The increase in the percentage of students joining PCB every year is hard proof of the growing interest of students in the medical field.
But becoming a doctor is no easy feat. It involves a lot of competition and money. One reason for this is the lack of availability of enough seats for every medical aspirant in government colleges.
Many students, thus, prefer going abroad for pursuing their medical ambitions if they don’t get through the competitive exams.
In this article, we will look at the various options available for Indian students to pursue an MBBS abroad.
There is a drastic difference between the number of MBBS seats available in India and the number of applicants. In 2018 only, there were nearly 13 lakh students attempting NEET for admission to approximately 60,000 seats.
That same year, around 15 lakh candidates appeared for NEET and were competing for just a little over 90,000 Medicine/Dental seats at the UG level.
This is an average of nearly 17 students competing over a single seat.
Studying medicine abroad is comparatively less expensive and has a high ROI. There are many universities abroad that prefer taking students from various countries to establish a positive co-culture environment. Foreign universities maintain high standards in terms of quality of education at lesser fees when compared to India. This makes studying abroad a very attractive option for those who don’t manage to clear the competitive exams within the country.
Eligibility for an MBBS Abroad
Each and every country (and university) has its own eligibility criteria. So, below we have included only the general criteria for students looking to study MBBS Abroad:
The student must be 17 years plus as of 31st December of the year in which the admission is being taken.
The student must have completed the class 12th.
The student must have an aggregate of at least 50% in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology and must have English as a compulsory subject if the student is from the General category.
The student must have an aggregate of at least 40% in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology and must have English as a compulsory subject if the student is from SC/ST/OBC.
MBBS Abroad for Indian Students in the US and Other Popular Study Abroad Destinations
Unlike other subjects like engineering, business studies, or arts, the popular destinations for pursuing MBBS are not typically the US, Canada, UK, Australia, etc.
In countries like the US, UK, New Zealand, Singapore, Australia, France, Canada, and Malaysia, you will be required to take a compulsory local entrance exam for admission to MBBS courses.
Eligibility criteria also vary from country to country. For example, in the US, you need to have completed your graduation (ideally a 4-year Pre-Medical program) before you can apply for the MBBS entrance exam.
Medical Studies in the USA
Admission is contingent on a good academic record and the scores of a Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), besides recommendation letters.
Foreign students have to apply through the American College Application Service, for an MD, or the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service for a DO degree.
The four years of the pre-medical program consist of pre-clinical and clinical courses. The final degree is MD (Doctor of Medicine) or DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine).
Students can apply for a postgrad specialization in the last year of study. The postgraduate study began with a one-year standalone internship followed by a license to practice.
Currently, an internship is part of the first year of residency, called the Traditional Rotating Internship or Transitional Year.
In order to practice medicine in the US, students need to clear USMLE as well. Once the USMLE is cleared, students can go for a Residency.
The Residency itself has its own period of study depending on the specialty. Sometimes students choose to follow up the training with a Fellowship, which is a full-time training program in a particular specialty.
MBBS in the UK
Thousands of international students go for an MBBS in the UK every year. The duration of the study ranges from 4-6 years. On completion of two years of study as an undergraduate, the students are required to undergo a foundation training of 2 years too.
A specialty training has to be undertaken after the completion of four years of study in the area one wishes to specialize in, which could last up to 7 years. A Certificate of Completion Training (CCT) is awarded upon completing the specialty training.
There are three phases in the medical curriculum in the UK. Below, as an example, we have given the curriculum at the Imperial College London:
Phase One
Students focus both on the scientific basis of health and disease and the foundations of clinical practice, including early clinical exposure. The course includes modules on lifestyle medicine and prevention and case-based learning, with opportunities to undertake clinical improvement and research projects.
Phase Two
Students work towards the B.Sc. by completing a series of modules and a supervised research project in a scientific/medical subject of their choice. This gives them the chance to develop their scientific knowledge and research skills, as well as expose them to research at the cutting edge of the field.
Phase Three
Students build on the knowledge, skills, and behaviors developed in the first 4 years of the MBBS. In hospital and community settings, students experience how clinical teams work together to deliver patient care from beginning to the end of life. Throughout Phase Three, significant emphasis is placed on preparing students for clinical practice.
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process for MBBS in the UK
The strict deadline for applications is October 15 every year for the start of the study in September of the following year.
Students need to apply through UCAS.
Students need to have a minimum of 85 – 90% in their 12th Board exams.
Additionally, students need to appear for an entrance exam – UKCAT, BMAT, or GAMSAT.
For international students wishing to study Medicine at the undergraduate level, an IELTS score of no less than 6.5 across all four categories – reading, writing, speaking, and listening – with an overall 7.0 score generally required at most universities.
MBBS in Canada
Majority of the medical schools in Canada accept students who have completed a degree in biological sciences except for the Quebec province, which accepts students on the basis who have completed their class 12 exam and 1 year of diploma.
MBBS in Canada is known as MD (Doctor of Medicine, considered as an undergraduate degree). International students willing to pursue medicine in Canada have to undertake the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT).
The medical course in Canada is 3-5 years, depending on the university and medical background of each student. Those with a bachelor’s degree in the appropriate field are eligible for the 4-year program while the others have to opt for the 5-year program.
An additional residency training is also required which may range from two to seven years of study.
MBBS IN THE US, UK, CANADA, AND OTHER POPULAR STUDY ABROAD DESTINATIONS
Pursuing medicine in the US is a very lengthy process. Another problem for the majority of Indian families is the cost.
In the US and other countries like UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, etc., the cost will range from INR 3 – 4 Crores. Moreover, the scholarships are also very limited for MBBS programs abroad.
Following are some of the budget-friendly options for pursuing MBBS abroad.
China
China is one of the most preferred countries for Indians to pursue an education in medicine. China has about 45 medical institutions, approved by MCI. A high standard of education is maintained, with the tuition fee being comparatively less than Indian Universities.
The Philippines is a profitable choice for studying medicine. The entire course costs 25% lesser than what it does in India. The biggest advantage of the Philippines’ education system is the accent. Philippines mimics the American accent which helps the students to understand the subject easily and clear the exams well.
Medical Colleges in the Philippines constitute nearly 40 accredited schools. Their graduates clear the Physician Licensure Examination to practice medicine.
Admission requires an undergraduate degree with credits in biology and related courses.
Admission also requires a National Medical Admission Test (NMAT) score. The cut-off NMAT score, for international students, is usually higher than locals and is based on the medical school’s discretion. Shortlisted candidates are subsequently interviewed for a final selection.
The annual cost of education ranges from about $10,000 to $25,000 for a medical degree. The overall cost would be INR 25 – 40 Lakhs.
Some of the best medical colleges in the Philippines
University of Philippines
Cebu Institute of Medicine
University of Northern Philippines
Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila College of Medicine
With a climate similar to India, students prefer Nepal because of its proximity to India and the simplicity of the Visa Process. Since both countries have mutual considerations, Visa and immigration processes are faster and easier. The cost of living is also less.
Cost: INR 30 – 45 Lakhs (whole program)
Some of the best colleges in Nepal to study MBBS are
Caribbean medical schools are known for their quality education and hospitality, bringing together a class of amazing doctors that can serve the world.
Additionally, Caribbean Medical schools give more facilities and a higher standard of education to the students where they can easily crack their USMLE to get into the USA. They also have strong partnerships with Medical Universities in Canada, UK, India, and other countries.
The Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and Other Health Professions (CAAM-HP) is the legally constituted body established in 2003 under the aegis of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), empowered to determine and prescribe standards and to accredit programs of medical, dental, veterinary, and other health professions education on behalf of the contracting parties in CARICOM.
Cost of pursuing medicine in the Caribbean is around INR 80 Lakhs to 1.5 Crore (all-inclusive).
Top Medical Schools (CAAM-HP accredited) in the Caribbean are:
Ukraine possesses world-class equipment to treat diseases. It has some of the best medical colleges. The universities are extremely affordable for Indian students. The biggest advantage with Ukrainian colleges is that almost all the colleges are globally recognized by international bodies like the Medical Council of India (MCI), World Health Organization, UNESCO, FAIMER, and AIMEE.
Cost: INR 20 – 38 Lakhs (whole program)
Some of the most famous medical universities in Ukraine-
Kyrgyzstan is a place where you can complete your medicine course within a budget of 12-18 lakhs. It is the most cost-friendly place to study medicine.
The universities provide high-quality education with good infrastructure. All the institutions are recognized by MCI. The eligibility condition to secure admission in Kyrgyzstan is based on the marks obtained in the 12th standard.
Even though most European Countries are really very expensive, in terms of both the cost of living and educational expenses, Russia is a different scenario altogether. Not only is it cheaper as compared to other European countries, but the demand for experienced and professional doctors is very high, leading to an increased ROI over a short span of time.
Some of the good medical institutions in Russia are:
Poland follows the world-class European education system and standards. In addition to being a peaceful country with a very low crime rate, the universities are considerate and devoted enough to offer 6 years of education for medicine with 1 year of the preparatory course for a better understanding of the subject and practical knowledge.
To secure admission to the universities of Bangladesh, students have to follow a slightly different procedure. International students have to clear the SAARC exam. Depending on the scores obtained in SAARC students will get admission in government and private colleges in Bangladesh. Though the education system is similar to the Indian education system, the cost of living and the fees for the medical course is considerably less.
It is slightly difficult to secure admission to German Medical Colleges. The student first has to clear exams like IELTS or TOEFL and should be fluent in the German language. But the pains are worth it because once you manage to secure admission to a German College, your career is set.
Germany has the best colleges in the world, using the most advanced treatments and technology. Many universities provide financial assistance to international students through scholarships. Students who pursue medicine in Germany will have global exposure and experience in the medical field. The best part – there is no hefty tuition fees.
Most of the state-funded universities charge zero or a very nominal fee (max INR 40,000 per year).
Unlike other countries, there are no separate undergraduate and postgraduate programs for Medicine in Germany. It takes at least six years and three months to finish a Medical degree in Germany, and that concludes with the State Examination (after which you can apply for the license for practicing medicine).
Later on, you could continue your education to become a “medical specialist”, which, depending on the subject of specialization, can take another three to six years.
Phases of Medical Studies in Germany (Source: QS)
Eligibility Criteria for Studying Medicine in Germany (Source: QS)
There are 30 different areas of medicine in which you can specialize. Medical specialist training programs are not degree programs. These are not offered at any university or institute.
You will get work as a doctor in full-time employment, e.g. at a doctor’s practice, a university clinic or medical center, or other “institution authorized to provide medical treatment”, and will be paid as an assistant physician.
Medical school admissions are centrally coordinated in Germany. The best way to know about the admission procedures would be to contact the university of your choice at least 12 months in advance.
You must know the German language in order to study Medicine and other German-taught programs in Germany. It could be a nice idea to travel to Germany and take the language courses in Germany itself, especially the advanced ones like B1, B2, C1 or C2. These courses usually take place between June and September.
Alternatively, you could spend a year in Germany as part of a youth exchange program. You could stay with a German host family, attend a local high school and beef up your German language skills. The German language proficiency will not only help you to get admission at the universities but will also enhance your job prospects in Germany.
Some of the best medical colleges in Germany:
Ruprecht Karls University Heidelberg
Charite – Medical University of Berlin
University of Munich
Albert-Ludwigs-Universitaet Freiburg
Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn
LMU Munich
Humboldt University of Berlin
Hannover Medical School
TU Munich
Eberhard Karls University Tubingen
University of Leipzig
Wurzburg University
Magdeburg University
Belarus
Though Belarus is a very small country, it has some of the best colleges and the fees is generally easily affordable. All the colleges in Belarus are approved by MCI and WHO. They are highly recognized for their quality of education system. The medium of instruction is English which is advantageous for Indian students.
Apart from these, there are many countries which are considered suitable for studying medicine. The aforementioned list was compiled on the primary basis of affordability followed by the quality of education and infrastructure.
Caution for MBBS Abroad Aspirants
Every year, around 7,000 students go outside India to study medicine. Most of the students go to China and Russia.
But, only 15 – 25% of the graduates, who come back after studying abroad, manage to clear the Foreign Medical Graduates Examination (FMGE). If they don’t clear the FMGE, they can’t get themselves registered to practice in India. This becomes a matter of concern because what’s the point of spending your parents’ money and studying abroad if you are not able to contribute to your country’s healthcare sector?
Do your research properly and choose the college on the basis of the quality of education and other factors that matter to you.
Work hard and Good luck!
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Client Testimonial
MBBS Abroad is a big decision and your success depends upon the honesty of your consultant. It is a long process starting from choosing the right college to reaching there at college door step and finally studying there for next 5-6 years. You are in a new country without many old friends. We were sure to approach a consultant who is based out of our district only so that not only during admission but for next 6 years, we can have smooth interactions. So, we approached GKWorks as they have a branch in Saharanpur. As we anticipated, there are lot of things to be done during admission process that goes for 3-4 months. At every step, it was useful for us to have our consultant who was only 20 minutes’ drive from our home. We were able to discuss everything face to face any day and thus were able to have easy process.
Ashish Massey, Saharanpur UP
Company Name : Student at Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University- Batumi, Georgia
Best thing about Vivek Gupta Sir is his selfless counselling. As I am already a BSC/ MSC, he suggested me to go to Philippines as I was able to get straight admission into MD and this finishes my entire course in 4 years flat. In any other country, it would have taken by 5.5-6 years. Ms Kanimojhi in Chennai office of GKWorks was equally supportive in coordination regarding documents, departure and all other formalities.
Damel Lakshmi Umapathy, Chennai TN Company Name: Studying MD at AMA School of Medicine- Philippines
We live 100 Km’s away from Varanasi. The internet connection in our town is very weak and my parents are not that educated. For us, understanding the word RTGS was also very difficult. Thanks to Amit Pandey Sir, who is Gkworks Varanasi incharge, he helped us to do all small things. Going with us to get forex to helping us doing RTGS for fee payment, he was always there with us. He only helped us to apply for passport online and went with us to passport office Varanasi. Such support at ground level was provided by GKworks team both in Varanasi and Delhi.
Shrishti Rai, Ghazipur UP Company Name : Students at Jalalabad State University – Kyrgyzstan
My parents were not very comfortable to send me abroad especially my mother as I am the only son of my parents. I really wanted to become a doctor and thus approached Hemant Mishra Sir, director of Bareilly branch of GKWorks. He went out of his way to convince my mother. He would have come 5 times to my home, invited us to his office and home 10 times before my mother was finally convinced. It is only due to Hemant Sir in Bareilly that I am pursuing my course today. I wish GKworks and especially Bareilly branch all the very best to help many more students for their life dreams.
Dheeraj Verma, Bareilly UP Company Name : Student at New Vision University-Tbilisi , Georgia
