Kareena D Shah
Student, BA Mass Communication
Mar Ivanios College, Trivandrum
With the ongoing NEET 2024 scam, the future of many students hangs in the balance. Compounded by the challenges of limited government seats and exorbitant fees in private colleges, students are finding their MBBS dreams increasingly elusive. This year, about 23 lakh students appeared for NEET, a number that grows by approximately 11% annually. Out of these, more than half, around 10-13 lakh students, qualify each year. However, with only about 1 lakh medical seats available in India (both government and private), the competition is fierce and the fees in private colleges are sky-high.
In light of these challenges, studying abroad for both undergraduate and master’s degrees emerges as a promising alternative. Annually, around 20-25 thousand Indian students pursue medical education overseas, with some universities not even requiring entrance exams like NEET. Fees at some international universities can be significantly lower than those of private colleges in India. For instance, medical education in Ukraine can cost around 25 lakhs, which is just a quarter of the fees charged by private institutions in India. While countries like the UK, USA, and China might have higher tuition fees, the return on investment (ROI) is substantial. Graduates from foreign universities often start with salaries that are significantly higher than their Indian counterparts.
Studying abroad offers medical students a diversified cultural experience, providing global exposure and a deeper understanding of people from different backgrounds. Living in a foreign country fosters independence and enhances decision-making skills. Countries such as the US, UK, Canada, and Australia offer advanced medical education with state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty. These countries prioritize practical-oriented classes over the conventional theory-based approach prevalent in India. The infrastructure in foreign medical universities, including laboratories and research facilities, is generally superior to that of Indian medical colleges, providing students with better learning opportunities.
Challenges of Medical Education Abroad-FMGE and beyond
One of the most significant challenges facing Indian students who pursue medical education abroad is the Foreign Medical Graduate Exam (FMGE). This screening test, conducted twice a year (June and December) by the National Board of Examinations (NBE), is a mandatory requirement for all Indian citizens and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) who have obtained their primary medical qualifications from foreign institutions. Successful completion of the FMGE is essential for obtaining a registration certificate from the National Medical Commission (NMC) or State Medical Council (SMC), allowing them to practice medicine in India.
To be eligible for the FMGE, aspirants must have completed their MBBS degree from an institution listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools by the World Health Organization (WHO) or an institution duly recognized by the relevant Indian embassy. Additionally, they are required to submit all necessary documentation supporting their medical education from the foreign institution.
While the FMGE applies to most foreign medical graduates, there is an exception for those who have obtained a postgraduate medical degree from specific countries, including Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and the United States. These graduates are exempt from taking the FMGE and can directly register with the NMC or SMC.
However, for students who have completed their MBBS in countries like Russia, China, the Philippines, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and others, clearing the FMGE is mandatory. The exam is known for its high difficulty level, often compared to the NEET-PG exam, posing a substantial challenge for many students.
Upon successfully passing the FMGE, graduates are required to undergo a compulsory one-year rotatory internship in India. After completing this internship, they can obtain permanent registration with the NMC or SMC, enabling them to practice medicine in India.
The FMGE, while a significant hurdle, is just one of the many challenges that Indian students studying medicine abroad encounter. However, with adequate preparation and perseverance, it is a challenge that can be overcome, paving the way for a fulfilling medical career in India.
The National Exit Test (NExT)
However, the landscape of medical licensing in India is on the verge of a significant transformation with the introduction of the National Exit Test (NExT). This unified examination is poised to replace the FMGE, ushering in a new era of standardized assessment for all medical graduates.
While the official dates are yet to be confirmed by the NMC, the NExT Step 1 exam is tentatively scheduled for August 2025, targeting final-year MBBS students of the 2020 batch. The Step 2 exam is expected to follow in February 2026. This two-step examination will serve as a common gateway for all medical students, both within India and abroad, in their final year. Successful completion of NExT will be mandatory to obtain a license to practice medicine in India.
The implementation of NExT signifies a move towards a more equitable system, ensuring that all medical graduates, regardless of their educational background, are held to the same standard. It aims to create a level playing field, removing the distinction between foreign and domestic medical graduates.
Furthermore, NExT will play a crucial role in determining admissions to postgraduate courses. A candidate’s performance in this examination will be a key factor in securing a seat in prestigious postgraduate programs, further emphasizing its importance in the medical education landscape.
The transition from FMGE to NExT is a landmark development in Indian medical education. It promises to streamline the licensing process, enhance the quality of medical professionals, and create a more inclusive environment for all aspiring doctors.
Foreign universities often offer flexible study schedules, allowing students to decide their class timings, unlike the rigid educational system (8 am-5 pm) followed in India. Exams typically include multiple-choice questions, which assess the student’s understanding of the topic rather than rote memorization. A student from Kerala studying in Georgia highlighted that this approach ensures a deeper comprehension of the subject matter.
While taking up part-time jobs might be challenging due to university policies and time constraints, students can earn pocket money through tutoring if they excel in a particular subject. Although living expenses abroad are higher compared to India, the overall benefits are considerable. Educational loans with competitive interest rates and flexible repayment options are readily available. Additionally, scholarships and grants from foreign universities and governments can significantly reduce the financial burden on students.
Contrary to the myth that medical education abroad is substandard, many foreign universities offer world-class education and adhere to strict accreditation standards, including high QS rankings. Thorough research and choosing the right institution can ensure a high-quality education.
Language barriers can pose a challenge, as English may not always be the primary language of instruction or communication in clinical settings. Learning the basics of the local language can help students gain a better understanding of the subject matter.
The anticipated replacement of FMGE with NExT will provide equal opportunities for all students to practice medicine in India, regardless of where they studied. While adapting to a new culture and dealing with homesickness can be emotionally taxing, these challenges often become manageable over time and lead to rewarding experiences.
Studying MBBS abroad offers numerous benefits, including cost-effective education, high-quality training, and global exposure. With proper research and preparation, students can overcome the challenges and leverage educational policies and loans to realize their dream of studying medicine abroad. The growing trend of Indian students pursuing MBBS abroad underscores the feasibility and attractiveness of this option.
