Earning an MBBS degree is an excellent career option, particularly considering the increased need for healthcare professionals following the COVID-19 pandemic.
In such circumstances, a career in medicine can be incredibly fulfilling. It empowers individuals to constantly learn and help advance healthcare systems, save lives, and leave a meaningful impact on society.
As a medical aspirant, you now have a critical decision to make: should you pursue an MBBS in India or go abroad to obtain your degree?
Many aspiring doctors struggle with this question. Therefore, through this blog, we’ll assist you in making an informed decision. We’ll provide an easy-to-understand comparison between MBBS programs in India and abroad, covering all necessary details.
Let’s dive in!
Overview of MBBS in India
Getting an MBBS degree in India is dominated by fierce competition and varying fee structures across government and private medical colleges.
For instance, the limited number of seats available, particularly at government medical institutes, has made it more challenging to get into an MBBS program in India in recent years.
The primary appeal of these government universities is their more affordable, subsidized tuition fees. Students who achieve high marks on the National Eligibility Entrance Test (NEET) have a better chance of admission to these government colleges.
Besides government colleges, India has reputable private MBBS institutions that provide superior education. However, these private colleges can charge exorbitant tuition fees.
This cost factor often leads many Indian students to explore the option of pursuing their MBBS degrees abroad. The fees for studying in private colleges abroad are comparatively less than in India.
Overview of MBBS Abroad
Many Indian students contemplate studying MBBS overseas due to a variety of factors.
Similar to the prerequisites in India, students must typically have passed their 12th-grade education with biology, chemistry, and physics as the core subjects to be eligible for an MBBS program overseas.
Additionally, studying MBBS overseas can vary from one country to another, depending on the location. When compared to government medical institutes in India, which offer subsidized tuition rates, studying abroad can usually be more expensive.
Furthermore, there are additional fees to worry about, such as living expenses, accommodation facilities, and other necessities.
Therefore, before making such a big decision, it is imperative that students thoroughly investigate and comprehend the requirements for admission as well as the expenses related to studying medicine abroad.
MBBS in India vs MBBS abroad: A comprehensive analysis
Here, we’ll cover the key differences between the admission criteria, course duration, tuition fees, and degree recognition and licensing.
1. Admission criteria
MBBS in India: For MBBS admission in India, students must write NEET and qualify for the required cut-off marks. This test requirement is mandatory for both government and private medical colleges.
MBBS abroad: Similarly, to study MBBS abroad, students from India must write the NEET exam and qualify for the required cut-off marks. The other specific criteria for admission may differ depending on the nation and university; some might ask for additional entrance examinations or take academic records into account.
2. Course duration
MBBS in India: The course duration for studying MBBS in India is typically around 5 and a half years. This includes 4 and a half years of academic learning and 1 year of mandatory internship program.
MBBS abroad: The course duration for studying MBBS abroad usually takes 6 years. This includes classroom sessions and practical training.
3. Tuition fees
MBBS in India: Tuition fees at government medical colleges is subsidized and is often less than INR 10,000 a year. On the other hand, private colleges charge much higher tuition, generally starting at INR 10,00,000.
MBBS Abroad: Tuition fees in foreign countries can vary greatly, with some countries offering reasonable options, whereas others may be more expensive. The total course fees can range between INR 25,00,000 and INR 50,00,000. It is crucial to account for additional costs associated with living, housing, and other essentials.
4. Degree recognition and licensing
MBBS in India: The National Medical Commission (NMC), formerly known as the Medical Council of India (MCI), acknowledges medical degrees earned in India. This makes it possible for graduates to start working in India after completing their final MBBS exam.
MBBS abroad: To practice medicine in India, graduates may need to fulfill extra prerequisites and qualify for specific licensing tests, such as the FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination).
Now, taking into account these details, you must decide which route is for you. But not before weighing some critical pros and cons that come with the two choices.
MBBS in India vs MBBS abroad: Which is a more suitable option?
1. Cost of living
When considering whether to pursue an MBBS in India or abroad, it is critical to evaluate some additional differences that matter.
Compared to many other countries, like China, Russia, Ukraine, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, India offers a fairly affordable cost of living. This makes it a suitable choice for many aspiring doctors in our home country.
International students are welcome to attend Indian medical schools as well, and they need not be concerned about high living expenses.
2. Global exposure
Students who study MBBS overseas are presented with an extraordinary chance to receive global exposure. They learn about diverse patient groups and global medical practices.
Students also acquire practical educational insights regarding various healthcare systems. They may gain fresh perspectives and be ready for a more versatile medical career with this experience.
3. Cultural differences
Studying overseas can provide opportunities to experience various cultures, but it may also bring struggles with cultural adjustment.
Navigating the complexities of a foreign country, developing new social relationships, and learning a new language could be an unforgettable experience.
Given one’s personal preferences and the extent of adaptation, adapting to a new nation and its language and culture can be beneficial yet difficult at times.
However, it’s an opportunity for personal development and to deepen one’s perspective. It is not everyone’s cup of tea, though, as it does demand an adaptable and open-minded attitude.
4. Licensing requirement
As mentioned before, Indian students who complete their MBBS abroad must qualify for the FMGE to practice in India. However, this exam can be extremely tough, and many students fail to qualify on their first attempt.
The Indian Express reports that 24,250 candidates took the June 2023 FMGE exam; 2474 passed, 21,180 failed the test, 116 had their results withheld, and the remaining 480 could not qualify.
Therefore, the choice between an MBBS degree in India and an MBBS abroad should be made based on individual needs and circumstances.
Final words
While studying abroad provides global exposure and unique experiences, it also presents hurdles, such as cultural differences and the daunting FMGE test.
However, MBBS in India, especially in Bangalore is a more affordable choice (if you rank better and get into a government medical college) and would be more appropriate for most medical aspirants.
This is because students won’t have to pay an outrageous amount of tuition fees and can seamlessly integrate into the Indian healthcare system.
In the end, the choice should be in line with one’s career goals, financial circumstances, and willingness to adapt to a new territory.
So, if you choose to study MBBS in India, GCS Online can help you get direct admission to top colleges in India.
We offer personalized solutions, whether filling out forms or the admission process itself. Our highly skilled admission advisors will guide and assist you through each stage of the application process.
For more details, visit us at GCS Online.