MBBS abroad is a choice that transforms the lives of a number of Indian students. While choosing the right university is crucial, finding the right student accommodation is equally important. An affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation can not only provide peace of mind but also help academically. Through this blog, students and parents will have access to a comprehensive guide on living in an MBBS abroad that will enable them to know the different places of accommodation, what they should consider, and how to make the correct decision.
Once you relocate to a different nation to obtain a medical education, your living arrangement will be your second home. It affects your lifestyle, your safety, your cost and even your academic performance. An excellent student accommodation plan can:
The popular kinds of student accommodation for MBBS abroad students are:
The international students tend to settle in the MBBS hostel, which is managed by the university. They offer:
Pros: Not expensive, comfortable, and good for 1st year students.
Cons: Limited privacy, quite strict rules, and availability can be a problem at times.
These are off-campus hostels, which are operated by third-party companies, mostly located close to the university, and commonly preferred by students pursuing MBBS outside India.
Pros: Greater independence, improved facilities.
Cons: They are a bit expensive, and the quality depends.
Students have the option of renting small apartments to live with their classmates or friends. This is more flexible and independent.
Pros: Standalone housing, close to hospitals to do clinical rotations.
Cons: Utility and maintenance responsibilities can be lonely at times.
Living with a local family is another option in some countries. However, a less frequent option is the homestays that provide a cultural immersion and family atmosphere for students who choose to study medicine abroad.
Pros: Cultural immersion, homemade meals, and emotional support.
Cons: Not so much privacy, may lack availability in every place.
Here are some points that will help you choose the right accommodation:
It is advisable to select housing near your medical university. Long commutes are not relaxing and may be costly in the winter period in countries such as Russia, Armenia, or Kazakhstan.
Pro Tip: If your college is the one that provides hostel space on campus or in a nearby location, you can think of staying in the hostel during your first year.
Make sure the place of accommodation has good CCTV camera surveillance, secure entry/exit points, and emergency assistance. Safety is a top priority, especially for those pursuing MBBS abroad for Indian students.
Different accommodations are at different prices. As an approximate figure based on areas and facilities, there is:
Including in the budget utilities, food, internet and laundry.
Ensure that your room is fitted with some of the basic amenities such as a desk, lighting, a bed, and a storage cabinet. For MBBS abroad students, some hostels or apartments provide bedding, while others don’t.
Depending on your comfort and budget, you can select:
Stable internet is a necessity for MBBS students to attend online classes and do research and preparation for exams such as FMGE or NExT. A quiet study condition is also essential
Now that you are aware of all the options available in terms of accommodations and what to consider, the second step is to make a judicial decision concerning your academic and personal interests. Your accommodation is a significant factor in determining your experience of going to study MBBS abroad. Your location, lifestyle, budget, and academic goals should dictate whether to opt for a hostel, PG or an apartment. It is advisable to consult senior citizens or university counsellors who can provide good recommendations.
Finding an appropriate accommodation is not only about a room but also about comfort, safety, and a place to develop as a future doctor.
Looking to discover the best college and place to stay abroad? Get in touch with Education Abroad to have expert advice, credible relationships with a variety of leading Universities and the end-to-end support across your entire MBBS journey.
Q1. Is it mandatory to stay in a hostel in case of MBBS abroad?
Answer - Not really, but it is advisable by most universities to stay in hostels at least in the first year to make the transition easier and also to be safe.
Q2. Can students cook their own food in hostels abroad?
Answer - Other hostels have shared kitchens where the students are allowed to cook, especially in European countries.
Q3. Are hostels better than private apartments?
Answer - To the first-year students, hostels provide security and convenience. The apartments will suit people who are satisfied with their independent living.
Q4. How to book accommodation before reaching the university?
Answer - They can be booked through university coordinators or education consultants, or through the official university websites.
