How SC Verdict On NEET Is Affecting NRI Admissions?

The National Entrance cum Eligibility Test (NEET) has been a burning question for a long time now. Although, the apex court clearly stated in its latest verdict that NEET would be compulsory for all government, private and deemed educational institutions, there are still a few unanswered questions lie in wait. One of them has just surfaced in the form of uncertainty regarding admissions of NRI students at MBBS and BDS colleges in India.

Gujarat reserves 260 seats for NRI candidates. Earlier, these NRI students were given admission on the basis of a certificate equivalent to HSC. They did not require to attend the Gujarat Common Entrance Test. However, the scenario has completely changed since NEET is inevitable to study MBBS and BDS courses and the NRI students will not be able to take the test. Another concern is that if they are to be selected based on NRI marks, they will pursue their studies in Russia, China, Philippines, etc.

Under the NRI quota, minimum 60-80 students are allowed to take admission to MBBS and BDS courses. The other set of students who are sponsored by NRIs are given admission in other seats. These students pay fees of Rs. 12 lakh to Rs. 15 lakh.

"Currently there is no clarity on the NRI admissions. It would help if clarity is obtained on the issue," the dean of a medical college.

Medical admissions to be offered only on NEET scores

As millions of MBBS and BDS aspirants in India, though half-heartedly, breathed a sigh of relief after the Supreme Court's verdict to make National Entrance cum Eligibility Test compulsory throughout the country, another sensitive issue crops up. It all depends upon the decision of the apex court as it needs to come out with a balanced decision on the uncertain status of the NRI admissions.