The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) will implement mandatory barcode entry for all Diplomate of National Board (DNB) Final Theory hybrid examinations, effective December 2025 . Candidates appearing for these medical exams must enter a unique barcode from their physical answer booklet onto a computer console before starting their test.
This new requirement begins with the DNB Final Theory Examinations scheduled from December 18 to 21, 2025 . The examinations will use a hybrid format. Questions will appear digitally on a computer screen, while candidates must write their answers in specially provided barcoded physical answer booklets.
Candidates will receive a strict two-minute window to complete the barcode entry. They must use a virtual numeric keypad displayed on the computer screen to input the entire barcode sequence. Once entered, candidates must click the ‘Save’ button to confirm their entry.
The exam timer will automatically begin after the two-minute period, regardless of barcode entry status. The ‘Submit’ button for the exam will only become active once these initial two minutes have passed. Timely and accurate barcode submission is critical for exam participation.
NBEMS stresses the importance of correct barcode entry. Answer sheets submitted with an incorrect or missing barcode will not undergo assessment. Furthermore, candidates will not be able to view the question paper if they fail to enter and save the barcode within the allotted time.
The official notification from NBEMS confirms this procedural change. It states, “From DNB Final Examination December 2025 onwards, candidates appearing in NBEMS examinations administered in hybrid mode shall be required to enter the barcode of the answer booklet provided to them in the computer console before starting the examination.” This rule aims to standardize and secure the answer sheet identification process.
Answer Booklet Verification
Before the examination begins, candidates must thoroughly inspect their physical answer booklets. This pre-exam check ensures the booklet is complete and correctly formatted for assessment.
- Verify the answer booklet contains exactly 50 pages .
- Check for any misprints on any page.
- Ensure no pages are torn or missing from the booklet.
- Confirm that a unique barcode is present on every single page of the answer booklet.
Barcode Entry Instructions
Adhering to these specific steps ensures proper barcode submission and access to the examination paper.
- Use the on-screen virtual numeric keypad .
- Enter the complete barcode sequence exactly as it appears on the answer booklet.
- Complete the entire entry process within the strict two-minute time limit .
- After entering the sequence, immediately click the ‘ Save ‘ button.
- Failure to enter and save the barcode within two minutes will start the exam timer, and candidates will lose valuable exam time.
To help candidates familiarize themselves with this new procedure, NBEMS has provided access to a mock test. This mock test simulates the barcode entry process and allows candidates to practice the required steps before their actual examination. The direct link to the mock test is available on the official NBEMS website.