Top Iran Medical Colleges for Indian Students: MBBS in Iran, Fees & Comparison with Indian Medical Colleges

Introduction

With the rising cost of medical education in private institutions in India and limited seats in government colleges, Indian students are increasingly turning to international destinations for their MBBS degrees. One such destination gaining steady popularity is Iran. Offering affordable tuition, globally recognized universities, and a rich cultural experience, Iran has become a promising option for aspiring doctors from India.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top Iran medical colleges, the MBBS in Iran admission process, fees for Indian students, and how these institutions compare with medical colleges in India. If you are planning to pursue your medical studies abroad, this blog will answer all your key questions.

Why Study MBBS in Iran?

Global Recognition & Quality Curriculum

Iran has some of the oldest and most prestigious medical universities in Asia. Institutions like Tehran University of Medical Sciences and Shiraz University of Medical Sciences are recognized by global bodies such as:

• World Health Organization (WHO)
• National Medical Commission (NMC), India
• UNESCO
• ECFMG (USA)

These accreditations ensure that your degree is not only valid in India but also recognized across the world, opening doors to PG education and medical practice abroad.

Cost-Effective Medical Education

One of the biggest challenges Indian students face is the sky-high cost of medical education in private colleges. Iran offers a more affordable path:

• Tuition fees are 70–80% lower than Indian private colleges.
• Many universities are government-funded, which helps keep costs low.
• Overall MBBS in Iran for Indian students fees range from INR 15–25 lakhs for the complete course.

English-Medium Instruction

Top Iran medical colleges offer MBBS programs in English specifically designed for international students. The first few months also include language and culture classes to help students adapt smoothly.

Modern Facilities & Clinical Exposure

Iran’s healthcare system is well-developed, providing medical students with:

• Hands-on clinical training
• Modern laboratories
• Access to advanced medical technologies

Students work in real hospital environments, often from the second year itself, ensuring they are practice-ready after graduation.

Safe & Culturally Comfortable Environment

Iran is considered safe for international students, and the local population is welcoming. Cultural similarities — such as food, respect for elders, and family values — make it easier for Indian students to adapt.

Top Iran Medical Colleges for Indian Students

Here are some of the most reputed and NMC-approved Iran medical colleges ideal for Indian students:

1. Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS)

• Location: Tehran
• Founded: 1851
• Why it stands out: Iran’s oldest medical university with international accreditations. Offers MBBS in English, strong research programs, and modern hospital infrastructure.

2. Shiraz University of Medical Sciences

• Location: Shiraz
• Founded: 1946
• Offers a student-centric curriculum, clinical rotations from early years, and high FMGE pass rates for Indian students.

3. Mashhad University of Medical Sciences

• Location: Mashhad
• Founded: 1949
• Known for robust clinical programs and a supportive international student office. It has a sizable Indian student community.

4. Isfahan University of Medical Sciences

• Location: Isfahan
• Focuses on community health and public medicine. Great for students interested in serving rural or underserved populations post-graduation.

5. Iran University of Medical Sciences

• Location: Tehran
• Offers strong PG pathways and collaborates with research bodies worldwide.

Backlink: Explore Top Iran Medical Colleges for Indian Students

MBBS in Iran: Eligibility Criteria & Admission Process

Eligibility Criteria

Indian students must fulfill the following requirements:

• Minimum 50% in Physics, Chemistry, Biology (PCB) in Class 12 (40% for reserved categories)
• Must have qualified NEET (as per NMC guidelines)
• Minimum age: 17 years
• Proficiency in English; some universities may conduct an entrance test or interview

Documents Required

• 10th and 12th mark sheets
• NEET scorecard
• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• Passport-sized photographs
• Medical fitness certificate
• University invitation/admission letter

Admission Timeline

• Application Opens: March to May
• Admission Letter: June to July
• Visa Processing: July to August
• Course Start Date: September

MBBS in Iran for Indian Students Fees & Living Costs

Tuition Fees

• Varies by university but generally ranges from USD 3,000 to 6,000 per year
• Total course duration: 6 years (5 academic + 1 internship)
• Approximate total: USD 18,000 to 36,000
  (INR 15–30 lakhs)

Hostel & Food

• Hostel: USD 500–800 per year
• Food: USD 600–1,000 per year
• Miscellaneous: USD 300 per year

Total living expenses: Approx. USD 1,500–2,200 per year

Scholarships

Some Iranian universities offer performance-based scholarships, especially from the second year onward. Students with excellent academic records and discipline may receive partial fee waivers.

Iran Medical Colleges vs Medical Colleges in India: A Detailed Comparison

Career Opportunities After MBBS in Iran

Practice in India

• Indian students returning from Iran must clear the Foreign Medical Graduate Exam (FMGE) or NExT (from 2025 onward) to register with NMC.
• FMGE pass rates of Iranian university graduates are relatively high, especially for students from Tehran and Shiraz.

Practice Abroad

Iranian degrees are accepted in many countries across the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia. Students can also pursue:

• USMLE for the USA
• PLAB for the UK
• AMC for Australia

Postgraduate Studies

• Students can pursue MD/MS or research-based programs in countries like Germany, Canada, and the UK after clearing respective eligibility exams.

Tips to Choose the Right Iran Medical College

1. Check NMC Recognition
   Only choose colleges that are listed by the National Medical Commission.
2. Compare FMGE/NExT Results
   Prioritize universities with a history of high FMGE success among Indian graduates.
3. Hospital Affiliations
   Look for institutions with large teaching hospitals and urban clinical centers.
4. International Student Support
   Ensure the university provides dedicated guidance, visa support, and language training.
5. Speak with Alumni or Current Students
   Real experiences will give you deeper insights than brochures.

Conclusion

For Indian students aspiring to become doctors without facing overwhelming costs or admission hurdles, pursuing an MBBS in Iran is an intelligent and future-ready option. With its globally recognized universities, modern infrastructure, and supportive learning environment, Iran medical colleges are becoming a preferred alternative to many medical colleges in India.

Iran not only offers a high-quality education but also prepares students for global medical careers — whether they return to India or pursue postgraduate opportunities abroad.

This blog provides a complete guide for Indian students interested in studying MBBS in Iran. It covers the top Iran medical colleges, fee structure, admission process, career scope, and how studying in Iran compares with medical colleges in India.