Study MBBS in Philippines for Indian Students 2024: Fees, Universities

Study MBBS in Philippines: The Philippines is a world-known educational hub that attracts learners from different corners of the world. Every medical aspirant wishing to pursue a medical degree to establish their future goals can opt to study MBBS in Philippines 2024. The Philippines provides a quality medical education through ultra-modern facilities, world-class faculties, and career opportunities for all.

This Story also Contains

1. MBBS in Philippines: Highlights
2. Advisory on Medical Education in the Philippines
3. NMC Guidelines to Study MBBS in Philippines
4. Duration of MBBS in Philippines
5. Medical Courses in Philippines
6. Why Study MBBS in Philippines?
7. Eligibility Requirements for MBBS In Phillippines
8. Documents Required for MBBS in Philippines
9. Process of Study MBBS in Philippines Admission
10. Top Medical Colleges in Philippines for Indian Students
11. Philippines MBBS Fees for Indian Students
12. Is Philippines cheap for MBBS?
13. MBBS in India vs. MBBS in Philippines: Comparison
14. MBBS Scholarships in Philippines for International Students 2024
15. Study MBBS in Philippines Without NEET
16. FMGE Requirements to Study MBBS in Philippines for Indian Students

The average Philippines MBBS fees for Indian students is approximately Rs. 15-25 lakhs for the full course duration. The MBBS cost in Philippines for the cheapest universities ranges from Rs. 2-5 lakhs per year. Additionally, students require around Rs. 3-4 lakhs to cover their cost of living in Philippines. MBBS in Philippines for Indian students fee structure is comparatively cheaper than most private medical colleges in India.

Latest Update: As of June 04, 2024, the Indian Embassy Philippines has highlighted that no communication has been made from the Philippine government regarding any amendments to the Medical Act of 1959. Indian parents are advised to analyse carefully before taking up a medical degree in Philippines to reduce financial loss ad professional uncertainty.

The MBBS in Philippines known as BS-MD in the Philippines, takes about six years to complete, including a one-year internship. The first 16 months focus on the Bachelor of Science (BS) programme. The remaining part of the course covers medicine and related subjects. Upon completion, students can work in certain hospitals.

Indian students who have passed 12th grade and planning to study MBBS in the Philippines must complete a bachelor's degree to get admission to the MD course in the Philippines. Also, candidates must mandatorily clear the National Medical Admission Test (NMAT) exam to apply for Medical Universities in Philippines.

The duration of MBBS in Philippines is divided into three parts including 1.5-2 years of Bachelor of Surgery (BS) course and 4 years of Doctor of Medicine (MD) followed by 1 year of compulsory internship. Students who complete the MD programme are awarded the title "Doctor of Medicine." However, students pursuing a BS degree in Philippines are advised to ensure that the Bachelor's degree course is also accredited by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to meet the MD course requirements.

Indian students are advised to pay their MBBS fees in Philippines directly to the concerned medical colleges to prevent any cheating and fraud from the agents. Check details on how to study MBBS in Philippines, eligibility criteria admission process, fees, and more.

MBBS in Philippines: Highlights

Advisory on Medical Education in the Philippines

The Indian Embassy in Manila has issued some important advisories for Indian candidates pursuing an MBBS in Philippines. Here is a list of some significant instructions to study MBBS in Philippines for Indian students:

• According to the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), in the absence of reciprocity between India and the Philippines, Indian students pursuing medical degrees in the Philippines are not eligible to be registered for the licensure exam for the practice of medicine in Philippines.

• To avoid cheating and fraud by educational agents and consultants, students are advised to pay their MBBS fees in Philippines directly to the concerned medical colleges.

• Students are advised to directly contact authorised Philippines Bureau of Immigration (BI) personnel or BI accredited representative appointed by the university for visa processing. Also, refrain from engaging the services of any unauthorised agents and others to fix immigration issues.

Best country for MBBS abroad for Indian students

NMC Guidelines to Study MBBS in Philippines

The National Medical Commission, commonly known as NMC, has provided detailed guidelines for Indian students pursuing an MBBS in Philippines. Indian students who wish to apply for an MBBS degree in Philippines medical colleges must fulfil the requirements listed below:

• According to the latest reports of NMC, the Bachelor of Science and MD (Doctor of Medicine) are two different courses and are not equivalent to MBBS in India.

• The 1.5-2 years of BS course before MD will not be included in the duration of MBBS in Philippines.

• Candidates taking admission to Philippine MBBS colleges will be regulated under the FMG Licentiate Regulations 2021.

• According to NMC, the MBBS in Philippines should last at least 54 months.

• A minimum of 12 months of internship from the same Philippines medical college is mandatory for all Indian candidates.

• The medical university should be registered with the respective regulatory body or competent to grant licence to the country’s jurisdiction for medical practice.

Indian students pursuing an MBBS in Philippines are advised to ensure the fulfillment of NMC guidelines of their respective universities to avoid financial loss and future employment uncertainties.

Duration of MBBS in Philippines

How many years is MBBS in the Philippines? The Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) is equivalent to a Doctor of Medicine (MD) in Philippines. MBBS Philippines duration is approximately 7 years which includes 1.5-2 years of Bachelor of Surgery (BS) course and 4 years of Doctor of Medicine (MD) and 12 months of mandatory internship. The original Doctor of Medicine (MD) requires only 4 years of extensive training.

According to the latest guidelines of NMC, Indian students must complete the 12-month internship from the same medical institution to take the FMGE screening test which allows them to practice medicine in India. Note that after receiving their MD, students must return to India and complete a year of practical training to get a professional licence.

This MBBS in Philippines comprises two parts i.e. Bachelor of Surgery (BS) and Doctor of Medicine (MD).

During the first sixteen months, the Bachelor of Science programme is the main focus. During BS, one used to be taught about the basics of MBBS. The first few years typically involve foundational and pre-clinical coursework, including Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, and Pathology.

Then, during the MD programme in the Philippines, one will be provided a comprehensive education in medicine, covering both theoretical and practical aspects.

Clinical clerkship, which involves hands-on training in various medical specialities, usually takes place in the latter part of the MBBS in Philippines, typically in the fourth and fifth years. During this phase, students gain practical experience by rotating through different departments in affiliated hospitals, enhancing their clinical skills and preparing them for real-world medical practice.

After successful completion of the MD programme, students are awarded the title of "Doctor of Medicine."

Medical Courses in Philippines

Why Study MBBS in Philippines?

Studying MBBS in Philippines has been gaining popularity in recent times. Many MBBS aspirants from India are applying for admission to many top medical colleges in Philippines.

Although multiple factors have contributed to the popularity of MBBS studies in Philippines, the affordable Philippines MBBS fee structure is the major factor that has influenced students to choose Philippines for higher studies.

Check details on the major factors MBBS in Philippines is better for Indian students:

• Tuition fees for MBBS programmes in the Philippines are significantly lower in comparison to the Indian private medical colleges.

• Most of the Philippines MBBS colleges are accredited by the World Directory of Medical Schools.

• Many Philippines medical colleges follow NMC guidelines. Meanwhile, Indian students studying medicine in Philippines can easily continue their medical careers in India after completing their formal education. However, students must qualify for the FMGE screening test.

• The cost of living in Philippines is comparatively lower than in India and many top study abroad countries in the world.

• The language of instruction in Philippines MBBS colleges is English which can be advantageous for Indian students.

• The medical programmes in Philippines follow an American language model which can be beneficial to Indian students aiming to apply for the USMLE test.

• Travelling to Philippines is very streamlined from many countries.

• Philippines MBBS colleges are globally recognised.

• Philippines registers one of the highest rates of graduate employment in the world.

• Philippines ensures a healthy and safe environment for candidates who pursue medical courses after 12th in the country.

Also read: Study MBBS abroad

Eligibility Requirements for MBBS In Phillippines

Candidates wishing to apply for admission at Philippines MBBS university must fulfil the following eligibility criteria. Failure to any of the criteria can result in the rejection of their candidature for their desired institution. Here we have included some of the eligibility criteria for candidates who are applying to study MBBS in Philippines:

• Candidates must have a bachelor's degree or equivalent from a recognised university.

• Indian students with 10+2 qualifications with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as compulsory subjects need to complete the Bachelor's degree to be eligible for enrolment.

• Students must have cleared the National Medical Admission Test (NMAT).

• Students must be at least 17 years of age as of December 31st at the time of admission.

• NEET qualification is mandatory for students who want to return to India and practice here after completing their studies.

Refer to the latest guidelines issued by CHED and the National Medical Commission (NMC) before applying for MBBS in Philippines universities.

Documents Required for MBBS in Philippines

Students who wish to attend a medical degree in Philippines must produce the following required documents to exhibit their candidature for Philippines MBBS colleges. Students are advised to follow the official website of their university to check any specific requirements of the universities. Here’s a list of the required documents for admission to study MBBS in Philippines:

• A valid passport

• Academic transcripts

• Visa application form

• Passport size photographs

• Resume/Portfolio

• Police clearance certificate authenticated

• Birth certificate

• Letter of recommendation

• Statement of Purpose

• 12th standard mark sheet

• Medical insurance

• NEET scorecard

• 10th standard mark sheet

• High School Diploma

• School Transfer Certificate

Process of Study MBBS in Philippines Admission

Students interested in pursuing a career in medicine can apply to various Philippines MBBS colleges through their official websites or with the help of agents. Students are advised to check for the application deadlines, eligibility criteria, and annual intakes beforehand applying to the university. Here's a detailed breakdown of the admission procedure for MBBS in Philippines:

• Step 1: Choose your desired university by following the NMC guidelines.

• Step 2: Visit the official website of the university and check for the eligibility requirements.

• Step 3: Contact the university authority directly or apply directly through their admission portal.

• Step 4: Submit the required documents.

• Step 5: Pay the application fee with additional fees.

• Step 6: Receive an offer letter.

• Step 7: Enrol in the University.

Note: The process of admission into Philippines MBBS colleges might differ between institutions' specific requirements. Students are advised to visit the official website of their respective universities to confirm the admission requirements, fee structure, and application deadlines. Also, students must check the Philippines student visa requirements before applying for MBBS in Philippines.

Top Medical Colleges in Philippines for Indian Students

Philippines has a large number of top medical colleges well-known for their high standards of education, modern facilities, and cheap tuition fees. These top-tier medical colleges in Philippines attract international students from different parts of the world. Some of the popular Philippines medical colleges for Indian students are as follows:

Best Medical Colleges in Philippines

Adventist University of the Philippines College of Medicine

The Adventist University of the Philippines College of Medicine (AUPCOM) is the first and only Adventist medical school in the Philippines and the Asia-Pacific region established in 2015.

• School Type: Private

• Degree Offered: Doctor of Medicine (M.D.)

• Curriculum Duration: 4 years

• Year when Instruction Started:2015

• Non-Academic Affiliations: The school has a religious affiliation.

• Medium of instruction: English

• Phone Number(s):+63 (49) 541-1211

• Contact Email ID: info@aup.edu.ph

Cagayan State University College of Medicine and Surgery

The Cagayan State University commonly known as CSU is the first and only state-run enriching Medical University in Cagayan Valley.

• School Type: Public

• Year when Instruction Started:1993

• Degree Offered: Doctor of Medicine (M.D.)

• Curriculum Duration: 4 years

• Medium of Instruction: English

• Phone Number(s):(+63) (078) 844-0098

• Contact Email ID: registrar@csu.edu.ph

Davao Medical School Foundation College of Medicine

The Davao Medical School Foundation is recognised as a leading institution among the top medical colleges in the Philippines, and offers an MD programme under the American curriculum, which is considered equivalent to the MBBS degree offered in India.

• School Type: Private

• Year when Instruction Started:1977

• Degree Offered: Doctor of Medicine (M.D.)

• Curriculum Duration: 4 years

• Medium of Instruction: English

• Clinical Facilities: The school has access to clinical teaching facilities.

• Help Clinical Training: Clinical training is 25-49% of the full program.

• Phone Number(s):+63 (082) 224-3510, +63 (082) 2225712

• Contact Email ID: admission@email.dmsf.edu.ph, registrar@email.dmsf.edu.ph

Philippines MBBS Fees for Indian Students

How much is the fees of MBBS college in Philippines? The average MBBS fees in Philippines for Indian students is around Rs. 15-25 lakhs for the full course duration. The range may vary depending on the location and rankings of the universities. Additionally, the average cost of living in Philippines is approximately Rs. 3-6 lakhs per year which is cheaper than many well-known study-abroad countries in the world.

MBBS Fees in Philippines 2024

Is Philippines cheap for MBBS?

Yes, Philippines is comparatively cheap for MBBS for Indian students. Philippines MBBS fees are significantly lower in comparison to the private medical colleges in India. Candidates are advised to check the individual fee requirements of their respective universities before applying for the medicine courses.

MBBS in India vs. MBBS in Philippines: Comparison

MBBS Scholarships in Philippines for International Students 2024

MBBS in Philippines fees are significantly very affordable for Indian students. The cost of living in Philippines is also very budget-friendly for international learners tracing various ethnicities from various corners of the globe. The availability of a wide range of government and college-funded scholarships makes the study medicine in Philippines for international students more advantageous. Some of the popular scholarships available for students with Indian citizenship include:

• DOST-SEASCI Scholarship Program

• CHED-RAISE Scholarship Program

• Rajiv Gandhi Scholarship Scheme for Filipino Citizens

• University-specific Scholarships

• Private Foundation Scholarships

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Study MBBS in Philippines Without NEET

Is NEET required for MBBS in the Philippines? Yes, NEET is a mandatory requirement for Indian candidates to study MBBS in Philippines. As per the NMC guidelines, Indian students pursuing an MBBS in Philippines need to qualify for the NEET exam to pursue a medical career in India. Medical graduates who complete their MBBS in Philippines must qualify for the FMGE, a screening test, to get a professional licence to practice medicine in India. Qualification for the NEET is the primary requirement for the FMGE screening test for all medical graduates outside India.

FMGE Requirements to Study MBBS in Philippines for Indian Students

The Foreign Medical Graduates Examination (FMGE) is a screening test in India that offers professional licence to Indian students who have received a medical degree in foreign universities. Indian students who wish to practice medicine in India should qualify for the screening test after returning from abroad.

Candidates who wish to appear in the FMGE screening examination must follow the following guidelines:

• Students who have received their medical degree from abroad must register with a State Medical Council (SMC) before practicing in India.

• The medium of instruction at the university must be English.

• A student must obtain an Eligibility Certificate (EC) from the MCI before taking admission to a medical course in a foreign university.

• Candidates are advised to select and apply for their medical courses directly, rather than through travel agents.

• Gather authentic information from their university and agents about tuition and other fees, facilities, the curriculum of the course, the language of instruction/, teaching, availability of hostel facilities, monthly living expenses, etc.

• Check whether the university you are applying to meets all of the MCI's requirements, including clinical competencies, the MBBS curriculum used in India, faculty, infrastructure, and so on.