Why Indian Students Are Opting for MBBS Abroad

For many Indian students, becoming a doctor is a lifelong aspiration. However, the fierce competition for a limited number of medical seats in India poses a significant hurdle. In 2025, around 22 lakh candidates appeared for the NEET exam, competing for just 1.18 lakh seats. As a result, a growing number of students are exploring the option of studying MBBS abroad, where they can receive high-quality education at a lower cost.

Earning a medical degree from an international institution not only provides global recognition but also offers valuable international experience and promising career opportunities. Pursuing an MBBS degree overseas is becoming an increasingly popular choice for Indian students facing intense competition in India's medical entrance system.

Here are the key reasons why this alternative is gaining traction:

Key Benefits of Studying MBBS Abroad

Why Choose International Medical Education?

• Cost-Effective Education: Many international universities offer complete MBBS programs for ₹15–60 lakhs, significantly more affordable than the ₹70 lakhs to ₹1.5 crore often charged by private medical colleges in India.
• Internationally Recognized Qualifications: Degrees from universities approved by the National Medical Commission (NMC) are also recognized by global bodies like WHO, FAIMER, ECFMG, and WDOMS.
• No Hidden Charges: Unlike private institutions in India, which may demand hefty donations or capitation fees, foreign medical colleges typically require payment only for tuition and living expenses.
• English-Taught Programs: Most MBBS courses abroad are conducted in English, ensuring smooth learning. Additionally, students are often provided with local language training.
• High-Quality Infrastructure: International medical universities often feature cutting-edge facilities, modern laboratories, and favourable student-teacher ratios (usually between 15:1 and 20:1).
• Global Learning Environment: Students benefit from multicultural experiences, attend global seminars, and gain exposure to diverse healthcare systems and practices.

Is NEET Mandatory for MBBS Abroad in 2025?

If You Plan to Practice in India: Yes, NEET is compulsory. According to guidelines set by the National Medical Commission (NMC), all Indian students aiming to pursue MBBS abroad and return to practice in India must qualify the NEET-UG exam. This rule has been in effect since 2018.

NEET Validity: The result is valid for 3 years for students enrolling in foreign medical universities. Without NEET, even a foreign MBBS degree won't be accepted for medical licensure in India.

Top Countries for MBBS Abroad in 2025

Total Countries Listed: 8

Eligibility Criteria and Admission Process

To be eligible for MBBS programs overseas, Indian students must meet specific minimum criteria. The admission process is generally simple, transparent, and merit-based, taking approximately 2–3 months from application to departure.

Eligibility Requirements for Indian Students

• Age Requirements: Minimum age of 17 years by December 31 of the admission year, Maximum age of 25 years (relaxed for SC/ST/OBC)
• Academic Qualifications: At least 50% marks in PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) in Class 12. Reserved categories may be eligible with 40% in some countries.
• NEET Qualification: Mandatory if the student intends to return to India for medical practice. No minimum score required—only a qualified status.
• Language Proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL not required for most popular MBBS destinations (e.g., Russia, Nepal, Georgia)

Step-by-Step Admission Process

• Shortlist Universities: Research NMC-approved medical universities based on your academic profile, budget, curriculum style, and long-term goals.
• Submit Applications: Apply online or through authorized representatives with required documents including 10th and 12th mark sheets, NEET scorecard, passport, and medical fitness certificate.
• Receive Admission Letter: If eligible, you'll receive a provisional admission/invitation letter within 7 to 15 working days.
• Apply for Student Visa: Submit your admission letter, passport, bank statements, and medical clearance for visa processing (takes 2–6 weeks).
• Fee Payment & Travel: Pay first-year tuition directly to the university's account, book flights, arrange accommodation, and complete in-person registration.

Career Opportunities After MBBS Abroad

Earning an MBBS degree from a foreign university opens up a wide range of professional pathways for Indian students—both within India and on the international stage. From clinical practice to postgraduate specialization and research, graduates can shape diverse medical careers.

Career Pathways in India

To practice as a registered medical professional in India after studying MBBS abroad, certain regulatory steps must be completed:

• Qualify FMGE or NEXT Exam: All foreign medical graduates must pass the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) or the upcoming National Exit Test (NEXT) to obtain a license to practice in India. The FMGE pass rate currently stands at around 20–25%.
• Mandatory Internship: After clearing the screening test, candidates must complete a one-year internship at an NMC-approved hospital in India.
• Expected Earnings: General Practitioners earn ₹10–20 lakhs per year, while Specialists/Consultants earn ₹20–50 lakhs annually.

Global Career Prospects

For those aiming to build an international medical career, several countries welcome foreign-trained doctors, provided licensing exams are cleared:

• Popular Licensing Exams: USMLE (United States), PLAB (United Kingdom), MCCQE (Canada)
• International Salaries: USD 50,000 to 150,000 per year depending on country and specialization
• Alternative Destinations: Nepal, Bangladesh, UAE, and Saudi Arabia may accept Indian graduates with local regulatory compliance