The drawbacks of pursuing MBBS in Bangladesh

Introduction

Pursuing MBBS and becoming a doctor is a dream of many Indian students as well international students. The growing competition and rising cutoff sometimes doesn't allow students to doubt about their decision of becoming a doctor and that's why options like MBBS abroad seems a viable solution for many and specially when countries like Bangladesh which is at very close proximity is offering the medical education at affordable price. Medical universities in Bangladesh has both public universities and private medical colleges, offering quality education at low fees. But with this comes many challenges like cultural differences and many more which we are going to learn in this article in order to help you take best decision for your career.

Learning the disadvantages

1. Limited seats in government colleges

Government medical colleges in Bangladesh offer high quality education at subsidized fees, but the number of seats available for foreign students is very limited. This forces many Indian students to seek admission in colleges, where fees are significantly higher.

2. Quality and recognition concerns in private colleges

Though there are many medical colleges and medical universities across Bangladesh, the quality of infrastructure and faculty in some colleges may not meet the expectations of medical aspirants. Not all colleges offer quality education, practical labs, or exposure to clinical training and forensic medicine at par with Indian medical colleges or top medical colleges in other countries.

3. Language barrier and cultural differences

A common challenge for Indian students and foreign students is the language barrier. While English is the medium of instruction for the MBBS course, real-life interactions with patients during clinical training often occur in Bengali. This makes it harder for students to gain practical clinical knowledge. Additionally, cultural diversity and cultural differences may lead to adjustment issues during the mbbs study period.

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4. Recognition and licensing issues

Although many Bangladeshi medical colleges are WHO approved colleges, graduates must clear the National Medical Commission (NMC) screening test or FMGE in India to practice. The MBBS degree from Bangladesh is valid, but passing the licensure exams is essential. The MBBS syllabus may differ slightly, especially in allied subjects, which requires additional preparation by students.

5. Admission and visa complications

The MBBS admission process for international students can be complex, involving strict documentation, approval from Bangladesh university authorities, and securing a student visa. Any study gap or discrepancies in application can delay the process, making it more stressful for medical students.

6. Limited exposure to advanced medical technologies

Unlike some top medical universities or medical schools in other countries, many Bangladesh colleges lack access to advanced medical equipment and modern facilities. This can hinder the students’ exposure to cutting-edge treatments and technologies during their medical studies.

7. No direct PG pathway or reservation benefits

Unlike Indian private colleges or public universities, students choose Bangladesh university mostly for MBBS programs and not for postgraduate education. After completing mbbs in Bangladesh, students have to return to their home countries or explore medical career options elsewhere. They also miss out on any reservation or government job benefits that come with MBBS education in Indian medical colleges.

MBBS course structure in Bangladesh

Total duration of medical course: 5 years (academic) + 1 year (compulsory internship).

1. Examination pattern:

   • Written (70%), Oral (20%), Practical (10%) for each subject.

   • Professional exams held in January/July annually.

2. Clinical training:

   • Hands-on practice from 3rd year onward in affiliated hospitals.

   • Ward rotations in final year for Medicine, Surgery, and OB-GYN.

3. Internship (6th Year):

   • Compulsory 1-year training in BM&DC-recognized hospitals.

   • Logbook-based with stipends in some colleges.

   • Indian students may complete internship in India after clearing FMGE/NExT .

4. Teaching medium:

   • English (all lectures, exams, and textbooks) is taught by qualified teachers.

Eligibility criteria

Medical aspirants from India planning to pursue MBBS in Bangladesh must know the mentioned criteria which they have to meet in order to study there.

1. Academic qualifications

• Class 10 (SSC/O-Level):

  • Must have passed with a minimum GPA of 3.5 (or 60% marks).

  • Year of passing: Not before 2022.

• Class 12 (HSC/A-Level):

  • Must have Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) with:

    • Minimum 60% aggregate in PCB (General category).

    • Minimum 50% aggregate for SC/ST students.

    • Year of passing: 2024 or 2025 (no gap >1 year after Class 12) .

• Total GPA requirement:

  • Combined GPA of 7.0 (SSC + HSC).

2. NEET qualification

• Mandatory: Must qualify NEET-UG (no minimum percentile specified, but passing is required).

• Validity: NEET score must be from the current or previous year (2024 or 2025) .

3. Age limit

• Minimum Age: 17 years by December 31, 2025.

• Maximum Age: Some colleges cap at 25 years.

Key notes

• SAARC quota: Indian students pay fees equivalent to Bangladeshi students in government colleges (limited seats).

• No entrance exam: Most private MBBS colleges admit based on NEET + academic scores.

• Language: No IELTS/TOEFL; English is the medium of instruction.

For official updates, refer to the Bangladesh Medical & Dental Council (BMDC)

Fee structure overview

Students seeking admissions for medical colleges in Bangladesh due to main attractive feature of low MBBS fees offering medical degree at affordable costs. Learn the living expenses in detail:

Government medical colleges

• Total course fees (5.5 years): ₹12–25 lakhs (for SAARC quota students, including Indians.

• Hostel fees: Included in the package or minimal (₹500–1,000/month).

Private medical colleges

• Total course fees (5.5 years): ₹24–55 lakhs (varies by college ranking/location).

• Hostel fees: ₹4,200–12,600/month.

• Food costs: ₹2,500–4,200/month.

Average cost breakdown

Top medical colleges in Bangladesh

A. Government colleges

B. Private medical colleges

Exploring MBBS Opportunities in Europe and Beyond

While Bangladesh’s MBBS programs may hold appeal, students should cast their gaze towards alternative horizons for a well-rounded medical education. Europe and other Western countries emerge as compelling options renowned for their high-caliber medical programs.

Countries such as Germany, Slovakia, Hungary, and Croatia among others, boast world-class institutions known for their cutting-edge research, advanced facilities, and globally respected medical curricula. Pursuing MBBS in these countries provides students with exposure to diverse medical practices and fosters a comprehensive understanding of international healthcare systems.

Additionally, scholarships and financial aid designed specifically for international medical students in these countries alleviate the financial burden while enhancing the overall educational experience. By embracing these opportunities, students not only access superior medical education but also cultivate a global perspective that propels them towards an internationally recognized and impactful medical career.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while studying MBBS in Bangladesh advantages presents several appealing factors such as affordable education, geographical proximity, and familiar culture for Indian students, it's essential to understand the challenges that come along. From language barriers and cultural differences to variability in quality education across private colleges, and complexities in the admission process and student visa, the journey may not be as smooth for every student. Furthermore, limitations in clinical training, differing MBBS syllabus, and the need to pass licensing exams like the NMC screening test make it crucial for aspiring doctors to plan carefully.

Therefore, prospective students should evaluate both the advantages and disadvantages of studying MBBS in Bangladesh, compare options with medical colleges in other countries and Indian private colleges, and make an informed decision aligned with their long-term medical career goals. Choosing the right MBBS program is not just about cost—it’s about ensuring that the MBBS degree leads to a successful and fulfilling future in medicine.