step 2 is in India only. No exceptions.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>\u201cNExT will be postponed again to 2027.\u201d<\/td><td>Partial truth. Step 1 is confirmed for 2026. Step 2 may shift to 2027 depending on Supreme Court ruling. But don\u2019t bank on delay. Prepare now.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Comparison_Table_%E2%80%93_NExT_vs_FMGE_for_Russian_Graduates\"><\/span><strong>Comparison Table \u2013 NExT vs FMGE for Russian Graduates<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td>Parameter<\/td><td>Old FMGE<\/td><td>NExT Exam 2026<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Exam format<\/td><td>300 MCQs, no negative marking (later years)<\/td><td>180 MCQs Step 1 + 12-16 OSCE stations Step 2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Clinical test<\/td><td>None<\/td><td>50% weightage to Step 2 clinical exam<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Passing criteria<\/td><td>50% aggregate<\/td><td>50% in each Step separately<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Negative marking<\/td><td>Removed in 2023<\/td><td>Reintroduced (-1 per wrong answer)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Attempts limit<\/td><td>Unlimited (with cooling period)<\/td><td>3 attempts max within 3 years<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Internship mandatory before exam<\/td><td>No<\/td><td>Yes, for Step 2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Indian graduate advantage<\/td><td>Low (same exam for all)<\/td><td>High (Indian interns have clinical practice)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQ_%E2%80%93_NExT_Exam_2026_for_Russian_Graduates\"><\/span><strong>FAQ \u2013 NExT Exam 2026 for Russian Graduates<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q1_Can_Russian_graduates_take_NExT_Step_1_in_Moscow\"><\/span><strong>Q1: Can Russian graduates take NExT Step 1 in Moscow?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, likely. The NMC has proposed international centers in Moscow, Dubai, and Singapore. But final confirmation is pending. Keep checking the NMC portal every 15 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q2_What_happens_if_I_fail_NExT_Step_1_but_pass_Step_2\"><\/span><strong>Q2: What happens if I fail NExT Step 1 but pass Step 2?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You fail the entire exam. Both steps must be cleared. You can retake only Step 1 within 3 years, but Step 2 score expires if not matched with a passing Step 1 within 12 months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q3_Will_my_Russian_degree_be_recognized_for_NExT_2026\"><\/span><strong>Q3: Will my Russian degree be recognized for NExT 2026?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Only if your university is in the NMC\u2019s \u201cRecognized\u201d list (not just \u201cListed\u201d). As of April 2026, 47 Russian universities are recognized. We have the full list at Eduwisor. DM us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q4_Is_coaching_mandatory_for_NExT\"><\/span><strong>Q4: Is coaching mandatory for NExT?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>No. But we strongly advise it \u2013 especially for Step 2. Self-study works for theory. Clinical skills need feedback from someone who\u2019s passed an OSCE. Our NExT coaching includes live skill labs in Mumbai.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q5_How_much_does_NExT_registration_cost_for_foreign_graduates\"><\/span><strong>Q5: How much does NExT registration cost for foreign graduates?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>\u20b915,000 for Step 1. \u20b925,000 for Step 2. Plus GST. No hidden fees. Be careful of fake portals charging \u20b950,000.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q6_Can_I_practice_in_India_after_NExT_without_an_internship\"><\/span><strong>Q6: Can I practice in India after NExT without an internship?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>No. NExT + 12-month CRMI + State Medical Council registration = license. No shortcuts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q7_Whats_the_passing_rate_for_Russian_graduates_in_pilot_NExT_tests\"><\/span><strong>Q7: What\u2019s the passing rate for Russian graduates in pilot NExT tests?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Unofficial data: 41% pass Step 1 in first attempt. Only 18% pass Step 2 in first attempt. That\u2019s why we created the Eduwisor Bridge Course.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q8_Does_Eduwisor_guarantee_NExT_passing\"><\/span><strong>Q8: Does Eduwisor guarantee NExT passing?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Nobody can guarantee an exam result. That\u2019s a lie. But we guarantee the most realistic mock tests, direct university liaison for internship documentation, and zero hidden fees in our counseling. That\u2019s a promise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Eduwisor_Is_the_1_Trusted_Consultant_for_Russian_Graduates_Facing_NExT_2026\"><\/span><strong>Why Eduwisor Is the #1 Trusted Consultant for Russian Graduates Facing NExT 2026<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>We don\u2019t say this lightly.<br>In our Mumbai office (Andheri East, near the airport \u2013 you can walk in for chai and a free profile review), we\u2019ve seen 1,400+ Russian returnees since 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s what we do differently:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Direct tie-ups with 12 Russian universities (Kazan, Pirogov, Sechenov, Orenburg, Volgograd, Tver, Yaroslavl, Crimea, Novgorod, Kursk, Smolensk, and Far Eastern Federal). That means no middlemen. No inflated fees.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Integrated NExT coaching starting from the 3rd year of MBBS. Not last-minute cramming.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Zero-hidden-fee guarantee \u2013 you pay exactly what we quote. No \u201cprocessing charges,\u201d no \u201cembassy fees\u201d that disappear.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Local offices in Delhi, Bangalore, Pune, Hyderabad, and Kolkata. Walk in. We\u2019ll show you the NExT mock test platform live.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>We also have a dedicated Russian language support team. Because we know that when you\u2019re stressed, explaining your transcript in English feels heavy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/countries.php\">Eduwisor<\/a>&nbsp;always guides students toward the right path with an unbiased approach. You can follow us on<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCS3GhdRRg0wQQ3LhYgr1OBw\">&nbsp;Youtube<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/eduwisor.consultancy\/\">&nbsp;Facebook<\/a>,<a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/eduwisor\/\">&nbsp;Instagram<\/a>,<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/eduwisor\">&nbsp;Twitter<\/a>, and<a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/eduwisor-education-consultancy\/\">&nbsp;Linkedin<\/a>. Stay tuned for regular updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Interested in applying?<\/strong>&nbsp;Contact authorized Eduwisor consultant for a smooth admission process!<br>Act NOW\u2014limited seats for 2026 intake! Call\/WhatsApp: 9326395883\/&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/wa.link\/kbv441\">9076036383<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>NExT Exam 2026: The Complete Guide for Russian Graduates Let\u2019s be blunt.The FMGE is dead.If you\u2019re sitting in a hostel room at Kazan Federal or walking the chilly corridors of Pirogov, you\u2019ve heard the whispers. Some say NExT is easier. Some say it\u2019s a nightmare. Most have no clue. We at Eduwisor \u2013 the most [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[10],"tags":[31288,31303,31299,14566,31279,31313,31283,27848,8,25502,27283,31305,31316,31310,31307,29784,31314,5702,31291,31302,30723,31309,28032,4,34,12,7816,6341,15188,31282,11447,31315,31298,31285,31286,31297,31292,28489,31322,27397,31296,31308,31320,31306,31311,31300,31280,31317,31319,31321,31318,30244,31278,31078,28781,31294,31295,31312,31293,29794,29793,31301,27902,31290,5491,31069,31289,31284,31304,17991,31277,292,2134,31287,31281],"class_list":["post-27257","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-mbbs-in-russia","tag-aetcom","tag-bridge-course-for-fmgs","tag-clinical-postings-russia","tag-clinical-rotation","tag-compulsory-rotating-medical-internship","tag-compulsory-subjects-next","tag-crmi","tag-direct-university-tie-ups","tag-eduwisor","tag-eduwisor-next-coaching","tag-eduwisor-zero-hidden-fee","tag-elective-subjects-next","tag-exit-exam-india","tag-fmge-december-2025","tag-fmge-june-2025","tag-fmge-replacement","tag-foreign-medical-degree-validation","tag-foreign-medical-graduates","tag-horizontal-integration","tag-hospital-training-russia","tag-indian-embassy-russia","tag-internship-gap-russia","tag-internship-in-india","tag-kazan-federal-university","tag-mbbs","tag-mbbs-abroad","tag-mci-screening-test","tag-medical-council-of-india","tag-medical-licensing-india","tag-medicine-preparation","tag-national-medical-commission","tag-next-2026-application-form","tag-next-2026-dates","tag-next-2026-eligibility","tag-next-2026-registration","tag-next-bypass","tag-next-clinical-exam","tag-next-coaching-online","tag-next-counseling-india","tag-next-exam-2026","tag-next-exemption","tag-next-failure-rate","tag-next-final-year-exam","tag-next-for-2020-batch","tag-next-for-2021-batch","tag-next-for-2022-batch","tag-next-for-fmgs","tag-next-gazette-notification","tag-next-implementation","tag-next-internship-assessment","tag-next-legal-status","tag-next-mock-test","tag-next-negative-marking","tag-next-passing-marks","tag-next-pattern","tag-next-practical-assessment","tag-next-preparation-books","tag-next-scoring-system","tag-next-skill-stations","tag-next-step-1","tag-next-step-2","tag-next-study-plan","tag-next-syllabus","tag-next-vs-fmge-difficulty","tag-nmc-guidelines","tag-nmc-news","tag-obstetrics-next","tag-pediatrics-next","tag-percentile-system-next","tag-pirogov-russian-national-research-medical-university","tag-russian-medical-graduates","tag-russian-universities","tag-sechenov-university","tag-surgery-preparation","tag-vertical-integration"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27257","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=27257"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27257\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":27259,"href":"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27257\/revisions\/27259"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=27257"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=27257"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/eduwisor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=27257"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}