Introduction
In a significant move, the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) has once again lowered the minimum qualifying percentile for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Postgraduates (NEET PG) 2024. The cut-off has been reduced to the 5th percentile across all categories, making more candidates eligible for counselling and medical admissions. This blog provides a detailed overview of the cut-off reduction, its implications, and what aspiring medical professionals need to know.
Background
The NEET PG is a national-level entrance exam conducted for admission to MD/MS/DNB/DrNB (Direct 6 years) and NBEMS Diploma Courses. The exam is crucial for medical graduates seeking postgraduate education in India. The cut-off percentile determines the minimum score required to qualify for counselling and subsequent admissions.
Previous Cut-off Changes
The NEET PG cut-off has seen several revisions over the years. Initially, the cut-off was set at the 50th percentile for unreserved categories, 45th for PwD, and 40th for reserved categories. In January 2024, the cut-off was lowered to the 15th percentile for General/EWS and 10th percentile for SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates. In 2023, the qualifying percentile was reduced to zero for all categories, and in 2022, the general category cut-off was reduced from the 50th percentile to 35th, while PwD and reserved category candidates saw reductions to the 20th percentile.
Current Cut-off Reduction
The latest reduction sets the qualifying percentile at the 5th percentile for all categories, including General/EWS, UR-PwBD, and SC/ST/OBC candidates (including PwBD of SC/ST/OBC). This decision follows directions from the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and aims to accommodate more candidates for counselling.
Impact on Eligibility and Counselling
With the qualifying percentile now at its lowest, a larger number of candidates will become eligible for NEET PG counselling. This could increase competition for postgraduate medical seats, particularly in top institutions. Candidates who meet the revised cut-off can proceed with the counselling process through the MCC website. Further updates regarding seat allocation and counselling schedules are expected soon.
Steps for Eligible Candidates
Candidates who meet the revised cut-off should follow these steps:
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Check Eligibility: Visit the official MCC website to confirm eligibility based on the revised cut-off.
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Register for Counselling: Complete the registration process on the MCC website.
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Document Verification: Ensure all required documents are ready for verification.
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Choice Filling and Locking: Select preferred colleges and courses during the choice-filling process.
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Seat Allotment: Wait for the seat allotment results and follow the instructions for admission.
Conclusion
The reduction of the NEET PG 2024 cut-off to the 5th percentile is a significant development that opens up opportunities for more candidates to pursue postgraduate medical education. Aspiring medical professionals should stay informed about the latest updates and prepare for the counselling process. For detailed information and updates, visit the official MCC website.
Stay informed and make the most of this opportunity to advance your medical career.
