This article will provide detailed information about MBBS in Abroad options, including popular destinations like Nepal, Bangladesh, Russia, Poland, Georgia, Philippines, Kazakhstan, Ukraine and China. You will learn about the advantages of studying MBBS abroad, eligibility criteria, admission process, top universities, and the career opportunities available after completing the course. This guide will help you decide if you are considering pursuing MBBS outside India.
Studying MBBS in Abroad has become a popular option for Indian students due to the high competition and limited seats in Indian medical colleges. Studying MBBS in countries like Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, the Philippines, Kazakhstan, and China is affordable. These countries provide quality education. This is often cheaper than private medical colleges in India. Many universities abroad offer globally recognized degrees and have a simpler admission process, often without entrance exams like NEET (though NEET qualification is necessary for Indian students).
However, today, there are a many number of students than in recent years opting to pursue MBBS programs abroad. This increase is notably larger than in the past. The reason behind this trend remains a question. A possible reason could be the reduced expenses associated with studying MBBS abroad. Numerous Indian students prefer to study MBBS abroad because of the scarcity of MBBS seats in Indian universities and the high fees imposed by private medical colleges.
Study MBBS in Abroad Quick Summary
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Intake for MBBS in Abroad | September to November |
| Marks Required in 10+2 | 50% in PCB (Physics, Chemistry and Biology) |
| NEET Requirement | YES |
| Fees Structure for MBBS in Abroad | 3800 – 8000 USD Per Year |
| Hostel Cost in Abroad | 200 to 260 USD Per Month |
| Duration of MBBS in Abroad | 5 – 6 Years |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Top Medical University | Kazan State Medical University, Akaki Tsereteli State University, Volgograd State Medical University, Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University |
| Recognition | NMC and WHO approved |
Why do Indian students prefer to study MBBS abroad?
If you’re interested in studying MBBS abroad and are curious about the primary reasons Indian students opt for studying MBBS abroad, then this detailed graph is here to assist you.
Top Reasons to Study MBBS in Abroad for Indian Students
Here are a few explanations of why Indian students choose to study MBBS abroad:
- Affordable Tuition Fees: Many universities abroad offer MBBS courses at significantly lower fees compared to private medical colleges in India.
- Globally Recognized Degrees: Degrees from recognized universities abroad are globally accepted, allowing students to practice in various countries after clearing the necessary exams.
- NMC Approved: The Medical Council of India approved degrees earned abroad from medical schools. After passing the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination, doctors can obtain a medical license and work in India (FMGE).
- High-Quality Infrastructure: Foreign universities often provide excellent infrastructure, modern equipment, and well-equipped labs for medical education.
- International Exposure: Studying abroad offers the opportunity to experience new cultures, international clinical exposure, and networking with peers from different countries.
- Practical Learning: Medical colleges abroad place a high emphasis on providing students with practical learning experiences. Learners have the chance to work with seasoned doctors and engage in a training program affiliated with partnering hospitals.
Recognition and Accreditation
- Ensure the university is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the medical councils of your home country.
- Check if the degree is recognized for practice in your home country or other countries where you might want to work.
MBBS in Abroad Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Access to high-quality education at a lower cost.
- Exposure to new cultures and international experience.
- Opportunity to learn new languages.
- Cons:
- Adjusting to different educational and healthcare systems.
- Possible language barriers outside of English-speaking programs.
- Necessity to pass equivalency exams to practice in your home country.
Courses Offered by Abroad Medical Universities
- The courses offered by abroad MBBS universities are broad and informative.
- After completion of the course, you will have a successful career in the medical field.
The courses are the following
| S.No. | Courses | Duration (in years) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | MBBS/ MD | 6 |
| 2 | Dentistry | 5 |
| 3 | Pharmacy | 4 |
| 4 | Nursing | 4 |
Popular Destinations for MBBS Abroad
| Country Name | Advantages | Universities |
|---|---|---|
| Russia | Affordable tuition fees, globally recognized degrees, and English-medium programs. | Moscow State University, Kazan Federal University. |
| China | Cost-effective education, diverse culture, and many universities listed in global rankings. | Peking University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University. |
| Philippines | American-style education system, affordable fees, and English as a medium of instruction. | University of the Philippines, Cebu Institute of Medicine. |
| Germany | High-quality education, no tuition fees at public universities, and a strong emphasis on research. | Heidelberg University, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin. |
| Bangladesh | Affordable fees, similar culture to some South Asian countries, and recognized by the Medical Council of India. | University of Dhaka, Rajshahi Medical College. |
| Kazakhstan | Affordable tuition fees, globally recognized degrees, and English-medium programs. | Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Kazakh National Medical University |
| Nepal | Affordable fees, similar culture to some South Asian countries, and recognized by the Medical Council of India. | IOM, B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences |
| Ukraine | Low tuition fees, European standard of living, and English-medium courses. | Kyiv Medical University, Kharkiv National Medical University. |
Cost of MBBS in Abroad
The cost of studying MBBS abroad varies depending on the country and the university. On average, the cost ranges from INR 15 to 40 lakhs for the whole course. This is cheaper than many private medical colleges in India.
- Tuition Fees: Can range from $3,000 to $10,000 per year depending on the country and university.
- Living Expenses: Vary by country; generally, Eastern Europe and Asia are more affordable compared to Western Europe and North America.
Eligibility Criteria for MBBS Abroad
We are aware that every country sets its own criteria and rules for admitting foreign students. We will discuss the basic criteria that Indian students usually need to study medicine at top universities abroad.
| Particular | Description |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | The student must be at least 17 years old by the 31st of December of the year of admission. |
| Academic Qualification | The student should have completed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology with a minimum of 50% marks (40% for reserved category). |
| NEET Qualification | Since 2018, NEET qualification is mandatory for Indian students to study MBBS abroad. |
| English Proficiency | For some countries, students may need to provide proof of English proficiency (like IELTS/TOEFL scores). |
Admission Process for Studying MBBS Abroad
The following step, the application process to study MBBS Abroad, can be taken once the applicant has met the eligibility conditions.
Candidates can review the detailed steps for admission to universities abroad below.
- Step 1– Choose the MBBS school you want to attend abroad and review its admission requirements.
- Step 2– To be eligible to study in a certain country, candidates often must take an eligibility test there. To apply, candidates might also need to take an English proficiency test. To proceed to the next level, applicants must pass their tests.
- Step 3– Complete the university’s online application form accurately, without making any mistakes, and without misleading about anything.
- Step 4– To further boost their profile, applicants will be requested to provide scanned copies of several essential academic documents.
- Step 5- Pay the application fee.
- Step 6- Candidates will receive an admission letter from the university after submitting their online application successfully, along with their fees.
- Step 7- After that, applicants must send their passports, original documents, and letters of admission to the relevant embassy to apply for a student visa.
- Step 8- Depending on how quickly the embassy processes the student visa. The candidate would then need to plan his journey to get to his university in time to start his study.
Documents Required for MBBS Admission Abroad
During the admissions process, applicants who intend to study abroad must provide the following documents:
- Birth Certificate
- Class 10 and 12 mark sheets
- School Leaving & School Migration Certificate
- NEET Score Card
- Statement of Purpose
- Letter of Recommendation
- Resume (CV)
- Personal Financial Statements
- Passport Size Photographs
- Medical Certificate
Course Duration for MBBS Abroad
Most foreign medical universities have at least 5 years long courses. As part of the curriculum, students must complete a year-long internship in their final year.
Given below is the list of course duration for different countries –
| Country | Course Duration (Years) |
|---|---|
| Philippines | 4.6 + (1 year) |
| China | 5 + 1 Year Internship |
| Georgia | 6 |
| Armenia | 6 |
| Bulgaria | 6 |
| Russia | 5.8 |
| Ukraine | 5.8 |
| Nepal | 5.6 |
| Kyrgyzstan | 5 |
| Kazakhstan | 5 |
| Belarus | 5 |
| Malaysia | 5 |
| Bangladesh | 5 |
MBBS in Abroad vs MBBS in India
Studying an MBBS in India and an MBBS in abroad for Indian Students share more similarities than differences. The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) is now required for entry into medical colleges in both India and other countries. In India, the MBBS program lasts for 5.5 years, which includes a year of clinical training. On the other hand, pursuing an MBBS degree abroad can last up to 6 years, with an additional year dedicated to clinical training (internship).
| MBBS in Abroad | MBBS in India |
|---|---|
| Foreign medical universities have a good number of MBBS seats for international students. | Indian medical colleges have a scarcity of MBBS seats. |
| Ultramodern infrastructure, technologies, and facilities are available for Indian students. | The infrastructure and technologies in Indian medical colleges are advanced but not at par with medical universities abroad. |
| The medical education abroad is more practice-based focusing on enhancing practical skills in medicine of students. | Indian medical colleges focus more on theoretical knowledge of medicine than practical sessions. |
| Students of MBBS abroad get to participate in international seminars, conferences, and workshops to widen their knowledge of medicine. | Students of MBBS in India do not get international exposure like the students of MBBS abroad. |
| Simulation-based training of students is imparted in every foreign medical university. | Simulation-based training is a new concept and not all colleges in India have this technology. |
| Multicultural environment at all foreign medical universities due to the presence of students from different countries. | Indian medical colleges do have any strength of international students. |
| No donations are required for admissions in case of MBBS in abroad. | Heavy capitation fees are required for admission in Indian Private Medical Colleges. |
| Admission in MBBS abroad is possible with passing NEET score. | Admission is only possible with high NEET scores. |
| The complete MBBS course fees vary from INR 15 to 60 lakhs. | The MBBS course fee for government colleges is capped at INR 10 lakhs, while private medical colleges may charge up to INR 80 lakhs. |
| The teacher-to-student ratio in classrooms is excellent to give equal attention to all students. | The classrooms are large in size with over 100 students in each. |
| Students can learn a second language during their MBBS abroad. | This is not possible in the case of MBBS in India. |
| The foreign medical universities have global recognition. | Not all medical colleges in India are globally recognized. |
Best Country for MBBS Abroad for Indian Students
The cost of studying MBBS in India surpasses that of numerous other countries. This is a significant reason why Indian students opt to study overseas to achieve their objectives. For those who choose to study MBBS overseas, the expense is only 60 lakh, as opposed to the approximately 75 lakhs in India. The rising fees for education in India lead many students to either choose government universities or study abroad. Consequently, if your ambition is to become a doctor, you need to either strive to pass the National Eligibility Entrance Test (NEET) or look for universities that provide MBBS programs at a lower cost for Indian students studying abroad.
Here is the list of Top Countries for MBBS abroad for Indian students at a low cost
| Top Countries for MBBS | Top Countries for MBBS | Top Countries for MBBS | Top Countries for MBBS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | Moldova | Uzbekistan | Armenia |
| Russia | Malaysia | Zambia | Romania |
| Kyrgyzstan | Australia | Guyana | Cayman Islands |
| Bangladesh | Bahrain | Hungary | Canada |
| Nepal | Azerbaijan Republic | Pakistan | UK |
| Belarus | Scotland | France | Iran |
| Poland | Saudi Arabia | USA | Uganda |
| Ukraine | Sri Lanka | Bulgaria | West Indies |
| Philippines | Austria | Georgia | UAE |
| China | Yemen | Kazakhstan | Italy |
| Panama | Nigeria | Netherland | Malawi |
| Mauritius | Lithuania | Kenya | Ireland |
| Indonesia | Latvia | Tajikistan |
NOTE: The fee structure mentioned above can differ depending on the forex exchange rate.
Country-wise Average Fees For MBBS Abroad
| MBBS in Russia | INR 15 Lakhs- 50 Lakhs |
| MBBS in Kazakhstan | INR 15 Lakhs – 20 lakh |
| MBBS in Kyrgyzstan | INR 18 Lakhs -32 lakhs |
| MBBS in Armenia | INR 18 Lakhs – 25 Lakh |
| MBBS in Belarus | INR 20 Lakhs – 25 Lakhs |
| MBBS in Bangladesh | INR 25 Lakhs – 35 Lakh |
| MBBS in China | INR 25 Lakhs – 30 Lakhs |
| MBBS in Philippines | INR 25 Lakhs – 30 Lakhs |
| MBBS in Ukraine | INR 26 Lakhs- 40 Lakhs |
| MBBS in Americas | INR 30 Lakhs- 60 Lakhs |
| MBBS in Georgia | INR 30 Lakhs- 50 Lakhs |
Top Colleges for MBBS Abroad Fees Structure
Here is the list of top medical colleges in abroad for Indian students with their fee structure for Indian students:
| Top Colleges for MBBS in Abroad | Tuition Fees (INR) |
|---|---|
| University of Rajshahi | Rs.2,905,000/- |
| Kursk State Medical University | Rs. 4,63,140/- |
| Kazan Federal University | Rs. 6,56,674/- |
| Kathmandu Medical College | Rs. 24,90,000/- |
| Kazakh National Medical University | Rs. 5,30,700 /- |
| College of Medical Sciences Bharatpur | Rs. 24,02,850/- |
The fees mentioned above may vary; it provides an approximate of these colleges’ fees.
List of Best Medical Universities in Abroad for Indian Students
| Country | College | First-Year Annual Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Russia | Bashkir State Medical University Russia | USD: $ 4,795/- INR: Rs. 3,97,985/- |
| Kyrgyzstan | LN Medical College Kyrgyzstan | USD: $ 4000/- INR: Rs. 3,32,000/ |
| Tajikistan | Avicenna Tajik State Medical University Tajikistan | USD- $ 5500/- INR- Rs 4,55,900 /- |
| Nepal | Manipal college of medical sciences pokhara | USD: $ 90,480 (Total) INR: Rs.75,00,000 /- (Total) |
| Malaysia | Manipal University College Malaysia | USD: $ 145,000/- (Total) INR: Rs.1,20,35,000/- (Total) |
| Georgia | Grigol Robakidze University | USD: $ 5,000/- INR: Rs. 4,15,000/- |
| Kazakhstan | JSC South Kazakhstan Medical Academy | USD- $ 5400/- INR- Rs. 4,48,200 /- |
| Armenia | Yerevan State Medical University | USD: $ 5,500/- INR: Rs. 4,56,500/- |
| Egypt | Alexandria University Faculty of Medicine Egypt | USD- $ 7500/- INR- Rs 6,07,500/- |
| Uzbekistan | Samarkand State Medical University | USD: $ 5400/- INR: Rs. 4,48,200/- |
Jobs And Career Scopes After Studying MBBS Abroad
MBBS Abroad Future Career Scope
The following are the best career options for students after completing the MBBS course abroad.
After studying MBBS abroad, graduates have various career options both in India and internationally. The job prospects are diverse, depending on whether the graduate wants to practice medicine, pursue higher education, or work in related fields.
- Medical Practice in India:
- FMGE/NEXT: Graduates must pass the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) or the upcoming National Exit Test (NEXT) to obtain a license to practice in India.
- Once cleared, students can register with the Medical Council of India (MCI) or respective state medical councils and begin their medical practice as a general physician.
- Postgraduate Medical Studies:
- After MBBS, students can pursue MD/MS or equivalent postgraduate degrees in India or abroad. Specialization increases job prospects and salary.
- In India, admission for postgraduate studies requires passing entrance exams like NEET PG.
- Abroad, students can appear for exams like USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), or AMC (Australia) to pursue specialization in those countries.
- Medical Practice Abroad:
- After completing MBBS abroad, graduates can appear for licensure exams such as:
- USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) for the USA.
- PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) for the UK.
- AMC (Australian Medical Council) for Australia.
- Once licensed, they can practice in these countries, often with better salary prospects and advanced healthcare systems.
- After completing MBBS abroad, graduates can appear for licensure exams such as:
- Hospital Management/Healthcare Administration:
- MBBS graduates can pursue a career in hospital administration or healthcare management by pursuing an MBA or MHA (Master of Hospital Administration). This is an ideal career path for those who are interested in managing hospitals, clinics, or healthcare organizations.
- Research:
- For those inclined toward research, there are numerous opportunities in medical research institutes, pharmaceutical companies, and biotech firms. Post-MBBS graduates can pursue research-oriented postgraduate degrees or PhDs in India or abroad.
- Public Health:
- Graduates can pursue a career in public health by opting for a Master’s in Public Health (MPH). They can work with government health agencies, international organizations (like WHO), NGOs, or private health foundations to promote community health and disease prevention.
- Medical Teaching:
- After obtaining the required qualifications and experience, MBBS graduates can choose to become professors or lecturers in medical colleges and universities. A postgraduate degree is often required for teaching roles.
- Medical Writing and Journalism:
- Graduates with good communication skills can enter medical journalism or work as medical content writers for publications, healthcare companies, or websites focused on medical education.
- Clinical Trials and Research Organizations:
- MBBS graduates can work as clinical researchers or medical advisors for organizations conducting clinical trials for new drugs and medical treatments.
- Telemedicine:
- With the growing field of telemedicine, MBBS graduates can offer remote medical consultation and diagnosis through online platforms, which is especially popular in countries like India where access to healthcare in rural areas is limited.
Salary After MBBS Abroad:
- India: General physicians typically earn INR 4-8 lakhs per annum. Specialists can earn significantly more, depending on the field of specialization.
- Abroad: Salaries for doctors vary depending on the country. For example, in the USA, the average salary for doctors is around $150,000 to $300,000 per year, while in the UK, it’s between £50,000 to £100,000 per year.
Medical Licensing Exam After MBBS Abroad
After completing MBBS abroad, graduates must pass specific medical licensing exams to practice medicine in different countries. Each country has its own licensure process to ensure that foreign medical graduates meet the standards of medical practice in that region. Below are some of the key licensing exams for different countries:
Some most popular medical licensure exams of most opted countries for practice of medicine.
| Medical Licensure Exam | Country |
| United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) | United States of America |
| AMC MCQ Exam | Australia |
| Medical Council of Canada (MCC) – LMCC QE Exam | Canada |
| FMGE/ National Exit Test (NExT) | India |
| GMC PLAB EXAM | United Kingdom |
| Kenntnisprüfung, German language (B2/C1 level) | Germany |
| NZREX Clinical exam | New Zealand |
| SMC licensing exam | Singapore |
| Dubai Health Authority (DHA), Health Authority of Abu Dhabi (HAAD) | Middle East (UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, etc.) |
Conclusion
Medical students have many options to advance their careers. Medical students with aspirations of becoming doctors have the opportunity to study MBBS abroad, which also helps students develop into better people who can lead successful lives. Students can learn much about their medical future and get a unique perspective by studying MBBS abroad. Additionally, it enables them to pursue many employment choices following their MBBS degree.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q. Why should I pursue MBBS abroad?
A. Pursuing MBBS abroad offers quality education, lower tuition fees in some countries, access to advanced medical infrastructure, international exposure, and the opportunity to practice medicine globally. Many countries offer a more affordable MBBS compared to private medical colleges in India.
Q. Which countries are best for pursuing MBBS abroad?
A. Popular countries for MBBS abroad include: Australia, Russia, Ukraine, Philippines, Kazakhstan, China, Germany, USA, UK
Q. Is MBBS abroad cheaper than India?
A. In many cases, MBBS abroad is more affordable than private medical colleges in India. Countries like Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and the Philippines offer medical education at lower costs with modern facilities.
Q. Is NEET mandatory for MBBS abroad?
A. Yes, as per the Medical Council of India (MCI), NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) is mandatory for Indian students who wish to pursue MBBS abroad and later practice in India.
Q. What is the duration of MBBS abroad?
A. The duration of MBBS varies by country:
Germany: 6-7 years (including internships).
Russia, Ukraine, China: 6 years (including internships).
Philippines: 5-6 years (including a pre-medical course).
USA: 4 years of MD (after a pre-medical degree).
Q. What are the eligibility criteria for MBBS abroad?
A. General eligibility criteria include:
Some universities may require English proficiency tests (IELTS/TOEFL).
Completion of Class 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
A minimum of 50-60% in aggregate in PCB (varies by country/university).
NEET qualification.
Q. How can I apply for MBBS abroad?
A. The application process generally involves:
Securing admission and applying for a student visa.
Choosing a country and university.
Applying directly to the university or through an authorized consultancy.
Submitting required documents (NEET score, 12th marks, passport, etc.).
Q. What is the medium of instruction for MBBS abroad?
A. Most universities abroad offer MBBS programs in English. However, in some non-English-speaking countries, students are also required to learn the local language for clinical practice (e.g., Russian, Ukrainian, Chinese).
Q. Do I need to pass any exam to practice in India after MBBS abroad?
A. Yes, Indian students who complete MBBS abroad must pass the Foreign Medical Graduates Examination (FMGE) or the National Exit Test (NEXT) (expected to replace FMGE) to get a medical license and practice in India.
Q. Is an MBBS degree from abroad valid in India?
A. Yes, an MBBS degree from an MCI-approved foreign medical university is valid in India. Graduates must pass the FMGE/NEXT and complete mandatory internships to practice in India.
Q. What are the living expenses while studying MBBS abroad?
A. Living expenses vary by country. In countries like Russia and Ukraine, living costs are moderate (around $3,000-$5,000 per year), while in countries like the USA or UK, they can be higher.
Q. Can I get a scholarship for MBBS abroad?
A. Some countries and universities offer scholarships based on merit or financial need. However, scholarship opportunities vary widely, and students should check individual universities for availability.
Q. What are the job prospects after completing MBBS abroad?
A. Graduates can:
Work in research, clinical trials, or hospital administration.
Return to India and practice after clearing the FMGE/NEXT.
Pursue postgraduate studies in India or abroad.
Take licensure exams (like USMLE, PLAB) and practice in countries like the USA or UK.
Q. Can I pursue PG (MD/MS) after MBBS abroad?
A. es, after completing MBBS abroad, students can pursue PG courses in India or abroad. For India, they must qualify for NEET-PG, and for other countries like the USA (USMLE) or UK (PLAB), they must pass relevant entrance exams.
Q. Are there any disadvantages of studying MBBS abroad?
A. Some challenges include:
Passing the FMGE/NEXT to practice in India can be challenging for some students.
Language barriers in non-English speaking countries.
Cultural adjustment.
Q. Can I work while studying MBBS abroad?
A. In some countries, students can take up part-time jobs. However, medical studies are highly demanding, and students often do not have enough time for work.