MBBS Abroad for Indian Students - Fees, Top Universities & Eligibility

Is it hard to get a Government Seat for MBBS in India?

India has been facing continuous challenges in its medical education infrastructure for decades, including the disconnect between education and health service delivery, the high cost of education, the underutilization of existing resources, and the diversity of entrance examinations for medical seats, among others. Overall, there has been a constant drive to improve the doctor-to-population ratio to ensure better access to healthcare services.

In 2024, more than 21 Lacs students collectively appeared for India's most prestigious Medical Entrance Exam NEET-UG to secure their MBBS seats in 706 Govt and Private Medical colleges, approx. In the last five years, the government and private sectors added 185 medical colleges with 23,000 seats. Despite these efforts, the chances of getting an MBBS Seat in India dropped from 6.68% to 5.29% in the last five years. This is because of the growing number of NEET UG aspirants and the slow-paced evolution of the medical education infrastructure, which can meet the ever-increasing demand for MBBS seats.

As of the year 2024, India has 13.01 lakh registered allopathic doctors. It is expected that 10.4 Lacs, 80% of registered doctors, are active in public healthcare. India has a 1:1346 doctor-to-population ratio, far below the Global norm of 1:1000. The shortage of Healthcare professionals in India leads to the elevated demand for doctors.

You can refer to the below table to take a look at the MBBS Medical College's trend-

High Tuition Fees in Private Medical Colleges in India

The compulsion of clearing the NEXT Exam to get the License in India made the pathway even more complex for Private Medical college students. Nonetheless, students get to study at a Public University Abroad, holding more than 100 years of experience at an affordable price. Hence, MBBS Abroad is worth choosing over a Private Medical College in India.

Why Indian Students Choose MBBS Abroad

Facing a closed door for MBBS in India opens a window to the world. Indian students choose to pursue their medical degrees overseas for clear, practical reasons that solve the major issues they face at home. The benefits of MBBS abroad are real and life-changing for a dedicated student.

Parents and students often ask: Is this path safe, worthwhile, and valid? The answer lies in these key advantages:

1. No Donations, Transparent Fees. You gain admission based on your academic merit, not your family's bank balance. This system removes the fear of hidden capitation fees, making MBBS abroad without donation a huge relief for middle-class families.
2. World-Class Education at Lower Cost. The total cost for a full degree abroad is often less than a single year's fee at a private Indian college. This makes quality medical education truly affordable.
3. Study in English. The language of instruction in the best universities is English. Hence, you can focus on medicine, rather than learning the language.
4. Globally Recognized & NMC-Approved. The curriculum of reputable foreign universities is in line with the National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines in India. This implies that, after passing the licensing exam with your degree, you can go back into practice in India.

Study MBBS Abroad: Major Advantages & Perks

There are numerous benefits to MBBS Abroad over studying at a Private Medical College in India. Please look at the table below to understand the values we fetched for MBBS Abroad on various crucial parameters before deciding the right path.

MBBS Abroad vs Private Medical Colleges in India

MBBS Abroad Fees (Country Wise)

One of the biggest reasons Indian students choose MBBS abroad is the lower cost compared to private medical colleges in India.

Most countries offer quality medical education, English-medium teaching, and no donation, at a much lower fee.

The following table represents the average fees of popular countries where Indian students prefer to study. This assists you in making fast comparisons and choices based on your budget, NEET score and career plan.

MBBS Abroad Fees Table (For Indian Students)

Note- These fees will vary depending on the university. In any case, verify the final offer letter.

Top Countries for MBBS Abroad for Indian Students

The most crucial move in your MBBS abroad adventure is selecting the right university. You must have a college that is duly recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India, is conducted in English and has high standards internationally. This will make sure that you will be able to come back and practice medicine in India after your degree. Here is a look at the most trusted destinations for Indian students.

MBBS in Russia

Why Russia? Russia is a top choice for MBBS abroad because of its very low fees and long history of strong medical training.

• Cities: Moscow, Kazan, Saint Petersburg
• Course Duration: 6 years
• Why chosen: Affordable fees, historic universities and good practical patient exposure.
• Recognition: NMC Approved, WHO Listed, WFME Accredited.

Russia hosts some of the most affordable NMC approved MBBS universities abroad.

MBBS in Uzbekistan

Why Uzbekistan? Uzbekistan is growing fast in popularity for low-cost MBBS abroad with a simple admission process.

• Cities: Tashkent, Samarkand
• Course Duration: 6 years
• Why chosen: Budget-friendly, English-medium classes, very safe for students.
• Recognition: NMC Approved, WHO Listed, WFME Accredited.

It is the best pick for students looking for a cheap and secure option.

MBBS in Kazakhstan

Why Kazakhstan? The education available in Kazakhstan is of high quality (low cost) and this suits the Indian students.

• Cities: Almaty, Astana
• Course Duration: 5 to 6 years
• Reason why selected: Smaller class sizes, good clinical exposure from early years.
• Recognition: NMC Approved, WHO Listed, WFME Accredited.

It is a strong option among the best universities for MBBS abroad.

MBBS in China

Why China? China has well-organized MBBS programs and modern, high-tech hospitals for training.

• Cities: Jilin, Nanjing, Wuhan
• Course Duration: 6 years
• Why chosen: Advanced laboratories and a very strong focus on academic knowledge.
• Recognition: NMC Approved, WHO Listed, WFME Accredited.

China is known for its high academic standards in medical education.

MBBS in Georgia

Why Georgia? Georgia is preferred for its European-style education system and safe environment.

• Cities: Tbilisi, Batumi
• Course Duration: 6 years
• Why chosen: English-medium instruction, safe country, offers a European educational experience.
• Recognition: NMC Approved, WHO Listed, WFME Accredited.

It is ideal for students wanting to study MBBS abroad in a European setting.

Honourable mentions

MBBS in Nepal | MBBS in Egypt | MBBS in Latvia | MBBS in Lithuania | MBBS in Poland

Top Colleges / Universities for MBBS Abroad

We mentioned in the above section the best countries to study in. Now we mention the best universities in each country.

Top Medical Universities in Russia (MBBS)

Top Medical Universities in Uzbekistan (MBBS)

Top Medical Universities in Kazakhstan (MBBS)

Top Medical Universities in China (MBBS)

Top Medical Universities in Georgia (MBBS)

Education Pattern of MBBS Abroad

Every country has a varied education system to deliver medical education to its students. Most Asian countries were colonies of the Western world in the last 150-200 Years. These countries adopted modern medicine (Allopathic Medicine) education from the Western world. Each country developed its Medical education based on community needs and long-term vision for the healthcare system post-independence. Broadly, there are three systems adopted by different countries, namely-

Asian Education System

Asian countries follow the education system, which comprises a bachelor's program with a duration of 4-1/2 or 5 years followed by an internship of 1 year, which makes a complete program of 5-1/2 to 6 years. Due to the low doctor-to-population ratio, these countries permit the students to practice independently after a Bachelor's Degree. MBBS degree holders in Asian countries are considered General Physicians. The Academic Assessment is made every year in most countries. Basic Eligibility to enter the Bachelor's Program is 10+2 / Senior Secondary with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

European Education System

Balkan Countries / Eastern European and EU countries award an MD, a Bachelor's Degree. The duration of the MD Program is 6 Years, and internship / Clinical rotation is an integral part of regular study and continues over six years of studies. As most European countries have established Health Care Systems, each one follows the ECTS system, a European norm to make the system uniform across the EU countries. This system ensures minimum education standards across European universities and presents opportunities to transfer without any academic loss across EU countries.

The European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) is followed throughout the semester to make the students' academic assessments. Basic Eligibility for the Medicine Bachelor's Program is 10+2 / Senior Secondary with Chemistry, Biology and Physics. Many countries ask for mathematics as a subject, and in Europe, physics is considered equivalent to math. Any Graduate cannot practice unassisted; they must go for a Master's Program to obtain the License to practice. However, this program is usually offered in their Native Language, while a few Universities deliver programs in French, a widely spoken language in Europe. Learn more about PG in the UK (PLAB).

American Education System

The US, Canada, South American countries, and the Philippines follow the American system, where the student must do a Bachelor of Science (BS) program first, followed by a 4-year MD course. The Doctor of Medicine (MD) course consists of 2 years of Basic Medical Science (BMS) and 80 weeks/2 years of Clinical rotation. You must be a specialist to practice in the US, and an MD has to clear the USMLE Exam to get into the Residency Program (Master's Program equivalent to MD/MS in India) to become a specialist. The Trimester system is utilised to make the academic assessment. Know more about Medical PG in the USA (USMLE).

MBBS Abroad Eligibility Criteria and Requirements (Indian Students)

Knowing the MBBS abroad eligibility criteria is the first step. The requirements are clear and designed to make sure you are prepared for the course. Here are the key rules for Indian students.

Academic Requirements:

• NEET Qualification: Yes, NEET for MBBS abroad is mandatory. You must have a valid NEET score to apply.
• Academic Marks: You must have completed Class 12 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB). A minimum of 50% marks in PCB is standard for most universities.

Basic Requirements:

• Age Limit: You should be at least 17 years old when the course begins. Some universities may have an upper age limit, typically 25 years.

MBBS Abroad Country-wise Admission Criteria

You must meet the criteria set by the respective University for admission and the NMC criteria to obtain the License to practice in India. Find the table given below to learn about the country admission criteria-

Academic eligibility and age criteria for MBBS Abroad are the same as in India; the only difference is the validity of the NEET Score, which is three years in the case of MBBS Abroad. For India, only the current year's NEET score is valid for counselling.

Admission Process For Studying MBBS Abroad

The MBBS abroad admission process is straightforward when you know the steps. So, how to take admission abroad for MBBS?

Step 1: Qualify NEET

You have to possess a legitimate NEET degree. This is the initial and compulsory requirement for all Indian students.

Step 2: Select Your University

Your university should be recognized by the NMC and meet your financial needs and expectations. A professional counselor will assist you in the comparison of your optimal choices.

Step 3: Receive Your Admission Letter

Submit your academic documents to your desired university. You will receive an official admission or invitation letter on acceptance.

Step 4: Apply for Your Student Visa

You can apply to get a student visa at any country's embassy with your admission letter. This stage involves a health checkup.

Step 5: Plan Your Departure

After receiving your visa, you can book a flight and start living your life to become a doctor.

Documents Required For MBBS Abroad Admission

Another key to MBBS abroad is your documents. With them in place, your MBBS abroad application is made hassle free. Here is a clear checklist.

Mandatory Documents:

• 10th and 12th Mark sheets and Certificate.
• Valid NEET Scorecard
• Valid Passport
• Birth Certificate
• Medical Fitness Certificate

University-Specific Documents:

• University Admission Letter
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
• Proof of Financial Funds
• Passport-Sized Photographs
• IELTS/TOEFL Score (if required)
• Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)

Always check with your chosen university for their exact list.

MBBS Consultants in India (Local Support)

The thought of the first step of becoming an MBBS abroad may be daunting when done individually. It all depends on the professional advice of local professionals who are trusted. MOKSH Overseas Educon's accomplished network of qualified counselors offers face-to-face counseling in India, which gives a sense of clarity and reassurance to the students and their parents.

We have permanent offices at strategically located cities to serve you better:

• MBBS Consultant in Mumbai: In Dadar, our consultants assist Maharashtra students in their entire course.
• MBBS Consultant in Delhi: MBBS experts in overseas countries lead the students in the North.
• MBBS Consultant in Bhopal: A central point for students in the state of Madhya Pradesh and adjoining states.
• MBBS Consultant in Vasai: Local, accessible services to the students as well as the families of the Vasai-Virar area.

A meeting with any MBBS consultant or visiting an office would provide personalized counseling. You receive straightforward guidance on which university to attend, a proper explanation of the fees and regular assistance until you leave. Visit your closest center today for trustworthy guidance on your medical future.

PG Options after MBBS Abroad

USMLE

USMLE is a three-step medical licensing exam for U.S. and international graduates to practice medicine in the United States.

Know more

PLAB/MRCP

PLAB is the UK medical registration exam for international doctors; MRCP is the specialist internal medicine qualification for career advancement.

Know more

AMC Exam

The AMC exam assesses International Medical Graduates for Australian medical registration through knowledge and clinical skills testing.

Know more

NExT

India's NExT exam replaces NEET PG/FMGE for medical licensing and PG entry, testing theory and clinical skills for all MBBS graduates.

Know more