Study MBBS Abroad: Eligibility, Colleges, Fees, and Exams
MBBS abroad is rapidly becoming a top choice for Indian students aspiring to become successful doctors of the highest international repute. The lack of opportunities in India due to high competition and limited MBBS seats urges thousands of Indian students to enroll for MBBS abroad. Russia, Bangladesh, and Americas, or Caribbean countries, are the best destinations to study MBBS abroad for Indian students. On an average, at present, there are over 10,000 Indian students in Russia, more than 7,000 in Bangladesh, and almost 100 in Guyana and Barbados (Caribbean).
The top medical universities abroad are well-known for their high-quality medical education, modern teaching methods, excellent infrastructural facilities, well-furnished hostel accommodation, English medical curriculum, globally valid medical degree, and so much more. The fee structure of MBBS abroad for Indian students starts at INR 3 – 6 lakhs a year, including hostel and mess charges. Enroll in the top foreign medical universities and start your MBBS journey for a successful medical career ahead in the country of your choice.
Requirement for MBBS Abroad for Indian Students
The admission requirements for Indian students to apply for MBBS in abroad are formulated by the National Medical Commission. Any Indian student interested in studying MBBS abroad have to fulfill the following eligibility criteria of NMC:
- Academic requirement: The candidate must have passed 10+2 from a recognized board with an aggregate 50% in PCB subjects. For reserved category candidates (SC/ST/OBC), the aggregate score is 40%.
- Age requirement: The age of the candidate must be 17 years or more as on 31st December in the admission year.
- NEET requirement: The candidate must have qualified the NEET UG exam and has a valid NEET scorecard.
Entrance Exam To Study MBBS Abroad
Any Indian student who wants to study MBBS abroad must qualify the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) at the undergraduate level. In March 2019, the Medical Council of India (MCI) passed an order stating that the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) will be compulsory for Indian students. This is the basic and mandatory requirement to apply for MBBS in abroad for Indian students in countries like Russia, Bangladesh, Caribbean Islands, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan, etc.
Apart from NEET, candidates planning to study MBBS abroad also have to sit for the English proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL to prove their efficiency in speaking and understanding of the English language. Not all popular countries for MBBS in abroad like Russia, Bangladesh, and Americas demand these entrance exams for admission and Indian students can simply take admission in foreign medical universities on the basis of their 12th and NEET scores.
Admission Process For Studying MBBS Abroad
The admission process for MBBS abroad for Indian students is based on their aggregate marks in PCB subjects in Class 12th and NEET score. The admission in foreign medical universities is granted on merit-basis.
Here is the stepwise common procedure for Indian students for MBBS abroad:
Step 1: Select your medical university in your preferred destination.
Step 2: Fill out the application form with the required information.
Step 3: Attach the necessary documents with your application form before submitting it.
Step 4: Receive the admission letter from the university.
Step 5: Submit your original passport and required documents to apply for your student visa.
Step 6: Pay your first year tuition fees.
Step 7: Prepare your luggage for your MBBS abroad.
Step 8: Board your flights to your MBBS destination.
Documents Required For MBBS Admission Abroad
Any Indian student who wants to study MBBS abroad has to submit the following documents while making the application for admission in foreign medical universities.
- Scanned copies of 10th and 12th marksheets and pass certificates
- Admission letter
- Birth certificate
- Medical certificate with HIV report
- Colored passport-sized photographs
- Caste certificate (optional)
- Student visa
- Valid passport with 1-year validity
- NEET scorecard
- Air tickets
Most of the countries ask for the translated copies of the above-mentioned documents in their national language to process the admissions.
MBBS in Abroad Vs. MBBS in India
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 entire MBBS course fees range between INR 15 to 60 lakhs. | The MBBS course fee for government colleges is up to INR 10 lakhs and private medical colleges up to INR 80 lakhs. |
The teacher and 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. |
Top Countries for MBBS Abroad for Indian Students
After the popularity of MBBS abroad among medical aspirants as an option to fulfill their dream of becoming excellent doctors, many countries emerged as popular destinations to study MBBS abroad. The top 3 countries to study medicine in other countries for Indian students are:
MBBS in Russia
MBBS in Russia has always been a top choice for Indian students aspiring to have a successful medical career. Medical education in Russia is subsidized for international students, making MBBS fees in Russia extremely affordable. The medical universities in Russia are well-known for excellent infrastructure facilities, world-class medical education, highly qualified faculty members, comfortable student accommodation and mess facilities, and innovative technologies. At present, there are more than 10,000 Indian students studying MBBS in Russia.
- Duration of the course: 5.8 years (includes one year of training)
- Eligibility: Passed 10+2 with PCB (50% for Indian students) and NEET Exam
- University recognitions: NMC (erstwhile MCI), WDOMS, ECFMG, FAIMER, and Ministry of Education, Russia
- IELTS & TOEFL: Not required
- Medium of teaching: English
- Average MBBS fees: INR 15 Lakhs ~ INR 50 Lakhs
- Cost of living in Russia: INR 12,000/ month
- Admission intake: September
MBBS in Bangladesh
Bangladesh is one of the best countries to study MBBS abroad for Indian students for its highest FMGE passing percentage. MBBS in Bangladesh makes a top choice for Indian students for its similarities in medical curriculum to India. There are over 13 medical colleges in Bangladesh that are recognized by the National Medical Commission for their remarkable quality of medical education, infrastructure, clinical exposure, and affordable MBBS fees. The medical degrees of the Bangladesh medical colleges are valid across the globe and their medical graduates can practice medicine in any country after clearing the medical licensing exams of that country.
- Duration of the course: 6 (Includes 1 year of internship)
- Eligibility: Passed 10+2 with PCB (60% for Indian students) and NEET Exam
- Recognitions: NMC (erstwhile MCI), ECFMG, FAIMER, WDOMS, IMED, BMDC
- IELTS/TOFEL: Not required
- Medium of teaching: English
- Average MBBS fees : INR 25 Lakhs – INR 35 Lakhs
- Cost of living in Russia: INR 10,000/ month
- Admission intake: January/February
MBBS in Americas
Americas or Caribbean Islands is one of the top destinations to study MBBS abroad for Indian students for its top-tier medical education on a US-based education system. The medical schools in Caribbean Islands are well-known among international students for their educational and facility infrastructures, innovative technologies, well-educated and experienced faculty members, etc. Guyana and Barbados are two top destinations to study MBBS in Americas.
- Duration of the course: 5 years
- Eligibility: Minimum 50% aggregate score in PCB subjects and qualifying NEET score
- Recognitions and Accreditations: NMC (MCI), ECFMG, FAIMER, WDOMS
- IELTS/TOFEL: Not required
- Medium of teaching: English
- Average MD/MBBS fees: INR 30 Lakhs- 60 Lakhs
- Cost of living : $200 to $300 per month
- Admission intake: January, May & September
Top universities & Colleges For MBBS Abroad
The top medical universities and colleges for MBBS in Russia, Bangladesh, and Americas are given below:
Russia | Duration of MBBS | 5+1 years | |
Eligibility Criteria | Minimum 50% marks in PCB subjects in 12th standard and qualifying NEET score. | ||
Medium of Teaching | English | ||
Average Fees | INR 27 lakhs | ||
Recognitions | ECFMG, WDOMS, FAIMER, NMC (erstwhile MCI), GMC PLAB | ||
Duration of MBBS in Russia | 5+1 years | ||
Eligibility Criteria | Minimum 50% marks in PCB subjects in 12th standard and qualifying NEET score. | ||
Medium of Teaching | English | ||
Average Fees | INR 25 lakhs | ||
Recognitions | WDOMS, ECFMG, FAIMER, NMC(erstwhile MCI) | ||
Duration of MBBS in Russia | 5+1 years | ||
Eligibility Criteria | Minimum 50% marks in PCB subjects in 12th standard and qualifying NEET score. | ||
Medium of Teaching | English | ||
Average Fees | INR 24 lakhs | ||
Recognitions | NMC, WDOMS, ECFMG, FAIMER |
Bangladesh | Duration of MBBS | 5+1 years | |
Eligibility Criteria | Minimum 60% marks in PCB subjects in 12th standard and qualifying NEET score. | ||
Medium of Teaching | English | ||
Average Fees | INR 30 lakhs | ||
Recognitions | BMDC, ECFMG, WDOMS, FAIMER, and NMC (erstwhile MCI) | ||
Duration of MBBS in Russia | 5+1 years | ||
Eligibility Criteria | Minimum 60% marks in PCB subjects in 12th standard and qualifying NEET score. | ||
Medium of Teaching | English | ||
Average Fees | INR 32,96,250/- | ||
Recognitions | Recognized by Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council (BM & DC), National Medical Commission of India (NMC), Nepal Medical Council (NMC), Bhutan Medical & Health Council (BM & HC), Maldivian Medical & Dental Council (MM & DC).And the course is Affiliated by University of Rajshahi | ||
Duration of MBBS in Russia | 5+1 years | ||
Eligibility Criteria | Minimum 60% marks in PCB subjects in 12th standard and qualifying NEET score. | ||
Medium of Teaching | English | ||
Average Fees | INR 33,75,000/- | ||
Recognitions | Bangladesh Medical & Dental Council (BMDC), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (Bangladesh), and National Medical Commission (NMC) |
Americas/Caribbean Islands | Duration of MD in Guyana | 5 years | |
Eligibility Criteria | Minimum 50% marks in PCB subjects in 12th standard and qualifying NEET score. | ||
Medium of Teaching | English | ||
Average Fees | INR 25-28 Lakhs | ||
Recognitions | ECFMG, WDOMS, FAIMER, NMC (erstwhile MCI), MCC, GAME, AMEE, & NAC, Guyana | ||
Duration of MD in Barbados | 5 years | ||
Eligibility Criteria | Minimum 50% marks in PCB subjects in 12th standard and qualifying NEET score. | ||
Medium of Teaching | English | ||
Average Fees | INR 25-28 Lakhs | ||
Recognitions | WDOMS, NMC(erstwhile MCI), & AMEE |
Average Fees For MBBS Abroad - Country-wise
MBBS in Russia | INR 15 Lakhs- 50 Lakhs |
MBBS in Bangladesh | INR 25 Lakhs – 35 Lakh |
MBBS in Americas | INR 30 Lakhs- 60 Lakhs |
MBBS in Kyrgyzstan | INR 18 Lakhs -32 lakhs |
MBBS in Armenia | INR 18 Lakhs – 25 Lakh |
MBBS in Georgia | INR 30 Lakhs- 50 Lakhs |
MBBS in Kazakhstan | INR 15 Lakhs – 20 lakh |
MBBS in China | INR 25 Lakhs – 30 Lakhs |
MBBS in Belarus | INR 20 Lakhs – 25 Lakhs |
MBBS in Philippines | INR 25 Lakhs – 30 Lakhs |
MBBS in Ukraine | INR 26 Lakhs- 40 Lakhs |
Jobs And Career Scopes After Studying MBBS Abroad
There is no shortage of opportunities for medical graduates after MBBS abroad. Nowadays, there are various career options available with new doctors from abroad. They can either join the healthcare sectors of their countries or consider the following career scopes after MBBS abroad:
- Hospital management
- Medical-Legal Advisors
- Medical Tourism
- Sports Medicine
- Medical Journalism & Medical Writing
- Medical Teacher/Professor
- Health Informatics & Analytics
- Clinical Forensic Medical Examiner
Disadvantages of Studying MBBS Abroad
The incredible opportunities awaiting medical aspirants during MBBS abroad can never be questioned. However, there are some challenges faced by Indian students during their stay in another country for their medical education.
- Barriers in communication as every country has its own mother language.
- Passing the FMGE exam to practice medicine in India
- Differences in the cultures and traditions of India and new country.
- Different and adverse climatic conditions
- Clearing English proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL in some countries.
- Feeling of homesickness
Medical Licensing Exam After MBBS Abroad
The ultimate goal of any medical student after MBBS abroad is to appear for the medical licensing exams of countries where they would like to practice medicine. Almost all the medical universities in abroad provide coaching for various medical licensure exams to their students. The purpose of such exams includes:
- Monitor and control the quality of healthcare of a country.
- Evaluate medical knowledge and skills of medical graduates.
- Check the compatibility of the existing medical infrastructure of a country.
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 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The eligibility criteria to apply for MBBS abroad for Indian students include 50% in PCB subjects in 10+2 and NEET passing score.
Russia, Bangladesh, and Americas are the best countries to study MBBS abroad for Indian students for their excellent medical education and affordable fee structures.
Kyrgyzstan has the lowest cost of studying MBBS starting at just INR 15 lakhs for the entire course.
Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) is the medical licensing exam of India conducted by the National Medical Commission for foreign medical graduates who want to practice medicine in India.
MBBS abroad is an excellent option for Indian students to fulfill your dream of becoming an excellent doctor. It promises remarkable international exposure, high quality medical education, extensive clinical experience, affordable fees, etc.
The top universities to study MBBS abroad are Perm State Medical University (Russia), Orenburg State Medical University (Russia), Mari State University (Russia), Lincoln American University (Guyana), Victoria University of Barbados (Barbados), Khulna City Medical College (Bangladesh), Rangpur Community Medical College (Bangladesh), and Shahabuddin Medical College (Bangladesh).
MBBS abroad is always a better option for Indian students than India as there are limited seats available in Indian medical colleges and the level of competition is also intense in India. The medical universities abroad provide every opportunity to Indian students to receive the best medical education at low-cost MBBS fees.
Excellent quality medical education, vast practical exposure, remarkable clinical experience, highly qualified medical faculty members, advanced classrooms and laboratories, English medium MBBS course, comfortable accommodation and fooding facilities, affordable fee structures are some of the top reasons to study MBBS abroad.
A minimum of 50% aggregate marks in PCB subjects in Class 12th are required to apply for MBBS in abroad. Moreover, a passing NEET score is another mandatory requirement to apply.
