The Ultimate Guide for Parents: MBBS Abroad for Indian Students

MBBS abroad presents an attractive alternative for students who wish to become doctors. It offers quality medical education in a stress-free environment. Studying medicine abroad provides exposure to different healthcare systems and practices. Additionally, studying MBBS abroad offers students the chance to immerse themselves in a new culture, develop a global perspective, and build a diverse network of peers and professionals.

You may be thinking about sending your child abroad for an MBBS. If yes, this blog post is for you. Each year, thousands of students leave India to study MBBS abroad. While affordability and quality of education attract students to study abroad, there’s another crucial factor.

The competition to secure a seat in government medical colleges in India is fierce. Such competition impacts the health of students. Many parents don’t want to risk their children’s well-being and want them to study in a different environment.

Choosing to send their children abroad, parents reject the ruthlessly competitive environment. Doing an MBBS abroad takes away the baggage and gives the students a chance to make a fresh beginning. Besides the student’s general well-being, there are many more reasons for choosing an MBBS abroad.

Why an MBBS abroad is a good option?

• More seats: Universities and colleges abroad increase the number of seats each year. The lack of seats in government colleges in India and the high cost of private medical college seats encourage the MBBS abroad trend. More seats in medical colleges abroad also mean higher chances of securing admission.
• Global Recognition: Many foreign universities offer medical programs recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India. These universities are also listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS). These foreign universities are also certified by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). It allows the students to practice on returning from their MBBS abroad. MBBS abroad can also open the doors to practice in the US, the UK, Europe, Canada, and Australia. The students will have to clear the licensing exam before starting practice after completing the degree.
• Learning Environment: The learning environment while pursuing an MBBS abroad is new. A fresh learning environment boosts learning, and it’s an exposure to a new healthcare system. It broadens the horizons of the student. Different pedagogy and a greater focus on practical learning benefit the students in multiple ways.

What should parents do before deciding on an MBBS abroad?

Parents should patiently gather the information and weigh the options before sending their child to do an MBBS abroad.

• Researching the universities: Knowing about the university is most important before making a decision. Find out how old the university is. Check if the university has an expert faculty for MBBS. A university with a modern infrastructure will provide better exposure to your child. The university should have a proven track record of graduating future doctors. A university with partnerships for internships and clinical exposure is always a good choice.
• Financial planning: Doing an MBBS abroad requires a significant investment. Besides the tuition fee, you will also need to pay for accommodation and food. To reduce the burden, find out about scholarships and financial aid. It would be right to make a detailed and clear budget that includes all the costs. While doing the financial planning, compare the service charges of various organizations.
• Know the admission requirements: Having a clear understanding of the admission requirements is very important. Universities have predetermined criteria for admissions. Know the academic qualification requirements for admission to the university. Many Russian universities require Indian students to have qualified NEET and have a 50% score in physics, chemistry, and biology. Make sure that the university does not conduct an entrance exam or a language proficiency test.
• Get the documents ready: Admission to an MBBS abroad would require some documents like mark sheets, medical certificates, and documents for VISA. Make a list of all the documents required in the admission process. Know the student VISA processing timeline in advance.
• Promoting cultural integration: Living and studying in a new culture will require adjustments. You need to understand the differences in culture and explain them to your child. Encourage your child to adapt to the new culture by learning the customs and language. Tell them to remain open-minded and receptive to their new environment. Before deciding to send your child abroad, find the contacts of Indian students and classmates. Ask your child to stay in touch with other Indian students.

Career Opportunities after MBBS Abroad: Doing an MBBS abroad and practicing as a doctor are two very different things. Foreign Medical Graduates need to clear a licensing exam before beginning to practice. Be clear about the FMGE qualifying exam in India. It would be great if you can compare the MBBS syllabus with the FMGE syllabus. Research these requirements and let your child know about them.

Supporting your child is important: Selecting a college or university for MBBS abroad and managing the fees may not be enough. An MBBS abroad can be overwhelming for your child, so you will need to support them throughout.

• You can help them by discussing their academics and asking them whether they are enjoying their coursework. Help them manage their time and offer study suggestions to make their academic life easier.
• Students may feel alone and confused during their MBBS abroad. Many students have anxiety, loneliness, and homesickness. Listen to them, and make them feel assured. Before you send your child abroad, encourage them to start building a network of friends abroad. Tell them to stay connected with other overseas students in the network.

Final words: An MBBS abroad can be a life-changing experience for your child. An MBBS in Russia can offer your child a world-class education and global exposure. Planning an MBBS abroad requires careful research. Studying abroad will require unwavering support from your end.

Understanding the various aspects associated with MBBS abroad can ease your decision-making. You need to research the right universities, plan finances, and know the admission requirements. You should also ensure that the city is safe and secure, ready the documents, and encourage your child to assimilate with students and locals.

Knowing the career opportunities and building a support structure will keep your child calm while preparing for a rewarding medical career.