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What are the reasons behind students to choose foreign universities for their medical studies?
Many students prepare for overseas education in pursuit of enhanced academic quality and improved job prospects beyond India. However, additional motivating factors for studying medicine abroad include the limited opportunities available for medical education within India. Currently, there are 106,333 seats available for MBBS courses across 695 medical colleges in India, as per data from the National Medical Commission. Among these, 55,468 seats are in government medical colleges and 50,685 seats are in private medical colleges. In 2023, approximately 20,36,316 students took the NEET UG exam. The significant difference between the number of students aspiring to study medicine and the available seats prompts many students and parents to consider studying medicine abroad.
Students who don't achieve high ranks in the NEET medical entrance exam are considering studying abroad. The competition to secure a high rank in NEET is tough, and there aren't enough seats available in India. Many foreign countries allow admission to medical schools based on NEET scores. Until 2018, passing NEET wasn't even a requirement to study medicine abroad.
Even if students pass NEET, they might find it difficult to afford the fees at private medical colleges in India. Medical education in private colleges here is very expensive, costing around Rs 60 lakh to Rs 1 crore for an MBBS degree. In contrast, some countries offer MBBS degrees at a much lower cost, around Rs 30 lakh. This cost difference is prompting students to explore studying medicine abroad.

In which countries are students interested in pursuing their studies?    
Many Indian students prefer studying in countries like China, Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Nepal, Caribbean nations, Poland, Belarus, and Moldova. China stands out as a popular and affordable option for medical education worldwide. Currently, more than 23,000 Indian students are enrolled in Chinese universities, with about 20,000 pursuing MBBS degrees. Recognizing this, China's Ministry of Education (MOE) has authorized 45 colleges across the country to offer MBBS courses in English specifically for foreign students.
Following China, countries such as Russia, Ukraine, and others are also gaining popularity among international students. Around 60 percent of students opt for education in these three countries.

Before deciding to pursue medical studies abroad, what factors should be considered?
Deciding to study medicine abroad requires careful consideration. Some people make this decision based on misunderstandings or incomplete information. They might think that since the human body, medicines, experiments, and medical equipment are the same everywhere, it doesn't matter where they study. They believe they can work anywhere with their degree.
Others may believe that studying in a European country allows them to work in any other European country. Some students mistakenly choose colleges that they believe are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), thinking that studying there will automatically give them recognition worldwide.

Several of these beliefs are misconceptions or only partially true.?
Indeed, every country imposes stringent regulations on who can practice medicine within its borders. A doctor educated in India cannot simply move to the Gulf, Germany, or America to start practicing. The specific requirements vary significantly from one country to another. If you decide to study medicine abroad without understanding these basics, it could seriously impact your future. It may also cause significant financial strain on your family.
If you pass, you will be required to take the test again.
Since a medical degree obtained abroad is not universally recognized, graduates returning to India can only practice under specific conditions. Currently, medical graduates from all countries, except the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, must pass the Screening Test, known as the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE), to practice in India. Additionally, registration requires completing a one-year internship at a recognized Indian medical college. This regulation was implemented in 2002.

Starting from 2024, students studying abroad must also appear for the NeXT exam to undergo house surgery training and continue their studies.
If you are considering studying abroad due to societal pressure, pressure from your children, or advice from consultants, it's crucial to consider the following points.
Before thinking about studying MBBS abroad, it is important to carefully read and comprehend the guidelines provided by the National Medical Commission (NMC). For further details, please visit: (www.nmc.org.in)
1. Don't solely rely on what educational consultants say. Verify their information through the Internet or by consulting knowledgeable individuals. Ask for contact details of previous students who have trained in the country they are recommending and seek their feedback.
2. Apart from tuition fees, inquire about additional expenses like travel, accommodation, food, insurance, and medical services, as these can add up significantly.
3. Not all foreign universities are equal. Research the international rankings of the institution you're interested in. Check rankings from reputable sources like Time Higher Education Ranking, Shanghai Rankings, and QS World University Rankings to evaluate the institution's performance in various areas.
4. Use the Internet to gather more information about the institution and understand any potential issues or challenges.
5. The World Health Organization doesn't publish a list of medical colleges. However, the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) and the Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER) jointly publish a list of medical schools worldwide. Make sure to check if the institution you're considering is on this list.
6. Determine if the medical degree from the country you plan to study in is recognized in other economically superior and employable countries. This can enhance your opportunities for employment and further education abroad.
Individuals planning to study abroad should ensure they have the most up-to-date information from the NMC (National Medical Commission).

The National Medical Commission (Foreign Medical Graduate License) Regulations, 2021, now include the following conditions:

1. The medical degree obtained abroad must be valid for at least 54 months.
2. Completion of a 12-month internship is required at the same institution where you studied.
3. The medium of instruction must be English.
4. The subjects mentioned in Schedule I of the NMC Act must be studied.
5. Registration with the licensing authority in the country of study is mandatory, meaning citizens of that country must hold a doctor's license.
6. A 12-month internship in India is necessary.
7. Passing the National Exit Test conducted by the National Medical Commission is mandatory.
8. Students pursuing MBBS in foreign countries must complete their internship within 10 years of starting their studies.
Final Point: Avoid Discrediting Medical Education Abroad
Many medical universities in countries where Malayalees often study, such as Ukraine, maintain traditional standards and often excel beyond many institutions in our own country.
However, attending a reputable college doesn't necessarily simplify matters, as medical education and practice are regulated by each country according to its own priorities and regulations.

Article By: Mujeebulla K.M
CIGI Career Team