A new discussion has erupted on the social media platform Reddit surrounding a video and caption from one student. In it, he recounted that between 2017 and 2026, he repeatedly took the NEET UG exam but never secured a spot in an MBBS medical university, after which he accepted his defeat.
Instead of sympathy, however, the student encountered significant criticism and anger online. People began asking sharp questions about the education system. A debate arose over whose fault it was: the student, his family, or the country's inefficient competitive examination system, raising serious questions about the 'culling culture' in India.
One social media user emphasized that constantly taking the same exam for ten years is not a reason for boasting or pride. He noted that this entails significant financial losses and psychological pressure for both the student and his family.
Another user advised his younger peers and relatives to always take the exam the first time upon completing 12th grade. Then, they should consider a second chance after a year of intensive study or attending courses. A third chance should only be considered if the parents are already doctors and the student has a reliable backup plan. Losing 3-4 years is considered pointless.
A doctor who obtained an MBBS degree abroad and successfully passed the FMGE in India criticized the entire discussion. He stated that ten attempts at NEET reflect more the failure of the system than the inability of the applicant himself. He questioned the fairness of defining a young person's entire future at the age of 17-18 based on just one exam, arguing that NEET is not a level playing field.
The doctor pointed out that access to taking the exam depends on having money, the ability to attend courses, time, and parental support. However, a poor student with similar abilities cannot afford more than one or two attempts.
Criticizing the 'illusions' of coaching centers, the doctor indicated that a single class might contain 50 students paying large sums of money, but the number of spots is limited. Coaching centers sell false hope to students by saying: 'Just try a little harder, and you will succeed,' causing the youth to spend their entire youth on 11th-12th-grade textbooks.
Another user questioned the practical awareness of the student who took 10 attempts. He wondered what would happen next if he managed to get into MBBS on the tenth attempt. The program includes 5.5 years of MBBS, followed by 3 years of residency and another 5-6 years of clinical experience, meaning he would have to cross the threshold of 40 years old to earn a good income.
He also suggested that a student who cannot score 450-500 marks in NEET UG even after 10 attempts will not be able to pass NEET PG, which is significantly more difficult. Although the Supreme Court and the National Medical Commission (NMC) have removed age and attempt limits, this Reddit discussion serves as a mirror for every student. He wonders if it is reasonable to spend the most valuable 8-10 years of life in the labyrinth of entrance exams. True success lies in knowing how to move forward in one's career and choosing a backup plan (Plan B) in a timely manner.