The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences has formally opened the application window for the Formative Assessment Test (FAT) 2026 for DNB post diploma courses. According to the official schedule, hospitals must complete their application process by May 24, 2026, while the deadline for trainees closes a day later on May 25, 2026.

The theory examination, which forms the first phase of the assessment, is scheduled to be conducted nationwide on June 10, 2026.

The application link has been activated on the official NBEMS portal, allowing eligible candidates to begin registrations immediately. Officials have indicated that assessment timelines for remaining courses will be notified separately.

Mandatory assessment framework tightened

NBEMS has made it clear that participation in the FAT during the training period is not optional.

The board has underlined that trainees who fail to undergo the prescribed formative assessments will not be considered eligible to appear in the final exit examination.

The FAT assessment structure has been divided into three compulsory components. The first stage is a theory-based examination, which will be conducted in a standardised format across designated centres nationwide.

The second stage shifts focus to workplace-based clinical assessment.

Candidates will be evaluated in real-time clinical environments at centres allotted by NBEMS, testing practical competence beyond theoretical knowledge.

The final stage involves a performance counselling session linked to the candidate's theory exam outcomes. This workshop-style evaluation will be conducted after the declaration of results, aimed at analysing performance gaps and strengthening clinical preparedness.

Candidates can use the link provided below to apply for the FAT DnB post diploma courses.

Link: https://cdn3.digialm.com//EForms/configuredHtml/1815/74835/Index.html

Source: The Times of India - May 05,2026