Why Study MBBS Abroad in 2025–26?

Pursuing MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) remains one of the most sought-after career paths for Indian students. Over the years, there has been a significant rise in the number of students opting to study MBBS abroad, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down in 2025–26. But why is studying medicine overseas becoming such a popular option?

Limited Seats & High Costs in India

The biggest challenge facing Indian medical aspirants is the limited availability of MBBS seats in government colleges. According to the National Medical Commission (NMC), there were around 79,855 MBBS seats across 542 government and private colleges in 2020. Meanwhile, over 15 lakh students appeared for NEET-UG the same year, resulting in fierce competition and a low selection ratio.

For students who don’t secure a government seat, the only alternative is private medical colleges—many of which charge exorbitant tuition fees ranging from ₹50 lakh to ₹1 crore or more for the full course. These high costs make private medical education unaffordable for many middle-class families.

Why MBBS Abroad is a Smart Option

Given these constraints, more students are turning to foreign medical universities that offer:

Globally recognized degrees (often approved by NMC, WHO, ECFMG, etc.)

Lower tuition fees and affordable cost of living

Modern infrastructure with advanced labs, hospitals, and simulation centres

International exposure to diverse patient demographics and healthcare systems

Opportunities to prepare for licensing exams like NEXT, USMLE, PLAB, etc.

Popular destinations like Uzbekistan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Philippines, Russia and Kyrgyzstan offer high-quality education at a fraction of the cost in Indian private colleges.

Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students (MBBS Abroad 2025–26)

Though every country has its own admission policies, here are the general eligibility requirements for Indian students applying to study MBBS abroad:

Age Requirement

The student must be at least 17 years old as of 31st December of the admission year.

There is no upper age limit for applying to most foreign universities.

Academic Qualifications

Must have completed 10+2 (or equivalent) from a recognized board.

Should have scored at least 50% aggregate marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB).

English must be studied as a compulsory subject.

For SC/ST/OBC categories, the minimum requirement is 40% in PCB subjects.

NEET Qualification (Mandatory)

As per NMC guidelines, qualifying NEET-UG is compulsory for Indian students who wish to pursue MBBS abroad.

The NEET score remains valid for 3 years for MBBS abroad admission purposes.

MCI/NMC Eligibility Certificate

Before admission, students must obtain an Eligibility Certificate from the Medical Council of India (now NMC), confirming that they are eligible to pursue medical education overseas.