Do you wish to study MBBS abroad? Are you yet to figure out how to study MBBS abroad? Or have you already begun your preparations? Whichever it is, this post welcomes you to take a ride across. See you on the other side!
Firstly, you must know that, as per the verdict of the Medical Council of India (MCI), the NEET exam is mandatory for students wishing to study medicine in foreign Universities. MCI has made this a mandate because, earlier most candidates who wanted admission to foreign institutes found it very arduous, after their admission, to even complete the primary medical course and were mostly unable to qualify for the screening test for obtaining registration to practice medicine in that country.
Therefore, the system of NEET shall be regulating the entry of candidates into the field of medical education so that only suitable candidates who are competent & capable can obtain admission to educational institutions at the undergraduate level across the world. Additionally, your NEET result will be valid for 3 years only from its date of declaration. MCI has also made it compulsory for every student, wishing to pursue medicine abroad, to obtain an essentiality certificate from the MCI for admission to any medical college abroad.
Without further ado! Come along…
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Study MBBS abroad: Issue of MCI Eligibility Certificate
Obtaining the Medical Council of India (MCI) Eligibility Certificate is a crucial step for Indian students aspiring to study MBBS abroad. The MCI Eligibility Certificate serves as proof that the medical degree obtained from a foreign university is recognized by the MCI and allows the student to practice medicine in India.
To obtain the MCI Eligibility Certificate, students need to fulfill certain criteria set by the MCI. These criteria include completing the necessary pre-medical education, clearing the NEET-UG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) examination, and fulfilling the specific eligibility requirements of the foreign medical university.
The process of obtaining the MCI Eligibility Certificate involves submitting the required documents, including academic transcripts, certificates, NEET-UG scorecards, and other supporting documents, to the MCI. The application is then reviewed by the MCI, and if all requirements are met, the Eligibility Certificate is issued.
It is important for students planning to study MBBS abroad to be aware of the MCI Eligibility Certificate requirement and follow the necessary procedures to ensure their degree is recognized in India. The certificate plays a significant role in enabling successful graduates to pursue medical careers and practice medicine within the country.
Why study MBBS abroad?
Studying MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) abroad has become an increasingly popular choice for Indian students due to several compelling reasons. Here are some of the highlights or advantages of studying MBBS abroad:
Quality Education
Many foreign universities offering MBBS programs maintain high educational standards and provide quality medical education. Renowned institutions are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, advanced technology, and experienced faculty, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.
Global Recognition
Several countries, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and European nations, have globally recognized medical programs. Obtaining an MBBS degree from a recognized international university enhances the credibility of the qualification and opens opportunities for global career prospects.
Affordable Tuition Fees
Tuition fees for MBBS programs in countries like Russia, China, Ukraine, and the Philippines are often more affordable compared to private medical colleges in India. This makes studying abroad a cost-effective option for aspiring medical professionals.
Advanced Infrastructure
Many foreign medical universities invest significantly in infrastructure, research facilities, and hospitals, providing students with hands-on clinical training. Exposure to diverse medical cases and advanced equipment enhance practical skills and prepares students for future medical practice.
Cultural Exposure
Studying abroad offers a chance to experience different cultures, interact with international peers, and develop a global perspective. This cultural exposure enhances personal growth, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication skills.
High FMGE Pass Rate
The Foreign Medical Graduates Examination (FMGE) is a mandatory screening test for Indian students with foreign medical degrees to practice in India. While the pass rate may vary, many students who study MBBS abroad have successfully cleared the FMGE and established successful medical careers in India.
Increasing Popularity
According to data from the Medical Council of India (MCI), the number of Indian students opting for MBBS abroad has been steadily increasing in recent years. This indicates the growing trust and interest in pursuing medical education overseas.
Also Read: Best MBBS Abroad Consultants
Requirements for MBBS Abroad for Indian Students
While each country will have its own set of rules and selection criteria for international students who want to do MBBS abroad, today we will talk about the general guidelines for Indian students who want to do MBBS among the best foreign countries.
- Age requirements: The student must reach the age of 17 by December 31 of the year in which he is enrolled. There is no upper age limit for applying for MBBS abroad.
- Academic requirements: Candidates who want to pursue MBBS abroad must meet the academic requirements below.
- A student must complete his 10+2 from a recognized board with at least 50% or above in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
- Students must also clear the National Entrance Eligibility Test (NEET). This is mandatory even if the student plans to continue medical studies abroad.
- For admission to foreign medical universities, the candidate is also required to produce an Eligibility Certificate issued by the Medical Council of India.
- Medical requirements: At the time of admission, the candidate will have to submit a medical certificate of absence of communicable diseases.
Popular Countries for MBBS Abroad
When choosing a popular country to study MBBS abroad, consider factors such as recognition of the degree, quality of education, affordability, the language of instruction, and career prospects. Countries like Russia, China, Ukraine, the Philippines, and Kyrgyzstan are often preferred by Indian students due to their established medical programs, affordable tuition fees, and recognition by the Medical Council of India (MCI). Research the curriculum, faculty expertise, infrastructure, and student reviews to make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and aspirations.
Here are some of the top countries known for their MBBS programs:
About the Top 7 Countries to MBBS Abroad
In this section, we will be exploring the top 7 destinations to study MBBS:
Australia:
Pursuing MBBS in Australia offers high-quality medical education with a strong emphasis on research and clinical training. The country has a well-developed healthcare system and provides opportunities for practical learning.
- Eligibility: Eligibility criteria vary among universities. Generally, students need to have completed 12 years of education, including relevant science subjects and meet English language proficiency requirements.
- Duration: The MBBS program in Australia typically spans 4 to 6 years, depending on the university and pathway chosen.
- Fees: Tuition fees range from AUD 50,000 to AUD 80,000 per year, varying across universities and programs.
- Admission Intake: Most universities in Australia have one intake per year, usually in February.
- Top Colleges or Universities: University of Melbourne, Monash University, University of Queensland, University of Sydney, University of New South Wales.
- Application Process: Students must apply directly to the universities and follow their specific application procedures, which may include submitting academic transcripts, English language test scores, personal statements, and recommendation letters.
- Scholarships: Various scholarships are available for international students, including the Australia Awards Scholarships, Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarship, and university-specific scholarships.
- Cost of Studying: Besides tuition fees, students should consider living expenses, accommodation, healthcare, and other personal expenses. The cost of living in Australia ranges from AUD 20,000 to AUD 30,000 per year.
- Entrance Exams: In some cases, universities may require students to take the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) or BMAT (Biomedical Admission Test) for admission.
Also, read: Doctor Salary in Australia
UK:
MBBS in the UK offers prestigious medical schools, a rich medical heritage, and a strong academic reputation. The country offers excellent clinical exposure and research opportunities.
- Eligibility: Eligibility requirements vary among universities. Students generally need to have completed 12 years of education, including relevant science subjects and meet English language proficiency requirements.
- Duration: The MBBS program in the UK typically lasts for 5 to 6 years, including pre-clinical and clinical training.
- Fees: Tuition fees for international students range from £25,000 to £45,000 per year, depending on the university and program.
- Admission Intake: Most universities have one intake per year, usually in September/October.
- Top Colleges or Universities: University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, University College London (UCL), King’s College London.
- Application Process: Students apply through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) and follow specific university requirements. This includes submitting academic transcripts, personal statements, recommendation letters, and sometimes attending interviews.
- Scholarships: Scholarships and funding options are available for international students, including government scholarships, university scholarships, and external funding sources.
- Cost of Studying: In addition to tuition fees, students should consider accommodation, living expenses, healthcare, and personal expenses. The cost of living in the UK ranges from £10,000 to £15,000 per year.
- Entrance Exams: Some universities require students to take the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) or BMAT (Biomedical Admission Test) as part of the application process.
Canada:
Canada is known for its high-quality education, multicultural environment, and advanced healthcare system. MBBS in Canada is highly recognized worldwide.
- Eligibility: Eligibility criteria vary among universities. Students generally need to have completed 12 years of education, including relevant science subjects and meet English language proficiency requirements.
- Duration: The MBBS program in Canada typically lasts for 3 to 4 years for graduates with a relevant bachelor’s degree and 4 to 5 years for high school graduates.
- Fees: Tuition fees for international students range from CAD 20,000 to CAD 50,000 per year, depending on the university and program.
- Admission Intake: Most universities have one intake per year, usually in September.
- Top Colleges or Universities: University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, McGill University, McMaster University, University of Alberta.
- Application Process: Students must apply directly to the universities and follow their specific application procedures, which may include submitting academic transcripts, personal statements, recommendation letters, and sometimes attending interviews.
- Scholarships: Scholarships, grants, and bursaries are available for international students at both the university and government levels.
- Cost of Studying: Besides tuition fees, students should consider living expenses, accommodation, healthcare, and other personal expenses. The cost of living in Canada ranges from CAD 15,000 to CAD 20,000 per year.
- Entrance Exams: Some universities may require students to take the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) as part of the application process.
Europe:
Europe offers a wide range of medical universities with diverse cultural experiences and high academic standards. Countries like Germany, Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic are popular destinations for studying MBBS in Europe.
- Eligibility: Eligibility criteria vary among universities and countries. Generally, students need to have completed 12 years of education, including relevant science subjects and meet English language proficiency requirements.
- Duration: The MBBS program duration in Europe varies between 4 to 6 years, depending on the university and country.
- Fees: Tuition fees vary significantly across European countries and universities. Generally, fees range from €8,000 to €15,000 per year.
- Admission Intake: Universities in Europe may have multiple intake periods, depending on the country and university.
- Top Colleges or Universities: Semmelweis University (Hungary), Charles University (Czech Republic), Jagiellonian University (Poland), Medical University of Gdańsk (Poland), and University of Debrecen (Hungary).
- Application Process: Students must apply directly to the universities and follow their specific application procedures, which may include submitting academic transcripts, personal statements, recommendation letters, and sometimes attending interviews.
- Scholarships: Scholarships, grants, and financial aid options are available for international students in some European countries.
- Cost of Studying: Besides tuition fees, students should consider living expenses, accommodation, healthcare, and other personal expenses. The cost of living in Europe varies from country to country.
- Entrance Exams: Entrance exams may vary depending on the country and university. Some universities may require students to take local entrance exams or language proficiency tests.
Singapore:
Studying in Singapore offers a world-class healthcare system and research-oriented medical education. The country offers a multicultural environment and modern facilities for medical students.
- Eligibility: Eligibility criteria vary among universities. Generally, students need to have completed 12 years of education, including relevant science subjects and meet English language proficiency requirements.
- Duration: The MBBS program in Singapore typically lasts for 4 to 5 years.
- Fees: Tuition fees for international students range from SGD 30,000 to SGD 60,000 per year, depending on the university and program.
- Admission Intake: Most universities have one intake per year, usually in August.
- Top Colleges or Universities: National University of Singapore (NUS), Duke-NUS Medical School, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine.
- Application Process: Students must apply directly to the universities and follow their specific application procedures, which may include submitting academic transcripts, personal statements, recommendation letters, and sometimes attending interviews.
- Scholarships: Scholarships and financial aid options are available for international students in Singapore.
- Cost of Studying: Besides tuition fees, students should consider living expenses, accommodation, healthcare, and other personal expenses. The cost of living in Singapore is relatively higher compared to some other countries.
- Entrance Exams: Some universities may require students to take entrance exams or interviews as part of the application process.
USA:
The United States offers renowned medical schools and research opportunities. The country provides a comprehensive medical education system with clinical rotations and elective options.
- Eligibility: Eligibility criteria vary among universities. Generally, students need to have completed 12 years of education, including relevant science subjects and meet English language proficiency requirements.
- Duration: The MBBS program in the US typically lasts for 4 years, followed by residency training.
- Fees: Tuition fees for international students in the US range from USD 30,000 to USD 70,000 per year, depending on the university and program.
- Admission Intake: Most universities have one intake per year, usually in August or September.
- Top Colleges or Universities: Harvard University, Johns Hopkins University, Stanford University, University of California, San Francisco, Columbia University.
- Application Process: Students must apply directly to the universities and follow their specific application procedures, which may include submitting academic transcripts, personal statements, recommendation letters, and sometimes attending interviews.
- Scholarships: Scholarships, grants, and financial aid options are available for international students in the US, but they can be highly competitive.
- Cost of Studying: Besides tuition fees, students should consider living expenses, accommodation, healthcare, and other personal expenses. The cost of living in the US varies depending on the location.
- Entrance Exams: Students must take the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) as part of the application process. Some universities may also require additional exams or interviews.
Ireland
Ireland offers high-quality medical education and is known for its strong emphasis on research and clinical training. The medical programs in Ireland are globally recognized, and graduates have excellent career prospects.
- Eligibility: To be eligible for MBBS in Ireland, students must have completed their secondary education with qualifying grades in science subjects. Additionally, proficiency in the English language, as demonstrated through exams like IELTS or TOEFL, is required.
- Duration: The MBBS program in Ireland typically lasts for five to six years, including both theoretical studies and practical training.
- Fees: The tuition fees for MBBS programs in Ireland can vary depending on the university and program. On average, the annual fees range from €30,000 to €50,000.
- Admission Intake: The main intake for MBBS programs in Ireland is in September, but some universities may have additional intakes in January or February.
- Top Colleges or Universities: Some of the top universities in Ireland offering MBBS programs include University College Dublin (UCD), Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), and University College Cork (UCC).
- Application Process: Prospective students need to apply directly to the chosen university. They will need to submit their academic transcripts, English language proficiency test scores, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and other supporting documents. Each university may have its specific application requirements.
- Scholarships: Ireland offers various scholarships and grants for international students, including those pursuing medical programs. Students are advised to explore scholarship opportunities offered by universities, government bodies, or private organizations.
- Cost of Studying: In addition to tuition fees, students should consider other expenses such as accommodation, living costs, health insurance, and study materials. The cost of studying in Ireland can vary depending on the location and individual lifestyle choices.
Please note that the information provided is a general overview, and it is essential to research specific universities and programs for detailed and up-to-date information on eligibility, fees, and admission requirements. Also, we are not endorsing any country, students are advised to take decisions based on the several factors mentioned above!
Medical Licensing Exam After MBBS Abroad
After completing MBBS abroad, the primary objective for medical students is to prepare for and appear in the medical licensing exams of their desired practice countries. Most international medical universities offer coaching and guidance for various medical licensure exams.
The primary objective for medical students who pursue MBBS abroad is to prepare and sit for medical licensing exams in their desired countries of practice. These exams serve crucial purposes, such as overseeing and ensuring the quality of healthcare, assessing the medical knowledge and skills of graduates, and assessing the compatibility of the country’s medical infrastructure. Coaching for these exams is typically provided by the foreign medical universities themselves, aiding students in achieving their licensing goals.
Here is a table outlining the medical licensing exams after completing MBBS abroad in the top 7 countries:
| Country | Medical Licensing Exam |
| Australia | Australian Medical Council (AMC) Exam |
| UK | PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) Exam |
| Canada | Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE) |
| Europe | European Licensing Exam (varies by country) |
| Singapore | Singapore Medical Council (SMC) Licensing Examination |
| USA | United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1, Step 2 CK, Step 2 CS, Step 3 |
| Ireland | Medical Council of Ireland Registration Exam |
MBBS Abroad vs MBBS India
MBBS abroad offers exposure to international healthcare systems, diverse patient populations, and advanced technologies. It may require higher tuition fees, living costs, and adaptation to a new culture. MBBS in India offers familiarity, lower costs, and a large patient base, but limited exposure to global healthcare practices.
Here’s the table showing a comparison between the two:
| Aspect | MBBS Abroad | MBBS India |
| Seat Availability | Availability of more seats, offering greater opportunities for admission. | A limited number of seats with high competition among applicants. |
| Duration | Generally, spans up to 6 years, including a year of clinical rotation (internship). | The total duration of 5.5 years, including one year of clinical internship. |
| Global Exposure | Provides students with international exposure and access to diverse medical experiences. | Primarily focused on Indian medical practices and cases. |
| Infrastructure | Offers access to large campuses, excellent laboratory facilities, and modern equipment. | Varied infrastructure quality across medical colleges in India. |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | Generally, provides better student-faculty ratios, ensuring more personalized attention. | Varies depending on the institution, with larger class sizes in some cases. |
| Cost | Can be more economical compared to private medical colleges in India. | Fees vary across universities in India, with private institutions being relatively expensive. |
| Licensing Exam | Graduates need to pass the Medical Council of India screening test (MCI FMGE) to practice medicine in India. | Graduates need to appear for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) and fulfill other licensing requirements. |
| Long-Term Prospects | Offers opportunities to practice and settle abroad, subject to meeting country-specific regulations. | Primarily focused on practicing medicine within India. |
Conclusion!
After all that mind-bender, you must be full of facts now. If you’ve been endlessly looking for extensive knowledge about MBBS abroad, we’ve served you much, isn’t it? Now, to put all those existing doubts at the back of your mind to rest, why not ask expert professionals? Call us to study abroad! Act Now!
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Talk to our study abroad experts to know yourself in and out! We have helped several brilliant but confused minds to select their most-suited career choices. We have helped many students like Anjana Prasanna who was not very confident about her capabilities. Later, with the help of career guidance and moral support from our study abroad experts, she got an offer from King’s College London! We have also helped several brilliant but confused minds like Aayush, and Tapan to select their most-suited career choices.
Also read,
- Exams to Study Abroad
- How to Become a Doctor?
- NEET exam
- Top Scholarships to study abroad
- Medical courses without NEE
- Study Abroad: All you need to know
- List of MBBS Entrance Exams in India
FAQs
Several international students are considering foreign countries abroad to pursue their MBBS studies. So, to study there, Indian students have to clear the NEET exam. While it is mandatory in the country when applying to MBBS institutes abroad, Indian students can pursue MBBS without NEET.
Yes, it is worth every time, effort, and investment to study MBBS abroad. So, should you do MBBS from abroad? For Indian students, the answer is yes. Studying abroad is widely recognized for its prestigious education system and opportunities.
Various countries abroad offer top-quality medical education at the best price to Indian students like Ukraine, Russia, Bangladesh, the Philippines, the USA, the UK, Poland, and many more.
The cost of studying MBBS in countries like Ukraine, China, and Nepal is extremely competitive, but not free. Deserving candidates can apply for various scholarships available at the university to reduce the financial burden of studying abroad.
Students studying MBBS from abroad get ample opportunities to apply for jobs in any part of the world. Once they are certified to practice anywhere in the world, they can also obtain a country certification to be able to practice medicine after graduation.
Anushree Rastogi is a Senior Content Writer at iDreamCareer, bringing over 5 years of expertise to the field of career counseling. She has done a PGDM in Marketing and Finance and possesses a unique blend of skills that allows her to craft engaging and informative content. She is passionate about helping individuals navigate their career paths and has dedicated her career to providing valuable insights through her content. Her commitment to excellence and keen understanding of the career landscape make her a trusted guide for those seeking professional direction. With a flair for clear and engaging writing, Anushree is on a mission to empower others to make informed and fulfilling career choices.
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