Complete Guide to INI-CET 2026 for PG Admission: Dates, Registration, Seat Distribution, and More

If you’re an aspiring medical or dental professional looking to take the next step in your career, the Institute of National Importance Combined Entrance Test (INI-CET) is a crucial exam you need to crack! This exam provides access to post-graduate courses like MD, MS, MDS, DM, MCh, and Hospital Administration at prestigious institutes like AIIMS, PGIMER, JIPMER, NIMHANS, and more.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the INI-CET 2026 for PG courses, including eligibility, the registration process, important exam dates, seat distribution, and helpful tips to motivate you along the way!

How to Register for INI-CET 2026

Ready to take the plunge? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you with the registration process:

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

• Start by visiting the official AIIMS Exams Website: www.aiimsexams.ac.in.
• Create a new account - https://www.aiimsexams.ac.in/otr
• Already have an account (login) - https://www.aiimsexams.ac.in/auth/login
• If you already registered for a previous session and your Basic Registration was accepted, you do not need to register again.

Step 2: Check the Eligibility Criteria

Before registering, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements. This includes holding an MBBS/BDS degree and completing the required internship by 31st December 2025. You also need to ensure that you have the necessary category certificates (OBC, SC, ST, EWS, etc.).

Step 3: Online Registration

1. Navigate to the "INI-CET January 2026" section under the Academic Courses.
2. Fill in all your personal and academic details correctly.
3. Upload the necessary documents (photograph, signature, category certificates, etc.).
4. Ensure that you upload valid certificates if applying under OBC, SC, ST, EWS, or PwBD categories.

Step 4: Payment of Application Fee

• General/OBC/Foreign Nationals: Rs 4,000
• SC/ST/EWS: Rs 3,200
• PwBD Candidates: Fee Exempted

Step 5: Submit Your Application

After reviewing your application, click Submit. Be sure to save a copy of your registration slip for future reference.

Important Dates for INI-CET January 2026

Time flies when you're preparing for such an important exam! Here are the key dates you need to keep in mind for the INI-CET January 2026:

Seat Distribution for INI-CET January 2026

INI-CET offers a variety of PG seats across multiple institutes. Here’s a snapshot of the AIIMS New Delhi seat distribution for different categories:

For a complete breakdown of seats by course and institute - Download the PDF

Eligibility Criteria for INI-CET 2026

To apply for INI-CET 2026, candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Educational Qualifications:

• You must hold an MBBS/BDS degree from a recognized institution.
• If you're pursuing an MDS course, you need to have a recognized BDS degree.

Internship Requirement:

• You should have completed a mandatory 12-month internship by 31st December 2025.

Age Limit:

• The age limit is usually not applicable for the INI-CET, but certain age-related criteria might exist for specific courses like DM and MCh.

Category Certificates:

• If you belong to categories like OBC, SC, ST, or EWS, make sure your certificates are valid as per the government guidelines.

Exam Pattern for INI-CET 2026

Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation. Here's a breakdown of the INI-CET 2026 exam pattern:

• Mode of Examination: Online (Computer-Based Test)
• Duration: 3 hours (180 minutes)
• Number of Questions: 200
• Type of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
• Marking Scheme:
  • Correct Answer: +1 mark
  • Incorrect Answer: -1/3 mark (negative marking)
• Paper Pattern: 4 parts of 45 mins each, having 50 questions per part 
• Resolution of tie cases
• Subjects: The exam will cover subjects like Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, and Clinical Subjects.

The exam will be tough, but stay focused and use a strategic study plan. Review your syllabus, focus on high-yield topics, and regularly practice MCQs to sharpen your skills.

Important Guidelines for Dental Students (MDS)

For dental aspirants applying for MDS courses through INI-CET, here are some key guidelines:

Eligibility:

• Candidates must have a BDS degree from a recognized dental college.
• Ensure that your BDS degree is valid and recognized by the Dental Council of India (DCI).

Application Process:

• The application process for MDS is the same as for other PG courses. Follow the same steps for online registration, document upload, and application fee payment.

Exam Preparation:

• MDS aspirants must focus more on clinical subjects, oral surgery, periodontology, and prosthodontics.
• Make sure to refer to the official syllabus and practice using previous year question papers.

FAQs

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about the INI-CET 2026:

1. What is INI-CET?
   INI-CET is a national-level entrance exam for admission to PG medical and dental courses in top institutes like AIIMS, JIPMER, PGIMER, and more.

2. What is the eligibility for INI-CET?
   You must have an MBBS/BDS degree, completed your internship by 31st December 2025, and meet the category-specific criteria (if applicable).

3. How can I apply for INI-CET 2026?
   You can apply online through the official AIIMS website. Be sure to fill in all details and upload the necessary documents.

4. What is the last date for submitting the INI-CET application?
   The last date for application submission is 21st October 2025 by 5:00 PM.

5. When will the INI-CET exam be held?
   The exam will be held on 9th November 2025.