10 Best Countries To Study Medicine: Eligibility, Fees & More!

Are you an aspiring healer ready to embark on a worldwide medical expedition? If yes, then you’re in for a treat! In this blog, we will answer which are the best countries to study medicine. From beautiful campuses to cutting-edge education systems, we've compiled a list of the top 10 best countries to study medicine in 2024, which will take your medical career to a new height. Let’s get started and find out the best country to study MBBS for us!

Why Study Medicine Abroad?

The field of medicine is one of the most competitive and exciting in the world. It requires dedication, perfection, and determination. Due to the excellent quality of education available, many students choose to study medicine in the best countries, such as the UK, Germany, Canada, and the United States. In addition to having some of the best courses and specialisations offered by prestigious universities, several job prospects open up to students. You need a credible medical degree to practice medicine, but it can also lead to other medical professions, such as lecturing, research, and scientific journalism. In addition, students choose some of the best countries to study medicine abroad because they also get to work with industry experts, experienced professionals, and world-class facilities. So, keeping these benefits in mind, let’s find out which are the best countries to study medicine in.

10 Best Countries for MBBS in 2024

When considering the best country to study medicine, a lot of factors must be taken into consideration, such as the average tuition fees, tests required, and cost of living. A career in medicine is known to be one of the noblest professions in the world. Students looking to pursue a medical career abroad will find many good universities across the best countries to study medicine in the world. Pursuing an MBBS from these institutions in the best countries to study medicine will open doors for an excellent medical career. Let’s explore some of the best countries to study medicine for MBBS in 2024.

1. UK

Average tuition fees: $22,800 to $52,000 per annum
Tests required: UKCAT & BMAT and NEET (for Indian students)
Duration of the course: 5 to 6 years
Cost of living: $1,100 - $1,900 per month
The top universities are the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, UCL (University College London), King's College London, and Imperial College of London.

The history of medicine in the UK goes back to the medieval period. Over the years, the medical education field has been shaped by various social, cultural, and technological developments. The Royal College of Physicians of London and the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh were the first institutions to be established to regulate and educate medical practitioners. The 20th century witnessed significant developments in surgery with the advent of technologies such as laparoscopic surgery, X-rays, CT Scans, and MRIs. The Royal College of Physicians of London and the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh were the first institutions to be established to regulate and educate medical practitioners.

The UK is the best country to study MBBS as it is known for its quality education, which also applies to its medical programs. To be eligible to study MBBS in the UK, students must be qualified for the UKCAT medical exam. There are several scholarship medicines in the UK that you can leverage to pursue your education in MBBS.

2. USA

Average tuition fees: $18,000 to $86,000 per annum
Tests required: MCAT & USMLE
Duration of the course: 4 to 6 years
Cost of living: $1000 - $1500 per month
Top universities: Harvard College, Johns Hopkins College, Stanford College, Columbia College, Pennsylvania State University.

The history of medical education in the USA, which is one of the best countries to study medicine, dates back to the early colonial period. Many medical societies and organisations, like the Medical Society of the County of New York and the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, were established in the 18th century. The University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine and Harvard Medical School were the first medical schools to be established in the late 18th and 19th centuries. 

There are 172 medical schools in the USA, the best country to study MBBS. Studying in the USA can be a little expensive, but you can look for grants, scholarships, and part-time job options to support yourself financially. This is the best country for mbbs abroad. You can also find ideal student housing in the United States with amber and never worry about a thing! MCAT and USMLE are the medical exams that prospective medical students must pass to enter the top medical colleges in the world. The MD in the USA is awarded upon completion of the course. Medical students looking to advance their careers will get many good work opportunities in this one of the best countries to study medicine in the world.

If you’re interested in pursuing medicine in the USA, consider working with an expert; Inspira Advantage, has over 15 years of experience helping applicants get into the most competitive medical schools in the USA.

3. Canada

Average tuition fees: $1,20,000 to $3,67,000 per annum
Tests required: MCAT, TOEFL, & IELTS
Duration of the course: 3 to 5 years
Cost of living: $1000 - $1200 per month
Top universities: The University of Toronto, McGill University, the University of British Columbia, McMaster University, and the University of Montreal.

One of the top 10 countries to study medicine, Canada’s history of medical education has evolved from informal apprenticeships to the highly regulated system today. In 1829, the first medical institution, McGill University, was established. Canada, like the US, also offers an MD-level program. Some Canadian universities offer five-year programs if you don't have a scientific degree. Students acquire hands-on experience in contemporary healthcare settings, from the development of early clinical skills to clerkship rotations. If you feel Canada is the best country to study medicine, then it’s time to start exploring the options for student housing in Canada, too. 

Students can leverage the available specialised NSERC scholarships to support their MBBS in Canada, making it the best country to study MBBS. The program duration ranges between three to five years. International students also have the chance to pursue postgraduate medical education and acquire essential work experience in some of the best cities in Canada.

4. Germany

Average tuition fees: $138 to $2,200 per semester
Tests required: TMS
Duration of the course: 6 years
Cost of living: $700 - $1,000 per month
Top universities: Berlin's Charité - Universitätsmedizin, Heidelberg University, Munich's Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich Technical University, Heidelberg's Ruprecht-Karls University.

Germany is also one of the best countries to study MBBS. Germany’s history of medical education dates back to the medieval period when the works of ancient Greek and Roman physicians primarily influenced medical education. The University of Bologna was the first university to offer a medical program. In Germany, the medical program lasts six years. 

Though German universities offer few English-language courses, it is advisable to be fluent in German as most patients are Germans. You can work in renowned hospitals and healthcare facilities while studying MBBS in Germany, one of the best countries to study medicine. The extensive programs for MBBS in Germany will help you prepare better and succeed in your medical job.

5. France

Average tuition fees: $450 to $1000 per annum
Tests required: IELTS & NEET
Duration of the course: 3 to 8 years
Cost of living: $1,200 - $1,800 per month
Top universities: Sorbonne University, Pierre and Marie Curie University, Aix-Marseille University, Paris Descartes University, Lyon Sud Medical School.

Knowledge of medicine in the early Middle Ages in France, one of the best countries for MBBS, was inspired by the work of ancient Greek and Roman physicians like Galen and Hippocrates. After World War II, France saw major healthcare and medical education reforms. Over the years, medical education in France has evolved significantly and comprises a six-year program. 

This best country for medical study offers MD degrees for students pursuing a medical degree. On completion of the first year of your study, you must take an exam. The student must pass it to proceed forward. The medical curriculum in France blends academic learning with hands-on instruction to develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities and well-rounded medical professionals. Courses last anywhere from three to eight years in addition to the best countries to study medicine. The worldwide recognition of the French medical degree enables you to look into career options in France and also all around the world.

6. Australia

Average tuition fees: $25,000 to $75,000 per annum
Tests required: UMAT, UCAT, & NEET
Duration of the course: 5 to 6 years
Cost of living: $1,400 to $2,000 per month
Top universities: The University of Melbourne, The University of Sydney, Monash University, The University of Queensland, The University of New South Wales

The first medical schools, the Sydney Medical School and the University of Melbourne Medical School were established in the 19th century. The Medical Act of 1882 took major steps to standardise medical education and practice and for studing mbbs abroad.

Pursuing an MBBS in Australia from one of these top five medical schools is your best decision. Depending on the university and the curriculum design, the MBBS in Australia normally lasts five to six years. Aspiring medical students in Australia must often pass the Undergraduate Medicine and Health Sciences Admission Test (UMAT) or the more modern University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) to be admitted for MBBS in Australia. Australia’s welcoming immigration laws and favourable post-study employment opportunities enable international medical graduates to get work experience and live in this country for MBBS. You can also find the right student accommodation in Australia with ease!

7. Ukraine

Average tuition fees: $1500 to $3000 per annum
Tests required: NEET (for Indian students)
Duration of the course: 6 years
Cost of living: $100 - $300 per month
Top universities: Bogomolets National Medical University, Kharkiv National Medical University, Lviv National Medical University, O.O. Bogomolets National Medical University, Donetsk National Medical University

If you’re wondering about one of the best countries to study medicine, then definitely consider Ukraine. Medical education in Ukraine, one of the best countries for MBBS, was majorly influenced by Eastern and Western traditions in the Middle Ages. Universities for medical education, such as the Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, were established in the late 16th and early 17th centuries. 

An MBBS in Ukraine continues to be a favourite among students looking to further their medical studies overseas. Ukraine has also become a popular choice for international students as it is a cheap country to study medicine. It offers a six-year program comprising five years of extensive academic study. The program is followed by a year of internship in prestigious medical facilities connected to different universities. The lack of entrance exams for medical school admission is one of the noteworthy elements of studying in this best country for MBBS. Students in Ukraine who complete the MBBS program are given the title of MD Physician. 

8. Russia

Average tuition fees: $2100 to $9605 per annum
Tests required: NEET
Duration of the course: 6 years
Cost of living: $200 - $300 per month
Top universities: Moscow State Medical University, Saint Petersburg State Medical University, Kazan Federal University, People's Friendship University of Russia, Novosibirsk State University

Russia is also an excellent option when it comes to listing the best country to study medicine. The first Russian medical school, the School of Medicine in Moscow, was established by Peter the Great in the 17th century. Russia offers a six year long MBBS program, including an internship. In the first three years, you will learn the basic sciences like anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and microbiology. Clinical sciences, such as surgery, obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, and psychiatry, are covered throughout the next three years. 

For a number of reasons, this is the best country to study medicine. The internship must be finished within a year of graduation, whether in Russia or your native country. This country offers a chance to experience a variety of cultures while also receiving a high-quality education at a reasonable price.

9. Belgium

Average tuition fees: $1500 to $4000 per annum
Tests required: PTE & IELTS
Duration of the course: 6 years
Cost of living: $873 – $1,370 per month
Top universities: Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Université Catholique de Louvain, Ghent University, University of Antwerp, Vrije Universiteit Brussel.

The history of medical education in Belgium, the best country to study MBBS, goes back to the medieval period when the ancient Greeks and Romans influenced medical education. The establishment of The University of Louvain and the University of Leuven set the pace for the formalisation of medical education. Indeed this is best country to do mbbs abroad for students wanting to make their career in medicine. Belgium offers a six-year MBBS program, which is taught mostly in French, German, or Dutch. There are also English-language options for overseas students. Anatomy, Microbiology, Histology, Pharmacology, and Psychiatry are only a few of the many disciplines available to undergraduate medical students in Belgium. 

One of the best parts of pursuing medical education in this best country for MBBS is that there is no need for an entrance exam, which makes the admissions process simple. Secondly, this best country to study medicine has a high-income ratio, guaranteeing a favourable atmosphere for your academic development. Thirdly, Belgium’s affordable tuition rates and the availability of government and university grants make studying for an MBBS an affordable alternative. 

10. Philippines

Average tuition fees: $98000 to $1490000 for the whole degree
Tests required: NMAT
Duration of the course: 4 years
Cost of living: $285 - $477 per month
Top universities: University of the Philippines Manila, Ateneo de Manila University School of 

Medicine and Public Health, University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute, University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center

The next best country to study MBBS is the Philippines. As one of the best countries for medical education, its history dates back to the Spanish Colonial Period, when religious institutions offered medical education. Studying MBBS in the Philippines is a great decision. The country’s medical curriculum lasts from 5.5 to 6 years. The topics covered in the course include Anatomy, microbiology, pathology, pharmacology, surgery, internal medicine, and others. 

You need to clear NMAT to get admission to Philippine universities, which are one of the best countries for MBBS. The Philippines offers internationally recognised medical degrees. IMED, ECFMG, and WHO have certified the colleges, further verifying the calibre of instruction offered. The United States Medical Licencing Examination (USMLE) is quite successful for graduates of these universities, which opens doors to international employment options. 

Honourable Mentions Of Best Countries To Study Medicine

1. Switzerland

2. Netherlands

3. Singapore

4. India

5. Japan

Top Colleges In The Best Countries To Study Medicine

Whether it's the MBBS in the UK with its esteemed universities or Russia with its cost-effective education. All of these best country to study medicine offer special benefits and chances for students aspiring to be in the medical field.

Popular Career options After MBBS abroad

After earning an MBBS degree abroad, graduates have access to a wide range of career paths, from clinical roles to research and healthcare management positions. Below are some of the popular job profiles for MBBS graduates and their annual salary range:

Admission Requirements for the Best Medical Colleges in the World

Admission to top-tier medical schools globally involves a combination of academic achievements, standardized tests, language proficiency, and practical experience. Here are the key admission requirements most medical colleges look for:
1. Educational Background: A high school diploma or equivalent (for undergraduate programs) or a bachelor's degree (for graduate programs).
2. Entrance Exams: Top medical schools require a standardised exam (e.g., MCAT, UCAT, or BMAT) to assess critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific knowledge.
3. Grade Point Average (GPA): A competitive GPA (usually above 3.5 on a 4.0 scale) is essential for undergraduate entry, while postgraduate programs may require higher.
4. English Language Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
5. Work Experience: Clinical or volunteer experience in healthcare settings is highly recommended to show commitment and understanding of the medical field.
6. Letter of Recommendation: Strong recommendation letters from academic mentors or healthcare professionals are commonly required to support your application.
7. Personal Statement: Most medical schools require a personal statement to assess motivation, career goals, and commitment to pursuing a medical career.

Top Medical Courses Abroad: Country-Wise

Explore leading medical courses in the best country to study medicine, tailored to advanced education and specialized training. Here’s the information transformed into a table format:

Your Next Home Awaits!

Your new academic journey is just beginning–make sure you have the perfect place to call home. Check out some of our top student accommodations that fits your needs and preferences.

1. Project Students Step House, Newcastle Upon Tyne
2. Collegiate Eclipse, Cardiff
3. Canvas Greystar Canvas Coventry Arundel House, Coventry
4. Collegiate Nova, Nottingham
5. Collegiate Pillar Box, Coventry