In a landmark decision, the state government has opened up its 412 super specialty seats across nearly 10 government colleges to all aspirants who have appeared for the NEET-SS examination.
This development is set to transform the landscape of medical education in Tamil Nadu, allowing more candidates to pursue advanced medical training in a range of specialties, thereby addressing significant gaps in the healthcare sector.
What is the NEET SS Exam?
The NEET SS (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Super Specialty courses) serves as a competitive examination for medical graduates seeking admission to super specialty courses in India. Designed for those who aspire to advance their expertise in specialized medical fields, the NEET SS exam evaluates candidates on various aspects of advanced medical knowledge, clinical practices, and current healthcare challenges. Successfully clearing this exam is a necessary step for any medical professional aiming to further their education in super specialty training.
Differences Between NEET PG and NEET SS
While both exams are integral to medical education in India, they target different stages in a doctor's career:
NEET PG: This exam is for graduates seeking admission to postgraduate medical courses, such as MD (Doctor of Medicine) or MS (Master of Surgery). It serves as the gateway for newly graduated doctors to enter specialty residency programs.
NEET SS: In contrast, NEET SS is specifically for those who have already completed their post-graduation. It allows experienced doctors to pursue super specialty training in fields like cardiology, neurology, or gastroenterology, among others.
Who is Eligible for NEET Super Specialty?
To be eligible for the NEET SS exam, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed their MBBS degree and have obtained a recognized postgraduate medical degree (MD/MS) in their respective fields.
Registration: Candidates should be registered with the Medical Council of India or State Medical Councils, validating their professional credentials.
Exam Qualification: Only those who appear for the NEET SS exam can compete for super specialty seats.
Expanding Opportunities
Traditionally, a substantial number of these super specialty seats were reserved for in-service candidates. However, the recent policy change shifts this dynamic, allowing any qualified candidate who has successfully taken the NEET-SS exam to compete for these coveted positions. This inclusive approach aims to draw in a wider pool of medical graduates, enriching the talent and expertise within the state's healthcare system.
In the initial 2025 NEET-SS round, just around 30% of the 215 in-service reserved seats were taken. To boost participation, the NBE lowered the qualifying percentiles—even permitting negative-scoring candidates to apply in the stray round. The Tamil Nadu Health Minister, Ma. Subramanian, has appealed that these seats must first be offered to in-service doctors in a dedicated second counseling round, honoring Supreme Court decisions. Meanwhile, experts note shifting specialty demands—cardiology has limited interest—prompting calls from state doctors’ associations to create nearly 500 new posts and enhance training in underrepresented fields like geriatrics and rheumatology.
(Rh/Dr. Divina Johncy Rosario/MSM/SE)