The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) has reopened applications for the DNB Final December 2025 ‘Only Practical’ examination. This new application window opens on December 4 , starting at 4 PM, and closes on December 17 . The decision to reopen applications follows formal requests from several candidates, according to an official NBEMS notice.
Candidates who have already submitted their applications for either the ‘Theory & Practical’ or the ‘Only Practical’ examination for the December 2025 session do not need to reapply. This specific reopening targets candidates requiring only the practical examination at this time.
Understanding the DNB Final Exam
The DNB (Diplomate of National Board) Final Examination assesses medical postgraduates. It is a mandatory step for those aiming to achieve specialist qualifications in various medical fields across India. The examination has two main components: a theory exam and a practical exam.
The ‘Only Practical’ examination option caters to candidates who have already successfully cleared the theory component of the DNB Final Exam. These candidates are now focusing solely on demonstrating their clinical skills and practical knowledge required for specialist certification.
DNB Final Theory Exam Schedule
NBEMS will administer the DNB Final Theory Examination for the December 2025 session on specific dates. The theory exams are scheduled for December 18, December 19, December 20, and December 21 . These examinations will be conducted in a computer-based format (CBT) at various designated examination centers nationwide.
Passing the theory examination is a prerequisite for candidates to be eligible for the practical examination. Candidates who do not clear the theory exam must retake and pass it before they can proceed to the practical assessment.
Eligibility for the Examination
Specific criteria determine eligibility for the DNB/DrNB Final Examination. Applicants must have completed their training as a DNB/DrNB trainee. This training must have occurred at an institute accredited by NBEMS.
Furthermore, candidates must be officially registered with NBEMS as a DNB/DrNB trainee. They must also be completing their prescribed training by the date specified by NBEMS for the examination. A certificate verifying the completion of this training must be submitted as part of the application process. These requirements ensure candidates are qualified to undertake the DNB/DrNB Final Examination in their respective specialties.
Important Dates at a Glance
| Event | Date(s) |
|---|---|
| ‘Only Practical’ Application Reopening Start | December 4, 2025 (from 4 PM) |
| ‘Only Practical’ Application Closing Date | December 17, 2025 |
| DNB Final Theory Examination Dates | December 18, 19, 20, 21, 2025 |
Candidate Support and Contact Information
Candidates seeking assistance with their application form submission, issues regarding failed transactions, or payment gateway problems can contact NBEMS directly. The Candidate Care Support helpline number is +91-7996165333 .
Alternatively, candidates can submit their queries through the NBEMS helpline portal. This portal is accessible to applicants after they log into their respective accounts. Support channels aim to provide timely assistance for all application-related concerns.