NEET-PG aspirants worried that test may be postponed

MANGALURU: NEET-PG aspirants are worried over the likely postponement of the entrance test. As per the current timetable, the NEET- MDS is scheduled on March 1, and the NEET-PG for March 5.
However, the plea in the Supreme Court, seeking the postponement of the NEET PG by two months, will be heard by the apex court on Friday. The developments ahead of the scheduled tests have left aspirants anxious.
“I have been preparing for the NEET-PG for a year. I spend seven to eight hours on studies and coaching every day. There has been confusion, ever since the NEET-PG was announced this year. Initially, we were told that aspirants currently undergoing internships, were not eligible to appear for the test.
However, after the protest, changes were made, and now the possible postponement of the test. I have put in my best, in terms of preparation. My performance will definitely be affected if the exam is postponed,” said a student of DAMS, Mangaluru.
Another aspirant, who is preparing for the NEET-PG, added that there are few days left for the test. “We know that nothing is in our control. I am just concentrating on my studies, without worrying whether the test will be postponed or not,” he said.
Some want postponement
A section of students, who have just completed their BDS and MBBS internships, were in favour of postponement. “We have been preparing for the NEET-PG, after our internship hours. There are several reasons for asking for the postponement of the test by two or three months.
If the test is held in March, counselling will begin only in September, and PG admissions will take place in December or January. There is a big gap between the test, counselling, and admission. The postponement of the test will reduce the gap,” said an aspirant, who recently completed BDS.
“Since there is a gap between the test and admissions, there is confusion as to whether I should take up a job or not, and in case I opt for a job, and also get a seat by clearing the NEET-PG, I will not be able to leave it immediately, as all jobs are on a contract basis.
The other fear is that if don’t have a job, and also fail to get a seat, I will be wasting an entire year. If the National Board of Examinations holds the test in March, then they must consider conducting counselling early,” said an aspirant.