Introduction
After completing their 12th standard, many Indian students start exploring opportunities for MBBS abroad after 12th as an alternative to pursuing medicine in India.
“Should I study MBBS in India or go abroad for it?”
This choice can cause stress for both students and their parents. Due to increased competition and a shortage of seats in Indian medical colleges, many students are looking into alternatives abroad in order to achieve their dream of becoming doctors.
This blog post tries to guide you through the key aspects of studying MBBS abroad in 2025, beginning with knowing what alternatives you have immediately following your +2 year, the required NEET qualification, common misunderstandings, and rough budget and country selection planning.
Knowing Your MBBS Abroad Options After +2
Choosing to study MBBS overseas might be challenging because there are so many nations, colleges, requirements, and rules to take into consideration. You and your parents will be able to make well-informed judgments thanks to the procedure simplification provided by this step.
Why is NEET eligibility required for abroad MBBS programs?
Indian students who want to study MBBS abroad must now take the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), especially if they plan to practice medicine in India after graduation. In order to guarantee the same requirements in medical education, the National Medical Commission (NMC) and the Supreme Court of India have maintained this law.
For Indian people, NEET is a requirement for studying MBBS both in India and abroad.
To get an eligibility certificate from the NMC that allows students to apply for the new National Exit Test (NEXT) or the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) upon their return, students must pass the NEET.
Students without NEET results may be admitted to some international universities, but they are not permitted to practice in India.
Check official NEET guidelines here
Comparing MBBS in India to MBBS overseas: Making an informed decision
One of the most crucial choices Indian medical students must make after completing their +2 is whether they want to study an MBBS in India or an MBBS overseas. To choose carefully, one must be aware of the unique benefits and difficulties of each way.
Eligibility and the Admissions Process
To gain admission to government or private colleges in India, candidates for MBBS must pass the highly competitive NEET exam with a high cutoff. Admissions are decided by centralized counseling.
MBBS Abroad: Although NEET certification is required, admissions procedures are usually simpler when applying directly to colleges. International entrance tests differ by nation.
Course Duration and Topic
India: Usually lasting 5.5 years, with a syllabus specifically designed for Indian healthcare, including 4.5 years of coursework and a 1-year internship.
Abroad: Generally lasting five to six years, including an internship, with a modern, globally recognized education that prioritizes research and clinical exposure.
The expense of education
India: The total cost of tuition in government colleges is frequently less than ₹1 lakh. The cost of private colleges can range from ₹20 to ₹80 lakhs.
Abroad: Living and tuition costs vary abroad. In nations like Georgia, Armenia, and Russia, there are reasonably priced options with total fees normally varying from ₹20 to ₹45 lakhs, which is generally less than private Indian universities.
Facilities and Clinical Exposure
India: Provides full hands-on training at government hospitals with a high patient load and a variety of clinical problems.
Abroad: While many overseas institutions have modern labs and hospitals, the quality of clinical exposure varies per university.
Recognition and Permits
India: Direct registration to practice or continue postgraduate courses is possible for degrees from colleges recognized by the NMC.
Abroad: To practice medicine in India, graduates need to pass the FMGE or the recently introduced NEXT exam. Foreign degrees are recognized and valid in certain nations due to their high FMGE pass rates.
Global exposure and career opportunities
India: Good for those who want to choose specialization or practice nationally.
Abroad: International exposure, multicultural education, and the opportunity to practice or specialize overseas with additional licensure examinations are all provided by studying abroad.
Common rumours about MBBS Abroad
Students and parents often get confused by a number of rumours regarding MBBS abroad:
You cannot practice in India if you study MBBS abroad.
Fact: After completing the FMGE/NExT, students from universities approved by the NMC can register in India, allowing them to practice legally.
Most Indian students cannot afford to study MBBS abroad.
Fact: Compared to private institutions in India, many universities provide scholarships, affordable tuition, and living expenses that can be much lower.
Foreign MBBS students are unable to pass the FMGE/NExT.
Fact: There are lots of coaching materials accessible, and pass rates are rising annually with the right approach and guidance.
International education is of lower quality.
Fact: With modern facilities and knowledgeable faculty, several nations provide outstanding education.
Studying MBBS overseas is very costly.
Fact: In comparison to private institutions in India, a variety of possibilities provide an education that is both practical and cost-effective.
First Planning: Eligibility, Budget, and Country Selection
It’s crucial to properly plan your MBBS overseas experience before applying.
Planning a budget
- Between nations and universities, tuition costs range greatly, from INR 15 lakhs to INR 50 lakhs.
- Make sure that you plan for living expenses, travel expenses, insurance, and emergency savings.
- Think about education loans, financial help, and scholarships.
Country Selection Procedure
- Verify the university’s NMC and WHO recognition.
- The availability of MBBS courses in English.
- Living standards, safety, climate, and cultural flexibility.
- Travel convenience and closeness to India.
- Availability of FMGE/NEXT preparation support.
Check official NMC guidelines here
Summary of Eligibility Requirements
- You must have completed a 10+2 qualification in English, physics, chemistry, and biology.
- At least 50% of the total (40 percent for reserved categories).
- You need to clear the NEET-UG test according to the rules for 2025.
- As of December 31, of the admissions year, the applicant must be at least 17 years old.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
1. Can I study MBBS overseas without a NEET?
No, if you wish to practice in India after completing your MBBS abroad, you must have a NEET qualification.
2. What is the duration of MBBS programs overseas in comparison to India?
The majority of MBBS outside programs, including internships, last five to six years; the Indian program lasts five and a half years.
3. Is it more expensive to study MBBS abroad than in India?
It differs. Private Indian colleges can cost more than many international universities; however, government colleges in India are the least expensive.
4. What is FMGE?
Before practicing medicine in India, Indian students studying overseas must pass the FMGE licensing exam.
Conclusion
After completing 10+2, starting an MBBS abroad program needs complete preparation, NEET certification, and a complete understanding of the possibilities available. This blog allows parents and students to make educated decisions by addressing common rumours.
Moreover, by avoiding myths and relying on authentic guidance, students and parents can make the right choice.
We’ll go into great detail about particular nations, admissions procedures, and professional advice for MBBS overseas in 2025 in next blog series, so stay tuned.
