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What is an MBBS Degree Called Abroad?

What is an MBBS Degree Called Abroad?

Edited By Preetom Kumar Goswami | Updated on Mar 29, 2024 03:55 PM IST

Compared to other fields, the medical field presents a relatively high level of challenge. The profession of being a doctor has always been complex and demanding. The most widely recognized and accepted degree for becoming a doctor is MBBS. The full form of MBBS is Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery.

What is an MBBS Degree Called Abroad?
What is an MBBS Degree Called Abroad?

Medical institutions and universities confer the MBBS degree, which is a specialised undergraduate program in medical and surgical medicine. In India, the MBBS degree is highly esteemed and widely pursued. As per the National Medical Council, there are 500+ institutes that offer the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery program.

The NEET is a mandatory examination that students must undertake to secure admission into the MBBS program at any college in India. This particular entrance exam is the sole requirement for both public and private institutions offering Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery programs.

Increasing Popularity of Study MBBS Abroad

The trend of Indian medical aspirants pursuing MBBS education abroad has become increasingly popular over the last few years. The expenses associated with studying medicine abroad can be comparatively lower than in India, and the competition for admission is less intense.

Certain countries provide state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure, ensuring a superior learning environment. Additionally, students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in diverse cultures and healthcare systems. According to various reports, it is approximated that annually, between 20,000 and 25,000 Indian students opt to pursue medical studies abroad.

However, it is worth noting that those planning to study MBBS abroad will have to take the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) in India if they wish to practice medicine or pursue a postgraduate program in India. It is a national-level exam conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) twice a year in June and December.

The FMGE is an examination that is meant for students who are either citizens of India or Overseas Citizens of India. These students must hold a medical degree from a foreign college or university and have the intention of obtaining either provisional or permanent registration with the National Medical Council (NMC).

MBBS Equivalent Degree in Popular Medical Study Abroad Countries

Indian students should note that the medical degree is not referred to as MBBS in all countries. In different parts of the world, different terms and short forms are used for MBBS. However, these degrees are equivalent to MBBS in India. Here is a list of popular study abroad countries for MBBS where students will find different names for MBBS:

MBBS Equivalent Degree in the US:MBBS in US is called MD and is of almost 4 years duration followed by a residential program that can vary from 3 to 7 years. The MD course in the US enables a student to receive highly supervised practical training according to his/her preference.

MBBS Equivalent Degree in the UK: In the United Kingdom, an MBBS degree is considered to be equivalent to a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, which is commonly referred to as MB ChB, BM BS, or MB BCh, at specific universities. The primary objective of the MBBS program is to equip students with the necessary expertise and understanding to thrive in the field of medicine.

MBBS Equivalent Degree in Canada: In Canada, the medical field offers various programs for aspiring doctors. MBBS in Canada is referred to as the Doctor of Medicine (MD). Additionally, Canadian universities provide undergraduate programs such as UGME, BSc Medicine, and BMSc (Bachelor of Medical Science). These programs typically span over 3 to 4 years. Moreover, there are diverse medicine-related programs in fields like Dentistry, Nursing, Pharmacy, and more.

MBBS Equivalent Degree in Germany: When searching for study MBBS in Germany for Indian students, it is important to note that the degree itself is not referred to as MBBS. In Germany, what is commonly known as an MBBS degree in India is actually called a Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery.

MBBS Equivalent Degree in Australia: In Australia, the term MBBS is commonly known as Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery or Bachelor of Medicine (BMed) by renowned medical institutions.

MBBS Equivalent Degree in Ukraine: After successfully passing the FMGE/NEXT exam, your MD (Physician) degree obtained in Ukraine holds the same value as an MBBS degree in India, making it valid and recognized within the country.

MBBS Equivalent Degree in Georgia: MBBS in Georgia has a duration of 6 years and is referred to as a Doctor of Medicine (MD), which is considered equivalent to the MBBS degree in India. It is worth noting that a majority of countries in both East and West Europe adhere to the same European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), leading to all their medical universities offering a 6-year medical program.

MBBS Equivalent Degree in Ireland: In Ireland, the medical degree program is commonly known as MBBS, which stands for Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery. However, at certain Irish universities, it may be referred to as MB ChB or MB BCh. The duration of the MBBS program in Ireland is typically six years, which includes a one-year internship.

MBBS Equivalent Degree in Russia: It is important to note that an MBBS in Russia is called MD (General Medicine) and is considered equivalent to MBBS in India. The disparity lies solely in the terminology used. MD in Russia is a bachelor-level degree program.

MBBS Equivalent Degree in Malaysia: MBBS in Malaysia is a program that spans over 5 years, similar to the Indian MBBS program. It is typically undertaken after the completion of high school (12th standard). This comprehensive program consists of two main components: pre-clinical courses in the first and second years, and clinical courses in the third, fourth, and fifth years. The MBBS equivalent degree in Malaysia is Doctor of Medicine.

MBBS Equivalent Degree in Singapore: Singapore offers a 5-year MBBS degree program, which is exclusively provided by two universities. The National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University are the esteemed institutions that offer this program. Both universities have been recognized as the top 5 universities in Asia according to the Qs Rankings 2024. The MBBS equivalent degree in Singapore is the same as that of India i.e. MBBS.

MBBS Equivalent Degree in China: Upon the successful completion of a 6-year MBBS program in China for international students, the government awards students with a Bachelor of Medicine (BMED) degree certificate. This certificate holds the same value as an MBBS degree in India.

MBBS Equivalent Degree in the Czech Republic: Medical education in the Czech Republic has garnered a notable global reputation owing to its high educational standards, advanced teaching methods, and scientific approaches. In recent years, MBBS programs from the Czech Republic have become increasingly favoured by Indian students. It is worth noting that the MBBS course is General Medicine in the Czech Republic and is referred to as M.D (Doctor of Medicine) or MUDr. (Medicinae Universae Doctor).

Related Topics:

Study MBBS In Bangladesh: All You Need to Know

MBBS in Kyrgyzstan - Courses, Eligibility, Admission, Fees

Study MBBS in Nepal: Your Ultimate Guide to Medical Education Abroad

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

1. Which countries abroad are best for Indian students to study MBBS?

Russia, Ukraine, China, the Philippines, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Bangladesh are among the preferred destinations for Indian students pursuing MBBS studies abroad. While selecting a country, students should take into account various factors including language, tuition fees, living expenses, and the credibility of the medical college.

2. What is the duration of an MBBS program abroad?

The duration of an MBBS program overseas differs based on the country and university. Usually, the program lasts for a period of 5 to 6 years, which includes a compulsory internship period.

3. Are study abroad MBBS degrees accepted in India?

An MBBS degree obtained from a foreign country is acknowledged in India, as long as the university is included in the World Directory of Medical Schools and the degree is sanctioned by the National Medical Commission (NMC). Nevertheless, upon coming back to India, students are required to clear either the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) or the NMC Screening Test in order to acquire a medical licence for practicing medicine in India.

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