The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) has commenced the crucial DNB Final Theory examinations for the December 2025 session. The tests are being held from December 18 to December 21, 2025, across numerous examination centres spread throughout the country.
Hybrid Exam Format Demands Technical Precision
This year's examination is being conducted on a hybrid platform. Candidates view the questions on a computer screen but must write their answers in a physical, barcoded answer booklet provided to them. This system places a dual burden on aspirants, testing not only their medical knowledge but also their meticulousness in following technical protocols.
NBEMS has issued a severe and unambiguous warning concerning the barcode entry process. Examinees must correctly input the barcode from their assigned answer booklet into the computer system before starting the exam. Once submitted, the answer booklet cannot be replaced under any circumstances. The board has stated it will not entertain any appeals or requests for correction related to barcode errors. Any mistake in this step will be fatal, leading to the automatic rejection and cancellation of the candidate's result.
Mandatory Compliance Checks for Candidates
To prevent costly errors, NBEMS has laid out specific guidelines that candidates must verify before submitting their barcode. These critical checks include:
- Confirming the answer booklet contains exactly 50 numbered pages, excluding the cover.
- Ensuring all pages carry the identical barcode, with no mismatches.
- Inspecting the booklet to ensure it is fully intact, with no torn, damaged, blank, or misprinted pages.
The board has reiterated that any deviation from these conditions will render the answer booklet invalid for evaluation. NBEMS has explicitly disclaimed liability for any errors caused by candidate negligence during the barcode submission process.
Mock Test Available to Minimise Risk
Understanding the high stakes, NBEMS has provided an online mock test facility. This tool is designed to familiarise candidates with the barcode entry procedure and the overall exam interface. Authorities have strongly urged all examinees to make full use of this mock test to avoid last-minute, irreversible mistakes that could jeopardise their entire effort.
The DNB Final Theory Examinations represent the last major academic hurdle in the journey to obtain the Diplomate of National Board certification. With results now critically dependent on both scholarly performance and flawless adherence to technical instructions, the margin for error is effectively zero. A single slip in procedure could erase months, if not years, of rigorous preparation instantly.
Candidates can download the official detailed notice for the NBEMS DNB theory exam from the board's website for further reference.
