Is HP domicile mandatory to get a seat at IGMC Shimla for MD/MS, or can candidates from other states also apply?

HP domicile is required only for state quota seats filled through HPUSAM counselling, which covers 50% of PG seats. The remaining 50% are All India Quota seats filled through MCC counselling, where candidates from any state can compete on NEET PG merit. Out-of-state candidates do get seats at IGMC Shimla through the AIQ route every year.

How many PG seats are available at IGMC Shimla, and which specialisations are most competitive?

IGMC Shimla has 138 seats across 26 PG disciplines (MD and MS combined), plus 7 super-specialty seats across 4 DM/MCh programmes. Clinical branches like Radiodiagnosis, General Medicine, and Obstetrics and Gynaecology tend to attract higher competition than pre-clinical or para-clinical subjects.

Do PG residents at IGMC Shimla receive a monthly stipend, and how much is it?

Yes, all MD and MS residents at IGMC Shimla receive a monthly stipend paid by the Himachal Pradesh state government. First-year residents currently receive around 65,000 per month, rising through the three years of the programme. Senior residents earn 1,00,000 or more per month. Hostel accommodation is provided at a nominal charge alongside the stipend.

Is the joining day at IGMC Shimla really that hectic? What documents should I carry?

Students consistently describe the physical reporting day as one of the more tiring parts of joining IGMC. You move between multiple departments inside a busy hospital for medical tests and document sign-offs. Carry originals and multiple sets of photocopies of your degree or Class 12 marksheet (as applicable), internship certificate, NEET PG or entrance exam scorecard, NMC or council registration, category certificate, domicile certificate, and passport-sized photographs. Getting everything ready well before your reporting date makes the day significantly smoother.

Can I choose my specialisation during HPUSAM counselling, or is it assigned automatically?

You choose your specialisation during the choice-filling window of the HPUSAM counselling process. Seats are allotted based on your NEET PG score, category, and the preference order you fill in. There is no automatic assignment. Fill a wide range of preferences in the correct priority order, since higher-competition specialisations may not be available by the time your rank is reached.

What is the fee for MS General Surgery at IGMC Shimla, and is it different from other MS specialisations?

Yes, it is different. Most MD and MS specialisations at IGMC Shimla carry a total fee of 36,000 for the full three-year programme. MS General Surgery carries a higher total fee of 4,80,000 for three years. The fee structure is set by the HP government and may be revised; always verify the current fee at the time of counselling.