MBBS Abroad has recently become the most suitable option for Indian students due to the limited seats and unaffordable tuition of private medical colleges in India. More than 10,000 students from India travel abroad each year to pursue an MBBS and prefer countries like Russia, Georgia, the Philippines, and Kazakhstan. Many courses have a duration of 5-6 years and a mandatory requirement of passing the NEET. Thus, the MBBS is the most viable option for achieving the goal of becoming a licensed professional doctor in the global arena due to its wide expansion and simple application process.
Foreign medical universities offer renowned medical education through modern teaching approaches combined with excellent facilities and well-equipped hostel accommodations and English medical programs, globally recognized educational degrees, and many additional benefits.
The MBBS study costs in foreign medical universities for Indian students begin at INR 3 – 6 Lacs annually and include hostel and mess services expenses. Students should enroll in leading international medical universities to begin their MBBS studies which will lead to a successful medical career in their desired country.
MBBS Abroad - Quick Highlights 2025
Here is a quick highlight for aspiring Indian students dreaming of pursuing MBBS abroad:
| Aspect | Details |
| Duration | 5 to 6 years (including internship) |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Eligibility | 50% in PCB (40% for SC/ST/OBC) + NEET qualified |
| Entrance Exam | NEET (mandatory for Indian students) |
| Average Tuition Fee | INR 3 to 8 Lacs per year |
| Living Cost | INR 1.5 to 3 Lacs per year |
| Popular Countries | Russia, Philippines, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan |
| Degree Recognition | Approved by NMC, WHO, ECFMG |
| Intakes | Mostly September/October |
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Why Study MBBS Abroad for Indian Students?
Affordable Education
Students of Indian nationality predominantly go abroad to pursue MBBS studies due to affordable tuition fees and reasonable living costs.
High-Quality Infrastructure
Universities abroad are equipped with state-of-the-art technology including modern lecture halls, well-furnished labs, and associated teaching hospitals.
English Medium Programs
Most renowned foreign universities conduct their medical programs in English, ensuring smooth communication and understanding for Indian students.
Global Exposure
Students interact with peers from various countries, gaining a global perspective, forming international connections, and understanding diverse cultures.
No Donation/Capitation
Medical universities abroad typically do not demand any donations or capitation fees, following a transparent and merit-based admission process.
Better Career Opportunities
International medical graduates can pursue higher studies or practice medicine in multiple countries, opening up diverse career pathways.
Top Countries to Study MBBS Abroad
Many students in 2025 would like to study MBBS abroad due to better opportunities, top-class education, and global exposure. These countries have modern facilities, well-known medical degrees, and great career opportunities. Here are the top 10 destinations to study MBBS abroad:
| Country | Duration | Medium |
|---|---|---|
| MBBS in Russia | 6 years | English |
| MBBS in Georgia | 6 years | English |
| MBBS in Kazakhstan | 5 years | English |
| MBBS in Tajikistan | 5 years | English |
| MBBS in Uzbekistan | 5 - 6 years | English |
| MBBS in Kyrgyzstan | 6 years | English |
| MBBS in Nepal | 5.5 years | English |
| MBBS in Ukraine | 6 years | English |
| MBBS in China | 6 years | English |
| MBBS in Germany | 6 years | German/ English |
| MBBS in Belarus | 6 years | English |
Top Medical Universities for MBBS in Abroad for Indian Students 2025
Abroad universities provide high-quality medical education with degrees recognized globally, offering a wide range of opportunities for international students, including Indian aspirants, to build successful medical careers.
| Country | Top Universities for MBBS |
|---|---|
| Russia |
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| Tajikistan | |
| Georgia |
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| Kazakhstan |
|
| Philippines |
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| Uzbekistan |
|
| China |
|
| Ukraine |
|
| Germany |
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| Bangladesh |
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| Kyrgyzstan |
|
Total Cost of Studying MBBS Abroad
The following is the MBBS abroad fees for different countries:
| Country | Tuition (INR/year) | Hostel & Food (INR/year) | Total Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Russia | 3 - 6 Lacs | 1.5 - 2 Lacs | 20 - 35 Lacs |
| Georgia | 3 - 6 Lacs | 2 - 3 Lacs | 20 - 30 Lacs |
| Tajikistan | 3 - 4 Lacs | 1 - 1.5 Lacs | 15 - 20 Lacs |
| Kazakhstan | 3 - 4 Lacs | 1 - 1.5 Lacs | 18 - 28 Lacs |
| Philippines | 2.5 - 6 Lacs | 1.5 - 2 Lacs | 20 - 35 Lacs |
| Uzbekistan | 3 - 4 Lacs | 1 - 2 Lacs | 20 - 25 Lacs |
| Kyrgyzstan | 2.5 - 4 Lacs | 1 - 1.5 Lacs | 18 - 28 Lacs |
| Nepal | 3 - 5 Lacs | 1.5 - 2 Lacs | 25 - 40 Lacs |
| China | 2.5 - 5 Lacs | 1 - 1.5 Lacs | 18 - 30 Lacs |
| Belarus | 4 - 6 Lacs | 1.5 - 2 Lacs | 20 - 32 Lacs |
| Bangladesh | 4 - 6 Lacs | 1 - 1.5 Lacs | 20 - 30 Lacs |
Medium of Teaching for MBBS Abroad
The majority of the best medical schools abroad offer classes in English, especially for international students, which makes it easier for non-native speakers to follow the curriculum.
Duration of the MBBS Program in Abroad
The duration of an MBBS program varies from 4 to 6 years in different countries around the world, and almost all countries have such programs. The length of MBBS programs mostly varies from 4 to 6 years.
| Country | MBBS Duration |
|---|---|
| Uzbekistan | 6 years |
| Bangladesh | 5 years |
| China | 5 years |
| Georgia | 6 years |
| Tajikistan | 5 years |
| Germany | 6 years |
| Kazakhstan | 5 years |
| Kyrgyzstan | 6 years |
| Nepal | 5.5 years |
| Philippines | 5.5 years |
| Russia | 6 years |
These diverse durations allow students to select programs that best suit their career goals, financial considerations, and desired medical education pathway.
Eligibility Criteria for Studying MBBS Abroad
Students must meet academic and legal requirements to gain admission into foreign MBBS programs. The following minimum qualifications serve as requirements:
Students should be seventeen years old by the 31st of December in the year of commencement of the course. It's a requirement that is more common around the world, ensuring students can enroll in the course when they reach the legal age of eighteen. They are also required to have turned seventeen or older before they begin the application process. In most countries, students need to be 17 years of age or older to enter.
Candidates should have passed 50% in 12th grade (higher secondary education) with a minimum of 50% in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. For students from reserved categories in countries like India, the minimum marks required are 40%. Physics, Chemistry, and Biology are the subjects that remain universally; these are the subjects a student must take to be eligible for MBBS programs worldwide.
In India, students must pass the NEET exam (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) to study MBBS abroad. The NEET, conducted every year throughout the country, is a prerequisite for students who want to study medicine in countries like Russia, Ukraine, China, and Kazakhstan. NEET is a crucial exam in India for both local and international medical students to pursue their education.
International students looking to study abroad are required to have a valid passport.
While universities abroad are mostly lax about mandatory entrance examinations, there are countries like the Philippines that are strict about them. Aspiring students who want to study medicine must pass the NMAT (National Medical Admission Test). This exam checks the students' academic and analytical capabilities as well as their readiness for the high dues, which are the medical institution fees.
In most cases, these criteria are inevitable to be fulfilled in MBBS programs abroad, although there may be some minor differences depending on the country or university. Besides the official list of a total of 6 things, each country asks for additional ones. A good example is the language tests (such as IELTS or TOEFL) in non-English countries.
How to Take MBBS Admission Abroad?
The admission process for studying MBBS abroad involves multiple steps to ensure that students meet the academic, legal, and financial requirements. Here is the detailed description:
Step 1: Research the top Medical Institutions and create a List
Students must find out about the best medical universities in the world, and then they must consider these during their decision-making process. The ranking of a university, the tuition fees, the duration, the language of instruction, and the accreditations are the factors that students should consider.
Step 2: Apply online through the university's official website or via Authorized Educational Agencies
Once a university has been chosen, students can proceed with their application by accessing the university's official website or consulting authorized educational agencies that can assist them with the application process.
Step 3: Submit Papers
Documents such as the NEET scorecard, 12th-grade marksheets, a valid passport, photographs, and other things as specified by the university are some of the documents students need to submit. To ensure all their papers are not only verified but also authenticated, students need to check the requirements.
Step 4: Admission Offer
An admission letter will be sent to the students after their applications have been processed and the university has confirmed their admission.
Step 5: Get the Student Visa
The issuance of the offer letter gives students the opportunity to apply for a student visa in their country of study. After they have prepared their application, students will need to submit the necessary documents such as the offer letter, passport, evidence of their financial status, and, in certain cases, medical certificates.
Step 6: Pay Fees
You must pay the tuition fees after receiving your visa. Most students can do this through a bank transfer or online payment.
Step 7: Travel & Join the University
When the tuition fees are settled, students can reserve their travel tickets and join the university at the beginning of the academic year. In the process of arriving, students need to register and participate in orientation programs so that they can get to know the campus and local culture comfortably.
Documents Required for MBBS in Abroad 2025
Before applying for MBBS abroad, students must prepare and submit a set of important documents to complete their admission process smoothly. These documents prove academic qualifications, eligibility, and readiness to study in a foreign country. Here’s a list of the essential documents you’ll typically need:
10th & 12th Mark Sheets
NEET Scorecard
Photos
Birth Certificate
A Police Clearance Certificate
Admission Letter and Visa Approval
Financial Support Proof
Comparison Between MBBS in Abroad vs MBBS in India
Choosing between MBBS in India and abroad depends on various factors. Here’s a detailed comparison:
| Factor | MBBS Abroad | MBBS in India |
|---|---|---|
| Total Cost | INR 15–35 Lacs (varies by country) | INR 10–15 Lacs (Govt) / INR 60+ Lacs (Private) |
| Seats | Ample (60,000+ across various countries) | Limited (~83,000 in India) |
| NEET Cutoff | Minimum (may vary by country) | Very High (especially for top private colleges) |
| Infrastructure | Modern & Global (international standards) | Varies (some top colleges have modern facilities, others may lack) |
| Donations | No (Transparent admission process) | Yes (Common in private colleges; donation fees can range from INR 10–50 Lacs) |
| Global Exposure | High (study with peers from 30+ countries) | Low to Moderate (mainly regional exposure) |
| Quality of Education | High (taught by international faculty, modern research, clinical training) | Varies (top institutes like AIIMS offer world-class education, but other colleges may lack resources) |
| Language of Instruction | Primarily English (no language barrier) | English is taught in most colleges, and some private colleges may offer it in regional languages |
| Internship & Clinical Practice | International standards, large hospitals, and global exposure | Varies, but generally good in government institutes |
| International Recognition | NMC & WHO-approved universities, eligible for global exams (USMLE, PLAB, etc.) | NMC-approved universities, but are often only eligible for FMGE to practice abroad |
| Post-graduation Opportunities | Easier access to global PG programs (US, UK, Australia) | Restricted to local PG exams, fewer options abroad without clearing exams like the USMLE |
| Job Opportunities | High demand globally, especially in the USA, UK, Australia, etc. | Limited to India unless you clear licensing exams for international practice |
Jobs & Career Scopes After Studying MBBS Abroad
Studying MBBS abroad opens up a range of career opportunities for graduates, both in India and internationally. Here's a detailed look at the career prospects:
Though very few graduates complete MBBS abroad and then come back to India for practice, students have this option at their disposal. Still, by the prevalent rules, students can return to India from abroad and then practice medicine. The most important thing here is the NExT (National Exit Test) that students must pass to get their medical license.
Before embarking on the USMLE journey, candidates from foreign universities have to find a sponsor and apply for a visa. They can research and select GRE-training hospitals; those with more programs are preferable to cover many training interests. Their yearly salaries range from $200,000 to $400,000, depending on their specialty, after graduating from the residency program.
For Switzerland, although you must be familiar with the local language, it is still considered one of the most powerful countries in the world. Medical graduates who completed their MBBS overseas only need to pass the PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) exam to get a practice license in the UK.
Planning for an appointment for an undergraduate (UG) to a post-graduation (PG) course in any medical school worldwide could be an encounter you are likely to confront during your faculty in a medical school. It is important to do your best to counter that. Go to the library and do some research about the MD and MS programs, the specialties they offer, etc. Try staying in some dorms on a trial basis before making a final decision.
Many MBBS graduates go beyond clinical duties and take up roles like conducting medical research, teaching at medical colleges, or writing articles for healthcare publications. These positions generally have comfortable work hours, and with the right skills and experience, can earn from INR 8–15 Lacs per annum.
MBBS graduates may also find jobs in public health, pharmaceuticals, or health administration, both in the country and abroad. For example, they could work with an agency like the World Health Organization (WHO) or a multinational pharmaceutical company and earn a salary of USD 50,000 to USD 150,000 per year.
Medical Licensing Exam Post MBBS Abroad
| Country | Exam Name | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| India | NExT (from 2025) | License & PG admission (replacing FMGE) |
| USA | USMLE | Residency & License (mandatory for practice in the USA) |
| UK | PLAB | GMC Registration (required to practice in the UK) |
| Australia | AMC | Medical Practice (needed for registration with AHPRA) |
| Canada | MCCQE | Medical License (to practice in Canada) |
| New Zealand | NZREX | Medical Registration (required to practice in New Zealand) |
| Russia | FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) | License to practice in India |
| Philippines | FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) | License to practice in India |
| Ukraine | FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) | License to practice in India |
| Georgia | FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) | License to practice in India |
| Kazakhstan | FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) | License to practice in India |
| Kyrgyzstan | FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) | License to practice in India |
| Uzbekistan | FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) | License to practice in India |
| Nepal | Nepal Medical Council Exam | Medical Registration in Nepal |
Education Loans for MBBS Abroad
A significant number of Indian banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) offer education loans to students seeking to pursue an MBBS abroad.
SBI is one of the primary sources of education loans that can fund studies abroad from INR 30 Lacs to 40 Lacs, depending on the university and course. The interest rates offered are generally in the range of 9.5% to 11%. The loans also come with the option to access additional funds for purchasing books, study materials, paying hostel fees, and travel expenses.
Loan provider Axis Bank is willing to lend INR 30 Lacs for MBBS degree courses abroad, with an interest rate of 11% to 13%, and a repayment tenure of up to 15 years. The bank also offers the possibility of reduced interest rates for students who have excelled academically.
As a subsidiary of HDFC Bank, HDFC Credila offers loans tailored to the financial needs of students with a vision for overseas education. The loan amount can range from INR 10 Lacs to INR 40 Lacs, covering not only tuition fees but also living costs and other basic requirements. The interest rate is in the range of 10% to 12%, along with flexible payment.
Types of Scholarships for MBBS Abroad
It is a scholarship program initiated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) for NRI and PIO students, enabling them to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate programs in India and abroad. This is a full scholarship that covers 100% of tuition fees for MBBS students and also provides a living stipend. The eligibility criteria include good academic performance and financial need.
Most universities award merit-based scholarships to students, which can be partial or full, covering tuition fees. An example of a university that provides a 50% tuition fee discount based on academic performance is the University of Perpetual Help, based in the Philippines.
The scholarships organized by the ICCR are for Indian students who want to pursue their studies in select countries, covering not only tuition but also living, traveling, and other expenses.
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission provides financial grants for international students pursuing MBBS and other medical programs in countries such as the UK and Australia. These scholarships mainly include tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly stipend for living expenses.
How Safe is Abroad for Indian Students?
Safety is the first and foremost concern for Indian students studying abroad, and many actions are taken in this direction to ensure everything is fine.
A large number of colleges offer the option of staying in the school’s dormitories, which are equipped with higher security features such as 24/7 surveillance, biometric entry systems, and trained security personnel that ensure the students' protection. Moreover, students are often advised to register with the Indian embassy when they first arrive in the host country.
In this way, the embassy can help the students if any cases of emergency arise as well as be kept informed about the situation in the country which might have an impact on students' safety.
Georgia, Russia, Uzbekistan, and the Philippines are among some of the safest countries for Indian students, especially in cities. These nations have created advanced security systems and attracted a large number of international students, so they offer a secure and friendly environment. Keeping in contact with university officials and local authorities for a quick response and advice is also a good idea.
MBBS Abroad - Important FAQs
Is NEET mandatory for MBBS abroad?
Am I eligible to practice medicine in India after completing my MBBS overseas?
Will an MBBS degree earned abroad be recognized for medical practice in India?
Which destination stands out as the top choice for pursuing an MBBS degree overseas in 2025?
Is it necessary to understand or speak the native language?
Can I do PG abroad after MBBS?
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