Studying MBBS Abroad: What You Need To Know?

Overview

Nowadays, MBBS abroad is becoming a suitable choice for the majority of Indian students who want to become doctors. Competition, cut-off marks, and the number of available medical seats in India force thousands of aspiring doctors to seek better medical education opportunities abroad. Russia, Bangladesh, and the Americas, specifically the Caribbean, have emerged as favourite destinations for Indian students pursuing MBBS abroad. At present, Russia has more than ten thousand Indian medical students, Bangladesh has more than seven thousand, and the Caribbean countries of Guyana and Barbados combined have nearly a hundred Indian students pursuing medical education.

When it comes to better-quality medical education and advanced teaching methods, the reputable universities abroad stand out. Additionally, they offer outstanding infrastructure, better hostel accommodation, an English curriculum, an internationally accredited medical degree, and other benefits. For Indian students who want to study MBBS abroad, the fee ranges from INR 3–6 lakhs per year. Additionally, it would also include hostel accommodation charges. You can enrol in the top international medical universities. It is a path to a successful career ahead. In other words, you can study MBBS in a country of your choice.

What are the requirements and eligibility for MBBS abroad?

Undoubtedly, the National Medical Commission has issued guidelines regarding MBBS in abroad for Indian students. The students need to fulfil the eligibility requirements mentioned below: 

Academic requirement 

Candidates must pass higher secondary from a reputable board. An aggregate of 50% marks is required in physics, chemistry, and biology. When it comes to the reserved-category students, they are eligible with 40% marks. 

Age requirement 

Candidates must be 17 years of age or older to qualify for the MBBS abroad program. Any candidate under 17 years is not eligible for the program. 

NEET requirement 

The candidate must secure a higher score in the NEET UG exam and present a valid report card.

Role of the entrance exam in studying abroad

Indian students who want to study MBBS programs abroad need to crack the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET-UG) examination. The Medical Council of India mandated NEET qualification for Indian students who want to study MBBS abroad. The requirement applies to students who wish to study MBBS programs in countries including Russia, Bangladesh, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan, Caribbean nations, and several other comparable locations.

On top of NEET, students who want to pursue an MBBS abroad have to pass English language proficiency tests. It includes IELTS or TOEFL. These tests are evidence of the English communication skills. On the other hand, these tests are not compulsory in every country. Some of the top places to study MBBS abroad, such as Russia, Bangladesh, and different countries in the US, do not require such exams to admit students. Indian students can thus apply to overseas medical universities solely on the basis of their 12th standard results and NEET scores.

Admission process for an MBBS abroad program

The MBBS in abroad for Indian students is decided based on the aggregated marks. It has to include a higher percentile in the 3 main subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Merit plays a pivotal role in securing admission to international medical universities. 

Step 1: University selection 

Choose the medical university in your preferred country. 

Step 2: Application form 

They generate the application form; all you need to do is fill it in with the required details. 

Step 3: Documentation 

Ensure that the documents are attached to the form. 

Step 4: Admission letter 

After your application is accepted, the university will send you the admission letter via mail. 

Step 5: Passport submission 

To apply for the student visa, submit your passport and documents. 

Step 6: Tuition fees 

Payment of the first-year tuition fees can be made online. 

Step 7: Final process 

Book your tickets to the preferred MBBS study destination.

Is it possible to pursue an MBBS without NEET?

Candidates often get confused after hearing the phrase MBBS abroad without NEET. A few MBBS universities might not accept the NEET score. For students who want to practice in India after graduation and avail registration with the National Medical Commission, they must qualify for the entrance exam. Therefore, NEET might not be required for admission to the university. It is not necessary for those students who want to return to India after their graduation.

Required documents for an MBBS admission abroad

These documents are mandatory when it comes to studying MBBS abroad: 

• 10th and 12th marksheets 
• School leaving certificate 
• Admission letter
• Birth certificate
• Medical certificate with HIV report
• Coloured passport-sized photographs
• Caste certificate (optional)
• Student visa
• Valid passport with 1-year validity
• NEET scorecard
• Air tickets

A few countries request translated versions of the aforementioned documents, as English is not their official language. 

Comparison of MBBS in abroad and MBBS in India

Countries preferred by Indian students for an MBBS program

It is a fact that many medical aspirants pursue MBBS abroad. This has led several countries to be recognised as great options for Indian students to fulfil their dream of becoming efficient doctors. Some countries have gained prominence for their high-quality education, reasonable prices, and international exposure. Indian students can look at the following top three countries for studying MBBS abroad:

MBBS in Russia

Russia still ranks among the top countries where Indian students prefer to pursue an MBBS degree and establish their medical careers. Tuition fees in Russia are kept at a reasonable level for international students, as the cost of medical education is subsidized by the government. Medical universities in Russia are acknowledged for their stringent academic standards, experienced faculty members, well-furnished hostels, better food services, and the implementation of advanced teaching methods. Presently, there are more than ten thousand students from India pursuing their MBBS in Russia. It is a clear indication of the country's demand and reputation as a study destination.

• Course duration: 5.8 years (One year of training is included)
• Eligibility: 12th pass with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (50% for Indian students) and NEET score
• University recognitions: NMC (erstwhile MCI), WDOMS, ECFMG, FAIMER, and Ministry of Education, Russia
• IELTS & TOEFL: Not necessary
• Teaching medium: English
• Average MBBS fees: 15 Lakhs - 50 Lakhs
• Cost of living in Russia: 12,000 per month
• Admission intake: September

MBBS in Bangladesh 

For Indian students seeking to pursue MBBS abroad, Bangladesh is now a top choice. It has been possible because of the FMGE success rate. Students are attracted to Bangladesh for medical studies because the teaching pattern and syllabus are very similar to those of the Indian medical education system. The National Medical Commission approves more than 13 medical colleges in Bangladesh. These medical colleges are known for their high academic standards, latest facilities, thorough clinical training, and affordable fee structure. Medical degrees from institutions in Bangladesh are recognised worldwide. 

• Course duration: 6 years (1 year of internship is included)
• Eligibility: 12th pass with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (60%  for Indian students) and NEET score
• Recognitions: NMC (erstwhile MCI), ECFMG, FAIMER, WDOMS, IMED, BMDC
• IELTS/TOEFL: Not necessary
• Teaching medium: English
• Average MBBS fees: 25 Lakhs – 35 Lakhs 
• Cost of living in Russia: 10,000 per month
• Admission intake: January/February

MBBS in America 

The Americas and the Caribbean have become a favourite destination for Indian students seeking an MBBS program. It has been possible because of the high educational standards and medical programs, which align with the U.S. education system. Medical universities around the Caribbean are well known for their innovative teaching, and experienced faculty members. The two countries Guyana and Barbados are the most popular in the Americas for high quality medical education and gaining international experience.

• Course duration: 5 years
• Eligibility: Minimum 50% aggregate score in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. A qualifying NEET score is eligible
• Recognitions and Accreditations: NMC (MCI), ECFMG, FAIMER, WDOMS
• IELTS/TOEFL: Not necessary
• Teaching medium: English
• Average MD/MBBS fees: 30 Lakhs – 60 Lakhs
• Cost of living : $200 to $300 per month
• Admission intake: January, May, and September

Country-wise fees for MBBS abroad

Here are the country wise fees for MBBS abroad. It is the average fees for the program. 

Career scopes after pursuing an MBBS program abroad

After an MBBS program, there are ample career opportunities. Doctors with highly acclaimed degrees are eligible for a range of career opportunities. The healthcare sector in their own country is open to them.

Additionally, they can opt for these career scopes: 

• Hospital management
• Medical-legal Advisors
• Medical tourism
• Sports medicine
• Medical journalism 
• Medical writer
• Medical teacher
• Medical professor
• Health informatics & analytics
• Clinical forensic medical examiner

Conclusion

In this fiercely competitive world, MBBS abroad is considered a dependable option for Indian medical students seeking higher education. An MBBS abroad program with a globally recognised degree is affordable and offers quality education. It is indeed a better chance to realise your dream of becoming a doctor. Therefore, you cannot miss the opportunity of pursuing an MBBS program abroad.