The selection of a place to study the MBBS degree is a life-transforming choice for every future doctor. As much as India has been a destination of choice to many, an increasing number of students are considering MBBS abroad as an alternative destination. Moreover, the structure of the syllabus and the teaching process of doctors are one of the most important factors that affect this choice.
Here, we explore the distinctions between MBBS in India and MBBS abroad (with a probable focus on syllabus, methodologies of teaching and indeed the general experience), hence giving you a better insight into which is more suitable to your career goals.
In India, the MBBS course is governed by the National Medical Commission (NMC). The course is a five-and-a-half-year program with a one-year internship program consisting of Pre-clinical, Para-clinical and Clinical parts.
Key Components:
Although the Indian curriculum is comprehensive and intensive, a number of students are challenged by factors such as poor exposure to clinics during formative years, stiff competition, and inadequate infrastructure in selected colleges.
Studying in medical universities abroad provides NMC-recognised MBBS courses, which usually take 5 -6 years, followed by clinical practice. The MBBS subject year-wise structure in these universities is designed to offer a smooth academic transition from basic sciences to advanced clinical subjects. Moreover, the syllabus in countries such as Russia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, the Philippines, and Barbados is plotted in such a way that it meets international standards and often includes integration preparation for exams such as the NEXT exam, the USMLE exam, or the PLAB exam.
Typical Syllabus Structure Abroad:
It is what makes this syllabus different from others: this is a practical course, early hospital exposure, and knowledge applied rather than memorisation.
MBBS Abroad vs India: What Sets Them Apart?
|
Feature |
MBBS in India |
MBBS Abroad |
|
Admission Process |
NEET + high cutoffs (limited govt seats) |
NEET + direct admission (if eligible) |
|
Syllabus Style |
Rote-learning oriented |
Conceptual, case-based learning |
|
Clinical Exposure |
Primarily in the final years |
Begins from 2nd or 3rd year |
|
Medium of Instruction |
English (varies by state) |
English-medium programs are widely available |
|
Infrastructure |
Varies by college |
Modern simulation labs, smart classrooms in many universities |
|
Global Exposure |
Limited |
Diverse peer groups, international practices |
Students pursuing an MBBS from abroad discover a refreshing difference with:
A number of foreign universities offer students an opportunity to interact with real-life patients as early as the second year. This develops clinical confidence and boosts knowledge of medical terms.
3D models, simulation labs, and interactive case studies are used to facilitate a more interesting learning process. Instead of learning by heart, learners are advised to practice with real-life medical situations.
Since India has launched the NEXT exam, which is a single exit and licensure exam, the syllabus has been changed in many MBBS overseas universities, which provides Indian students with an advantage in pursuing practice in India.
The more relaxed academic atmosphere in medical schools overseas that students to have often time to study extra-curricular skills, language study, and clinical practice, as compared to the overwhelming pressure some students experience in India, in its hyper-competitive system.
MBBS abroad universities provide Indian students with the opportunity to study medicine with easy access to:
This also makes it a promising option for those students who have the academic qualification but cannot obtain a medical seat under the government in India, or those students who want to have a more comprehensive experience in the field of medical education.
Suppose we consider Russia as one of the most favourite destinations where Indian students go. Medical education in universities here complies with a European pattern of the educational system in which clinical and theoretical training occur in parallel to each other. The MBBS 1st year syllabus mainly includes the core subjects like Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, where MBBS 1st year students are made to establish a basis from the start. They also teach in English, and most universities have Indian faculty, dedicated FMGE preparation modules and frequent evaluations based on the NMC directives.
Not only are the students trained in passing Indian-related exams, but also in medical activities on a global scale, as the focus is on clinical skills, diagnostics, and communication with patients.
Both the Indian Medical Graduates and Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) will have a common platform in the next NEXT (National Exit Test). This will make sure that students who have pursued MBBS at abroad and those from India will be assessed on the same scale, in terms of skill, knowledge, and willingness to practise.
Consequently, some international medical universities redesign their curriculum in an attempt to enable the students to do better in NEXT, to render them equally ready to join the Indian healthcare field.
When investigating medical educational possibilities, use the following:
Obtaining an MBBS education outside of India does not mean using a lower standard of education; rather, in other ways, it implies gaining a more international, hands-on, focused medical education at an affordable price level to many.
Having known everything about the MBBS syllabus abroad and in India, we arrive at the conclusion that the important goal of the MBBS program, whether in India or abroad, is the production of well-educated, knowledgeable and ethical doctors; the path can vary.
While there is a well-established MBBS system in India, academic institutions in foreign countries provide special benefits like early clinical experience, international curriculum and innovative learning resources. Moreover, MBBS abroad is indeed an empowering educational experience for students who are willing to explore this vast world of academics.
Further, if you are struggling to find the right university in your country of destination that fits your financial resources and motives? Contact our team of professional counsellors at Education Abroad and receive free personal advice, and start your MBBS journey with confidence.
Q.1 Is MBBS abroad better than MBBS in India?
Answer- Students interested in low fees, advanced facilities, early clinical practice and globally-compatible curricula may find MBBS abroad to be superior to MBBS in India, particularly due to the lack of a government seat in India.
Q.2 What is the NEET score for MBBS abroad?
Answer- You are required to pass NEET with a minimum percentile, usually 50th percentile and 40th percentile, optional for the general and reserve category, respectively, to study MBBS abroad.
Q.3 Is a MBBS degree from abroad valid in India?
Answer- Yes, an MBBS degree obtained in a foreign country will be accepted by India, if it’s from an NMC-approved university and the graduate clears the FMGE or NEXT exam as mandated by the National Medical Commission.
Q.4 Is MBBS costly in India or abroad?
Answer- MBBS is usually more costly in India than abroad, especially in private colleges.
