MRB Exam 2026 has drawn attention as candidates with speciality qualifications have urged the Tamil Nadu Health Department to allot the same examination centre for two recruitment exams scheduled on the same day. The Medical Services Recruitment Board is conducting both examinations on 25 January 2026 in two separate sessions.
Candidates who have applied for both assistant surgeon (general) and assistant surgeon (general) with speciality qualification posts have highlighted practical difficulties due to the possibility of different examination centres.
MRB Assistant Surgeon Recruitment 2026 Vacancy Details
The Medical Services Recruitment Board is conducting the examinations to fill a large number of vacant posts in the state health services. A total of 1,100 vacancies have been notified for assistant surgeon (general). In addition, 299 vacanciesare available for assistant surgeon (general) with speciality qualification.
The speciality qualification posts include 182 vacancies in obstetrics and gynaecology, 50 in forensic medicine, and 37 in radiology. These recruitments are aimed at strengthening healthcare services across Tamil Nadu.
MRB Exam Schedule on 25 January 2026
The MRB has scheduled both examinations on the same day in different sessions. The computer-based examination for assistant surgeon (general) will be conducted in the forenoon session. The examination for assistant surgeon (general) with speciality qualification will take place in the afternoon session on 25 January 2026.
A section of candidates holding speciality qualifications has applied for both examinations to improve their chances of selection. However, the allotment of different examination centres for the two sessions could create serious logistical challenges.
Candidates Raise Concern Over Exam Centre Allotment
The Tamil Nadu Resident Doctors’ Association has stated that allotment of different examination centres may prevent candidates from appearing for both exams. Travelling between centres within a short gap could be difficult, especially if the venues are located in different parts of a city or in separate districts.
Representatives of the association met the Health Secretary and raised the issue formally. They requested the Medical Services Recruitment Board to allot the same examination centre or venue for candidates appearing in both sessions.
TNRDA Requests Fair Opportunity for Candidates
According to the association, there are at least 1,000 candidates who have applied for both examinations. The general secretary of TNRDA stated that these candidates are specialists seeking better employment opportunities in the state health system.
The association emphasised that allotting the same centre would not affect the examination process. It would instead ensure fairness and reduce unnecessary stress. The request is expected to particularly benefit women candidates and those travelling from distant locations.
Candidates are now awaiting a response from the Tamil Nadu Health Department and the Medical Services Recruitment Board regarding the exam centre allotment decision.