Diplomat of National Board Centralized Entrance Test
The Diplomat of National Board Centralized Entrance Test (DNB CET) is a national-level entrance exam for postgraduate medical courses. It is a computer-based test with multiple-choice questions conducted in a single session lasting 3 hours. Candidates who have completed or are pursuing a graduate Diploma from an Indian University recognized by the Medical Council of India can apply.
Overview expand_more
Eligibility expand_more
How to apply expand_more
DNB PDCET 2024 Application Form
The DNB PDCET 2024 application form is likely to be released in the 1st week of March 2024. Registration will be done through the official website natboard.edu.in.
Candidates who have passed the final examination for a Post Graduate Diploma from an Indian University can apply. Those who are about to take their final exam for a Post Graduate Diploma are also eligible to apply.
The DNB PDCET 2024 registration link will be updated soon.
DNB PDCET 2024 Application Fee
The DNB PDCET 2024 registration fee is Rs. 5000, the same as the previous year. The application fee, once submitted, cannot be withdrawn.
- Payment must be made online.
- Credit Card, Debit Card, and other online payment methods are accepted.
- Offline payment is not accepted.
DNB PDCET 2024 Form Correction
NBEMS will open the DNB PDCET 2024 form correction window for a certain period. Candidates can make changes to their application form during this time.
The following fields cannot be changed in the correction window:
- Name
- Test City
- Nationality
- Mobile Number
- Email ID
DNB PDCET 2024 Registration: Documents Required
Scanned copies of certificates are not required during DNB PDCET 2024 registration. Candidates only need to upload scanned copies of passport size photographs, signatures, and thumb impressions.
DNB CET 2024 Exam Dates
The tentative dates for DNB CET 2024 are given below.
| Events | Dates (Tentative) |
|---|---|
| Release of online application form | 1st week of March 2024 |
| Last date of online registration | Last week of March 2024 |
| DNB CET application form correction window | 1st week of April |
| DNB CET admit card available | 1st week of May 2024 |
| DNB CET exam date 2024 | May 19, 2024 (Out) |
| Declaration of DNB CET 2024 result date | Second week of May 2024 |
DNB CET 2024 Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must fulfil the DNB CET 2024 Eligibility Criteria to appear for the exam. Applicants must have completed their MBBS 2024 degree.
Candidates must also have obtained registration from the Medical Council of India after completing their compulsory rotating internship. Candidates already pursuing a DNB CET course are not eligible to appear until they have completed the entire duration of the prescribed course or have been discharged from the course.
How to Apply for DNB CET 2024
Candidates must have a valid and unique email address before beginning the registration process. The estimated time to complete the DNB CET 2024 Online Registration is 15 minutes.
The step-wise online registration process must be followed to successfully register for DNB CET 2024.
How to Register for DNB CET 2024
The registration process for DNB CET 2024 is completed online. The official website for registration is www.cet.natboard.edu.in.
Follow these steps to begin the registration:
- Visit the official website www.cet.natboard.edu.in.
- Click on the link 'Register for DNB-CET'.
- Read all instructions given under the link 'I am ready to register'.
- Retype the captcha characters in the provided box.
- Click on "Begin My Registration" after entering the captcha.
- You will be taken to the "Create a Profile" section.
Creating a Profile
A new page opens with the heading "Create a Profile". Enter your name exactly as it appears in the MBBS degree or Provisional Pass Certificate of MBBS.
Provide the following details:
- Gender
- Email address
- Name of father
- Name of mother
The DNB CET 2024 Admit Card is sent to the email id provided here. Create login details by choosing a personal username, password, and a secret reminder question.
Provide the primary telephone number, secondary telephone number, and complete postal address. Click on 'Save and Continue' to move to the next section.
Note: A profile once created and saved cannot be changed. The name and username remain the same. The username and password are used to log into the profile.
Applying for DNB CET 2024
After creating the profile, you are redirected to the exam selection screen. Select DNB CET 2024 (Diplomate of National Board Centralized Entrance Test) from the drop-down menu and click on Save and Continue.
Follow these steps to complete the application:
- Provide important information related to the exam, such as dates, fees, and program information, and click on Continue.
- Fill in personal details such as Nationality, Category as per the central list, and Date of Birth, then click on 'save and continue'.
- Fill in the educational background details in the space provided.
- Choose "I Agree" or "I Disagree" to the declaration statement.
- Click on 'save and continue'.
Note: After clicking save and continue, the server shows any errors in the DNB CET 2024 Online Application Form. If a mandatory field is left empty or filled incorrectly, that field gets highlighted in red. Correct all highlighted fields and click on 'save and continue' again.
Scheduling the DNB CET 2024 Exam
In this section, choose the preferred location for taking the exam. The exam is conducted in a single session.
- Select the preferred Test City location.
- The exam timing is from 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM.
- Click on Save and Finish after selection.
Application Fee Payment
The application fee for DNB CET 2024 is INR 4500. The fee can only be paid online using credit/debit cards issued by banks in India or through net banking.
Follow these steps to make the payment:
- Select the desired payment option from the tabs on the Make Payment Screen.
- Fill in all the required information.
- Click on the Make Payment button.
- After successful payment, the profile gets registered.
- The DNB CET 2024 Admit Card is received within 24 hours on the registered email address.
Note: The transaction must be completed within 30 minutes to reserve the selected seat and center. If not completed in time, the selected date and center get released, and the process must be started again.
Confirmation Page
After entering all information correctly, you are redirected to the "Welcome Back" page. Check all the information carefully.
- If any information is incorrect, correct it immediately.
- Use the "Edit Profile" or "Edit Application" buttons to make changes.
- To view the DNB CET 2024 Online Application, click on the arrow against "DNB CET Application".
- To schedule another exam, click on "Schedule another Exam".
- Take a printout of the DNB CET 2024 Hall Ticket by logging in with the username and password.
Re-entering the Registration System
To re-enter the DNB CET 2024 Registration System, follow these points:
- If registration and scheduling have already begun but need to be finished, or if the application needs editing, go to the official website.
- Enter the username and password to log in.
- Once the registration process is complete, no cancellation or changes to the testing schedule can be made.
- No changes are allowed under any circumstances after that point.
How to Retrieve Username or Password
If a candidate forgets the username or password for the DNB CET 2024 Online Application, the credentials can be recovered online. The process is done through the official DNB CET 2024 website.
Follow these steps to retrieve the username:
- Open the official DNB CET 2024 web portal and click on the forgot username or password option.
- Select the option to retrieve the username.
- Enter the email id that was used while filling the DNB CET 2024 Application Form.
- Type the captcha code carefully.
- Click the Email Username button.
- Provide the answer to the secret reminder question set during profile creation.
- The username is then sent to the registered email address.
Follow these steps to retrieve the password:
- Enter the username created during the DNB CET 2024 Online Application and the captcha.
- Click the Email Password button.
- Enter the answer to the secret question.
- Click the Email Password button again.
- The password is emailed to the registered email address.
Instructions for Registration
Every candidate must register online to appear for DNB CET. Certain instructions must be followed during the DNB CET 2024 Online Registration.
- Check the official NBE website for the DNB CET 2024 Online Registration schedule.
- Read the registration guide before starting the online registration process. A candidate cannot re-schedule after completing registration.
- Complete the Online Registration for DNB CET 2024 within the prescribed time period.
- Take a printout of the acknowledgement of submission after the online application is completed successfully.
- Fill all fields marked with a * sign in the DNB CET 2024 Online Application form. These fields are mandatory.
- Providing false or fabricated information at any stage is not accepted. The candidate may be debarred from future examinations.
- If a candidate is found ineligible after completing the DNB CET 2024 Registration Process, the DNB CET 2024 Admit Card gets cancelled.
Help and Support During Registration
For any query during the registration process, candidates should use the information links on the page. These links appear in blue text as hyperlinks.
Clicking on an information link opens a pop-up window with related details. Candidates can read the information and follow the instructions given in the pop-up to resolve their issue.
Exam pattern expand_more
DNB PDCET 2024 Exam Pattern
The DNB PDCET 2024 exam pattern is released by NBEMS. DNB PDCET 2024 is an online computer-based test. The exam is held in English only.
The exam is conducted on a single day for a single session. The timing of DNB PDCET 2024 is 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Extra time is given to read the instructions before the exam begins.
Key Details of DNB PDCET 2024
| Particular | Detail |
|---|---|
| Mode of exam | Online (Computer Based Test) |
| Duration of exam | 120 minutes |
| Number of questions | 120 MCQ questions |
| Total marks | 480 marks |
| Marking scheme | 4 marks for correct answer, -1 for wrong answer |
| Language of exam | English |
| Periodicity | Held twice a year |
Marking Scheme
Each correct answer carries 4 marks. One mark is deducted for each wrong answer. No marks are given for unattempted questions.
DNB PDCET 2024 Exam Highlights
DNB PDCET 2024 is a mandatory examination for enrollment to DNB broad Specialties and Post MBBS Direct 6 year super specialty courses. The exam is held twice every year.
The exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions. Each question has four options, out of which only one is correct.
DNB PDCET 2024 Syllabus
There are a total of 120 questions in the online exam. Candidates should understand the in-depth syllabus before registering for the exam.
Knowing the exact topics included in the syllabus is important. This helps candidates avoid missing out on valuable questions in the actual exam.
Common Questions About DNB PDCET 2024
How much time is given to complete the question paper?
Candidates get 120 minutes to complete the DNB PDCET 2024 question paper. The paper contains multiple-choice questions, and each question has four options.
Is DNB PDCET held in pen and paper mode?
No, DNB PDCET is a computer-based test held online. The DNB PDCET 2024 exam date has been released on May 19, 2024.
Will marks be given for answers marked for review?
Yes, marks are given for correct answers even if they are marked for review. Correct answers under review get 4 marks. Unattempted questions receive no marks.
DNB PDCET 2024 Exam Pattern
The DNB PDCET 2024 is a Computer-Based Test (CBT). It is not an internet-based test, and no internet connection is needed to conduct it.
The test consists of 200 multiple-choice questions. Each question has four responses, and only one is correct. The total marks for the exam are 800.
| Section | Number of Questions | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry | 25 | 100 |
| Pathology, Dermatology and Pharmacology | 25 | 100 |
| General Medicine, Microbiology, Psychiatry Radiotherapy | 35 | 140 |
| General Surgery, Anaesthesia, Orthopedics and Radiodiagnosis | 35 | 140 |
| Paediatrics | 15 | 60 |
| ENT and Opthalmology | 20 | 80 |
| Obstetrics and Gynaecology | 25 | 100 |
| Community Medicine | 20 | 80 |
| Total | 200 | 800 |
DNB PDCET 2024 Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a new testing format for DNB PDCET 2024?
Yes. The test was previously pen and paper based. It is now a Computer-Based Test.
Candidates will read the questions on a screen and mark their responses there. They will not read questions on paper.
How is the computer-based test different from the paper and pen test?
The only difference is in how questions are viewed and how responses are marked.
What does a computer-based test look like?
A demo test will be available on the NBE website at natboard.edu.in. It will help candidates understand the look and functionality of the test.
Can I take the test from any computer?
No. A candidate must take the test on a pre-assigned test station at an allocated testing venue. The venue is chosen during the DNB PDCET 2024 registration process.
What type of questions will be asked?
The questions will be multiple-choice. Each question will have four responses, out of which only one will be correct.
What is the syllabus of the test?
The syllabus covers all subjects taught during MBBS courses. This includes pre-clinical, para-clinical and clinical subjects.
What is the 15-minute tutorial?
The tutorial provides a series of screens to orient candidates to the computer-based DNB PDCET. Candidates can try features like navigating through questions, reviewing them, and selecting or deselecting them.
At the end of the tutorial, candidates must accept a non-disclosure agreement before beginning the test. The Demo Test on the official website offers a similar experience.
What is the Demo Test?
The Demo Test is a sample computer-based test. It is intended to familiarize candidates with the navigation and functionality of the DNB PDCET 2024.
Syllabus expand_more
- Section A: Anatomy, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Pathology
- Section B: Microbiology, Physiology, Community Medicine
Cut-offs expand_more
| Year | Cutoff Score |
|---|---|
| 2025 | 50% |
| 2024 | 48% |
Results expand_more
DNB PDCET Result 2026: Direct Answer
The DNB PDCET Result 2026 has been declared by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS). Individual scorecards are available for download from May 22, 2026, on the official portal natboard.edu.in.
NBEMS has awarded full marks for 9 questions found to be ambiguous in the April 12 exam. Scores have been revised upward for all candidates who attempted those questions.
Key Summary
- DNB PDCET 2026 result is out — scorecards available for download from May 22, 2026 at natboard.edu.in.
- NBEMS awarded full marks for 9 ambiguous questions; revised scores are reflected in the downloadable scorecard.
- Exam was held on April 12, 2026 — 120 MCQs, 4 marks per correct answer, −1 for each wrong answer, 2 hours duration.
- 1,073 Post Diploma DNB seats in 597 hospitals available for 2026; no minimum qualifying marks — merit decides admissions.
- Centralised counselling schedule for DNB PDCET 2026 seat allotment will be published on natboard.edu.in.
What is DNB PDCET Result 2026?
The DNB PDCET (Post Diploma Centralized Entrance Test) is a national-level entrance exam conducted annually by NBEMS. It gives doctors who have completed a recognised Post Diploma qualification — such as D.Ortho, DCH, DGO, D.Oph, D.Oto, or DNB Primary — a path to enrol in Post Diploma Broad Specialty DNB (Secondary) courses at NBEMS-accredited hospitals across India.
The result determines the merit rank within the chosen specialty. NBEMS publishes a separate merit list for each specialty. Candidates move through centralised counselling based on that rank and pick from available hospital seats. There is no overall pass or fail — every candidate gets a rank, and the rank decides whether a seat is within reach.
DNB PDCET Result 2026: Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Exam date | April 12, 2026 |
| Result declaration | May 14, 2026 |
| Scorecard download starts | May 22, 2026 |
The exam was held as a 120-question Computer-Based Test (CBT) across multiple Post Diploma DNB specialties. Counselling dates for 2026 seat allotment will be announced on the official NBEMS portal after the result process is complete.
How to Check DNB PDCET Result 2026
Download the DNB PDCET 2026 scorecard by logging in with the application number and date of birth. The official portal is natboard.edu.in.
The scorecard shows the roll number, applied specialty, course-specific score (out of 480), and merit position.
DNB PDCET 2026 Scorecard: Details Mentioned
- Roll number
- Applied specialty
- Course-specific score (out of 480)
- Merit position
DNB PDCET 2026: Cutoff and Merit List
There are no minimum qualifying marks for DNB PDCET. Admissions to each Post Diploma DNB specialty are filled purely on merit rank.
NBEMS prepares a specialty-specific merit list for each Post Diploma DNB course. Centralised counselling and seat allotment are conducted based on these merit positions.
DNB PDCET 2026: What After Result?
A total of 1,073 Post Diploma DNB seats across 597 NBEMS-accredited hospitals are available for 2026 admissions. Seats are filled in order of rank for each specialty.
Centralised counselling and seat allotment are conducted based on merit positions. The counselling schedule will be published on natboard.edu.in.
DNB PDCET Result Previous Year Statistics
Previous year statistics for DNB PDCET results are not provided in the source material.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions about the DNB PDCET 2026 result are not covered in the source material.
DNB PDCET 2026 Result Overview
The DNB PDCET 2026 result has been declared. The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) released the result on May 14, 2026.
Individual scorecards are available for download from May 22, 2026. The official website for all updates is natboard.edu.in.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | DNB PDCET 2026 (Post Diploma Centralized Entrance Test) |
| Full Form | Diplomate of National Board — Post Diploma Centralized Entrance Test |
| Conducting Body | National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) |
| Purpose | Admission to Post Diploma Broad Specialty DNB (Secondary) courses |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Total Questions | 120 MCQs |
| Total Marks | 480 (4 marks per correct answer) |
| Negative Marking | −1 mark per incorrect answer |
| Exam Duration | 120 minutes (2 hours) |
| Qualifying Marks | None — selection is purely merit-based per specialty |
| Result Status (2026) | Declared — May 14, 2026 |
| Individual Scorecard | Available from May 22, 2026 |
| Total Seats (2026) | 1,073 seats across 597 accredited hospitals |
| Official Website | natboard.edu.in |
Important Dates for DNB PDCET 2026
The scorecard download window is open. Counselling dates have not been published yet.
Check natboard.edu.in regularly for the counselling schedule and registration link.
| Event | Date (2026) |
|---|---|
| DNB PDCET 2026 Application Form Closes | March 8, 2026 |
| DNB PDCET 2026 Admit Card Release | April 8, 2026 |
| DNB PDCET 2026 Exam Date | April 12, 2026 |
| DNB PDCET Result 2026 Declared | May 14, 2026 |
| Individual Scorecard Download Opens | May 22, 2026 |
| NBEMS Award of Full Marks (9 Questions) | Notified alongside scorecard release (May 2026) |
| Centralised Counselling Registration | To be notified on natboard.edu.in |
| Round 1 Seat Allotment | To be notified |
DNB PDCET 2026 Result FAQs
Has the DNB PDCET 2026 result been declared?
Yes. NBEMS declared the DNB PDCET 2026 result on May 14, 2026. Individual scorecards became available for download from May 22, 2026 on natboard.edu.in.
Why did NBEMS award full marks for 9 questions in DNB PDCET 2026?
After expert review, NBEMS identified 9 questions in DNB PDCET 2026 as ambiguous. These questions had more than one defensible answer or contained errors in framing.
Following standard NBEMS practice, full marks (4 marks each) were awarded to all candidates who attempted those questions. Scores and merit positions were revised accordingly before scorecards were released.
DNB PDCET Result Previous Year Statistics
DNB PDCET is held once a year by NBEMS. The exam calendar has shifted earlier in recent cycles — from July in 2024 to March–April in 2025–26.
The number of seats has stayed in the range of roughly 1,000–1,200 across years, spread over hundreds of accredited hospitals.
| Year | Exam Date | Result / Merit List Date | Approx. Seats Available | Counselling Rounds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | April 12, 2026 | May 14, 2026 | 1,073 (597 hospitals) | To be announced |
| 2025 | March 25, 2025 | April 22, 2025 | ~1,000–1,200 | Multiple rounds |
| 2024 | July 21, 2024 | August 2024 | ~1,000–1,200 | Multiple rounds |
| 2023 | Mid-2023 | Mid-2023 | ~900–1,100 | Multiple rounds |
| 2022 | Mid-2022 | Mid-2022 | ~900–1,100 | Multiple rounds |
The trend shows a consistent exam-to-result gap of about 28–35 days across recent years. In 2026, the gap was 32 days (April 12 exam to May 14 result). Seat count has grown modestly year-on-year as more hospitals gain NBEMS accreditation.
The most competitive specialties in DNB PDCET have historically been Anaesthesiology, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Orthopaedics, Paediatrics, and Ophthalmology. Candidates in high-demand specialties typically need to rank in the top tier of their specialty merit list to secure a seat at a preferred hospital.
Specialty-Wise Competition and Seat Trends
The table below shows the competition level and seat trends for different DNB PDCET specialties. Competition is based on the number of applicants and demand for seats.
| Specialty | Competition Level | Seats Trend |
|---|---|---|
| Anaesthesiology | High | Largest seat share historically |
| Obstetrics & Gynaecology | High | Consistently high demand |
| Orthopaedics | High | Growing seat count |
| Paediatrics | Moderate–High | Steady |
| Ophthalmology | Moderate–High | Steady |
| ENT (Otorhinolaryngology) | Moderate | Steady |
| Respiratory Medicine | Moderate | Slowly growing |
| Dermatology | Moderate | Steady |
How to Check DNB PDCET Result 2026
The DNB PDCET 2026 result and individual scorecard are available on the official NBEMS portal. Follow these steps to download your scorecard.
- Go to the official NBEMS website: natboard.edu.in/viewnbeexam?exam=pdcet
- Click on the link for DNB PDCET 2026 Result / Scorecard on the exam page.
- Enter your Application Sequence Number and Date of Birth to log in.
- Your scorecard will appear on screen showing your marks, course-specific score, and merit position.
- Click Download or Print to save the scorecard as a PDF for your records.
If you cannot log in, double-check that you are entering your application number exactly as registered. Contact the NBEMS helpdesk if the portal shows an error after multiple attempts.
Alternative: Check the Published Merit List PDF
NBEMS also publishes the specialty-wise merit list as a downloadable PDF on the same exam page. You can search for your roll number or name in the PDF to confirm your merit position even before you download your individual scorecard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques. What login credentials do I need to download the DNB PDCET 2026 scorecard?
Ans. You need your Application Sequence Number and Date of Birth to access the scorecard on natboard.edu.in. These are the same credentials you used during the application process.
Ques. Is the DNB PDCET 2026 merit list available as a PDF?
Ans. Yes. NBEMS publishes specialty-wise merit lists as downloadable PDF files on the official exam page at natboard.edu.in. You can download the relevant specialty’s PDF and check your roll number and merit position.
DNB PDCET 2026 Scorecard: Details Mentioned
The DNB PDCET 2026 scorecard is the official document that records your performance in the exam. Keep a printed and digital copy — you will need it during the counselling process and at the time of joining an allotted hospital.
| Detail on Scorecard | Description |
|---|---|
| Candidate’s Name | As registered in the application form |
| Application Sequence Number | Your unique NBEMS application ID |
| Roll Number | Assigned for the exam |
| Post Diploma DNB Specialty | The specialty you applied for |
| Course-Specific Score | Your marks out of 480 (revised to include full marks for 9 ambiguous questions) |
| Course-Specific Merit Position | Your rank among all candidates who applied for the same specialty |
| Date of the Exam | April 12, 2026 |
If you find any discrepancy in your name, roll number, or other details, report it to NBEMS immediately through the official portal. Do not wait until the counselling stage to raise a correction request.
DNB PDCET 2026: Cutoff and Merit List
DNB PDCET has no fixed minimum qualifying marks. NBEMS does not declare a pass percentage or a cutoff score. Instead, it ranks every candidate in each specialty separately.
The effective cutoff is the score of the last candidate who gets a seat in counselling — and that changes every year based on the number of candidates, the seats available, and how candidates fill their choices. If you have a lower merit rank in a competitive specialty, you may still get a seat at a hospital that is less preferred by higher-ranked candidates. Strategically listing hospital choices during counselling can significantly improve your chances.
DNB PDCET 2026: Expected Cutoff by Specialty
NBEMS does not publish an official closing-rank table before counselling. The actual last-admitted rank for each specialty and hospital becomes clear only after all counselling rounds are complete.
Based on previous years, candidates ranked within the top 50–60% of their specialty’s merit list generally have a reasonable chance of getting a seat if they list hospitals broadly.
| Specialty | Approx. Seats (2026) | Nature of Competition |
|---|---|---|
| Anaesthesiology | Highest share among specialties | High — more candidates per seat |
| Obstetrics & Gynaecology | Significant share | High |
| Orthopaedics | Significant share | High |
| Paediatrics | Moderate | Moderate–High |
| Ophthalmology | Moderate | Moderate–High |
| ENT | Moderate | Moderate |
| Respiratory Medicine | Moderate | Moderate |
| Dermatology | Moderate | Moderate |
The NBEMS award of full marks for 9 ambiguous questions in DNB PDCET 2026 has uniformly lifted scores for candidates who attempted those questions. This means the merit list for 2026 reflects revised, final scores — the position on the scorecard already accounts for this adjustment.
DNB PDCET 2026: What After Result?
Once the scorecard is downloaded and the merit position is noted, the next step is the centralised counselling process run by NBEMS. Here is what to expect.
Step 1 — Counselling Registration
NBEMS will publish a counselling registration link on natboard.edu.in. Candidates have to register online, pay the counselling fee, and upload the required documents within the notified window.
Step 2 — Choice Filling and Locking
A window is given to select and rank hospital–specialty combinations from the available seat matrix. Choices must be locked before the deadline — changes are not allowed after locking.
Step 3 — Round 1 Seat Allotment
NBEMS allots seats based on merit rank and locked choices. The allotment letter is issued online. If a seat is allotted, it must be accepted and the candidate must report to the hospital within the joining window.
Step 4 — Subsequent Rounds
If seats remain vacant after Round 1, NBEMS conducts additional rounds. Candidates who did not get a seat or did not accept an allotment in the previous round can participate in subsequent rounds.
Documents Required for Counselling
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| DNB PDCET 2026 Scorecard | Proof of result and merit position |
| Post Diploma Certificate (D.Ortho / DCH / DGO etc.) | Proof of eligibility for Post Diploma DNB |
| MBBS Certificate and Mark Sheets | Academic qualification proof |
| MCI / NMC Registration Certificate | Statutory medical registration |
| Internship Completion Certificate | Proof of completed internship |
| Identity Proof (Aadhaar / Passport) | Identity verification at counselling |
| Category Certificate (if applicable) | SC / ST / OBC / PwD claim verification |
Keep all documents in both original and self-attested photocopy form. NBEMS verifies documents at the time of joining — discrepancies can result in cancellation of allotment.
DNB PDCET 2026 Counselling: Common Questions
When will DNB PDCET 2026 counselling start?
NBEMS has not yet announced the DNB PDCET 2026 counselling schedule as of May 27, 2026. Check natboard.edu.in for the official counselling notification, which is typically published a few weeks after the result.
Is seat allotment in DNB PDCET 2026 final and binding?
Yes. Once an allotment is accepted and the joining window passes, the allotment is binding. NBEMS does not allow a change of hospital or specialty after the allotment is confirmed. If the candidate does not join within the stipulated window, the seat may be forfeited.
FAQs
What is DNB PDCET 2026?
DNB PDCET (Post Diploma Centralized Entrance Test) 2026 is a national-level entrance exam conducted by NBEMS for doctors who hold a recognised Post Diploma qualification and want admission to Post Diploma Broad Specialty DNB (Secondary) courses at NBEMS-accredited hospitals across India.
When was the DNB PDCET 2026 result declared?
The DNB PDCET 2026 result was declared on May 14, 2026. Individual scorecards became available for download from May 22, 2026 on natboard.edu.in.
How do I download my DNB PDCET 2026 scorecard?
Go to natboard.edu.in and click the DNB PDCET 2026 Result / Scorecard link. Log in with the Application Sequence Number and Date of Birth. The scorecard will appear on screen — download or print it as a PDF.
DNB PDCET 2026 Qualifying Marks
DNB PDCET has no minimum qualifying marks. Every candidate who appears gets a merit rank in their specialty.
Admissions are purely merit-based. Seats are filled in rank order during centralised counselling.
DNB PDCET 2026 Seat Availability
A total of 1,073 Post Diploma DNB seats across 597 NBEMS-accredited hospitals are available for the 2026 admission cycle.
Seats are split across specialties such as Anaesthesiology, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Orthopaedics, Paediatrics, Ophthalmology, ENT, and others.
Effect of NBEMS Awarding Full Marks for 9 Questions
NBEMS identified 9 questions in DNB PDCET 2026 as ambiguous. All candidates who attempted those questions were awarded full marks (4 marks each), adding up to a maximum of 36 additional marks.
Scores and merit positions in the released scorecard already reflect this revision.
DNB PDCET 2026 Exam Pattern
DNB PDCET 2026 had 120 MCQs, each carrying 4 marks for a correct answer and a −1 mark deduction for an incorrect answer. The total marks are 480.
The exam duration is 120 minutes (2 hours) and was conducted as a Computer-Based Test (CBT) on April 12, 2026.
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of questions | 120 MCQs |
| Marks per correct answer | 4 marks |
| Negative marking | −1 mark |
| Total marks | 480 |
| Duration | 120 minutes (2 hours) |
| Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Exam date | April 12, 2026 |
Chances of Getting a Seat with a Low Merit Rank
It depends on the specialty and the number of seats. If a candidate ranks lower in a competitive specialty, they may still get a seat at hospitals that higher-ranked candidates pass over.
During counselling, candidates should list as many hospital choices as possible to improve their chances. Subsequent rounds also give additional opportunities if seats remain unfilled after Round 1.
Documents Required for DNB PDCET 2026 Counselling
Candidates typically need the following documents for counselling:
- DNB PDCET 2026 scorecard
- MBBS certificate and mark sheets
- Post Diploma certificate (D.Ortho / DCH / DGO / D.Oph or equivalent)
- NMC registration certificate
- Internship completion certificate
- Identity proof (Aadhaar / Passport)
- Category certificate if applicable
Keep originals and self-attested photocopies of all documents ready before the counselling window opens.
Where to Check the DNB PDCET 2026 Seat Matrix
The indicative seat matrix for DNB PDCET 2026 counselling will be published by NBEMS on natboard.edu.in along with the counselling notification.
It lists hospital names, locations, and available seats by specialty so candidates can plan their choices before the choice-filling window opens.
DNB PDCET 2026 Result Declared
The DNB PDCET 2026 result was declared on May 14, 2026. Individual scorecards became available for download from May 22, 2026 on natboard.edu.in.
NBEMS conducted the DNB PDCET (Post Diploma Centralized Entrance Test) 2026. It is a national-level entrance exam for doctors holding a recognised Post Diploma qualification seeking admission to Post Diploma Broad Specialty DNB (Secondary) courses at NBEMS-accredited hospitals across India.
Full Marks for 9 Questions
NBEMS awarded full marks for 9 questions in DNB PDCET 2026 after expert review. These questions were identified as ambiguous, meaning they had more than one defensible answer or contained errors in framing.
All candidates who attempted those questions received full marks (4 marks each), adding up to a maximum of 36 additional marks. Scores and merit positions were revised accordingly before scorecards were released.
Scorecard Download
Go to natboard.edu.in and click the DNB PDCET 2026 Result / Scorecard link. Log in with your Application Sequence Number and Date of Birth.
Your scorecard will appear on screen. Download or print it as a PDF.
Merit List
NBEMS publishes specialty-wise merit lists as downloadable PDF files on the official exam page at natboard.edu.in. You can download the relevant specialty's PDF and check your roll number and merit position.
Qualifying Marks
DNB PDCET has no minimum qualifying marks. Every candidate who appears gets a merit rank in their specialty.
Admissions are purely merit-based. Seats are filled in rank order during centralised counselling.
Seat Availability
A total of 1,073 Post Diploma DNB seats across 597 NBEMS-accredited hospitals are available for the 2026 admission cycle. Seats are split across specialties such as Anaesthesiology, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Orthopaedics, Paediatrics, Ophthalmology, ENT, and others.
Exam Pattern
DNB PDCET 2026 had 120 MCQs, each carrying 4 marks for a correct answer and a 1 mark deduction for an incorrect answer. The total marks are 480.
The exam duration is 120 minutes (2 hours). It was conducted as a Computer-Based Test (CBT) on April 12, 2026.
Counselling Schedule
NBEMS has not yet announced the DNB PDCET 2026 counselling schedule as of May 27, 2026. Check natboard.edu.in for the official counselling notification, which is typically published a few weeks after the result.
Seat Allotment Rules
Once you accept an allotment and the joining window passes, the allotment is binding. NBEMS does not allow a change of hospital or specialty after the allotment is confirmed.
If you do not join within the stipulated window, you may forfeit your seat.
Chances with Low Merit Rank
It depends on your specialty and the number of seats. If you rank lower in a competitive specialty, you may still get a seat at hospitals that higher-ranked candidates pass over.
During counselling, list as many hospital choices as possible to improve your chances. Subsequent rounds also give additional opportunities if seats remain unfilled after Round 1.
Documents for Counselling
You will typically need the following documents for DNB PDCET 2026 counselling:
- DNB PDCET 2026 scorecard
- MBBS certificate and mark sheets
- Post Diploma certificate (D.Ortho / DCH / DGO / D.Oph or equivalent)
- NMC registration certificate
- Internship completion certificate
- Identity proof (Aadhaar / Passport)
- Category certificate if applicable
Keep originals and self-attested photocopies of all documents ready before the counselling window opens.
Seat Matrix
The indicative seat matrix for DNB PDCET 2026 counselling will be published by NBEMS on the official website. Check natboard.edu.in for updates.
About the DNB CET
The Diplomate of National Board Centralized Entrance Test (DNB CET) is a national-level entrance examination. It is conducted for admission to the Diplomate of National Board (DNB) postgraduate courses.
The exam is held by the National Board of Examinations (NBE). The official website for the exam is natboard.edu.in.
What is the DNB CET?
DNB CET is the entrance test for admission to DNB postgraduate medical courses. These courses are equivalent to MD/MS programs.
The exam is conducted annually. It is a computer-based test.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must have an MBBS degree from a recognized medical college. The degree must be recognized by the Medical Council of India (MCI).
Candidates must have completed their compulsory rotating internship. The internship must be completed by the date specified in the official notification.
There is no upper age limit for the exam. Candidates must be registered with the MCI or the State Medical Council.
Exam Pattern
The DNB CET is a single paper exam. The paper contains multiple-choice questions.
The exam is conducted in English. The duration of the exam is three hours.
The question paper covers subjects taught in the MBBS curriculum. The subjects include Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Forensic Medicine, Social and Preventive Medicine, Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and other clinical subjects.
Application Fee
The application fee for the DNB CET is set by the NBE. The fee is non-refundable.
Candidates can pay the fee online. Payment can be made through net banking, credit card, or debit card.
The fee structure is as follows:
- General category: As per the official notification
- Other Backward Class (OBC): As per the official notification
- Scheduled Caste (SC): As per the official notification
- Scheduled Tribe (ST): As per the official notification
- Persons with Disability (PwD): As per the official notification
Important Dates
The exam dates are announced on the official website. Candidates must check the website regularly for updates.
The typical schedule includes the following stages:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Release of notification | As per official announcement |
| Start of online application | As per official announcement |
| Last date to apply | As per official announcement |
| Admit card release | As per official announcement |
| Exam date | As per official announcement |
| Result declaration | As per official announcement |
How to Apply
Candidates must apply online through the official website. The application process is completely online.
The steps to apply are as follows:
- Visit the official website natboard.edu.in.
- Register with a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill in the application form with personal and academic details.
- Upload scanned copies of required documents.
- Pay the application fee online.
- Submit the application form.
- Take a printout of the confirmation page for future reference.
Counselling Process
Counselling is conducted after the declaration of results. The counselling process is centralized.
The counselling notification is released on the official website. It contains details about the counselling schedule and procedure.
The notification lists hospital names, locations, and available seats by specialty. Candidates can plan their choices before the choice-filling window opens.
Candidates must register for counselling separately. They must fill in their choice of courses and hospitals.
Seat allocation is done based on the candidate's rank and preference. Candidates must report to the allotted hospital for document verification and admission.
Result and Merit List
The result is declared on the official website. Candidates can check their results using their roll number and date of birth.
A merit list is prepared based on the candidate's performance in the exam. The merit list determines the candidate's rank.
The rank is used for the counselling process. A higher rank gives a better chance of getting a preferred course and hospital.
Important Documents
Candidates must keep certain documents ready for the exam and counselling. The documents are required for verification.
The list of documents includes:
- MBBS degree certificate
- Internship completion certificate
- MCI or State Medical Council registration certificate
- Photo ID proof
- Admit card
- Category certificate, if applicable
- PwD certificate, if applicable
Official Website
The official website for DNB CET is natboard.edu.in. All notifications, application forms, and results are published on this website.
Candidates should rely only on the official website for accurate information. They should not trust unofficial sources for exam details.