What are the intake periods available for the postgraduate medical courses, and when should I start the application process?

Postgraduate medical courses in India typically begin in May each year.

Key dates:
- Entrance exam: January
- Results: Mid-February
- First counseling: March 1 - 15
- Joining deadline (first round): March 31
- Second counseling: By April 7
- Joining deadline (second round): April 14
- Academic session starts: May 2

Start preparing and applying 6 - 9 months before the entrance exam. For a May 2027 intake, begin your process around June - September 2026.

Dates are based on National Medical Commission guidelines and can vary by state or institution.