Why are Indian students choosing to study MBBS abroad?

Introduction

There has been a major rise in the number of students opting to study medicine abroad, and this situation is alarming. The statistic is rapidly shifting; over 1.8 million students are studying abroad in 2025, out of which 25,000 to 30,000 are medical aspirants. It is almost certain that the number will escalate if the main cause is not rectified soon.

MBBS abroad has become a prominent option for Indian students, as it offers superior facilities comparatively. This is due to multiple factors, such as an easy admission process, affordable fee structures, an advanced education system, and early clinical exposure. Apart from this, there are other influencing factors as well, which we will discuss in this blog.

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Major reasons why Indian students choose MBBS abroad

The current scenario of studying medical education abroad is increasing rapidly. Every year, lakhs of students clear the NEET exam, but only a few secure a seat in a government medical college. This is due to multiple factors, such as:

Limited seats & high competition

India has a limited number of seats in government medical universities compared to the number of qualified NEET students. Every year, lakhs of students qualify the competitive NEET exams, but still, they are left with no options. Many times, the government increases the number of seats but still fails to meet the demand, making medicine one of the most competitive professions in India.

The government colleges' cutoff is mostly high, and only students with high ranks are allowed to pursue MBBS programmes in government medical colleges. Many deserving students are left with no hope, so they end up taking admission to private medical schools or decide to sit next year again for the same exam or pursue an MBBS degree abroad.

High cost of private medical colleges

Private medical colleges in India are extremely expensive and charge high fees and donations. Fees could vary from 50 lakh to 1 crore INR for the entire MBBS course. Affording private medical colleges in India for a middle-class family could be costly. Many even sell their land or take loans to afford such amounts. So even though private colleges offer seats, the financial burden is huge. Additionally, after completing MBBS in such an expensive place, many students left with jobs.

In India, despite earning big degrees, many people still struggle to find jobs and end up roaming around unemployed. This is one of the biggest reasons why students look abroad, where fees are comparatively lower, and quality education is still guaranteed.

Global exposure and advanced education

Students often opt for MBBS abroad because it gives students exposure to global medical practices. Medical universities abroad are highly advanced and offer high-quality medical education, better exposure, and early clinical practices that you are looking for. Also, students get the chance to learn from diverse patients and explore the world. A degree from a recognised foreign university also adds value when applying for jobs in India or other countries, making the career path broader and more promising.

These are some of the major problems that often push students to pursue MBBS abroad. But is studying MBBS abroad really worth it? Let’s explore the advantages of studying medicine abroad.

Advantages of studying abroad

• Transparent fee structure: Unlike some private colleges in India, many foreign universities have clear, fixed fees without hidden donations or capitation fees. Additionally, the MBBS fees are affordable abroad.

• International connections: Studying abroad allows students to build strong networks with classmates or medical professionals from different countries, which can help in future collaborations and global career opportunities, and it could be the pathway to enhancing their knowledge.

• Early practical exposure: Foreign universities focus on practical learning from the very beginning. Students get clinical exposure early in their course, which helps them gain hands-on training.

• Advanced studies: Universities abroad offer world-class medical education, modern laboratories, advanced medical equipment, and the latest technology. This ensures students are trained with updated methods and innovations in the medical field.

• English-medium MBBS courses: Most top universities teach in English, which removes language barriers and helps in easy learning.

• Direct admission: The MBBS admission process is simple; only a few procedures are required. As an Indian student, the NEET exam is mandatory, but ranks are not a problem. Also, many universities conduct their own entrance exam, which is easy to pass. So the admission process is straightforward, with fewer hurdles.

• Wide choice of universities: MBBS abroad opens the door for students to multiple options. In India, ranks decide the college; students have only a few options, and students give up on their dream college. But here, students can choose universities according to their preferences.

• Earn while you learn: Some countries allow part-time jobs, helping students support themselves during studies.

• Career opportunities: Job opportunities are comparatively high; students are not unemployed and can work in hospitals, research, or even pursue higher studies abroad or in India.

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Popular MBBS abroad destinations for Indian students

Not every country offering MBBS abroad provides the same facilities of education as mentioned above; some may lack facilities or recognition. Recognition is one of the important factors when going to study MBBS abroad. However, several destinations stand out as reliable choices for Indian students. Some of the top ones include:

• Poland

• Czech Republic

• Hungary

• Slovakia

• Germany

• Russia

• Croatia

• Romania

• Latvia

• Lithuania

Conclusion

Studying MBBS abroad is becoming a popular choice for Indian students due to limited seats, high fees, and tough competition in India. NEET exam is competitive, and cut-offs of government colleges are high, so qualifying NEET is not enough; students must obtain high ranks, which often becomes difficult. Many students prepare for next year’s NEET exam, and many seek other options like MBBS abroad or MBBS in private universities. But private universities are too expensive and demand high donations, whereas MBBS abroad seems a decent option. Students get quality education, practical training, and global recognition. With proper guidance, studying medicine abroad can be a life-changing opportunity.

At futureMBBS, we guide and support students at every step. We help students in choosing the right university and country according to their preferences. From the application process to visa processing, we are always present for our students. Not only this, we are official partners with top universities abroad and also offer guaranteed placements. We ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience throughout your MBBS journey and beyond that.

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