Choosing the right postgraduate pathway after completing MBBS or BDS is one of the most essential academic decisions for medical graduates in India. The INI CET is the most important entrance exam for those seeking admission to the prestigious national institutes.

This comprehensive guide provides all the necessary information about the INI CET November 2026 exam, including the exam date, eligibility criteria, application stages, syllabus, exam pattern, and preparation roadmap. Keep reading for a detailed insight.

What are the Programs Offered Through INI CET?

The INI CET November 2026 is a single, highly competitive national exam by AIIMS for PG medical admissions across India’s top Institutes of National Importance. Scheduled for 1 November 2026, it replaces earlier separate entrance tests, streamlining access to MD, MS, MDS, DM, and MCh programs.

The INI CET is a national-level entrance exam administered by AIIMS that admits students to postgraduate medical programs, such as MD, MS, MDS, DM (6 years), and MCh (6 years).

The exam admits candidates to the most esteemed Institutes of National Importance, including various AIIMS campuses, PGIMER Chandigarh, JIPMER Puducherry, NIMHANS Bengaluru, and SCTIMST Trivandrum, making it a very popular choice among medical candidates.

Earlier, these institutions had separate entrance exams, such as AIIMS PG, JIPMER PG, PGIMER PG, and NIMHANS PG. All these, combined into a single examination, have made candidates focus on a single, highly competitive examination.

For those wishing to enrol in the INI CET January 2027 academic session, the INI CET November 2026 exam will be of paramount importance. The official timeline has fixed the computer-based examination for Sunday, 1 November 2026, in identified centres in India.

What are the Key Dates and Schedule for INI CET November 2026?

The INI CET November 2026 exam cycle follows a consistent timeline, helping candidates plan. Registration is expected to open in September 2026, with the exam scheduled for 1 November 2026, results likely within a week, and counselling beginning soon after.

The schedule at hand makes it easier to plan for the exam. The INI CET cycle timeline often follows a consistent pattern based on previous sessions. Although AIIMS publishes a formal announcement near the exam, the rough schedule can be inferred from previous cycles.

Below are the expected key dates for the INI CET November 2026 exam:

• Registration Opens: Tentatively September 2026 (based on previous cycles). The online registration typically consists of two steps: Basic Registration and Final Registration.
• Registration Closes: Usually 2–3 weeks after opening.
• Admit Card Release: Typically, a few days before the exam (late October 2026).
• Exam Date: 01 November 2026 (Sunday)
• Result Declaration: Likely within a week (previous cycle had result on 07 Nov 2026)
• Counselling & Seat Allotment: Begins after results are out.
  

These dates will be in accordance with the AIIMS official academic calendar. Earlier cycles also followed a similar structure, where the exam was scheduled for the January session but held in November of the previous year.

Candidates should check the AIIMS official exam portal regularly because changes are always possible.

What is the INI CET November 2026 Tentative Timeline?

To help you plan your preparation and application process efficiently, here is the tentative schedule for the INI CET November 2026 cycle:

Event	Expected Date (Nov 2026 Cycle)
Registration Start	September 2026
Registration End	Mid/End October 2026
Correction Window	Late October 2026
Admit Card Download	Late October 2026
INI CET Exam	1 November 2026 (Sunday)
Result Announcement	Early November 2026
Counselling Process	To be announced after the results

Bookmark the AIIMS exam portal and set reminders for each important date so you don’t miss deadlines, especially during registration and correction windows.

What are the Eligibility Criteria for INI CET November 2026?

Candidates for INI CET November 2026 must hold an MBBS/BDS degree with the required marks and complete a one-year internship by the deadline. Eligibility extends to Indian nationals, OCI/PIO, and foreign applicants (with NOC), with no age limit.

To appear for the INI CET November 2026 exam, candidates must fulfil the basic eligibility criteria laid out by AIIMS and other participating Institutes of National Importance:

1. Educational Qualification

• For MD/MS/DM/MCh courses: A recognised MBBS degree from a recognised medical university or institution.
• For MDS courses: A BDS degree in a recognised dental college or university.
• The degree should be NMC/DCI (as applicable).

2. Minimum Academic Marks

• General/EWS/OBC Candidates: At least 55% aggregate marks in MBBS/BDS.
• SC/ST Candidates: Minimum 50% aggregate marks in MBBS/BDS.
• Only the final professional exams should be used as marks as indicated in the prospectus.

3. Internship Requirement

• One-year mandatory rotating internship completed within the stipulated deadline.
• According to the former counselling cycle, the internship must be completed by 31 July 2025.
• For the January 2027 admission, applicants must ideally finish their internship by October 2026 (tentative).
• Applicants who fail to have the completion certificate for the internship before the deadline will not be allowed.

4. Nationality

• Indian Nationals are eligible.
• Applications by OCI/PIO candidates may be submitted in accordance with the Government of India’s existing rules.
• Foreigners can also apply, though they must obtain an NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

5. Age Limit

• INI CET has no age restriction as long as the internship and documentation are completed.

6. Reservation Policy

• The benefits of reservation are based on the Government of India regulations and the institution’s policy.
• Applicants must produce valid category certificates in the required format.

7. Institutional Specific Rules

• The participating institutes (AIIMS, PGIMER, NIMHANS, JIPMER, SCTIMST, etc.) may have additional requirements, e.g., service bonds or special quotas (e.g., sponsored, foreign nationals, defence, pensioners, etc.).

Important Note:

• The eligibility is tentative until the physical verification of documents during admission/counselling.
• Before application, aspirants are expected to confirm their information to prevent disqualification.

What is the Application Process for INI CET November 2026?

The INI CET November 2026 application is online via the AIIMS portal in two steps: Basic Registration (personal details, photo/signature upload, exam city choice) and Final Registration (EUC entry, document upload, fee payment, and submission). Save the confirmation page after completion.

The overall application process is done online using the AIIMS exams portal. It consists of two major steps: Basic Registration and Final Registration. Below is a simple explanation of each step:

Step 1: Basic Registration

• Begin by filling in the basic personal information
• Complete details of contact, education history, and address.
• Upload a passport-size photo and signature (as per AIIMS requirement)
• Choose the city preferences for the examinations.
• Basic Registration is approved on verification.

This phase will ensure that your profile is registered in the AIIMS system.

Step 2: Final Registration

After the basic registration is granted:

• Register the Exam Unique Code (EUC).
• Register with EUC to complete your application.
• Upload the necessary documents that include
  • MBBS/BDS degree
  • Internship certificate
  • Category certificate
  • ID proof
• Pay the application fee.
• Preview and submit your form
• Save a printout of the confirmation page.

What is the Application Fee Structure?

The INI CET November 2026 exam fee is expected to be ₹1000 for General/OBC/EWS and ₹800 for SC/ST, with PwBD likely exempt. Admit cards are usually released 7–10 days before the exam on the AIIMS portal.

INI CET usually does not change the examination fee per session, though the candidates are required to wait until the official announcement. The anticipated fee structure is as follows:

Category	Expected Exam Fee
General / OBC / EWS	₹1000
SC / ST	₹800
PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disability)	Likely exempt or significantly discounted

The admit card is normally issued 7-10 days before the examination date on the official AIIMS examination portal. The applicants should use their registration details to download and print the admit card.

What is the Exam Pattern and Syllabus for INI CET November 2026?

The INI CET November 2026 exam will be a computer-based test of 200 MCQs over 3 hours, conducted in English. It follows a +1/–⅓ marking scheme, with no marks for unattempted questions, and covers the full MBBS/BDS curriculum.

The exam structure will help you plan your preparation. Since it is a very competitive exam, it is important to be familiar with the format:

Parameter	Details
Exam Mode	Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Duration	3 hours (180 minutes)
Total Questions	200 MCQs
Question Types	Single-best-answer & Multiple-correct-answer MCQs
Marking Scheme	+1 mark for each correct response
Negative Marking	–⅓ mark for each incorrect response
Unattempted Questions	No marks awarded
Medium of Exam	English
Syllabus	Full MBBS/BDS curriculum

What is the Syllabus Overview for INI CET November 2026?

The INI CET evaluates the knowledge acquired throughout the MBBS/BDS program, with a focus on conceptual mastery, clinical correlation, diagnostic reasoning, and problem-solving. The questions are not purely theoretical but practical, combining case scenarios, research, and management concepts.

Here’s an overview of the syllabus for INI CET November 2026 exam:

1. Pre-Clinical Subjects

These subjects form the foundation of the medical sciences and help understand the human body’s structure and function.

Subject	Focus Areas
Anatomy	Gross anatomy, histology, embryology, neuroanatomy, and radiological correlations
Physiology	Homeostasis, organ system physiology, endocrine regulation, neurophysiology, applied physiology
Biochemistry	Metabolism, molecular biology, nutrition, enzymes, genetics, clinical correlations, laboratory values

2. Para-Clinical Subjects

These subjects bridge the gap between basic sciences and clinical practice by focusing on mechanisms of disease and therapeutic principles.

Subject	Focus Areas
Pathology	Cellular pathology, systemic pathology, neoplasia, haematology, and lab diagnostics
Pharmacology	Mechanisms of action, drug interactions, adverse effects, and clinical pharmacology
Microbiology	Bacteriology, virology, parasitology, immunology, sterilisation, antimicrobial resistance
Forensic Medicine	Medico-legal procedures, toxicology, IPC/CrPC sections, autopsy findings
Community Medicine (SPM)	Epidemiology, biostatistics, health programs, screening tests, and public health management

3. Clinical Subjects

These subjects reflect real-world medical and surgical decision-making. Expect case-based and problem-solving MCQs.

Subject	Coverage Highlights
General Medicine	Internal medicine, cardiology, nephrology, pulmonology, infectious diseases
General Surgery	Abdominal surgery, trauma, burns, thyroid & breast, perioperative care
Orthopaedics	Bone healing, fractures, pediatric ortho, joint diseases, prosthetics
Ophthalmology	Visual pathways, refractive errors, cataract, glaucoma, emergencies
ENT	Ear/hearing disorders, sinus diseases, airway problems, head & neck tumours
Obstetrics & Gynaecology	Pregnancy care, labour, complications, gynaecological oncology
Dermatology	Infectious dermatoses, immunological diseases, leprosy, STDs
Radiology	Imaging modalities, basic interpretation, and radiation safety
Anaesthesia	Airway management, sedation, analgesia, perioperative monitoring
Paediatrics	Growth & development, nutrition, neonatology, infections, emergencies
Psychiatry	Mental health disorders, substance abuse, counselling, psychopharmacology

4. Syllabus for MDS Aspirants

Dental candidates are tested on basic medical sciences and specialised dental knowledge:

Subject	Focus Areas
Dental Anatomy	Tooth morphology, occlusion, and histology
Oral Pathology	Oral lesions, cysts, tumours, and diagnostic tests
Oral Medicine & Radiology	Oral diagnosis, imaging, systemic-oral links
Prosthodontics	Complete & partial dentures, implants, occlusal analysis
Conservative Dentistry	Restorations, endodontics, aesthetic dentistry
Pedodontics	Pediatric oral health, behavioural management
Periodontology	Gingival diseases, periodontal therapy, and maintenance

What are the Participating Institutes and Seat Availability?

The INI CET is a test conducted by AIIMS New Delhi. It is a standard entrance test for admission to postgraduate medical programs at several Institutes of National Importance (INIs) in India. Qualified candidates are eligible to undergo centralised counselling on seat allocation in these premier institutions.

Here are the participating institutes listed below, along with seat availability details:

1. All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Campuses

Includes the main and newly developed campuses across the country:

• AIIMS New Delhi
• AIIMS Bhopal
• AIIMS Bhubaneswar
• AIIMS Jodhpur
• AIIMS Nagpur
• AIIMS Patna
• AIIMS Raipur
• AIIMS Rishikesh
• AIIMS Bibinagar
• AIIMS Bathinda
• AIIMS Deoghar
• AIIMS Mangalagiri
• AIIMS Rae Bareli
• AIIMS Kalyani
• AIIMS Bilaspur
• AIIMS Gorakhpur
• AIIMS Guwahati
• AIIMS Rajkot

2. Other Participating National Institutes

Institute	Location	Special Notes
JIPMER	Puducherry	Offers MD/MS
NIMHANS	Bengaluru	Specialises in Mental Health & Neurosciences (MD Psychiatry & DM Neurology)
PGIMER	Chandigarh	Advanced specialities, DM/MCh major intake
SCTIMST	Thiruvananthapuram	Focus on Neurology, Neurosurgery, Cardiovascular sciences (DM/MCh)

Seats & Availability

• INI CET provides an average of about 800-900 seats per session, but the figure differs annually.
• An institute-wise and speciality-wise seat matrix is also published alongside the official prospectus or counselling notification.

How to Prepare for INI CET November 2026?

Systematic planning, disciplined execution, and repeated revision are needed to prepare for the INI CET. Daily MCQs, weekly mock tests, crisp revision notes, staying updated via AIIMS notifications, and maintaining good health habits are key to success.

The following are some of the successful study methods and strategies employed by candidates:

• Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly

Break down all subjects of MBBS into the Pre-Clinical, Para-Clinical, and Clinical. Identify the subjects with high-yielding points using past papers and credible notes. Keep a subject-wise checklist to track progress and avoid omitting important areas.

• Create a Realistic Study Plan

Establish a proper schedule that balances learning, revision, and MCQ practice. Aim for daily and weekly targets and alternate heavy and light subjects to prevent burnout. An organised schedule increases productivity and decreases stress.

• Practice MCQs Every Day

The practice of MCQs daily will reinforce concept recall and speed. Clinical, image-based, and multiple-correct MCQs Trusted INI CET question banks and concentrate. Interpret responses to identify trends and commonly used ideas.

• Attempt Mock Tests Regularly

Mock examinations enhance endurance, accuracy, and time. Test weekly, take full-length tests, and check your mistakes. Address weak points as soon as you can to avoid frequent mistakes.

• Maintain Crisp Revision Notes

Write brief, visual, and high-yield revision notes. Apply mnemonics, charts, mind maps, and diagrams. Also focus on high-scoring topics such as classes on pharmacology, micro-organisms, anatomy images, and clinical triads.

• Stay Updated with Official Notifications

Check the AIIMS exams website for accurate information on dates, admit cards, and instructions. Do not rely on rumours; check official announcements regularly.

• Take Care of Your Health

Healthy habits enhance concentration and memory. Always get enough sleep, water, food, and rest. Plan your travel, documents, and reporting time well in advance of exam day to eliminate stress.

FAQs about INI CET November 2026

1. How should I prepare for INI CET November 2026? 

Focus on thoroughly revising the MBBS syllabus, especially the clinical subjects. Practice previous years’ papers, take mock tests, and strengthen weak areas. Time management and accuracy are crucial due to the negative marking system.

2. Which institutes accept INI CET scores?

INI CET scores are accepted by AIIMS (New Delhi and other AIIMS), JIPMER Puducherry, PGIMER Chandigarh, and NIMHANS Bengaluru, among other Institutes of National Importance.

3. What is the difficulty level of INI CET? 

The exam is considered highly competitive, with questions often testing clinical application and integrated concepts across subjects.

4. How many attempts are allowed for INI CET? 

There is no restriction on the number of attempts, provided the eligibility criteria are met each time.

5. What is the marking scheme?

Each correct answer carries +1 mark, while incorrect answers incur a -1/3 negative mark. Unanswered questions receive zero marks.

Conclusion

The INI CET November 2026 test is an essential gateway through which candidates who want to pursue postgraduate medical training at the best national institutions in India pass. Always use approved updates provided by AIIMS and do not believe any unproven or sure-shot fake news.

Be mindful when making your preparation and application decisions by aligning your career objectives, strengths, and desired specialities with realistic expectations. For added guidance, DocTutorials can be your study partner for the INI CET exam.

We offer clinical Qbank, crisp video lectures, flashcards, exam-focused edition notes, mind maps, and subject-wise mini tests to ensure every aspirant is well-prepared.

Join DocTutorials today and explore our INI CET course to excel in your exam!