With the choice between multiple universities abroad and different locations worldwide for doing MBBS, it becomes a unique challenge to find the right university that is right for you. Here are some important tips that you can use to choose the right medical university for MBBS abroad.
Tips for choosing the best university for MBBS in abroad
-NMC approval.
The basic checklist should include searching for universities that are NMC (National Medical Commission) approved. This is a good starting point to search for any university abroad. A non-NMC approved university is not recommended since, MBBS degree from such a university is invalid in India, and a person with such a degree will not be able to practice in India. So it is crucial that while choosing a medical university in a country that is abroad, look for NMC approval. For foreign returned Indian students who have done their MBBS from abroad, FMGE qualification is a must. A degree from Non-NMC approved universities, outside of India, is not eligible for this exam.
-Total expenses.
Budgeting your expense when choosing a university is detrimental. First you have to choose a country that is affordable. Secondly you have to choose a good university that is also affordable. There are some european countries that have good universities. But, most european countries are expensive. Then there are countries that are not-expensive, but then finding a good university in such countries is also doubtful. To make things easy, search for countries that have good universities and are also affordable. So to find the best mix, first fix a budget then search your options. This will make finding a good university for doing MBBS abroad easy.
Expenses can make or break things. From traveling ticket budget, to university tuition fees for the course duration and stay in the country of your choice. Everything should be included in your budget. Pre-planning the budget will also give you a fair idea as to whether you will need to opt for a student loan or not!
-Course duration
MBBS in India has a 5.5years duration. Some countries like Russia, the course duration is 6 years. Before applying to any university, be sure to check the duration. A lesser duration means that you get to complete the degree in lesser time and also you save on the cost of living, that you’d have otherwise end up spending in a foreign country. Bringing down the total cost of doing MBBS abroad.
-Location of the university
Anywhere in the world that you visit, you find areas that are better developed than others. In choosing a good university, does not necessarily mean you will get to choose a good location. A good university in a underdeveloped location means that you will face unpleasantness in terms of quality of living. So do research your university and its location beforehand. The best place to search is student review. Many Indian students leave the country to study abroad each year.They share their experience online, in the form of reviews and testimony. These reviews by Indian students can help you greatly in choosing the country as well as choosing a university in the location that is best for you.
-Travel facilities
For the comfort of parents and students when they visit each other the availability of direct flights and distance from Indian international airports might not be a major point as far as education quality is concerned. But this is vital and to some it might be of relevance. Ease of traveling can facilitate a better experience for parents and students alike. Especially in a foreign country where you will be staying for the next 5 to 6 years (depending on the duration of your MBBS course)
-Food
Getting accustomed to a new country depends largely on the people you meet and the food that you eat. Missing Indian food as an Indian in a foreign country is a given after some time. When choosing a university , look for one that preferably has Indian food served in the mess. Or choose a location where there are Indian restaurants.
-Medium of course
It does not necessarily mean that all universities conduct their courses in English. There are countries where you will find courses in the local language, and it would be difficult for you to undertake such course if you are not already versed in the language. So look for universities that has courses in English.
-Practical knowledge
Look for universities that have their own hospitals. An MBBS degree makes sense when it is more inclined towards doing practical studies as opposed to just sticking to theoreticals. When pursuing MBBS abroad, it makes sense as you get practical exposure and hands-on experience. This will be of great help in your career down the line when you begin your doctoral practice, in your own country or abroad. .
-Safety
This is a no brainer. Look for city or country with low crime rate. When you are in a foreign country that is safe you stay relaxed and if you have parents back home, they will be at ease and it will mean less worries for them during your stay in foreign country.
In conclusion, do your study of location and universities beforehand. This will help you lessen your worries to a great extent and help you make the choice of your Medical university that much easier.