Every year, thousands of Indian students dream of becoming doctors — but with the limited number of medical seats in India, high Fee and high competition, many look beyond borders to pursue MBBS abroad. Countries like Russia, Georgia, the Philippines, Azerbaijan, Egypt, Bulgaria, Kazakhstan and many more have become popular destinations for affordable and quality medical education.
But before you take your flight, it’s crucial to understand the rules set by the National Medical Commission in India (NMC) — because not all MBBS degrees from abroad are accepted in India.
Here’s a simple guide to help you make the right choice and avoid future regrets.
- First, What Is the NMC?
The National Medical Commission (NMC) previously known as Medical Council Of India (MCI) is the body that regulates medical education and practice in India and is responsible for:
Approving medical colleges and courses
Setting standards for education
Regulating foreign medical graduates (FMGs)
Overseeing licensing exams like NExT (which is replacing the old FMGE)
Reasons Students Choose MBBS Abroad?
Let’s check it — in India, getting into a government medical college is extremely tough. Private colleges are expensive, and many families just can’t afford them.
So, MBBS abroad becomes an attractive option because:
- It’s often more affordable
- You get international exposure
- Many universities have modern infrastructure and English-speaking faculty
But there’s a catch — not every foreign MBBS degree will let you practice in India. That’s where NMC guidelines come in.
NMC Rules of 2021 You MUST Know Before Studying MBBS Abroad (As of SY 2024–25)
The Foreign Medical Graduate Licentiate Regulations, 2021 lay out the framework. Here are the key points in plain language:
- Eligibility Starts at Home
You must have completed 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English.
Minimum required marks: 50% for General category, 40% for SC/ST/OBC.
You must have cleared NEET in the year you apply (valid for 3 years for MBBS abroad). - Your Course Must Be 5.5 Years Minimum
The academic part of the MBBS program abroad should be at least 4.5 years.
It should be followed by a 1-year internship in the same country — not elsewhere. - Language Matters
The entire course must be taught in English.
Mixed-language or bilingual programs are not accepted. - You Must Be Licensed in That Country
After graduating, you must be eligible to get a license to practice in the country where you studied.
If the degree doesn’t allow you to practice there, NMC won’t accept it here. - The New Exam: NExT
The old FMGE exam is being replaced by the National Exit Test (NExT).
Both Indian and foreign graduates will now take the same exam to get registered in India.
These are Common Mistakes Students Make
Many students unknowingly make errors that cost them their medical careers. Watch out for:
- Choosing a course that’s less than 5.5 years
- Picking a university that teaches in local languages
- Not verifying if the university is recognized by local authorities
- Skipping NEET or not keeping proof of eligibility
Not all universities in these countries are valid — but many are, especially if you do your research, always varify with NMC and local authorities before applying.
What You Should Ask Before Admission !
Find out :
- Is the course at least 5.5 years long (including internship)?
- Is the instruction 100% in English?
- Will I be eligible to practice in the country after graduation?
- Is the university approved by that country’s medical council?
- What is their success rate in FMGE/NExT?
What Happens After Graduation?
Here’s your path to becoming a doctor in India after studying abroad:
- Finish your internship abroad
- Gather and verify your documents
- Clear NExT (Step 1 and Step 2)
- Apply for registration with your State Medical Council
Final Thoughts
Studying MBBS abroad can be a smart and affordable decision — but only if you do it right. Always check whether the university meets NMC’s guidelines, and make sure your degree will be valid in India.
A little research today can save you from years of stress later.
Need help choosing the right university or want to make sure it meets NMC rules? Drop your questions below or ask for a checklist — I’ll be happy to help.
