INI CET Exam 2026: Dates, Eligibility, Syllabus, Pattern & Application Process

One of India's most competitive medical admission tests is the Institute of National Importance Combined Admission Test (INI CET) 2026. It is held at AIIMS in New Delhi. Admission to postgraduate medical programs such as MD, MS, DM (6 years), MCh (6 years), and MDS is mostly determined by this exam. Thousands of MBBS and BDS graduates vie for a few spots at prestigious universities like PGIMER, JIPMER, NIMHANS, SCTIMST, and AIIMS every year. It is one of the most difficult tests for people who want to become doctors because of its competitiveness.

This tutorial will help you fully comprehend the INI CET 2026 if you are prepared for the PG medical entrance. It covers the application procedure, exam pattern, eligibility, and syllabus.

What is the INI CTE Exam 2026?

INI CET exam is a computer-based test (CBT) with 200 multiple-choice questions covering the entire MBBS/BDS syllabus, including Pre-clinical, Para-clinical, and Clinical subjects. Candidates who qualify based on percentile cut-offs become eligible for counselling and seat allotment in premier institutes like AIIMS, JIPMER, PGIMER, and NIMHANS. Twice a year, in May and November, INI CET is held. Candidates are tested on all MBBS/BDS subjects, including pre-clinical, para-clinical, and clinical ones, in this online exam.

The INI CET Exam 2026 (November session) is the Institute of National Importance Combined Entrance Test conducted by AIIMS Delhi for admission to postgraduate medical courses such as MD, MS, DM (6 years), MCh (6 years), and MDS. The November 2025 session of INI CET is specifically held for admission to the January 2026 academic batch.

Why Choose INI CET for PG Medical Courses?

Choosing INI CET 2026 provides access to some of the most respected medical institutes in India. Here are a few reasons why this exam is seen as a great opportunity:

• Single Exam for All INIs: Instead of studying for several institute-specific PG exams, candidates can take one exam to compete for seats at AIIMS, JIPMER, NIMHANS, PGIMER, and SCTIMST.
• Top-Quality Education: Institutes of National Importance offer strong infrastructure, experienced faculty, research opportunities, and hands-on clinical exposure.
• Global Recognition: A PG degree from AIIMS or another INI is highly regarded internationally, creating better career and research opportunities overseas.
• Affordable Fees: PG education in INIs costs much less than in private medical colleges, making it accessible to talented candidates from diverse backgrounds.

INI CET Exam 2026 Key Dates and Important Events

Staying updated with the INI CET 2026 schedule is crucial. The exam is conducted in two sessions every year, and AIIMS releases notifications on its official website.

INI CET Exam 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must confirm that they meet the INI CET eligibility conditions before applying.

• Educational Qualification

• • Candidates for MD, MS, DM, and MCH positions must have earned an MBBS from an accredited university.
  • Candidates for MDS must have earned their BDS from an institution approved by the DCI.

• Internship Requirement

• • A 12-month required rotating internship must be completed.
  • The internship must be finished before July 31, 2026, for the May 2026 session.
  • The internship for the November 2026 session must be finished by January 31, 2026.

• Minimum Scores Needed

• • OBC, EWS, and general candidates: At least 55% of the total in MBBS/BDS.
  • Candidates who are SC/ST: at least 50% total.

• Nationality

• Applications are open to international nationals, Indian nationals, and OCIs (Overseas Citizens of India).

What is the latest INICET Exam Pattern 2026?

Understanding the INI CET exam pattern 2026 is the key to cracking the test. You can check the overview of the exam pattern in the table below.

INI CET 2026 Syllabus and Important Topics

The National Medical Commission's (NMC) recommended MBBS curriculum serves as the foundation for the INI CET syllabus. Preclinical, paraclinical, and clinical subjects are all covered.

• Pre-Clinical Subjects

• Anatomy
• Physiology
• Biochemistry

• Para-Clinical Subjects

• Pathology
• Pharmacology
• Microbiology
• Forensic Medicine
• Community Medicine (PSM)

• Clinical Subjects

• Medicine and allied branches (Dermatology, Psychiatry)
• Surgery and allied branches (Orthopedics, ENT, Ophthalmology)
• Pediatrics
• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Anesthesiology

High-Weightage Topics often include Pathology, Medicine, Pharmacology, Surgery, Microbiology, and Obstetrics & Gynecology. Candidates should also prepare integrated clinical case-based questions.

INI CET Exam 2026 Application Process

There are two steps in the INI CET application procedure, which is administered by the PAAR system (Prospective Applicants Advanced Registration):

• Basic Registration

• • In order to register, candidates upload papers and provide personal information.
  • A distinct Registration ID is created, which can also be utilized for upcoming AIIMS tests.

• Final Registration

• • Candidates must complete their internship and academic information.
  • Upload scanned copies of your thumb impression, signature, and photo.
  • Choose your preferred exam location.
  • Online application fee payment is required.

• Application Fees

• OBC/EWS/General: INR 2000
• SC/ST: INR 1500
• Candidates with PwBD: Exempt

Candidates should download and save a copy of the confirmation page for their records after submitting it.

Conclusion

The entrance to India's best medical schools, which provide postgraduate options in MD, MS, MDS, DM, and MCh programs, is the INI CET Exam 2026. Due to the intense competition, candidates must carefully organize their preparation by concentrating on high-yield subjects, taking practice exams, and regularly editing their work.

Completing the application procedure accurately, meeting qualifying standards, and keeping abreast of critical dates are all equally crucial. INI CET 2026 is more than simply an exam; it's a route to success for any MBBS or BDS graduate hoping to pursue a lucrative medical career.