Analyze Key Factors Across Countries and Find Your Ideal Fit.
Book Your Free Counselling SessionFACTORS | MBBS Abroad | MBBS in India |
Seat Availability | Ample seats for international students | Scarcity of MBBS seats |
Infrastructure | Ultramodern facilities and technologies | Advanced but not at par with foreign universities |
Focus of Education | More practice-based | More theoretical |
International Exposure | Participation in global events | Limited exposure |
Simulation Training | Common in most universities | Limited adoption |
Multicultural Environment | Presence of students from different countries | Lacks international student diversity |
Admission Process | Based on NEET scores, no donations | Heavy capitation fees, competitive admission process |
Course Fees | INR 15 to 60 lakhs | Government: Up to INR 10 lakhs, Private: Up to INR 1 CRORE |
Teacher-Student Ratio | Excellent ratio for personalised attention | Larger class sizes |
Language Learning | Opportunity to learn a second language | Primarily focused on the primary language |
Global Recognition | Degrees widely recognized | Varies with institution recognition |
In 2023, the NEET exam witnessed a remarkable participation of 20.38 lakh out of 20.87 lakh applicants, with 11.46 lakh candidates successfully qualifying.
This highlights the intense competition within the medical education sector in India.
As per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the count of medical colleges has significantly risen from 387 in 2014 to 660 in the present year. Tamil Nadu has emerged as the leader, housing the highest number of both government and private medical colleges and MBBS seats, followed by Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh.
Speaking of MBBS seats in the country, there are currently 681 MBBS colleges offering a total of 1,04,333 seats, with 54,278 seats allocated in government institutions and 50,315 seats in private colleges. Notably, Tamil Nadu has 38 government MBBS colleges with 5225 seats and 34 private colleges with 6000 MBBS seats.The intensifying competition for medical seats in India is evident, with more than 21 candidates competing for a single MBBS seat in the upcoming NEET exam.
For those considering enrollment in private medical colleges in India, the significant drawback is the substantial financial commitment, with the cost of completing the course ranging from 1 to 1.5 crores. Such a financial burden can strain the resources of many families, making it unattainable for a significant percentage of aspiring students.
In light of these challenges, pursuing an MBBS degree abroad emerges as an appealing alternative for Indian students. Not only does it offer excellent educational prospects, but it also presents a more cost-effective option, providing relief from the financial pressures associated with medical education in the country.
As more Indian students pursue MBBS abroad, understanding the National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines becomes essential for those who want to return to India and practice medicine. The NMC norms for Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) introduced in 2021 set out specific requirements that students must meet for their degrees to be recognized and for them to obtain a medical license in India. Here’s a detailed overview of the NMC norms for MBBS abroad, including how they apply to popular study destinations like Russia, Georgia, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, and Kyrgyzstan.
The NMC norms for foreign medical graduates lay out clear requirements regarding the duration of courses, internships, language requirements, and time limits for completing the MBBS degree and licensing process. Let’s break down the core guidelines.
The MBBS course must be taught entirely in English. This is to ensure that Indian students can effectively communicate with patients and healthcare professionals when they return to India and practice medicine.
The total MBBS course duration must be at least 4.5 years (excluding internship). This ensures that students receive adequate academic training before entering the healthcare workforce.
In addition to the academic course, students must complete a one-year internship. Importantly, if the internship is part of the course in the foreign country, it will not count toward licensing in India. Therefore, students must complete a separate internship in India to qualify for medical practice.
MBBS Graduates must be eligible to practice medicine as an independent medical practitioner in the country where they complete their MBBS degree. This means that the student must pass a licensing exam in the country of study (in some cases) and be able to work independently after completing their degree.
Indian students must complete their foreign medical degree, the internship, the licensing exam in the foreign country, the NEXT exam in India, and a clinical rotation in India within 10 years of joining the MBBS course abroad. If the process extends beyond this timeframe, the student will not be eligible to practice medicine in India.
| Country | English Medium | Minimum 4.5 Years Course Duration | One-Year Internship | Licensing as Independent Practitioner | Complete Within 10 Years | NMC Compliance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Russia | YES | YES | YES | YES (Russian Licensing Exam Required) | NO | Partial |
| Georgia | YES | YES | YES | NO (Only as Junior Doctor) | NO | No |
| Uzbekistan | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | Yes |
| Vietnam | YES | YES | YES (18 months) | YES | NO | Partial |
| Kyrgyzstan | YES | YES | YES | YES (English Licensing Exam) | YES | Yes |
| Bangladesh | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | Yes |
| Nepal | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | Yes |
| Armenia | YES | YES | YES | NO (Independent practice not allowed immediately) | NO | Partial |
Analysis of NMC 2021 Guidelines for MBBS in Russia:
Conclusion:
While Russia offers a quality medical education and the course duration is in line with NMC guidelines, the language barrier and the extended process for licensing and the NEXT exam make it unlikely for students to meet the 10-year requirement. Therefore, Russia does not fully meet the NMC guidelines.
Analysis of NMC 2021 Guidelines for MBBS in Georgia:
Conclusion:
Despite offering an English-medium MBBS program and meeting course duration and internship criteria, Georgia does not meet the NMC’s requirement for eligibility to practice as an independent medical practitioner and fails to meet the 10-year completion deadline.
Analysis of NMC 2021 Guidelines for MBBS in Uzbekistan:
Conclusion:
Uzbekistan is one of the best options for Indian students wishing to pursue MBBS abroad while meeting all NMC guidelines, including completing the process within 10 years.
Analysis of NMC 2021 Guidelines for MBBS in Vietnam:
Conclusion:
The extended internship period in Vietnam (18 months) and the licensing process may cause students to exceed the 10-year limit, making it difficult to meet NMC requirements.
Analysis of NMC 2021 Guidelines for MBBS in Kyrgyzstan:
Conclusion:
Kyrgyzstan is 100% NMC Compliant. Kyrgyzstan meets the NMC’s requirements for course duration, internship, licensing, and the 10-year time limit, making it a favorable option for Indian students.
Based on the NMC guidelines for Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs), the following countries meet the criteria most effectively for Indian students:
Regulatory Changes in 2021:
In November 2021, the National Medical Commission of India introduced the Foreign Medical Graduate Licentiate Regulations 2021.
Updated Course Duration:
According to the new regulations, the minimum duration for MBBS abroad is 54 months (4.5 years) of academic studies, followed by a 1-year internship at the same university abroad.
Revised Total Duration:
Hence, the total minimum duration for MBBS abroad is now 5.5 years.
MBBS in Philippines
MBBS in Russia
MBBS in Uzbekistan
MBBS in China
MBBS in Bangladesh
MBBS in Kyrgyzstan
MBBS in Kazakhstan
MBBS in Georgia
Accommodation Facilities:
A major consideration before selecting a college or university for MBBS studies abroad is the availability of clean and comfortable accommodation. Usually, most colleges and universities offer on-campus hostels, and in cases where these facilities are not available, they often have tie-ups with private hostels and flats nearby. Some institutions even provide students with the option to choose their preferred type of accommodation based on their requirements. Students typically reside in shared rooms accommodating 2, 3, or 4 individuals.
Living Off-Campus:
Although some students may opt to live outside the campus premises, it’s important to note that many universities do not allow first-year students to do so. Finding suitable private accommodation off-campus is generally not a challenging task. On average, the monthly cost of rent and utilities for shared accommodation ranges from ₹10,000 to ₹15,000.
RICH GLOBAL EDU’s Evaluation:
RICH GLOBAL EDU representatives have conducted thorough assessments in various countries, including Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, the Philippines, Ukraine, and Bangladesh. Their evaluations have revealed commendable hostel facilities and the availability of Indian cuisine through on-campus Indian mess services.
Indian Mess Services:
Indian mess services are commonly available either within the hostels or in close proximity to the campuses. Countries such as the Philippines, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia are known to provide Indian mess facilities in most colleges, while students also have the option to prepare their meals.
The standard of education is of exceptional quality.
Recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Instruction is predominantly in English.
Students experience no racism or discrimination.
Gain valuable international exposure.
Tuition fees are significantly lower, approximately 75% less than those of private colleges in India.
Proximity to India is facilitated by the availability of daily flights to and from each country.
Indian food is readily available.
Preparation for the Foreign Medical Graduates Examination (FMGE) or the National Exit Test (NEXT) is offered.
Acts as a more cost-effective alternative to pursuing an MBBS degree in private Indian colleges.
Access to state-of-the-art facilities and modern infrastructure in many renowned international institutions.
Exposure to a diverse student body, fostering cultural understanding and global networking opportunities.
Opportunities for hands-on learning and practical exposure in well-equipped hospitals and medical facilities.
Access to a diverse range of elective courses, allowing students to explore various medical specialties and broaden their knowledge base.
Attainment of a globally recognized degree that opens doors to employment opportunities worldwide.
Development of independence, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication skills, which are essential for a successful medical career in an increasingly globalized world.
Over 20,000 Indian students enroll for MBBS Abroad annually.
Initial difficulties in adapting to a new culture, language, and societal norms.
Feelings of homesickness and the challenges of being far away from family and familiar support systems.
Struggles with language proficiency, particularly if the medium of instruction is not the student’s native language.
Potential challenges in obtaining medical licenses or securing residency positions back home due to variations in licensing requirements.
Differences in healthcare systems, medical practices, and disease prevalence, which may require adaptation and understanding of new protocols.
Many Indian aspirants often question whether universities or colleges abroad deliver a quality education. The reality is that numerous international universities rank higher than India’s top government colleges, and gaining direct admission to these institutions is relatively straightforward.
Colleges recommended by RICH GLOBAL EDU are recognized by esteemed bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and strictly adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Foreign Medical Graduate Licentiate Regulations 2021.
Additionally, these institutions have obtained affiliations from prominent international organizations like FAIMER. RICH GLOBAL EDU’s representatives have visited multiple universities offering MBBS programs in countries such as Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Bangladesh, and Uzbekistan. Our recommendations are based on thorough assessments and reviews from both current and past students.
Studying in these colleges abroad proves to be significantly more economical, with costs approximately 75% lower than those incurred in Indian private colleges. Many universities in countries like Russia, Uzbekistan, and Bangladesh provide students with high-quality education, fostering global exposure and creating pathways for advanced studies and practice in countries like the US and the UK.
Furthermore, every country mandates a 1-year clinical rotation or internship, during which students work alongside patients in affiliated hospitals. This hands-on experience ensures comprehensive practical exposure, dispelling the misconception that foreign countries do not emphasize practical training.
Without a doubt, the safety of the students and their families is a critical factor when making decisions about studying abroad. Given the recent conflict in Ukraine, parents are prioritizing countries with political and economic stability in the foreseeable future. Countries like Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Bangladesh, Georgia, and Russia are deemed safe for students pursuing an MBBS degree.
To ensure the well-being of students enrolled through RICH GLOBAL EDU, we maintain a network of contact persons at every university in foreign countries. These representatives serve as points of contact for students in case they encounter any issues. Additionally, RICH GLOBAL EDU’s representatives regularly visit students during their time abroad, providing them with necessary support and guidance.
Furthermore, students can seek assistance from fellow Indian students, as most colleges have Foreign Student Associations that advocate for the welfare of international students. The campuses and hostels in these countries are secure for our students, with stringent anti-ragging policies in place. Students studying MBBS abroad are in safer environments compared to those in India, particularly concerning the issue of ragging. Moreover, these countries are considered safe for female students as well.
Weather plays a crucial role in students’ decision-making process, particularly as some individuals find it challenging to adjust to colder climates in certain countries. Cities in Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan often experience significantly cold weather with snowfall, where temperatures can plummet to as low as -20 to -50° C.
However, many students do not find moderate cold a hindrance and even enjoy the weather. Additionally, all buildings are internally heated, ensuring that individuals do not feel the cold while indoors. The temperature inside rooms and buildings is generally maintained at a comfortable range of 20-25 °C.
The weather in the Philippines and Bangladesh resembles that of India, with similar weather patterns. Certain cities in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan have weather conditions akin to those in Delhi, featuring hot summers and colder winters. Similar climatic conditions are advantageous as they reflect a comparable disease pattern to that of India.
Any student with health concerns should take into account the climate of the country they intend to study MBBS in. For further information or any doubts or queries regarding studying MBBS abroad, please feel free to reach out to RICH GLOBAL EDU.
Criteria for the Best College for MBBS Abroad:
A high passing percentage in the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE).
Adherence to all regulations outlined in the Foreign Medical Graduate Licentiate Regulations 2021.
Offering an affordable fee structure for students.
Ensuring a safe and secure campus and country for students.
Provision of Indian cuisine at the campus mess.
A significant representation of Indian students within the university.
Streamlined and simplified admission processes for the convenience of students.
Implementation of strict measures to prevent and address any instances of ragging.
Conducting the entire course in the English medium.
Facilitating an easy and straightforward process for obtaining a student visa.
One of the most critical factors influencing the decision of where to pursue an MBBS degree abroad is the cost or tuition fees. Countries such as the USA, Australia, Canada, the UK, New Zealand, and EU nations tend to be more expensive compared to pursuing MBBS in countries like Uzbekistan, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, China, or Kazakhstan.
For individuals aspiring to study in English-speaking countries such as the USA, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, or the UK, the budget required typically exceeds ₹1.5 crores. It’s important to note that direct admission is not feasible in these countries, as clearing entrance exams is a prerequisite.
For those seeking a balance between affordability and high-quality education, opting for MBBS in Russia or Uzbekistan is an excellent choice. While Uzbekistan is a relatively new destination, it has gained prominence among students due to its rising popularity. Russia, on the other hand, has been a longstanding favorite for Indian students pursuing MBBS abroad, primarily due to its affordability and the superior quality of education offered. Moreover, nearly all universities in Russia are government-funded institutions.
Additionally, MBBS in Kyrgyzstan and MBBS in Kazakhstan offer affordable total costs for students. Kyrgyzstan, in particular, has become a popular choice among Indian students due to its low-cost education, while Kazakhstan provides a decent standard of education, attracting a significant number of Indian students.
Countries for MBBS Abroad
Top Universities for MBBS
FAQs
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