The pursuit of a medical degree (MBBS) has seen significant growth in India over the years, with an increasing number of students opting to study MBBS abroad. In recent years, the demand has been much higher, driven by several factors.
The limited number of government seats, combined with the high tuition fees of private medical colleges, has made studying MBBS abroad an attractive option for Indian students. As per the reports there were only 1 lakh medical seats across 550 government and private institutions in India. However, with over 20 lakh candidates appearing for the NEET-UG exam, the competition for seats is fierce. For those who cannot afford the high fees of private medical colleges, studying abroad has become a viable alternative.
Many foreign medical colleges offer state-of-the-art facilities, modern infrastructure, and experienced faculty, making studying MBBS abroad a rewarding and transformative experience. Studying abroad provides not just global exposure but also the opportunity to practice medicine in international healthcare systems.
Eligibility Criteria for Studying MBBS Abroad:
While the requirements may vary by country and university, the general eligibility criteria for Indian students applying to study MBBS abroad include the following:
- Age Requirements:
- The student must be at least 17 years old on December 31 of the year in which they plan to begin their MBBS studies.
- Academic Prerequisites:
- The student must have completed their 10+2 education from a recognized board.
- The candidate must have at least 50% aggregate marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, with English as a compulsory subject during their 10+2 education.
- The student must have qualified the NEET exam, as it is mandatory for Indian students wishing to study medicine abroad.
Examinations Required for MBBS Abroad:
From March 2019, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has made it compulsory for all Indian students wishing to study MBBS abroad to appear for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET).
In some cases, students may also need to demonstrate their proficiency in the English language, depending on the university’s language requirements. Accepted English proficiency tests include TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or OET.
Admission Process for Studying MBBS Abroad:
Once the eligibility requirements are met, students can proceed with the application process:
- Choose a Preferred University:
- Select a university or medical college abroad that meets your criteria for quality of education, faculty, and facilities.
- Application Submission:
- Documents Required
- Class 10 and 12 mark sheets
- School Leaving Certificate
- NEET scorecard
- Language Proficiency Certificate (if applicable)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Medical certificate (If required)
- Documents Required
- Student Visa Application:
- After receiving the confirmation letter from the university, apply for a student visa along with the necessary documents, including the acceptance letter, passport, and original documents.
MBBS Abroad vs. MBBS in India:
While both MBBS in India and abroad offer similar core training in medicine, there are some differences:
- Duration:
- MBBS in India generally lasts for 5.5 years, which includes a one-year internship.
- MBBS abroad usually spans 6 years, including clinical rotations (internships) and hands-on experience in medical facilities.
- NEET Requirement:
- Both Indian and foreign medical colleges require NEET scores for admission.
- Exposure and Experience:
- Studying abroad offers broader international exposure, access to diverse patient populations, and the possibility of practicing medicine in different healthcare systems.
Advantages of Studying MBBS Abroad:
- Global Exposure:
- Students gain exposure to international healthcare systems, broadening their medical knowledge.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities:
- Many foreign medical schools are equipped with advanced infrastructure, laboratories, and modern teaching methods.
- Affordable Education:
- Studying MBBS abroad can be significantly more affordable compared to private medical schools in India, without compromising on the quality of education.
- Opportunity to Settle Abroad:
- Many students choose to stay in the country where they studied after completing their MBBS, taking advantage of career opportunities in healthcare.
- Better Student-Teacher Ratio:
- Medical colleges abroad often have smaller class sizes, ensuring better individual attention and interaction with faculty.
MBBS Specializations:
After completing the MBBS degree, students can pursue various specializations in areas like:
- General Surgery
- Pediatrics
- Cardiology
- Dermatology
- Orthopedics
- Psychiatry
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
Specializations are usually pursued after completing the MBBS degree, as MBBS itself covers broad clinical training.
Top Medical Colleges Abroad for Indian Students:
Indian students wishing to study MBBS abroad must choose the right institution. Some of the top medical schools worldwide for MBBS include:
- Russia:
- Lomonosov Moscow State University
- Kazan Federal University
- St. Petersburg State University
- Uzbekistan:
- Tashkent Medical Academy
- Samarkand State Medical University
- Ukraine:
- Kharkiv National Medical University
- Kyiv Medical University
- Bangladesh:
- Sir Salimullah Medical College
- Chiitagong Medical College
- Dhaka National Medical College
- Germany:
- University of Heidelberg
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin
- Kyrgyzstan:
- Jalalabad State University
- Osh State University