Kathmandu, November 25

Students seeking to get admission in foreign medical colleges after January 1, 2018 for post-graduate courses must now have to pass entrance examination conducted either by the foreign colleges or colleges in Nepal.

“The students must get 50 per cent marks in the entrance examination,” said Dr Dharma Kanta Baskota, chairman, Nepal Medical Council. Earlier, any student who appeared the entrance examination was provided eligibility letter to pursue post-graduate courses in foreign countries.

“We took the decision to ensure quality. Even students who failed the entrance test but could pay money were going to foreign countries to pursue higher education in medical sciences. We took the decision to prevent such students from seeking admission in foreign colleges and universities. This decision will help produce talented and skilful doctors,” said Dr Baskota.

Every year 500 students take entrance examination for post-graduate medical courses. Of them, 300 students enrol in foreign colleges and universities. Around 200 students go to China, while Philippines and Bangladesh are second and third choices for students, according to Dr Baskota.