Last Updated on December 27, 2024
Are you a potential healer gearing up to go on a worldwide medical expedition? If so, you’re in for a great treat! In this blog, we shed light on which are the best MBBS colleges. From beautiful campuses to state-of-the-art education systems, we’ve identified the ten best countries to study medicine in 2024 that pave the way to lofty heights in the medical career. Let’s get started and find out which is the best country for MBBS to continue for us!
Why Study Medicine Abroad?
Medicine is one of the most competitive and exhilarating fields available in the world. It requires dedication, perfection, and determination. For this excellent standard of education, most students opt to study medicine in some of the best countries in the world-take the UK, Germany, Canada, and the United States. Some other major reasons for this are the excellent courses and specializations offered by great universities, along with a good scope for jobs after completing medicine. Although it certifies one for being a practitioner in the field of medicine, an approved medical degree can also lead one into lecturing and research and scientific journalism. Besides, students also choose some of the best countries to study medicine abroad to work with industry experts, experienced professionals, and world-class facilities. So, keeping all these advantages in mind, let us take a look at the best countries to study medicine in.
10 Best Countries to Study Medicine in 2025
In selecting the best country to pursue a medicine career, a number of parameters must be considered, including average tuition fees, entrance exams, and estimated cost of living. The career in medicine is one of the most noble professions globally. Students aspiring to pursue medicine abroad would find plenty of good universities in the best countries to study medicine in the year 2024. Pursuing medicine from these institutions in the best countries to study medicine will sound as excellent career options in medicine when they enter. Let’s explore some of the best countries to study medicine for pursuing MBBS and allied courses in 2024.
1. Countries to study Medicine: United Kingdom (UK)
| Average Tuition Fees | $22,800 to $52,000 per annum |
| Tests Required | UKCAT & BMAT, and NEET (for Indian students) |
| Duration of the Course | 5 to 6 years |
| Cost of Living | $1,100 – $1,900 per month |
| Top Universities | University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, UCL, King’s College London, Imperial College London |
The history of medicine in the UK dates back as far as the medieval period. Over the years, the fields of medicine and its education have undergone various social, cultural, and technological changes. The first institutions to regulate and educate medical practitioners were the Royal College of Physicians of London and the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. The major development throughout the course of surgery took place in the 20th century: with the introduction of laparoscopic surgery, X-rays, CT Scans and MRIs. The Royal College of Physicians of London and the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh were the first institutions to be established to regulate and educate medical practitioners.
The UK is the best country to study MBBS as it is known for its quality education, which also applies to its medical programs. To be eligible to study MBBS in the UK, students must be qualified for the UKCAT medical exam. There are several scholarship medicines in the UK that you can leverage to pursue your education in MBBS.
Medicine in the UK:
| Duration | 5-6 years (2 years residency) |
| Programs Offered | BS, BCh, ChB, BM |
| Eligibility | Minimum age of 18 years, Completion of class XII with Physics, Chemistry, Biology (80% score) |
| Documents | Attested copies of 10+2 mark sheetsCertificate of Diploma in any field, Statement of PurposeCopies of test scoreProof of funds, Updated CV or ResumeRelevant work experience |
| Test Required | Medical Examinations: NEET/UKCAT/BMAT/GAMSATEnglish Language Proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL/PTE |
| Tuition Fee | GBP 22,800 To 52,000 per annum |
| Scholarships | Global Health Future Leaders Scholarship, Chevening Scholarship, Hulk York Medical School International Scholarship, Rhodes Scholarship, Imperial College Faculty of Medicine Scholarship |
| Cost of Living | GBP 12,000 and GBP 15,600 per annum. (INR 12,62,194 – INR 16,40,853) |
| Average Salary | GBP 36,000 – 69,000 |
2. Countries to Study Medicine: United States of America (USA)
| Average Tuition Fees | $18,000 to $86,000 per annum |
| Tests Required | MCAT & USMLE |
| Duration of the Course | 4 to 6 years |
| Cost of Living | $1000 – $1500 per month |
| Top Universities | Harvard College, Johns Hopkins College, Stanford College, Columbia College, Pennsylvania State University |
The history of medical education in the USA, which is one of the best countries to study medicine, dates back to the early colonial period. Many medical societies and organizations, like the Medical Society of the County of New York and the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, were established in the 18th century. The University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine and Harvard Medical School were the first medical schools to be established in the late 18th and 19th centuries.
There are 172 medical schools in the USA, which is the best country to study MBBS. Studying in the USA can be a little expensive, but you can look for grants, scholarships, and part-time job options to support yourself financially. This is the best country for MBBS abroad. You can also find ideal student housing in the United States with amber and never worry about a thing! MCAT and USMLE are the medical exams that prospective medical students must pass to enter the top medical colleges in the world. The MD in the USA is awarded upon completion of the course. Medical students looking to advance their careers will get many good work opportunities in this one of the best countries to study medicine in the world.
If you’re interested in pursuing medicine in the USA, consider working with an expert, Inspira Advantage, who has over 15 years of experience helping applicants get into the most competitive medical schools in the USA.
Medicine in the USA:
| Duration | 4-5 years (2 years residency) |
| Programs Offered | MD | MD and PhD |
| Eligibility | 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology3 Years Bachelor’s degree or equivalent |
| Documents | Letters of recommendation, Personal Essays, Application fee proofUniversity application proof, AMAS application, Entrance exam proof, English language proficiency certificate, Valid passportAcademic transcriptPassport size photocopies |
| Test Required | Medical Examinations: MCAT/NEETEnglish Language Proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL |
| Tuition Fee | 55,000 USD (44.66 lakhs INR) |
| Scholarships | Dean’s Achievement ScholarshipHigh Achievers ScholarshipHarvard Medical School ScholarshipsStanford University Financial AidVagelos ScholarshipASAHP Scholarship of ExcellenceAMTIE Scholarship |
| Cost of Living | 47,000 – 50,000 USD |
| Average Salary | 210,000 USD (1.72 crores INR) |
3. Countries to study Medicine: Canada
| Average Tuition Fees | $1,20,000 to $3,67,000 per annum |
| Tests Required | MCAT, TOEFL, & IELTS |
| Duration of Course | 3 to 5 years |
| Cost of Living | $1000 – $1200 per month |
| Top Universities | University of Toronto, McGill University, University of British Columbia, McMaster University, University of Montreal |
One of the top 10 countries to study medicine, Canada’s history of medical education has evolved from informal apprenticeships to the highly regulated system today. In 1829, the first medical institution, McGill University, was established. Canada, like the US, also offers an MD-level program. Some Canadian universities offer five-year programs if you don’t have a scientific degree. Students acquire hands-on experience in contemporary healthcare settings, from the development of early clinical skills to clerkship rotations. If you feel Canada is the best country to study medicine, then it’s time to start exploring the options for student housing in Canada, too.
Students can leverage the available specialized NSERC scholarships to support their MBBS in Canada, making it the best country to study MBBS. The program duration ranges between three to five years. International students also have the chance to pursue postgraduate medical education and acquire essential work experience in some of the best cities in Canada.
Medicine in Canada:
| Duration | 3-4 years (3-7 years residency) |
| Programs Offered | MD (Doctor of Medicine) |
| Eligibility | Schooling and a bachelor’s degree in biology or science |
| Documents | Transcripts of bachelor’s degree and high school resultsNEET and MCAT test scoresLanguage proficiency test scoresCriminal record, Reference letters, essays, and others |
| Test Required | MCAT (Medical test)NEETIELTS or TOEFL (English language proficiency tests) |
| Tuition Fee | CAD 14,750 and CAD 91,760. |
| Scholarships | Education Future International ScholarshipBrokerFish International Student ScholarshipLester B. Pearson International ScholarshipGo Clean ScholarshipOutdoor Sports Scholarship |
| Cost of Living | 2,500 CAD |
| Average Salary | CA $1,46,990 per year |
4. Countries to study Medicine: Germany
| Average Tuition Fees | $138 to $2,200 per semester |
| Tests Required | TMS |
| Duration of the Course | 6 years |
| Cost of Living | $700 – $1,000 per month |
| Top Universities | Berlin’s Charité, Universitätsmedizin, Heidelberg University, Munich’s Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich Technical University, Heidelberg’s Ruprecht, Karls University |
Germany is also one of the best countries to study Medicine. Germany’s history of medical education dates back to the medieval period when the works of ancient Greek and Roman physicians primarily influenced medical education. The University of Bologna was the first university to offer a medical program. In Germany, the medical program lasts six years.
Though German universities offer few English-language courses, it is advisable to be fluent in German as most patients are Germans. You can work in renowned hospitals and healthcare facilities while studying MBBS in Germany, one of the best countries to study medicine. The extensive programs for MBBS in Germany will help you prepare better and succeed in your medical job.
Medicine in Germany:
| Duration | 5+1 (1 year of internship) |
| Programs Offered | Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) |
| Eligibility | 10+2 (PCB) with 60% |
| Documents | Eligibility Certificate issued by the Medical Council of India1-2 years of voluntary/community medical service work, Official TranscriptsValid Passport |
| Test Required | NEET ExamIELTS/TOEFLGerman Proficiency |
| Tuition Fee | 138-2,200 EUR per semester (12,181-1.94 lakhs INR) |
| Scholarships | Carl Duisberg Scholarships for Medical Students, DAAD Scholarship for Medicine and Public Health, University of Hamburg Scholarship, Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Scholarship |
| Cost of Living | INR 72,610 per month |
| Average Salary | 68,300 EUR (60.24 lakhs INR) |
5. Countries to study Medicine: France
| Average Tuition Fees | $450 to $1000 per annum |
| Tests Required | IELTS & NEET |
| Course Duration | 3 to 8 years |
| Cost of Living | $1,200 – $1,800 per month |
| Top Universities | Sorbonne University, Pierre and Marie Curie University, Aix-Marseille University, Paris Descartes University, Lyon Sud Medical School. |
Knowledge of medicine in the early Middle Ages in France, one of the best countries for MBBS, was inspired by the work of ancient Greek and Roman physicians like Galen and Hippocrates. After World War II, France saw major healthcare and medical education reforms. Over the years, medical education in France has evolved significantly and comprises a six-year program.
This country for medical study offers MD degrees for students pursuing a medical degree. Upon completion of the first year of your studies, you must take an exam. The student must pass it to proceed forward. The medical curriculum in France blends academic learning with hands-on instruction to develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities and well-rounded medical professionals. Courses last anywhere from three to eight years in addition to the best countries to study medicine. The worldwide recognition of the French medical degree enables you to look into career options in France and also all around the world.
Medicine in France:
| Duration | 6 years |
| Programs Offered | MBBS |
| Eligibility | Minimum 70% in 10+2 exam with PCB subjects |
| Documents | Transcripts English language proficiency test proof GMAT/GRE test proof Proof of visaResumePassport copy, Proof of funds, Statement of PurposeLetter of Recommendation |
| Test Required | NEET, IELTS and TOEFL |
| Tuition Fee | EUR 243 to EUR 25,000 (21,957 to 22.58 lakhs INR) |
| Scholarships | Emile Boutmy Scholarships, Early Bird Scholarship, Academic Excellence Scholarship, Excellence Scholarship, Women in Science Scholarship, MIEM Excellence Scholarship |
| Cost of Living | 600 EUR- 800 EUR/month |
| Average Salary | EUR 83,000 (69.14 lakhs INR) |
6. Countries to study Medicine: Australia
| Average Tuition Fees | $25,000 to $75,000 per annum |
| Tests Required | UMAT, UCAT, & NEET |
| Duration of Course | 5 to 6 years |
| Cost of Living | $1,400 to $2,000 per month |
| Top Universities | The University of Melbourne, The University of Sydney, Monash University, The University of Queensland, The University of New South Wales |
The first medical schools, the Sydney Medical School and the University of Melbourne Medical School, were established in the 19th century. The Medical Act of 1882 took major steps to standardize medical education and practice and for studying MBBS abroad.
Pursuing an MBBS in Australia from one of these top five medical schools is your best decision. Depending on the university and the curriculum design, the MBBS in Australia normally lasts five to six years. Aspiring medical students in Australia must often pass the Undergraduate Medicine and Health Sciences Admission Test (UMAT) or the more modern University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) to be admitted for MBBS in Australia. Australia’s welcoming immigration laws and favorable post-study employment opportunities enable international medical graduates to get work experience and live in this country for MBBS. You can also find the right student accommodation in Australia with ease!
Medicine in Australia:
| Duration | 6 years |
| Programs Offered | Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine | Doctor of Medicine (MD) | Bachelor of Medical Studies/ Doctor of Medicine | Doctor of Medicine and Surgery (MChD) | MBBS |
| Eligibility | 10+2 with Chemistry/Biology/Mathematics 5.0 out of 7.0 GPA or 71.5% aggregate |
| Documents | Transcripts and certificates of higher secondary as well as Undergraduate qualifications, Entrance exam scores, Letter of recommendation, English language proficiency test scores Passport-size photographsStatement of PurposePersonal essay, Student visa, Overseas student health cover (OSHC). |
| Test Required | Medical Examinations: UMAT/UCAT/GAMSATEnglish Language Proficiency: IELTS- 6.5-7, TOEFL 82-100 |
| Tuition Fee | AUD 70,000 to AUD 101,000 (INR 39 Lakhs to INR 56 Lakhs) |
| Scholarships | Monash International Merit AwardSydney Achievers International AwardDestination Australia Scholarships InternationalMarie Skłodowska-Curie ActionsTasmania Scholarships and Prizes ProgrammeJCU International Excellence ScholarshipVice Chancellor’s International Student ScholarshipDeakin Warrnambool Residential International ScholarshipsANU- Study Canberra India Scholarship |
| Cost of Living | INR 98,000 |
| Average Salary | AUD 80,000 to AUD 278,000 (INR 44 Lakhs to INR 1.5 Crore) |
7. Countries to study Medicine: Russia
| Average Tuition Fees | $2100 to $9605 per annum |
| Tests Required | NEET |
| Duration of the Course | 6 years |
| Cost of Living | $200 – $300 per month |
| Top Universities | Moscow State Medical University, Saint Petersburg State Medical University, Kazan Federal University, People’s Friendship University of Russia, Novosibirsk State University |
Russia is also an excellent option when it comes to listing the best country to study medicine. The first Russian medical school, the School of Medicine in Moscow, was established by Peter the Great in the 17th century. Russia offers a six-year MBBS program, including an internship. In the first three years, you will learn the basic sciences like anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and microbiology. Clinical sciences, such as surgery, obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, and psychiatry, are covered throughout the next three years.
For a number of reasons, this is the best country to study medicine. The internship must be finished within a year of graduation, whether in Russia or your native country. This country offers a chance to experience a variety of cultures while also receiving a high-quality education at a reasonable price.
Medicine in Russia:
| Duration | 6 years |
| Programs Offered | MBBS (General Medicine) |
| Eligibility | 10+2 with Physics /Chemistry/ Biology/ Mathematics |
| Documents | Valid PassportRussian Student Visa, 10th and 12th marksheets.Letter of Acceptance from the Medical College in Russia, Passport-size photographs.Medical tests (as required) |
| Test Required | Medical Examinations: NEETEnglish Language Proficiency: IELTS- 6.5, TOEFL-90 |
| Tuition Fee | 290,000-3,213,000 RUB (2.6 lakhs-28 lakhs INR) |
| Scholarships | Druzhba ScholarshipMaitreyi Scholarship |
| Cost of Living | INR 50,000 monthly |
| Average Salary | 239,000 RUB (2.14 lakhs INR) |
8. Countries to study Medicine: Ukraine
| Average Tuition Fees | $1500 to $3000 per annum |
| Tests Required | NEET (for Indian students) |
| Duration of the Course | 6 years |
| Cost of Living | $100 – $300 per month |
| Top Universities | Bogomolets National Medical University, Kharkiv National Medical University, Lviv National Medical University, O.O. Bogomolets National Medical University, Donetsk National Medical University |
If you’re wondering about one of the best countries to study medicine, then definitely consider Ukraine. Medical education in Ukraine, one of the best countries for MBBS, was majorly influenced by Eastern and Western traditions in the Middle Ages. Universities for medical education, such as the Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, were established in the late 16th and early 17th centuries.
An MBBS in Ukraine continues to be a favourite among students looking to further their medical studies overseas. Ukraine has also become a popular choice for international students as it is a cheap country to study medicine. It offers a six-year program comprising five years of extensive academic study. The program is followed by a year of internship in prestigious medical facilities connected to different universities. The lack of entrance exams for medical school admission is one of the noteworthy elements of studying in this best country for MBBS. Students in Ukraine who complete the MBBS program are given the title of MD Physician.
Medicine in Ukraine:
| Duration | 5+1 Years |
| Programs Offered | MBBS |
| Eligibility | 50% in PCB for General, 40% for SC/ ST and Reserve Categories |
| Documents | Application formA passport or any other document for identification, An invitation letter for receiving a visa to study, A birth certificate, A previous education document (high school certificate/ Bachelor’s degree)All documents must be translated into Ukrainian language and notarized by Ukraine |
| Test Required | NEET, IELTS/TOEFL |
| Tuition Fee | 4500 USD Per YearMaximum Tuition Fees: 7500 USD Per Year |
| Scholarships | Unimoni Student StarsDr. Jade Malay High Achiever ScholarshipsGolden Key Graduate Scholars AwardAsian Development Bank – Japan Scholarship |
| Cost of Living | 150 to 200 USD Per Month |
| Average Salary | 8000-20000 UAH per month |
9. Countries to study Medicine: Belgium
| Average Tuition Fees | $1500 to $4000 per annum |
| Tests Required | PTE & IELTS |
| Duration of the Course | 6 years |
| Cost of Living | $873 – $1,370 per month |
| Top Universities | Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Université Catholique de Louvain, Ghent University, University of Antwerp, Vrije Universiteit Brussel |
The history of medical education in Belgium, the best country to study MBBS, goes back to the medieval period when the ancient Greeks and Romans influenced medical education. The establishment of The University of Louvain and the University of Leuven set the pace for the formalisation of medical education. Indeed, this is the best country to do MBBS abroad for students wanting to make their career in medicine. Belgium offers a six-year MBBS program, which is taught mostly in French, German, or Dutch. There are also English-language options for overseas students. Anatomy, Microbiology, Histology, Pharmacology, and Psychiatry are only a few of the many disciplines available to undergraduate medical students in Belgium.
One of the best parts of pursuing medical education in this best country for MBBS is that there is no need for an entrance exam, which makes the admissions process simple. Secondly, this best country to study medicine has a high-income ratio, guaranteeing a favourable atmosphere for your academic development. Thirdly, Belgium’s affordable tuition rates and the availability of government and university grants make studying for an MBBS an affordable alternative.
Medicine in Belgium:
| Duration | 6 years |
| Programs Offered | MD Program / MBBS |
| Eligibility | 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology (70%) |
| Documents | Strong academic background in science subjects, Proficiency in French, Dutch, or English | | Documents | – High school diploma or equivalent, Translated and notarized academic transcriptsPassportProof of language proficiencyMedical fitness certificate, Proof of financial means |
| Test Required | – IELTS/TOEFL (English proficiency)No specific entrance exam for most universities |
| Tuition Fee | $1,500 to $4,000 per annum (Public universities are typically less expensive) |
| Scholarships | Erasmus Mundus ScholarshipBelgian Government ScholarshipUniversity-specific international student scholarships |
| Cost of Living | $873 – $1,370 per month |
| Average Salary | €60,000 – €90,000 per year |
10. Countries to study Medicine: Philippines
| Average Tuition Fees | $98,000 to $1,490,000 for the whole degree |
| Tests Required | NMAT |
| Duration of the Course | 4 years |
| Cost of Living | $285 – $477 per month |
| Top Universities | University of the Philippines Manila, Ateneo de Manila University School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute, University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center |
The next best country to study MBBS is the Philippines. As one of the best countries for medical education, its history dates back to the Spanish Colonial Period, when religious institutions offered medical education. Studying MBBS in the Philippines is a great decision. The country’s medical curriculum lasts from 5.5 to 6 years. The topics covered in the course include Anatomy, microbiology, pathology, pharmacology, surgery, internal medicine, and others.
You need to clear NMAT to get admission to Philippine universities, which are one of the best countries for MBBS. The Philippines offers internationally recognized medical degrees. IMED, ECFMG, and WHO have certified the colleges, further verifying the calibre of instruction offered. The United States Medical Licencing Examination (USMLE) is quite successful for graduates of these universities, which opens doors to international employment options.
Medicine in the Philippines:
| Duration | 4-6 years (depending on the program) + 1 year internship |
| Programs Offered | Doctor of Medicine (MD) |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree in a related science field |
| Documents | Medicine in Philippines |
| Test Required | National Medical Admission Test (NMAT)IELTS/TOEFL for international students |
| Tuition Fee | $3,000 to $6,000 per semester (Total for the entire program: $24,000 – $48,000) |
| Scholarships | Commission on Higher Education (CHED) ScholarshipsUniversity-specific scholarshipsDOST Scholarship ProgramPhilippine government scholarships for medical students |
| Cost of Living | $300 – $500 per month |
| Average Salary | ₱360,000 – ₱720,000 per year (approximately $6,500 – $13,000) |
Can I study Medicine abroad without NEET?
Yes, studying in the medicine program abroad is possible without clearing NEET. Countries such as Russia, Ukraine, China, Kyrgyzstan, the Philippines, and Bangladesh allow students to study MBBS without NEET. Graduates without NEET qualifications will not be eligible to practice MBBS in India as the Indian government has mandated that students must pass the NEET exam to pursue MBBS studies abroad starting in 2024.
Honourable Mentions of Best Countries To Study Medicine
1. Switzerland
2. Netherlands
3. Singapore
4. India
5. Japan
Conclusion
Choosing the right country and college to pursue a Medical degree is crucial for a successful medical career. Factors like tuition fees, living expenses, career opportunities, and immigration policies should be considered. Countries like the UK, USA, Canada, Germany, and France are on the top list with top-ranking universities and diverse courses while also providing opportunities for part-time jobs or scholarships to manage living expenses. I hope this article will be helpful for you in deciding on the right study destination to do MBBS studies abroad.
FAQs
Which are the best countries to study medicine in abroad?
The best countries to study Medicine in are the UK, USA, Canada, Germany, France, Australia, Russia, Ukraine, China, and Singapore.
Which country’s MBBS is the cheapest?
Russia, China, Ukraine, Kyrgyzstan, the Philippines, and Poland are the cheapest countries to study medicine.
In which country MBBS is free?
In Germany, pursuing an MBBS is free of cost, as public universities in Germany offer tuition-free education. Additionally, Medical Universities in Germany offer scholarships to support other educational expenses.
Is the 12th mark important for MBBS abroad?
Yes. Students are required to complete their 10+2 from a recognized board with a minimum aggregate percentage of 50% or above in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. They must have also studied English as a compulsory subject during their 10+2 years.
How much of a NEET score is required for MBBS abroad?
The NEET score required to study MBBS abroad is at least 140 (for the General category) and 110 (for the Reserved category). Achieving the minimum score will help you to apply to any medical university abroad for your studies in medicine.
Manasvi’s writing abilities stem from her previous experience working with bootstrap start-ups, advertising and PR agencies, as well as freelancing. She is currently employed as a Content Writer and Editor at Admissify, contributing to its thriving ecosystem.
