MBBS Abroad vs MBBS in India: Complete Comparison for Indian Students

Many Indian students who want to become doctors have lifelong dreams. But, it often begins with one crucial choice - whether to pursue MBBS in India or choose MBBS Abroad. With the competition for medical seats in India getting more difficult each year, many potential doctors are looking for options in other countries.

This blog offers a comprehensive analysis of both options and provides a complete comparison of MBBS Abroad vs. MBBS in India.

MBBS in India - An Overview

India is the location of a few of the longest-running and well-known medical institutes around the world. Every year, millions of applicants take part in NEET-UG, but only a small percentage of them get places in the government medical colleges.

• Number of applicants vs seats: More than 20 lakh applicants apply to NEET every year, whereas the total of MBBS seats available in India is estimated to be between 1.1-1.3 lakh.
• Government vs Private seats: Colleges run by the government can be affordable, but very limited in numbers. Private medical institutions typically demand costs that range from Rs 50 lakh upto Rs 1 crore to complete the degree.
• Duration: The MBBS course in India typically lasts 5.5 years, including a one-year internship.

The quality of the instruction in the top institutions of government is exceptional, private universities can differ on the standards, creating a significant gap in the accessibility.

MBBS Abroad - An Overview

Over the last decade, MBBS Abroad for Indian Students has gained immense popularity. A number of countries, like Russia, Georgia, the Philippines, and the USA & UK, accept Indian students who are enrolled in English-medium medical schools.

Why students choose to study MBBS abroad:

• Tuition is lower than Indian private colleges.
• WHO and NMC-accredited universities.
• Internationally recognized medical degrees.
• Modern infrastructure and better patient exposure.

The duration typically is 5–6 years, depending on the country.

Popular destinations include:

• Georgia Medical Colleges - Known for their modern European-style education.
• Russia Medical University Fees - affordable compared to Indian private colleges.
• Philippines Medical University - It follows a US-based program with the same disease pattern to India.

If students are unable to obtain an official seat in India, this option opens opportunities without the cost of private medical schools.

MBBS Abroad vs MBBS in India: A Comparative Table

For a better understanding of the differences, check out this side-by-side comparison:

Cost Analysis - MBBS in India vs MBBS Abroad

One of the most pressing concerns for parents and students is fees. Let's look at the following:

MBBS in India:

• Government Colleges: 1-5 lakh in total (highly subventioned).
• Private Colleges: Rs50 lakh - Rs1 crore.
• Deemed Universities: Slightly lower than private colleges, but still costly.

MBBS Abroad for Indian Students:

• Russia Medical University Fees: Rs20-30 lakh for the whole duration of the course.
• Georgia Medical Colleges: Rs25-35 lakh.
• Philippines Medical University: Rs18-25 lakh.
• MBBS in USA for Indian Student Fees: Rs80 lakh up to Rs1.5 crore.
• MBS in UK for Indian Student Fees: Rs90 lakh up to Rs1.5 crore.

It's clear that while MBBS is expensive in both the USA and the UK, other countries such as Russia, Georgia, and the Philippines provide affordable alternatives compared to private colleges in India.

Best Countries to Study MBBS Abroad

In deciding the best country for MBBS, students typically take into account fees, recognition and career opportunities.

1. Russia
   • Affordable cost structure.
   • Internationally renowned universities.
   • Thousands of Indian students are already studying there.
2. Georgia
   • European-style education.
   • English-medium instruction.
   • Secure and secure environment suitable for Indian students.
3. Philippines
   • Similar disease patterns as India, making it more suitable for practical learning.
   • US-based curriculum.
   • High FMGE percent of passing.
4. USA
   • Medical education of the highest quality.
   • Career opportunities that are worldwide.
   • Higher costs, but remarkable return on investment.
5. UK
   • Medical degrees that are globally renowned.
   • Clinical exposure from the first year.
   • Costly but rewarding Career pathways.

To be affordable, Russia, Georgia, and the Philippines are the most popular choices. Globally recognized, the USA and UK are the most prominent.

Career Prospects After MBBS

In India:

• Students who have completed MBBS in India are directly applying for postgraduate study.
• Career scope improves after clearing NEET-PG.
• Private hospital and government job options are readily available.

After MBBS Abroad:

• Students need to pass the FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduation Exam) and NExT to practice medicine in India.
• Possibilities exist to practice in the country of study, or apply for exams such as USMLE (USA) and PLAB (UK).
• An internationally recognized MBBS degree opens up international career otions.

Challenges of MBBS Abroad

Although MBBS abroad has many advantages, students should also be ready for the challenges:

• Language barriers: In some nations, local patients may not speak English.
• FMGE/NEXT Requirement: To practice in India, Foreign graduates must clear the licensing exam.
• Cultural Disparities: Adjusting to new food habits, cultures and climate may require time.
• Travel & Living Costs: Beyond tuition costs, Students must manage accommodation and daily expenses.

Advantages of MBBS Abroad for Indian Students

In spite of the challenges, the benefits outweigh the risks of many students:

• Cheap tuition in comparison to private MBBS in India.
• Worldwide exposure with diverse patients.
• Fees capitation and no donation.
• Modern facilities, and improved clinical training.
• Possibility to practice abroad.

If students are unable to get an official position, MBBS Abroad is usually a practical and affordable alternative.

FAQs

1. MBBS Abroad for Indian Students Fees?

Usually ranges from around the range of Rs15 lakh up to Rs40 lakh across countries such as Russia, Georgia, and the Philippines. In the USA and the UK, it can reach  up to Rs1 crore.

2. Best Country for MBBS for Indian Students? 

Affordable: Russia, Georgia, and the Philippines. To get exposure to the world: USA and UK.

3. MBBS in USA for Indian Students Fees? 

costs range from around the range of Rs80 lakh and Rs1.5 crore. This does not include the cost of living.

4. MBBS in UK for Indian Students Fees? 

It ranges from around Rs90 lakh up to Rs1.5 crore.

5. MBBS How Many Years? 

In India, MBBS takes 5.5 years (including internship). Abroad, it ranges between 5 to 6 years based on the country.

Conclusion

The option of the MBBS in India and the MBBS Abroad is based on the individual's priorities.

• If a student gets a government job, MBBS in India is the ideal choice due to the cost of admission and the ease of obtaining a license.
• If you don't, MBBS Abroad provides affordable options, global exposure, and international careers.

Both have strengths and weaknesses, and the most appropriate option should be decided based on your career objectives, financial capabilities and a longer-term perspective.

Students seeking advice on picking the appropriate medical school in another country, SkoodosBridge provides assistance with admissions and counseling. If they are given the right guidance, future doctors will be able to make the right decision for their future.