MBBS Abroad for Indian Students: Countries, Colleges & Tuition Fees

An increasing number of Indians are pursuing careers in healthcare. However, with a shortage of seats and high local costs to study medicine and health sciences, otherwise known as MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery), many students are setting their sights abroad. MBBS abroad for Indian students paves the way for affordable education that can lead to globally recognised degrees.

Why Study MBBS Abroad

MBBS abroad for Indian students is a smart pathway for locals who want to access more affordable tuition rates while still obtaining a degree that could open them up to great career opportunities back home or internationally. Here’s a breakdown of why you should study MBBS outside India.

1. High-Quality Education

Several foreign universities offer high-quality education that exceeds the levels taught in local colleges. Students get to learn from industry experts and have access to the latest technology and best facilities that could enhance their learning experience.

Every country has its specialised areas of knowledge and research. MBBS abroad for Indian students makes it easier for them to get an expanded understanding of medical practices, increasing their market value as a healthcare worker both locally and internationally.

2. Globally Recognised Degrees

MBBS abroad for Indian students allows you to graduate with a degree that is globally recognised. The methods of teaching, facilities, and opportunities in India may be limited, and completing your MBBS outside India means that you have better chances of being able to practise where you’d like.

3. Affordable Fees

With a diverse pool of educational choices, you can opt for an institution that fits right into your budget. Many global universities charge low tuition fees—even lower than those of public schools in India! Plus, you don’t have to worry about having to pay donation or capitation fees, which are typically charged from Indian students during admission.

4. International Exposure

Studying abroad gives you a unique opportunity to experience different cultures and broaden your perspective. Taking MBBS abroad for Indian students improves not just your professional development, but your personal growth, as well.

5. Global Network

Many big medical institutions are affiliated with a large network of schools and organisations. By graduating from these schools, you get access to connections that can help you build a flourishing career in and out of the medical field.

MBBS Abroad vs. MBBS in India

MBBS in India and MBBS abroad for Indian students are vastly different, and students need to understand these distinctions to know whether they should pursue their education locally or in another country. Let’s look into the differences between studying MBBS inside or outside India.

1. Accessibility

One of the biggest roadblocks to studying MBBS in India is the lack of available seats. Students have to compete with thousands of their peers to get into a college. If you choose to study abroad, however, you get multiple choices when it comes to country and institution.

The competitive landscape also means that admissions are selective; only those with high entrance exam scores get in. Meanwhile, passing scores may get you a spot abroad. 

2. Cost

The MBBS course fee for government colleges in India costs up to INR 1 million and about INR 8 million for private medical institutions. In other countries, such as China and Russia, MBBS degrees can be completed for under INR 1 million—and that already includes living expenses!

3. Infrastructure

While the infrastructure and technologies in Indian medical colleges are advanced, they may not be at par with the facilities of foreign institutions, especially those in first-world countries like the USA.

4. Learning

Class sizes for MBBS in India can reach over 100 students per teacher, while abroad, there are better student-to-teacher ratios, allowing for better learning.

MBBS outside India also allows students to join international seminars, conferences, and workshops to widen their knowledge; students in India may have these same offers but at more limited frequencies.

MBBS abroad for Indian students presents practise-based opportunities. Most curricula involve enhancing practical skills in medicine and include simulation-based training. In India, programs are more theoretical and may not have as much exposure to practical training.

The Cost of MBBS Abroad

The cost of MBBS abroad for Indian students varies. Tuition fees can cost below INR 1 million in more cost-effective schools, while top universities can charge over the top threshold in India. Here’s a quick country list for MBBS abroad for Indian students at low cost:

• Russia: INR 250,000 to INR 900,000
• Bangladesh: INR 1.2 million to INR 1.7 million 
• Ukraine: INR 250,000 to INR 850,000
• Nepal: INR 750,000 to INR 1.1 million
• Georgia: INR 350,000 to INR 700,000
• Uzbekistan: INR 250,000 to INR 415,000
• Kyrgyzstan: INR 207,500 to INR 332,000
• Kazakhstan: INR 291,000 to INR 500,000
• Philippines: INR 248,000 to 600,000.

You can also opt to take MBBS abroad for Indian students in popular study-abroad countries, such as the Big Four–the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK. These destinations are home to some of the world’s best medical institutions, but the price to study there comes at a premium. MBBS tuition fees average INR 4.3 million in the US, INR 3.7 million in Canada, and INR 4 million in Australia and the UK.

Top Colleges for MBBS Abroad for Indian Students

Here are some medical colleges abroad for Indian students to explore for an MBBS degree.

1. The University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide in Australia is ranked in the top 100 universities worldwide and hosts 16 subject areas also ranked in the top 100 in the globe. It’s first in South Australia when it comes to graduate employability; its graduates are the most employable in the region. The university offers several study areas in health, including MBBS, dentistry, mental health and well-being, nursing, and biotechnology.

2. James Cook University

Located in Queensland, Australia, James Cook University sits among the top 2% of universities worldwide. Inspired by a research-rich environment, JCU produces globally recognised research work and educational opportunities. Additionally, it offers a five-star experience for its students, being recognised as #1 in Australia for student support, learner engagement, and median graduate salary. JCU is great for students who want to pursue MBBS outside India.

3. University of Plymouth

The University of Plymouth offers MBBS abroad for Indian students and is an ideal choice for those who want to study in the UK. As a civic university, it’s committed to being a driver for economic innovation and advancement, a catalyst for social change, and a champion for cultural development. Over 95% of its graduates are working or studying 15 months after graduating, exhibiting its high employability and advancement pathways.

4. University of Limerick

The University of Limerick in Ireland made a significant improvement in the recent 2024 QS World University Rankings, moving more than 100 places up to 426. The independent, internationally-focused university holds a proud record of innovative education research and scholarship excellence. Its award-winning campus allows students to study in a safe and supportive environment; it has even been voted number one in the world for student experience. UL offers over 70 undergraduate programs, including MBBS.

Explore MBBS Abroad for Indian Students

upGrad GSP is a proud partner of the University of Limerick, the University of Adelaide, James Cook University, and the University of Plymouth. We can help you achieve your dreams of obtaining an MBBS degree abroad.in these institutions and more! Ask your recruitment adviser to get in touch with our business development experts to know how.