Self-directed learning (SDL) is an essential aspect of adult education or andragogy, gaining significance in medical education with the introduction of competency-based medical education. The primary objective of this study is to assess the self-directed learning abilities of second-year medical undergraduates in Chennai, South India, and to identify potential challenges and gaps in their learning process. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 82 second-year medical students attending self-directed learning sessions at a medical college in Chennai. Data were collected using the self-directed learning instrument (SDLI), a standardized questionnaire, administered through Google Forms. Participants identities were maintained confidential. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. Descriptive data were presented as proportions and percentages. Normally distributed quantitative data were expressed as mean and standard deviation. Non-normal continuous data were expressed as median and interquartile range (IQR). Results showed that the majority of students (61%) demonstrated a high level of SDL ability, with a median score of 76. Students exhibited strong learning motivation (mean score 4.11) but struggled with planning and implementation (mean score 3.07). The maximum mean score was 4.11 for item 3 (constant improvement and excelling in learning), and the minimum mean score was 3.07 for item 11 (arranging and controlling learning time). Students showed high self-monitoring (mean score 3.76) and interpersonal communication skills (mean score 4.00). SDL emerges as a boon for medical undergraduates, and providing faculty training and student guidance can foster life-long learning. © 2024 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.