Best Country for MBBS for Indian Students

It is the aspiration of 20 million Indian students to become a doctor. Saving lives, wearing a white coat, and being respected by society drive many to take the MBBS path. But as rosy as it sounds, getting admission into an Indian medical college is a daunting task. With over 2 million aspirants competing for just 100,000 MBBS seats, the cut-throat competition cannot be imagined. Government medical colleges have few seats, and private colleges have unreasonable fees, which are generally not less than ₹1 crore.

If you are a medical aspirant who is struggling to get the right opportunity in India, pursuing an MBBS abroad could be the ideal solution for you. Several countries provide class-apart medical education, world-class infrastructure, and internationally recognized degrees—all at a much lower price. But how do you decide which country is ideal for you? That’s what this blog is all about. We’re going to walk you through it all – from why it’s such a great idea to pursue MBBS abroad, to the best places to pursue MBBS for Indian students, eligibility, tests needed, and even scholarships so that your dream of becoming a doctor becomes a reality.

Let’s begin!

Why Study MBBS Abroad? 

You might wonder why not just do MBBS in India. Let’s break it down.

1. There aren’t enough MBBS seats in India.

Imagine you spend two years preparing for the NEET exam. You give up sleep and hangouts with friends. Finally, you get a score around 550/720. But guess what? You still can’t get into a government medical college. This is the reality for lots of students every year.

Here are some numbers to consider:

• NEET Applications for 2023: around 2 million
• Total MBBS Seats: 108,000
• Government MBBS Seats: only 55,000
• Fees at Private Medical Colleges: ₹5 million to ₹10 million

So what does this mean? Getting into a government college with good NEET scores is super hard. If you can’t afford private colleges, studying MBBS abroad might be your best bet.

2. High-Quality Education & Global Exposure

Medical education abroad is not just about getting a degree—it’s about obtaining international abilities, advanced training in the latest medicine, and a variety of technology that many Indian colleges do not have.

• Advanced Labs & Research Facilities: In many universities of foreign countries, they provide advanced resources, such as robotic surgery training, virtual dissection tables, and AI-based diagnostic tools.
• Hands-On Clinical Training: In nations like the USA, UK, and Germany, students work directly with patients from the first year, acquiring crucial practical experience.
• Globally Recognized Degree: Medical degrees from Russia, Ukraine, the Philippines, China, and Bangladesh are approved by WHO, MCI/NMC in India, and ECFMG in the USA, allowing graduates to practice medicine globally.

3. Affordable Fees Compared to Private Colleges in India

Many believe studying medicine (MBBS) abroad is costly, but it’s often less expensive than private colleges in India. 

Country	Tuition fees (INR)	Entrance Exam
USA	60L-1.5Cr	MCAT
UK	50L-1Cr	UCAT/BMAT
Canada	60L-1.2Cr	MCAT
Austria	50L-80L	ISAT/GAMSAT
Germany	5L-10L	IELTS/TOEFL
Russia	15L-30L	NEET
China	20L-40L	NEET
Ukraine	20L-35L	NEET
Philippines	20L-35L	NEET
Bangladesh	25L-40L	NEET

With fees surpassing ₹1 crore at Indian private institutions, it’s understandable why many students opt to study abroad annually.

4. No Entrance Exam Required:

A key advantage of pursuing an MBBS degree abroad is that many countries don’t require entrance exams, except for NEET, which Indian students must take.

For instance:

• In Russia, Ukraine, China, and Bangladesh, students can gain direct admission based on their 12th-grade marks, with no additional exams needed.
• In Germany and the USA, students need to demonstrate language proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL and may need to complete a foundation course.
• In the UK, Canada, and Australia, entrance exams such as the MCAT, UCAT, or ISAT are necessary.

So, if your NEET score isn’t high, but you still aspire to become a doctor, several countries can provide an excellent medical education.

Top 10 Countries for MBBS Abroad for Indian Students

Picking the right country to study MBBS is a big decision. Different countries offer various benefits. Some have more affordable fees, some provide outstanding medical education, and others offer better chances to live and work there after you graduate.

Let’s look into the top 10 countries that are best suited for Indian students wanting to pursue an MBBS degree overseas.

1. United States of America (USA) 

If you’re thinking about studying in one of the top healthcare systems, the USA is a great choice. The country boasts some of the best medical schools. You’ll get real hands-on training and good job options when you graduate.

Here are some important points to keep in mind:

• Schools like Harvard, Johns Hopkins, and Stanford are among the best.
• It’s a smart choice for those aiming for high-paying jobs.
• You’ll have access to excellent clinical training and research opportunities.
• In the USA, MBBS is referred to as MD (Doctor of Medicine).

Course details:

• Duration: 4 years after completing a 4-year pre-med program
• Entrance Exam: MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)
• Tuition: ₹60 lakh to ₹1.5 crore. Yes, that’s pricey, but there are scholarships available.

Who should think about studying in the USA?

• Students who can afford the costs or get scholarships.    
• Those who want to work as doctors here.    
• Students who are interested in research-focused medical education.  

2. United Kingdom (UK) 

The UK is known for its great medical education. With schools like Oxford and Cambridge, many hopeful doctors dream of studying MBBS there.

Here are a few highlights:

• A respected MBBS degree used around the world  
• Lots of hands-on training from the start  
• Graduates have a good chance of getting hired  

Course info:

• Duration: 5-6 years  
• Entrance Exam: UCAT or BMAT for top schools  
• Tuition Fees: ₹50 lakh – ₹1 crore  

Who should consider the UK?  

• Students who want to work as doctors in the UK or Europe.  
• Those who want clinical training and patient care from Year 1.  
• Students who can handle the high fees or get scholarships.

3. Canada 

Canada is known for its great medical education, but getting in as an international student can be tough. Unlike some other places, Canada doesn’t have MBBS programs right away. You need to finish a pre-med course first. 

Here are some quick points: 

• You can earn a good salary after finishing your MBBS  
• There’s a strong focus on research and caring for patients  
• Canada is one of the safest spots for international students  

Course Info: 

• Duration: 3-5 years (after pre-med)  
• Entrance Exam: MCAT  
• Tuition Fees: ₹60 lakh – ₹1.2 crore    

Who should consider Canada?  

• If you want a high-paying medical job in Canada, this is for you. 
• If you’re ready to complete a pre-med course before MBBS, you’ll fit right in.  
• This is also good for students who like modern teaching and research.

4. Australia 

Australia is one of the most developed and safest countries for pursuing MBBS. Modern medical training, extensive clinical exposure, and degrees accepted worldwide are provided by Australian universities.

Important Features:

• State-of-the-art medical facilities and hospitals
• Recognized degree for MBBS all over the world
• High-income jobs in Australia

Course Details:

• Duration: 5-6 years
• Admission Test: ISAT or GAMSAT
• Fee Structure: ₹50 lakh – ₹80 lakh

Who Should Opt for Australia?

• Students seeking global employment opportunities
• Individuals seeking a secure and student-friendly atmosphere
• Students who prefer English-medium education without language issues

5. Germany 

Germany is among the best places to go for affordable MBBS abroad. Germany provides world-class medical education at very low prices—most of its public universities do not require tuition fees!

Key Points:

• Free MBBS (only living expenses to pay)
• Globally recognized MBBS degree
• High emphasis on practical experience and clinical exposure

Course Information:

• Duration: 6 years
• Entrance Exam: IELTS/TOEFL (for English proficiency)
• Tuition Fees: Almost free! (₹5-₹10 lakh for living expenses)

Who Should Opt for Germany?

• Students seeking good quality education at an affordable price
• Students who can pick up basic German (necessary for clinical practice)
• Students interested in research-oriented medicine

6. Russia

Russia is a popular choice for Indian students who want to study MBBS at a lower cost. Every year, over 10,000 Indian students go to Russian medical universities.

Here are some key points:

• No entrance exam needed – just your 12th-grade marks
• Tuition fees are lower than private MBBS colleges in India
• English is the language of instruction for MBBS programs
• Recognized by NMC, WHO, and other medical organizations
• A safe place with a big Indian student community

Course Details:

• Duration: 6 years (includes an internship)
• Entrance Exam: None, but you need to pass NEET
• Tuition Fees: ₹15 lakh – ₹30 lakh for the whole course
• Living Costs: ₹10,000 – ₹15,000 each month

Top Medical Universities in Russia:

• Moscow State Medical University  
• Saint Petersburg State Medical University  
• Kazan Federal University  

Who Should Consider Russia?  

• Students looking for an affordable MBBS option abroad.  
• Those who prefer English-medium courses without entrance exams.  

7. China

China has some great medical universities with modern hospitals. If you get an MBBS degree there, it is recognized worldwide by NMC and WHO.

Here are some key points:

• Tuition fees are lower than many private med schools in India.  
• They offer high-tech medical facilities and research opportunities.  
• The MBBS courses are similar to what you find in Western countries.  
• You’ll gain real experience with patients.

Course details:

• Duration: 5 years, plus a 1-year internship  
• Entrance Exam: No exam needed; just pass NEET  
• Tuition Fees: ₹20 lakh to ₹40 lakh  
• Living Costs: ₹12,000 to ₹18,000 a month  

Top medical universities in China:

• Peking University Health Science Center  
• Fudan University Medical School  
• Zhejiang University School of Medicine  

Who should consider studying in China? 

If you want an affordable MBBS with good facilities, this is a solid choice. Learning some basic Mandarin can help during your internship. Plus, it may open more job options after you finish your degree.

8. Ukraine 

Before the war, many Indian students chose to study in Ukraine. The tuition was low, and the education was decent. Now, things are a bit shaky due to the conflict.

Here’s a quick rundown:

• Tuition fees are cheaper than private medical colleges in India.  
• The MBBS degree is accepted by NMC, WHO, and other medical boards.  
• Students get solid hands-on training.

Course Info:

• Duration: 6 years  
• Entrance Exam: No, just need to clear NEET  
• Tuition Fees: ₹20 lakh to ₹35 lakh  
• Living Costs: ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 a month  

Top Medical Schools in Ukraine:

• Bogomolets National Medical University  
• Kyiv Medical University  
• Lviv National Medical University  

Who should think about studying in Ukraine?

• Students who can wait for the situation to settle down.  
• Those who want an affordable MBBS option.  
• Students are open to a European-style education.

⚠️ Note: Because of the war, many students have moved to places like Russia, Kazakhstan, and Georgia. If you’re considering Ukraine, be sure to check the latest news.

9. Philippines

Thinking about becoming a doctor? The Philippines could be a great choice. They follow an American-style medical education. This is helpful if you want to practice in the USA or Canada. Plus, since they speak English, Indian students won’t have to stress about language.

Here are some key points:

• You can earn an MBBS degree similar to the US MD program.
• Tuition is cheaper than many private colleges in India.
• Everyone speaks English, so you won’t need to learn a new language.

Let’s go over the details:

• The course takes about 5.5 years. You’ll start with a BS Biology pre-med course before moving to medicine.
• No entrance exams are required. Just passing the NEET is fine.
• Tuition fees run from ₹20 lakh to ₹35 lakh.
• You’ll need about ₹15,000 to ₹20,000 a month for living expenses.

Check out these good medical schools in the Philippines:

• The University of the Philippines College of Medicine
• AMA School of Medicine
• Davao Medical School Foundation

Who should think about studying medicine in the Philippines? 

This path suits students wanting an MBBS program like the one in the USA. If you’re comfortable with English, that’s a big plus. 

If your goal is to take the USMLE and work in the USA, studying here could be a smart choice. You’ll get a solid education in a friendly, English-speaking setting.

10. Bangladesh 

Bangladesh is a great choice for Indian students who want to study MBBS. The course is quite similar to what you find in India. The way diseases are taught, the medical books used, and the overall learning environment are pretty alike.

Here are some key points:

• The MBBS syllabus matches that of Indian medical colleges.  
• It’s cheaper than private medical schools in India.  
• It’s recognized by NMC, WHO, and other medical boards.  

Course Details:

• Duration: 5 years with 1 year for internship.  
• Entrance Exam: No entrance exam required, just pass NEET.  
• Tuition Fees: Between ₹25 lakh and ₹40 lakh.  
• Living Costs: About ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 a month.

Top Medical Colleges in Bangladesh:

• Dhaka Medical College  
• Rajshahi Medical College  
• Chittagong Medical College  

Who Should Consider This?

If you want an MBBS program that’s similar to what’s taught in India or if you plan to work in India afterward, this could be a good choice. It’s also a nice option for anyone seeking a recognized degree at a lower cost.

Eligibility Criteria for MBBS Abroad for Indian Students

Do you wish to pursue MBBS overseas? Let’s determine who is qualified. Country policies vary, but here is the gist:

1. Academic Eligibility : You must have completed your 10+2 in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB). Your school will most likely want you to get at least 50% marks in all three subjects. If you belong to a reserved category, 40% will be acceptable by some colleges.

If you’re aiming for top schools in the USA, UK, or Canada, they often have stricter requirements. So make sure to check what they want before applying.

3. Age Limit: You must be at least 17 years old at the time of admission. There’s usually no upper age limit. But some countries, like the Philippines, might have age rules.
4. NEET Qualification : If you’re Indian, you must pass NEET to study MBBS outside the country. Even if not mandated by school, the Medical Council of India (NMC) suggests doing it if later on you’d be working in India.

Thus, if you haven’t cleared NEET yet, buckle up for it!

4. Language Skills: English is the medium of instruction for most MBBS courses. Some nations, such as the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia, may require IELTS or TOEFL to ensure your level of English.

The good news? If you are considering Russia, Ukraine, China, Bangladesh, or the Philippines, you generally don’t require these tests. But it’s good to enhance your English for your career and studies.

Exams Required to Study MBBS Abroad 

If you want to study MBBS abroad, the following tests are to be undertaken:

1. NEET: Indian students are required to appear for the NEET test. The National Medical Commission (NMC) compels it to study abroad, though it may not be a requirement for the foreign medical school.
2. MCAT: For US or Canadian studies, e.g., at Harvard or Johns Hopkins, MCAT is mandatory. But this exam is given to check your knowledge of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, as well as your Critical Thinking skills. You need to pass this exam to get admission into popular med schools.
3. UKCAT/BMAT: In UK medical school applications, you might be asked to submit the UKCAT or BMAT:

– UKCAT tests ethics and problem-solving.

– BMAT tests scientific reasoning.

Preparation for admission into highly competitive institutions like Oxford or Cambridge is very much required.

4. ISAT – : ISAT test is required by some Australian universities, which tests your logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.

Documents Required for MBBS Abroad

So, you’ve chosen to pursue MBBS abroad—fab decision! But before excitement gets the better of you, let’s discuss the paperwork. Each university and nation has its own set of requirements, but here’s a general checklist of documents you’ll require:

1. Academic Documents –

You’ll require:

• 10th and 12th standard mark sheets & passing certificates
• Migration certificate (if requested by the university)

If you’re aiming for top universities, they may ask for a higher percentage in PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology).

2. NEET Scorecard : If you’re from India, clearing NEET is mandatory for MBBS abroad. Even if a university doesn’t ask for it, you’ll need it to practice in India later. So, keep your NEET scorecard ready.

3. Passport : A valid passport is a requirement! If you do not have one, apply now, as there is a waiting time for passport processing. Two years’ validity is required by some countries on your passport.
4. Admission Letter from the University: After the acceptance of your application, the university will issue you an admission letter. This is one of the most critical documents, as you will need it for your visa application.
5. Student Visa : Once you’ve got your letter of admission, you’ll be required to get a student visa. The requirements are different across nations, so it’s good to apply way in advance.
6. Medical Certificate : All universities demand a medical fitness certificate to confirm that you’re healthy enough. Some institutions may also demand a COVID-19 vaccination certificate.
7. Proof of Funds : Certain nations, such as the USA, Canada, and Australia, demand evidence that you possess sufficient funds to pay for your tuition and expenses. This can be in the following forms:

• Bank statements
• Sponsorship letters
• Scholarship confirmation (if any)

8. English Proficiency Test Scores (If Required): If you are traveling to countries such as the USA, UK, Canada, or Australia, you will be required to sit for an IELTS or TOEFL exam to demonstrate your proficiency in English.

MBBS Abroad vs MBBS in India 

An MBBS degree in India or abroad is quite a task to choose between. Both have their positive and negative highlights, so let’s discuss them.

1. Competition:

• MBBS in India: Highly competitive! Fewer government seats and private colleges charge expensive fees.
• MBBS abroad: Easier admission, less competition, and many universities do not require an entrance exam (except NEET for Indian students).

2. Cost of Education

• MBBS in India: Affordable government institutions, while private institutions can burn a hole in your pocket (₹50 lakh to ₹1 crore).
• MBBS abroad: In many countries, for example, Russia, Ukraine, China, and Bangladesh, MBBS has much lesser fees (i.e. ₹15-30 lakh).

3. Education Quality & Infrastructure

• MBBS in India: A lot of government institutions give very good education; however, many private institutions lack modern facilities.
• MBBS abroad: Top medical universities in the US, UK, Canada, and Germany are well-equipped with world-standard infrastructure and research facilities.

4. Language Barrier

• MBBS in India: No language issue. Medium of instruction here is either in the English language or regional language.
• MBBS abroad: You may need to learn the local language in some of the countries (like China and Russia) for patient interaction; however, there are universities with English-taught MBBS programs.

5. Recognitions & Licensing

• MBBS in India: To practice anywhere in India, it is recognized directly by NMC.
• MBBS abroad: After completion of your degree, you need to clear the FMGE/NEXT exam to practice in India.

Scholarships to Study MBBS Abroad

Studying abroad comes with its own economic burden; but, many scholarships have been made available to students. These scholarships can be obtained from the following sources:

1. Government scholarships for Indian students:

• National Overseas Scholarship: It is a government-funded scheme for helping SC/ST students.
• Dr. Ambedkar Scholarship: Assistance is given to students from minority communities.
• J. N. Tata Endowment Fund: This provides loans for overseas higher education.

2. Scholarships offered by individual countries:

• Fulbright Scholarship (USA): Covers tuition and cost of living.
• Commonwealth Scholarship (UK): This is for students from Commonwealth countries.
• Australia Awards Scholarship: It is fully funded.
• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: Funding available for international students.

3. University-specific scholarships:

Many universities, academically and policy-wise, have set up different scholarships for either merit-based or need-based.

• Harvard Medical School Scholarship (USA).
• International College Scholarships at the University of Melbourne (Australia).
• Entrance Scholarship from McGill University (Canada).

4. From Private Organizations:

• The Aditya Birla Scholarship: For Indian students studying abroad.
• The KC Mahindra Scholarship: Considered an interest-free loan to be availed for pursuing studies. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

1.Why do Indian students choose to study MBBS abroad?

Indian students prefer studying MBBS abroad due to lower competition, reasonable fees, and high-quality education. Since there are only limited seats from the government of India and costly private colleges, going abroad provides a good option with better infrastructure, internationally recognized degrees, and worldwide exposure.

2. Which are the top countries for studying MBBS abroad?

There are some of the best nations for Indian students to study MBBS:

• USA & UK – Very good education but costly
• Canada & Australia – Highly ranked universities but very stringent eligibility criteria
• Germany – Low fees but needs learning the German language
• Russia, China & Ukraine – Cost-effective with great universities
• Philippines & Bangladesh – Nearly the same curriculum as India but less expensive

3. What are the eligibility criteria for MBBS abroad?

To pursue MBBS abroad, you should:

✔️ Complete 10+2 with PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) with a minimum of 50% marks

✔️ As of the entry date, were at least 17 years old

✔️ Qualify for NEET, which is a prerequisite for Indian students

✔️ Fulfill English proficiency requisites (IELTS/TOEFL) in some countries

4. Is NEET mandatory for studying MBBS abroad?

Yes, NEET is required for Indian students if they want to pursue MBBS abroad. Even if a foreign university does not require it, you will be required to have a NEET score to practice in India upon completion of your degree.

5. What is the average cost of studying MBBS abroad? 

The cost depends on the country:  

• Russia, China, Ukraine, Bangladesh – around ₹15-30 lakh.  
• Philippines, Germany – about ₹20-40 lakh.  
• USA, UK, Canada, Australia – anywhere from ₹80 lakh to ₹1.5 crore.  

Countries like Russia, China, and Bangladesh offer more affordable options. But studying in the USA or UK can be really pricey.

6. Are there scholarships available for MBBS abroad?

Yes, there are! Many options are out there to help students pay for their studies. Here are a few:

– Fulbright Scholarship (USA)

– Commonwealth Scholarship (UK)

– National Overseas Scholarship (India)

– University scholarships – Many schools give financial aid based on merit.

7. Can Indian students practice in India after studying MBBS abroad?

Yes, they can! Indian students need to clear the FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) or the NEXT (National Exit Test) to practice medicine in India. Clearing one of these tests is necessary for getting a medical license, making their MBBS degree valid in the country.

8. What documents are required for MBBS admission abroad?

You’ll require:

• 10th & 12th mark sheets & certificates
• NEET scorecard
• Valid passport
• University admission letter
• Student visa
• Medical fitness certificate
• Proof of funds (bank statements/scholarship proof)

9. How long does it take to complete MBBS abroad?

Most MBBS courses abroad are of 5-6 years’ duration, including an internship. A few countries will need an extra 1-year internship before you can practice.