A Step-by-Step Guide to Studying MBBS Abroad

A Step-by-Step Guide to Studying MBBS Abroad: Everything You Need to Know

Every year, nearly 25,000 to 30,000 Indian students study MBBS abroad. The primary reasons behind this are the unavailability of government medical seats and the unaffordable private medical colleges within the country. Is studying MBBS abroad a bad decision? No, absolutely! However, there are important aspects that you must be well-informed about in order to make the right decision.

If you are planning or have already taken admission abroad, then let's read this blog to the end. This may change your outlook and prepare you better for the journey ahead.

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## ### Challenges for MBBS Students Abroad

In all such scenarios, it is seen that the real problem arises when they return to India and try to clear exams such as FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) or the upcoming NEXT (National Exit Test) for practicing medicines in India. Here's why:

1. Low FMGE Pass Rates

More than 90% of foreign medical colleges have FMGE pass rates less than 10%. That means only a small fraction of these students after returning become successful practicing doctors in India.

2. NEXT: The New Challenge

Starting with the 2024–2025 batch, students will need to clear NEXT to practice in India. Unlike FMGE, NEXT includes clinical and integrated questions that require conceptual clarity. This will further reduce success rates for unprepared candidates.

3. Lack of Structured Preparation

Many students in abroad don't get mentorship. They waste six years with not much academic seriousness and end up being unprepared when it comes to competing for India's medical entrance exams.

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## ### Why Students Pursue MBBS Abroad Most of the students seeking MBBS abroad have a score falling between 170 to 450 marks for NEET. The reasons are as follows:

Avoiding gap years or "dropping" for NEET preparation.

- As the subjects are difficult, especially Physics, giving an impression that foreign colleges will be an easier affair.

But, this is not true. When students do not have a proper schedule, they are unable to handle the extensive syllabus, resulting in difficulty in clearing qualifying exams in India eventually.

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## ### How to Excel as a Foreign MBBS Student

Whether you are planning to go abroad or already enrolled, follow these steps for success:

### 1. Focus on Your Basics

Start improving your Biology, Chemistry, and Physics concepts now. Key topics are:

- Metabolism (catabolism and anabolism).

- Homeostasis mechanisms.

- Animal Tissues and their histology.

- Cell Structure, transport mechanisms, and associated functions.

Biomolecules, Enzymes, and Genetics.

### 2. Create a Proper Study Schedule

Students abroad get time for different things, so learning is to be regulated. Learn at least for three hours in a day.

- Use Standard Resources: Learn basic stuff from NCERT and only refer to gold-standard Medical textbooks recommended.

- Prepare your Notes: Proper notes will help you retain concepts better and revise more efficiently.

#### 3. Get Ahead with Advanced Preparation

The syllabus outside India can complete some topics over two years that Indian colleges complete within one year. Utilize this additional time to prepare for NEXT. - Don't Neglect the Preclinical Subjects: In your first year, start working seriously on anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry.

- Take Online Programs: Available courses on medical anatomy and physiology are so affordable yet meet the Indian Standards.

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## ### The Way Ahead

Mostly, every student simply dreams of going through the USMLE, PLAB or DHA believing that these are more effortless routes of getting a license compared to sitting for Indian medical licensing exams. Well remember: -

- NEXT is Compulsory if you really want to practice in India.

- The syllabus for NEXT overlaps with USMLE, PLAB, and other international exams, so preparing for one exam benefits all. --- ## ### Key Takeaways - Success as a foreign MBBS graduate requires conceptual clarity and consistent effort. - Prioritize your preparation during college years to avoid the need for extensive gap years later.

- Invest in structured learning resources and focus on clearing exams like NEXT or FMGE on the first attempt.

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By following the above procedures, you'll be assured your MBBS degree is worth something and would set you on the right path towards becoming a successful doctor .

**Wishing you all the luck on your medical journey!