Introduction to Armenia
Armenia, situated in Eurasia, is a compact, landlocked country. Characterized by modest infrastructure and a law and order scenario that could be enhanced, the nation acknowledges the imperative need for an overall improvement in its education system. The MBBS program spans six years, and Indian students are eligible to take the NEXT exam.
However, opting for the overall subpar equation of pursuing MBBS in Armenia demands careful consideration. While Armenian medical education may appeal to Indian students seeking more affordable options for studying medicine abroad, it requires a thorough examination of various factors.
Living in Armenia
Armenia, although not situated within Europe or the EU, stands out culturally and politically from the European landscape despite its geographical proximity. Armenian serves as the official language, yet English is commonly spoken in universities and tourist hubs. Familiarizing yourself with basic Armenian phrases can significantly enhance your experience.
The country experiences marked seasons, featuring warm and dry summers with an average temperature of 27°C (81°F) and cold, snowy winters averaging around -6°C (21°F). It is advisable to pack warm clothing for winter and lightweight attire for the summer months. Additionally, being prepared for occasional rainfall throughout the year is recommended.
MBBS in Armenia for International Students
The MBBS program in Armenia spans a duration of 6 years, aligning with the new guidelines set by the National Medical Commission (NMC), which mandate a certain duration for MBBS programs undertaken abroad.
While MBBS in Armenia holds recognition and accreditation sought by international students, there is room for improvement in the quality of education and infrastructure. Accreditation alone may not guarantee a comprehensive education experience.
Choosing Armenia as your MBBS destination will entail an investment ranging from 22 to 30 lakh INR. This decision allows you to participate in various Medical PG entrance exams such as USMLE, PLAB, NEXT, etc. However, it’s essential to note that the overall learning and educational experience may be considered average.
Why Opt for MBBS in Armenia?
For those contemplating pursuing MBBS in Armenia, the country, strategically positioned between Europe and Asia, presents a cost-effective option for Indian students seeking education in medicine abroad. Armenia adopts a European-style education system that emphasizes practical knowledge and hands-on learning.
MBBS Fees in Armenia
The option of studying MBBS in Armenia is gaining popularity among both Indian and international students, primarily attributed to its cost-effectiveness, excellent education standards, and absence of entrance exams. The MBBS fees at leading universities in Armenia typically range from INR 22 lakhs to INR 32 lakhs (approximately $4,000-$6,000) per year. It’s important to note that the Armenia MBBS fees in Indian Rupees may vary significantly depending on the university and the specific program chosen.
Cost of Living
- European Standards: All universities in Albania adhere to European educational standards, ensuring a high-quality academic experience for students.
- English-Taught Programs: Western Balkan University in Albania offers medical programs in English, providing a language of instruction familiar to students, similar to the educational context in India.
- Clinical Exposure: Students have the unique opportunity to engage in practical clinical work in hospitals as early as their second year of study. This hands-on experience involves interacting with patients and gaining comprehensive knowledge over the course of five years.
- NMC Acceptance: The MBBS degree obtained from an Albanian Medical School in English is recognized by the National Medical Council (NMC). This recognition facilitates the eligibility of students to undertake the NEXT exam upon completing their studies in Albania.
- Paid Internship in Hospitals: Starting from the second year, students can actively participate in hospital internships, receiving a stipend for their services. Those affiliated with the Medical University may earn between $3,000 and $5,000 annually, providing valuable practical experience along with financial support.
Tuition Fees for the Medicine Program in Albania
The tuition fee structure for the Medicine Program in Albania comprises two distinct components.
- Self-Financing: Students participating in this program are required to pay the complete tuition fee directly to the university. All three universities allocate seats under the self-finance scheme.
- Scholarship-Based: In contrast to Western Balkan University, the remaining two universities limit their scholarship programs exclusively to European students, in accordance with the terms outlined in the European Education Agreement.
For international students pursuing the Doctor of Medicine (MD) program in Albania, the approximate annual tuition fee is 8,000 USD.
Expense of Indian Cuisine in Albania
When deciding on attending a medical university in Albania, it’s crucial to factor in the accessibility of Indian food. Due to the limited presence of Indian students in Albanian universities, dedicated Indian mess facilities are not available. Students desiring Indian cuisine may have to prepare their own meals, incurring an estimated cost of around 100–120 USD per month.
While Indian restaurants are not abundant in Albania, those in existence may charge approximately 800-1000 INR for a dinner serving two people. While these establishments are suitable for occasional dining, they remain a relatively pricier option.
Why Indian Students Travel Abroad?
In the quest to become a doctor in India, two crucial elements often come into play: High Merit or Surplus Money. However, an increasing number of students are opting for MBBS Abroad, venturing to various destinations globally to chase their dreams and careers.
About University:
Nestled amidst the towering Himalayas, Nepal has emerged as a steadily growing option for pursuing MBBS abroad. Being a “developing” nation implies abundant opportunities for both social and economic progress. With its swift developmental pace, Nepal presents enticing incentives for those considering MBBS education within its borders.
Nepal boasts over 1800 medical seats distributed across five government and fifteen private medical colleges. According to the Medical Education Commission, Nepal (MEC), approximately 540 seats are allocated for international students. However, securing a seat in Nepal’s Government Medical College requires successful qualification through the MEC examination. Admission to private medical institutions in Nepal mandates the qualification in the NEET exam for the current academic year.
Why opt for Nepal for MBBS studies? Undoubtedly, there are numerous advantages for Indian students pursuing the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) in Nepal compared to other destinations.
- Similar Education Pattern: The MBBS education pattern in Nepal closely mirrors that of India, with 19 subjects in Pre, Para, and Clinical studies, aligning with the curriculum in India. The duration of the MBBS program in Nepal is 5 and a half years.
- High FMGE Passing Ratio: Nepal boasts a plethora of MCI-approved medical colleges, and the FMGE passing rate for Nepali medical institutions is one of the highest when compared to other countries.
- Indian Faculties: Nearly all medical colleges in Nepal feature Indian faculty, providing significant comfort to Indian students during their academic journey.
- Affordability: While the tuition fees in Nepal’s medical colleges are comparable to those in Indian private medical colleges, choosing Nepal for MBBS is a more favorable option compared to recently established private medical colleges in India with similar costs.
- Language: Communication in Nepal is convenient for Indian students as the majority of the population understands Hindi, unlike countries such as Russia, China, and Georgia where the native language is prevalent, and English-speaking populations are limited.
- Availability of Indian Food: The culinary offerings in Nepal closely resemble Indian cuisine, ensuring that students experience minimal change in their dietary preferences.
- Connectivity: Nepal is well-connected with India through air and road networks, eliminating the need for a visa to travel. The cost of travel within Nepal is comparable to traveling within India.
- Weather: Despite its geographical location beneath the Himalayan region, Nepal experiences relatively moderate weather. The temperature in Kathmandu ranges from 3–4 °C in winter to 20°C in summer.
Eligibility Criteria for MBBS in Nepal:
- The candidate must have passed 10+2 with Science as a subject (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) with a 50% aggregate or secured an equivalent percentage.
- The candidate should be at least 17 years old by the last date of applying for the MBBS or BDS course.
Admission Process for MBBS in Nepal:
There are two possible ways of admission in Nepal:
(A) Entrance Examination conducted by the Medical Education Commission (Similar to NMC in India) or (B) Direct admission through the NEET score of the current year.
A. Entrance Examination Conducted by MEC:
- Students opting for admission to MBBS in Nepal without NEET must appear for the MEC exam.
- Candidates aspiring to study MBBS in Nepal at Government Colleges must also participate in the MEC exam.
- After qualifying the MEC exam, candidates are eligible for admission to various Government Colleges.
Note: Exams are conducted only at centers in Nepal, necessitating students to travel to Nepal to participate in the examination conducted by MEC.
Regarding Egypt
Situated across North Africa and Western Asia, Egypt is a transcontinental country bordered by Libya, Sudan, the Red Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea. Its largest and capital city is Cairo. Opting for MBBS in Egypt is emerging as a cost-effective alternative for those considering studying medicine abroad within a reasonable budget.
Renowned for its rich historical culture and iconic landmarks such as the Giza Pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Nile River, Egypt holds a prominent place in global history. Arabic serves as the official language, and the majority of the population practices Islam. Egypt boasts a cultural heritage that has significantly influenced the world across various realms, including literature, music, and cuisine.
Medical Education System in Egypt
Since 2019, MBBS in Egypt has gained popularity among Indian students. Egyptian medical schools confer an MBBCh (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) as the foundational medical degree. The educational journey involves five years of academic and clinical studies, followed by two mandatory years of clinical rotations. The MB BCh degree is granted upon the successful completion of these rotations, culminating in a comprehensive seven-year period of academic, clinical study, and practical experience.
The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research is responsible for organizing and regulating Egypt’s medical education system. Eligible candidates, having passed 10+2 Grades or equivalent, can apply to Egyptian Medical Universities. The Bachelor’s in Medical Education consists of three components: 1. Pre-Clinical, 2. Clinical, and 3. Internship.
Becoming a doctor in Egypt typically involves the following progression:
- Internship: Graduates from medical school undergo a two-year internship program in a hospital affiliated with the Medical University. This period provides them with practical instruction and hands-on experience in their chosen specialty.
- Residency: Following the completion of the internship, graduates can apply for a residency program in their preferred specialty. Residency programs often span three to five years, incorporating extensive instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
- Specialization: After successfully completing their residency, graduates have the option to apply for a specialization program, allowing them to become specialists in a specific branch of medicine. Specialization programs further deepen their expertise through focused training.
Advantages of Pursuing MBBS in Egypt
While the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) program has its share of challenges, studying in Egypt presents several benefits, including:
- Historic Institutions: Many universities boast academic staff with a wealth of teaching experience spanning up to 200 years.
- English-Medium Instruction: In Egypt, the medical curriculum is delivered in English, catering to both native and international students, akin to the educational approach in India.
- Rich Clinical Exposure: Egyptian hospitals witness a substantial influx and efflux of patients, and due to the extended duration of internships compared to India, students benefit from more extensive and diverse clinical exposures.
- NMC Recognition: Degrees earned from Egyptian medical colleges meet the criteria established by the National Medical Commission (NMC). Therefore, graduates can confidently appear for the NEXT Exam after completing their course in Egypt.
- Affordability: Egypt offers a cost-effective living environment and affordable education expenses, making it a financially viable option for pursuing medical studies.
About the university
Dhaka Medical College (DMC), founded on July 10, 1946, holds the distinction of being Bangladesh’s first medical college. The original structure of DMC predates the Bengal partition in 1905. Currently, there are 37 government and 72 private medical colleges offering MBBS programs to both local and international students in Bangladesh. These medical colleges are affiliated with seven universities, with four being government and the remaining three being private. These universities conduct professional examinations, adhering to the guidelines set by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and the Government of Bangladesh.
The regulation of MBBS programs in Bangladesh falls under the purview of the Bangladesh Medical & Dental Council (BM&DC). All medical colleges must have affiliation with BM&DC, and both the Ministry of Health and BM&DC rigorously oversee the operations of all medical colleges in Bangladesh.
MBBS in Georgia
Students seeking to complete their MBBS programs are exploring alternative, secure locations that meet both their budgetary and educational requirements. As a result, studying MBBS in Georgia is becoming an increasingly attractive option for those looking to study abroad.
In addition to the points mentioned earlier, students may also want to consider the following aspects:
- Climate: Georgia has a diverse climate due to its varied landscape. Tbilisi, for example, experiences hot summers and cold winters, while Batumi has a subtropical climate. Understanding the climate can help students prepare for their living conditions.
- Cultural and Recreational Opportunities: Exploring the local culture, historical sites, and recreational opportunities can enhance the overall student experience. Georgia has a rich cultural heritage, and students may find opportunities to engage in various activities outside of their academic commitments.
- Language: While some universities offer MBBS programs in English, it can be beneficial for students to learn some basics of the local language (Georgian) to facilitate communication with local residents.
- Healthcare System: Understanding the local healthcare system is important, especially for students pursuing medical studies. It can provide insights into the medical infrastructure, practices, and potential opportunities for practical experience.
- Visa Regulations: Keeping abreast of the latest visa regulations and requirements is essential for international students. Ensuring compliance with visa rules and regulations will contribute to a smooth and hassle-free stay in Georgia.
It’s advisable for students to thoroughly research and gather information from reliable sources, including official university websites, government resources, and testimonials from current or former students. Making an informed decision about studying MBBS in Georgia involves considering both academic and non-academic factors to ensure a well-rounded experience.
Duration of the MBBS or MD program in Georgia spans six years, culminating in the degree of Doctor of Medicine (MD), equivalent to the MBBS in India. Notably, the majority of medical universities in East and West Europe adhere to the same ECTS system, resulting in a standardized 6-year medical curriculum across these countries. This six-year timeframe encompasses clinical internships as an integral part of the program.
Advantages of Pursuing MBBS in Georgia:
- Safety: Georgia is recognized as one of the safest countries globally, ranking at the top among all European nations in terms of safety.
- European Education System: Georgia employs the ECTS system, allowing students to seamlessly transfer their studies to any European country without academic setbacks.
- Compliance with NMC Guidelines: Georgian universities meet all criteria set by the National Medical Commission (NMC), making graduates eligible to appear for the NExT examination.
- American Integrated Program Option: Exclusive to a few Georgian universities, such as the University of Georgia, this program aids students in preparing for the USMLE Exam alongside their MD studies.
- Global Recognition: Georgian universities receive worldwide recognition from organizations like the WHO, ECFMG, GMS UK, MECEE Canada, and several Gulf nations.
- Clinical Exposure: After 2-1/2 years of theoretical studies, students engage in clinical training in teaching hospitals for the remaining 3-1/2 years of their MD program.
- English Proficiency: Approximately 60% of Georgians between 18 and 35 years old possess English language proficiency.
- Option for Permanent Residency: Graduates can settle in Georgia after completing their MBBS by pursuing a medical PG (residency program) and applying for Georgian citizenship.
MBBS Tuition Fee in Georgia: The tuition fees for MBBS programs in Georgian medical universities range from 4000 USD to 8000 USD annually, slightly higher than those in other popular destinations such as Russia, China, and Serbia.
Currently, there are approximately 23 thousand Indian students undertaking MBBS studies in Russia. This significant number of medical aspirants is distributed among various universities, with around 70-80% of Indian medical students concentrated in 8-10 specific medical colleges.
About the University:
Kazan State Medical University (KSMU) takes pride in its robust student body, which currently comprises around 6,000 students. These students are enrolled in a diverse array of academic programs, including 2 undergraduate programs, 3 master-level programs, 7 specialist programs, 48 residency programs, and over 39 Ph.D. programs. Notably, KSMU offers its entire 6-year Medicine program in the English language, catering specifically to the needs of foreign students.
As a prominent institution, Kazan State Medical University in Russia holds a distinguished reputation, evidenced by the numerous Indian students who have successfully graduated from its programs in the past. The university’s commitment to offering medical education in English and providing a variety of academic pathways, from undergraduate to Ph.D. levels, has contributed to its popularity among both domestic and international students.
Kazan State Medical University in Russia encompasses several faculties dedicated to the field of medicine and health. These faculties include:
- Faculty of General Medicine
- Faculty of Pharmacy
- Faculty of Dentistry
- Faculty of Pediatrics
- Faculty of Preventive Medicine
- Faculty of Higher Nursing Education
- Faculty of Pharmacy
Each of these faculties plays a crucial role in providing specialized education and training in their respective domains, contributing to the comprehensive medical programs offered at Kazan State Medical University.
Studying MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) in Russia
Kazan State Medical University in Russia actively engages in both national and international cooperation initiatives, taking various steps to foster relationships with diverse organizations and contribute to the region’s development in terms of human resources. Below is an overview of the university’s affiliations:
- Meeting NMC Criteria and being part of the former MCI-approved List
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- United States, Canada, and Australia
- Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) in the United States
- The Medical Council of Canada (MCC)
- Australian Medical Council (AMC)
- General Medical Council (GMC) of the United Kingdom
- Gulf Countries
- Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS)
- Dubai Health Authority (DHA)
- Medical Education Board in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) (MOHAP)
- European Countries
- Conseil National de l’Ordre des Médecins (CNOM), France
- Bundesärztekammer (German Medical Association), Germany
- Ministero della Salute (Ministry of Health), Italy
- General Council of Official Medical Colleges, Spain, etc.
The approximate cost of MBBS tuition fees at Kazan State Medical University is around 27 to 28 lakh INR.