Is Studying MBBS from Aboard a Good Choice?
Studying MBBS in abroad involves selecting a university in countries like Russia, Ukraine, Georgia and more, which are popular for being affordable and offering programs with English instructions. Eligibility typically requires being between 17 and 25 years old, having a minimum of 50% in 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry and Biology and often needing a NEET score for practice in India. While planning to study abroad you also need to consider costs like tuition expenses, living expenses and additional expenses such as accommodation, health insurance and travel.
Admission Process includes
- Select a University of your choice
- Fill out the application
- Submit documents
- Receive admission letter
- Apply for visa
MBBS in Russia vs Ukraine
| Feature | Russia | Ukraine |
|---|---|---|
| Admission | Direct admission is available without entrance exams. | Direct admission is available without entrance exams. |
| Recognition | Universities are generally recognized by WHO and Medical Council of India(MCI). | Universities are generally recognized by WHO and MCI. |
| Safety | Generally considered safer, though political tensions can be a factor. | Some regions are experiencing conflict, making it crucial to choose a university in a safe area. |
| University quality | Some of the best universities are well-regarded, but may have higher fees. | Top universities are often cited as being better suited for Indian students and having better infrastructure. |
| Course duration | Approximately 6 years, including a one-year internship. | Approximately 5.8 years. |
| Tuition and living costs | Moderately priced, with living costs higher in major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg. | Lower costs for tuition and living expenses compared to Russia. |
| English medium programs | Many universities offer English programs, but a language barrier can still exist, especially for clinical practice. | More accessible English medium courses are available. |
MBBS in Russia
MBBS in Russia for Indian students is a six year program taught in English, with a 5 year academic course followed by 1 year internship, with English medium instructions at NMC and WHO recognized university. Total estimated cost for Indian students is approximately ₹20-40 lakh for the entire 6-year course, it includes tuition, hostel, medical insurance, and internship.
Eligibility criteria includes
- Must be at least 17 years old by December 31st of the admission year.
- Must have qualified for the NEET exam.
- Minimum 50% aggregate in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology in 12th grade.
MBBS in Ukraine
Indian students can pursue MBBs in Ukraine with eligibility based on a minimum of 50% in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology in 12th grade and qualifying the NEET exam. The total cost for an MBBS degree in Ukraine for Indian students is roughly ₹20-35 lakh for the full 6-year course, including tuition and hostel fees. Annual tuition fees range from approximately $3,800 to $7,500 (around ₹3.15 to ₹6.65 lakh), depending on the university, with some public and private universities costing more than others.
Medical College in Russia vs Ukraine
Fee Structure Comparison
| Feature | Ukraine | Russia |
|---|---|---|
| Estimated total course cost | ₹25-30 lakhs | ₹20-40 lakhs (including tuition, accommodation, living) |
| Tuition fees (per year) | $3,800-5,000 USD | $4,000-8,000 USD or ₹2-8 lakhs per year |
| Total fees (per year) | ₹17 lakhs (approximately) | ₹2.5-5.5 lakhs per year (tuition) |
Medical Universities in Russia
- The First Moscow State Medical University named after Sechenov
- The First St. Petersburg State Medical University named after Pavlov
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University
- Kazan State Medical University
- Volgograd State Medical University
- Mari State University and more
Medical Universities in Ukraine
- Bogomolets National Medical University (Kyiv)
- Ternukovinian State Medical University
- Lviv National Medical University
- Vinnitsa National Medical University
- Zaporizhzhia State Medical University and more
FMGE
The FMGE or Foreign Medical Graduation Examination is a licensure test conducted by India's National Board of Examinations for Indian citizens and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) who have earned their medical degrees abroad. It is a mandatory, biannual (June and December) online, multiple-choice question exam with 300 questions across two sessions, and passing it is required to practice medicine in India.
Exam details
- A mandatory licensure exam for foreign Medical Graduates to practice in India.
- It is conducted by NBE.
- It is conducted twice a year (June and December)
- It is a computer based test.
- The duration is of 5 hours (2.5 each session)
- There are a total of 300 MCQ’S.
- One mark for each correct answer and no negative marking.
- Passing score is 150 out of 300.
NExT
The NExT Exam refers to the National Exit Test for MBBS graduates, a postponed exam that will serve as both a licensing test and a post graduate entrance exam. It is a two-part exam , theoretical and practical. It is conducted by AIIMS Delhi, both Indian medical graduates and foreign medical graduates must pass NExT to practice in India.
FAQ'S
Q1. Which is best for MBBS, Russia vs Belarus vs Ukraine?
Ans. Russia and Ukraine are often considered better options for MBBS for Indian students due to a combination of internationally recognized degrees, competitive costs, and a high quality of education. Belarus is another option, but its popularity is lower, due to the concerns about the FMGE passing rate for Indian students and the long duration of the course. The best choice depends on the individual student's priorities, such as the specific university, cost, and living environment.
Q2. When should one apply for MBBS in Russia and is it good?
Ans. You should apply for MBBS in Russia between May and August for September intake. Whether it's a good choice or not depends on your preference, interests and budget.
Q3. Which country is best for MBBS?
Ans. The best country for MBBS depends on your priorities, countries like Russia, Ukraine and Kazakhstan are often chosen for affordability.
Q4. Is Studying MBBS in Ukraine a good option?
Ans. Studying MBBS in Ukraine can be a good option for some due to its affordability, globally recognized universities, and the availability of English-taught programs.