Why Indian Students Choosing MBBS in Bangladesh Amidst Ongoing Crisis?

Bangladesh is currently grappling with significant political turmoil, marked by intense and violent student protests over the controversial quota system. The situation has escalated to such an extent that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned and fled the country, plunging the nation into deeper instability. This unrest has created a challenging environment for both the local population and foreign nationals residing in Bangladesh, leaving many in a state of uncertainty and concern.

Among those affected are over 19,000 Indian nationals, including a substantial community of more than 9,000 Indian students who have chosen to pursue their MBBS in Bangladesh. Despite the ongoing protests and the volatile atmosphere, these students continue to opt for Bangladesh as their destination for medical education. So, what compels Indian students to study MBBS in Bangladesh amidst such a crisis? Let’s explore the reasons behind this decision.

Why MBBS in Bangladesh?

Did you know that 25% of the seats in educational institutions in Bangladesh are reserved for non-native students which creates ample opportunities for Indian students?
Bangladeshi Medical Colleges offer medical education at a fraction of the cost compared to private Indian Medical Institutes without compromising on quality.
The high cost of medical education in India is a significant barrier for many medical aspirants. Bangladeshi Medical Institutes offer a comparable, affordable option for students looking to study MBBS abroad.
Despite the lower costs, Bangladesh provides quality medical education. Many medical colleges in the country adhere to international standards and have well-equipped infrastructure.
Most medical colleges in Bangladesh use English as the medium of instruction, making it easier for Indian students to adapt.
Geographical proximity to India is another factor. Students can easily visit home during breaks and emergencies. Additionally, cultural similarities between India and Bangladesh create a familiar environment for Indian students.

Understanding the Indian Scenario

Despite significant advancements in India's medical landscape, studying MBBS in India still faces challenges due to inadequate facilities, outdated equipment, and insufficient resources for practical training.
Increasing competition for medical seats in India is another concern. In 2024, over 2 million students appeared for the medical entrance exam NEET-UG for around 1 lakh seats in medical colleges across the world.
While government medical colleges in India offer affordable quality medical education, private medical institutes demand hefty admission fees.
Despite having over 6,000 medical colleges, the situation for Indian students remains the same. High tuition fees, limited infrastructure, regulatory hurdles, and intense competition force Indian students to look for alternatives such as MBBS abroad.

MBBS in Bangladesh: Eligibility Criteria

The student must have passed 10+2 with at least 50% marks in Biology, Physics, & Chemistry from a recognized board or university.
The student must be at least 17 years of age at the time of admission.
The student must have a valid NEET Scorecard.

What Makes Bangladesh An Ideal Destination?

Admission Process is simple and streamlined.
Bangladeshi Medical Colleges follow NMC guidelines that align with Indian Medical Standards.
No donations required.
No Entrance Test required.
The living cost in Bangladesh is much more affordable compared to other European universities.
Medical Colleges in Bangladesh employ practical training methodologies.

Summing it Up

In conclusion, despite the ongoing political turmoil in Bangladesh, Indian students continue to choose MBBS in the country due to its affordability, quality education, and proximity to India. The lower cost of education, coupled with the ease of adaptation due to cultural similarities and the English medium of instruction, makes Bangladesh an attractive destination for aspiring doctors. While the medical landscape in India presents numerous challenges, studying MBBS in Bangladesh offers a viable alternative that meets international standards without the financial burden associated with Indian private medical colleges. As students weigh their options, Bangladesh remains a promising choice for those seeking a comprehensive medical education abroad.