Deciding between UPSC CMS and NEET PG is a common dilemma for many medical graduates.
Often, we forget that we are comparing apples to oranges. UPSC CMS offers a job, while NEET PG opens up the window for specialization.
Both can be pursued simultaneously or one after the other. Choosing one doesn't prevent you from pursuing the other later on.
However, choosing one at a different time can open up different opportunities.
My advice is to stop comparing them and figure out which one makes the most sense for you right now.
Let’s Understand the Options.
This path is a mix of medicine, administration, and community service.
If you aspire to become a specialist or super-specialist, this is the path.
Why do I say we are comparing apples to oranges?
Because one can easily aspire to have both, many examples prove this, like Dr. Sagar Pushp, Dr. Adhishree Bajapi, Dr. Rishi Sethi, Dr. Sanjeev Jindal, and many more.
Let’s explore different scenarios you may encounter during
your journey:
PS: A video explainer on UPSC CMS vs NEET PG 🎉
Scenario 1: Prioritizing NEET PG Over UPSC CMS
If you choose to focus solely on NEET PG, be clear about why you’re opting out of the immediate job opportunities.
Specializing in medicine is a demanding and competitive journey.
Over the past five years, the student-to-seat ratio has increased by 16%, with cut-off marks steadily climbing. refer to the blog for more clarity
It requires a lot of clarity in terms of college, branch, and resources to support studies, and career goals after PG.
Remember, after completing your PG, you will still need to work somewhere.
If you’re not a first-generation doctor and you’re sure you’ll be handling your clinic, that’s a different story.
However, job security and financial independence are what most of us ultimately seek.
Scenario 2: Prioritizing UPSC CMS Over NEET PG
Choosing to focus solely on UPSC CMS and dropping NEET PG can be a viable option, especially if you're uncertain about specialization or have family and financial responsibilities to fulfill.
A government job provides stability, benefits, and time to contemplate your long-term career goals.
Additionally, it offers opportunities to gain administrative experience and reserved seats for postgraduate studies.
However, it's crucial to recognize that completely opting out of NEET PG may not be the wisest decision.
Both exams cover similar syllabi, so preparing for both simultaneously is feasible. You can still keep your options open and later choose the path that aligns best with your aspirations.
If time constraints and immediate employment are your priorities, pursuing UPSC CMS might be the best course of action.
Remember to seek guidance before diving directly into preparation. Advice on what to prioritize and how to do it optimally.
A mentor will not only guide you through the preparation process but also help you strategize and approach your goals strategically.
Scenario 3: Preparing for Both Exams
For those who are preparing for both NEET PG and UPSC CMS, this dual approach keeps multiple options open.
Remember, the journey of a gap year may not always be enjoyable.
Now, In a situation where you have offers from both UPSC CMS and NEET PG. It's a tricky situation and requires a proper evaluation.
If you're unsure about the PG branch and college, opting for UPSC CMS and giving NEET PG another attempt next year could be a wise choice.
On the other hand, if you receive the branch and college of your choice, it may be worth pursuing NEET PG. UPSC CMS will wait for you to complete your studies before joining back in service.
Now here you will ponder about UPSC in-service quota, service
year counting while pursuing PG, and other service perks.
Listen in-service benefits help but they come with their cons too.
What if you are not able to clear the exam next year?
What if your posting location won’t allow you to go to study after 1 year?
There is some bit of risk involved.
And if you are lucky enough to get the seat this year go for it.
Salary is an important component but deciding the future just on salary is not a
smart move. We have more value than what we earn. Rejecting an opportunity that is waiting in front of you
is not what a futurist would do.
Having said that, all these recommendations and advice are generic, and it's essential to reach out to the right mentor before deciding what works best for you.
There may be unique factors in your situation that make a different path more suitable.
Career decisions shouldn't be made in isolation.
Because UPSC and NEET PG are not the only options for MBBS students, other pathways and opportunities are worth exploring.
Act wisely, as it's your life, and you're crafting it with your decisions.
PS: It’s not important what you do, but how you do it that matters.
Opt for mentorship to Decide well!
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Good luck, future specialists! You've got this.
Happy exploring!
