Step-by-Step Guide to Studying MBBS Abroad: From Admission to Graduation

Studying MBBS abroad has become a popular choice for Indian students due to its affordability, global exposure, and high-quality education. With increasing competition and limited seats in Indian medical colleges, many students are opting to pursue their medical dreams in countries like Russia, Georgia, Moldova, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. However, the journey from admission to graduation requires careful planning and preparation.

This detailed guide will take you through every step of the MBBS abroad process—from choosing the right university to obtaining your medical degree and planning for your future career.

Step 1: Research and Choose the Right Country and University

The first and most crucial step in studying MBBS abroad is selecting the right country and medical university. Each country has different admission requirements, education systems, and licensing procedures.

Key Factors to Consider:

• Recognition and Accreditation: Ensure the university is recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC), World Health Organization (WHO), and other global medical councils.

• Language of Instruction: Some universities offer MBBS programs in English, bilingual (English + native language), or fully native language. Choose accordingly.

• Cost of Education and Living: Compare tuition fees and living expenses in different countries to find an affordable option.

• Quality of Education and Clinical Exposure: Research the university’s curriculum, teaching methodologies, hospital affiliations, and patient inflow.

• Student Support and Indian Community: Check if the university has Indian student associations, hostels, and food availability to ensure a comfortable stay.

Some of the top destinations for MBBS abroad in 2025 include:✔ Russia – Affordable tuition, globally recognized degrees, and research-oriented education.✔ Georgia – English-medium courses, European curriculum, and high-quality medical training.✔ Moldova – Budget-friendly MBBS programs and easy admission process.✔ Kazakhstan – NMC-approved universities and excellent medical infrastructure.✔ Uzbekistan – English-taught programs and affordable cost of living.

Step 2: Check Eligibility Criteria and Admission Requirements

Once you have selected a university, the next step is to check the eligibility criteria for admission. While requirements may vary by country and university, here are the general eligibility criteria for Indian students:

• The candidate must have completed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as core subjects.

• Minimum required percentage: 50% for general category and 40% for reserved categories (as per NMC guidelines).

• Must have qualified the NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) in the year of admission or within the last three years.

• Some countries may require basic English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), but most universities in Russia, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan do not have this requirement.

The admission process for MBBS abroad is straightforward compared to India. Most universities offer direct admission without entrance exams or donations, making it an attractive option for students.

Step 3: Application and Documentation Process

Once you meet the eligibility criteria, you need to apply to the selected university. The application process usually involves the following steps:

1. Fill out the university application form online or through authorized representatives like Saarthi MBBS.

2. Submit the required documents, including:

   • 10th and 12th-grade mark sheets.

   • NEET scorecard.

   • Passport copy (if available) or Aadhar card.

   • Passport-size photographs.

   • Medical fitness certificate.

   • Any other university-specific documents.

3. Receive the admission letter from the university after document verification.

4. Apply for a student visa by submitting the necessary documents to the respective embassy.

5. Pay the tuition fees as per university guidelines.

It is advisable to start the application process at least 3-6 months before the intake begins to avoid last-minute delays.

Step 4: Visa Application and Travel Arrangements

Once your admission is confirmed, the next step is obtaining a student visa. The process involves:

• Filling out the student visa application form.

• Submitting necessary documents, including:

  • Admission letter from the university.

  • Passport with a minimum validity of 18-24 months.

  • Visa invitation letter from the university.

  • Bank statement showing financial proof of education expenses.

  • Medical test reports (HIV and other tests as per embassy requirements).

  • Travel and medical insurance.

• Attending a visa interview at the embassy (if required).

Once your visa is approved, you can book your flight tickets and prepare for your journey. It is recommended to:✔ Travel in groups with other students to ensure safety.✔ Inform the university about your arrival so they can arrange airport pickup.✔ Carry all important documents in a separate file for easy access.

Step 5: Arrival and University Registration

Upon reaching your destination country, you need to complete the university registration process:

• Submit your passport, visa, and original academic documents to the university for verification.

• Complete the medical check-up and biometric registration.

• Get your student ID card and hostel accommodation (if staying in university housing).

• Attend the orientation program to understand university rules, class schedules, and other facilities.

Most universities assign student coordinators who guide international students through the initial settling-in process.

Step 6: Beginning Your MBBS Studies

Medical education abroad follows a structured curriculum with a mix of theoretical learning and practical training. MBBS abroad typically lasts 5 to 6 years, depending on the country.

• Years 1-3: Focus on pre-clinical subjects like Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology, and Pharmacology.

• Years 4-6: Involves clinical rotations in affiliated hospitals, where students gain hands-on experience treating real patients.

• Students must also learn the local language (if required) to interact with patients during clinical practice.

Step 7: Internship and Medical Licensing Exams

After completing the MBBS course, students must undergo internship training as per the university’s curriculum. Some universities allow students to complete their internship in India, while others require it to be done locally.

To practice medicine in India after MBBS abroad, students must clear the NEXT (National Exit Test), which serves as:

• A licensing exam to obtain a medical registration in India.

• A screening test for foreign medical graduates (replacing FMGE).

• An entrance exam for PG medical courses (replacing NEET-PG).

Other career options include:✔ USMLE (USA) – To practice in the United States.✔ PLAB (UK) – For medical licensing in the UK.✔ AMC (Australia) – For practicing in Australia.✔ Postgraduate studies abroad – Specializing in a medical field of choice.

Conclusion

Pursuing MBBS abroad is a life-changing decision that offers numerous opportunities for aspiring doctors. From choosing the right university to obtaining your medical license, the journey requires proper planning and guidance. Countries like Russia, Georgia, Moldova, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan provide affordable and globally recognized MBBS programs, making them excellent alternatives to studying medicine in India.

At Saarthi MBBS, we help students throughout their medical journey—from admission to graduation—by providing expert consultation, university selection, visa processing, and post-admission support.

💡 Ready to start your MBBS abroad journey? Contact us today and take the first step toward your dream medical career!