Study Medicine (MBBS) Abroad in 2025: Cost, Eligibility & Top Countries for International Students

In 2025, studying medicine abroad remains a top choice for international students aiming for world-class education and global healthcare careers. With high-quality institutions, modern infrastructure, and better acceptance rates compared to domestic quotas, more students are exploring MBBS abroad options. At Global Study News, we support your full journey, from choosing the country to securing admission and navigating visa processes.

Why Study MBBS Abroad in 2025?

Due to increasing competition and limited medical seats in many countries, students are looking to countries like Russia, China, Philippines, UK, USA, and Australia. These destinations offer globally recognized degrees, advanced facilities, and English-taught programs.

Check out our complete list of MBBS countries and courses on Global Study News.

Top Countries to Study MBBS Abroad in 2025

United Kingdom (UK)

• Tuition: £38,000–£50,000/year (NHS UK)

• Living: £1,200–£1,500/month (UKCISA)

• Tests: UCAT, BMAT

• Top Universities: University of Oxford, Imperial College London

• Visa: Graduate Route

United States (USA)

• Tuition: $45,000–$70,000/year (AAMC)

• Living: $1,500–$2,000/month (EducationUSA)

• Tests: MCAT, TOEFL

• Top Schools: Harvard Medical School, Johns Hopkins

• Visa: OPT for F-1 visa holders

Australia

• Tuition: AUD 60,000–80,000/year (Medical Board of Australia)

• Living: AUD 1,400/month (Study in Australia)

• Tests: UCAT ANZ, GAMSAT

• Top Schools: University of Sydney, UQ Medicine

• Visa: Temporary Graduate Visa

Germany

• Tuition: Mostly free (DAAD)

• Living: €850–€1,200/month (Studying in Germany)

• Tests: TestDaF, foundation courses

• Top Schools: Charité, LMU Munich

• Post-Study: PR opportunities in EU

China

• Tuition: $4,000–$6,000/year (CUCAS)

• Living: $400–$700/month (China Admissions)

• Tests: NEET, English proficiency

• Top Schools: Jilin University, Dalian Medical University

• Advantages: MCI/WHO approved

Russia

• Tuition: $3,500–$6,000/year (Study in Russia)

• Living: $300–$500/month (RusEducation)

• Requirements: High school diploma, NEET (for Indians)

• Top Schools: RUDN University, Kazan Federal

Philippines

• Tuition: $3,000–$5,000/year (CHED)

• Living: $300–$600/month (Numbeo)

• Curriculum: US-based, English medium

• Top Schools: AMA School of Medicine, UST

Cost Comparison

When choosing the best country to study MBBS abroad in 2025, understanding the cost breakdown is crucial for international students. In the United States, tuition fees for medical programs typically range from $60,000 to $70,000 per year, while living expenses average $20,000 annually, making the total cost approximately $80,000 to $90,000 per year. Despite the high cost, the USA offers world-class training and post-study residency options through the USMLE pathway. Learn more on Global Study News USA.

In the United Kingdom, medical school tuition fees generally fall between £45,000 and £65,000 annually. Students should also budget around £18,000 per year for living expenses in cities like London or Manchester. That brings the total estimated yearly cost to £63,000–£83,000, or roughly $75,000–$100,000 USD. The UK’s Graduate Route Visa allows students to work after graduation. Visit Global Study News UK for guidance.

For those considering Australia, MBBS tuition costs usually range from AUD 60,000 to 80,000 per year, and students should plan for an additional AUD 16,000 annually for living expenses. This brings the total to about AUD 76,000 to 96,000 per year, or $50,000–$63,000 USD, depending on the exchange rate. Australia offers strong PR opportunities and healthcare jobs. Explore more at Global Study News Australia.

In contrast, Germany offers some of the most affordable options for medical students. Public universities charge little to no tuition fees, and students can expect to spend about €10,000 per year on living costs. Germany is ideal for students looking for low-cost MBBS abroad programs in Europe. For full details, see Global Study News Germany.

China is another budget-friendly destination, with tuition fees ranging from $4,000 to $6,000 per year and living expenses around $5,000 annually, totalling $9,000–$11,000 per year. Medical degrees in China are WHO and MCI approved, making them popular with students from South Asia. Read more on Global Study News China.

In Russia, MBBS programs cost about $3,500 to $6,000 annually, with living expenses ranging from $4,000 to $5,000 per year, so the overall yearly cost is typically $7,500–$10,000. Russia offers English-medium programs and globally recognized degrees. Learn more on Global Study News Russia.

Lastly, the Philippines offers a cost-effective, US-based curriculum. Tuition fees are approximately $3,000 to $5,000 per year, while living expenses range from $4,000 to $5,000, bringing the annual cost to $7,000–$9,000. Medical schools in the Philippines are MCI and WHO listed, making them a great choice for Indian and African students. See Global Study News Philippines for full details.

Key Documents & Application Timeline

• Passport Copy

• Academic Transcripts

• Entrance Exam Results

• SOP and Recommendation Letters

• English Proficiency Tests

See our application checklist.

Career Path & Residency Options

Medical graduates abroad can:

• Clear PLAB (UK), USMLE (USA), FMGE (India), AMC (Australia)

• Apply for internships & postgrad training

• Secure permanent residency (PR) in many countries

Read more: Global Study News – Post-Study Work Guide

Conclusion: Start Your MBBS Abroad Journey Today

Studying medicine abroad can change your life, providing affordable education, international exposure, and rewarding careers. From scholarships to visas and university selection, we at Global Study News are your trusted partner.

📞 Need help? Contact our expert counselors at
AJ Asif – Regional Operations Manager, StudyCo | AAET
📱 +971 508818156

This article was written by AJ Asif, Regional Operations Manager at StudyCo, helping students succeed globally.