Medical Education: Supreme Court Grants Eligibility for NEET to Open School Students

The Supreme Court emphasized that all open schools recognized by CBSE and State Education Boards will now be acknowledged by the National Medical Council (NMC) for NEET purposes

In a groundbreaking decision with far-reaching implications, the Supreme Court of India has ruled that students from open schools recognized by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and State Boards are now eligible to take the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). This landmark verdict, addressing longstanding restrictions, signals a significant overhaul of eligibility criteria, widening the scope for aspirants aspiring for a career in medicine.

The Supreme Court emphasized that all open schools recognized by CBSE and State Education Boards will now be acknowledged by the National Medical Council (NMC) for NEET purposes. Consequently, candidates who have completed their 10+2 education from open schools will now be eligible to appear for the examination. Notably, a previous provision under Regulation 4(2)(a) of the Medical Council of India Regulations on Graduate Medical Education, 1997, had barred such candidates from participating in the exams.

In 2018, the Delhi High Court had struck down this provision, deeming it unconstitutional. The High Court held that the assumption made by the medical council, suggesting inferiority among students who do not attend regular schools due to financial or social reasons, was unconstitutional and violated both Article 14 and the right to opportunity to acquire a professional degree.

Responding to these developments, the Supreme Court disposed of the appeal, acknowledging the recognition of open schools by CBSE and State Education Boards for NEET purposes.

Victory for Open School Students

This historic decision marks a significant victory for open school students, who had been previously excluded from NEET eligibility. The ruling overturns barriers that hindered their academic and professional aspirations, validating the credibility of open schooling education.

Revised NEET 2024 Eligibility Criteria

Moreover, in alignment with this inclusive approach, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has revised its Graduate Medical Education Regulations, 2023. The revised NEET eligibility criteria for 2024 eliminates the upper age limit for candidates and introduces new reservation criteria for various categories, including OBC, EWS, SC, ST, and PwD, under the 15% All India Quota seats.

This progressive change heralds a new era in medical education, emphasizing inclusivity and equal opportunities. By integrating students from diverse educational backgrounds, the medical fraternity stands to benefit from a more diverse pool of aspiring doctors.