Study MBBS in USA: Step-by-Step Guide for Indian Students

Home to more than one million overseas students year after year – approximately 20% of the total sum, the United States is one of the highly sought-after study abroad destinations worldwide. Hosting over 4,000 recognized universities, including a number of the prestigious institutions in the world, the country offers unmatched educational diversity and research possibilities. The USA’s robust focus on innovation, cosmopolitan campus life, as well as wide-ranging professional pathways via programs like OPT (Optional Practical Training) also attract students.

The MD (Doctor of Medicine) program, a graduate-level medical degree that is pursued post completing a pre-medical bachelor’s degree is the equivalent of an MBBS in USA. Entailing subjects like physiology, clinical medicine, anatomy, pathology, biochemistry, pharmacology, followed by hands-on clinical training, this program generally takes 4 years to complete. Prior to entering the MD program, undergraduate courses in physics, chemistry, biology, and associated sciences ought to be completed by students.

Why study MBBS in USA?

Pursuing an MBBS degree in USA is a wise choice for the reasons mentioned below:

  • Top-Tier Medical Education: Medical schools in the USA are ranked worldwide for cutting-edge teaching methods, research, and practical clinical training.
  • Internationally Acknowledged Degree: An MD program earned from the USA is recognized and valued globally, providing robust employment prospects.
  • Patient-Driven Education: The syllabus focuses on critical thinking, hands-on experience, and real-life patient care from early stages.
  • State-of-the-art Research and Technology: Students pursuing an MBBS course in USA acquire practical experience with the most recent clinical equipment and research facilities.
  • Lucrative Career Opportunities and Residency Possibilities: Graduates can undertake residency in prestigious hospitals with competitive pay.

10 Best MBBS university in USA

Listed below are the best medical colleges in the US:

Harvard Medical School

This university is renowned for its robust research output, leading affiliation hospitals, and is internationally acclaimed.

Johns Hopkins School of Medicine

One of the top medical colleges in USA for Indian students, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine is a pioneer in clinical training, research, and public health.

Stanford University School of Medicine

This university is renowned for innovation, multidisciplinary research, as well as tech-medicine integration.

University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine

One among the top 10 medical colleges in US, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine excels in research and primary care; with diversity and health equity given top priority.

Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania

The oldest medical school in the USA, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania is well-suited for research as well as clinical exposure.

Yale University School of Medicine

One of the top 10 MBBS university in USA, Yale University School of Medicine places a heavy focus on student-centred learning, flexibility, and strong mentorship.

Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons

This university is well-known for its robust hospital network in NYC, robust research and clinical variety.

Duke University School of Medicine

Duke University School of Medicine is renowned for its research, robust student assistance, and top-tier training.

Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine

This university is renowned for its balance of research and outstanding clinical care, with excellent residencies.

Weill Cornell Medicine

This university is robust in both patient care and biomedical research and is renowned for its distinguished faculty.

Popular MBBS course in USA

Mentioned below are the highly sought-after MBBS course in USA:

  • Doctor of Medicine (MD)
  • Pre-Medical (Pre-Med) Program
  • Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
  • Combined BA/MD Program
  • Combined BS/MD Program
  • Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Program
  • Accelerated MD Program (3-year track)
  • International Medical Graduate (IMG) Pathway
  • MD-MPH Dual Degree Program
  • MD-PhD Dual Degree Program

What’s the cost of studying an MBBS in USA?

MBBS in USA fees (comparable to an MD in the USA) generally costs between $200,000 to $300,000 for the entire program, which typically spans 4 years post completing a bachelor’s degree. This figure entails tuition fees, cost of living, health insurance, and associated expenses. At the majority of medical schools in the USA, tuition alone costs approximately $40,000–$70,000 annually for international students, whereas the cost of living can add an additional $15,000–$25,000 per year based on the city. Moreover, students should take into account the cost of undergraduate pre-med studies (another 4 years) prior to applying to medical school, which can increase the overall cost of becoming a doctor in the United States to $350,000 or higher.    

MBBS scholarship in USA for Indian students

MBBS in USA with scholarship can reduce the total cost substantially, thereby, making medical education overseas more budget friendly. The various scholarships offered to Indian students pursuing an MBBS degree in USA are as under:

University-Specific Scholarships

  • Harvard Medical School Scholarships
  • Stanford School of Medicine Financial Aid
  • Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Scholarships
  • Columbia University Vagelos Scholarship Program
  • American University of Antigua Provost Scholarship
  • Yale School of Medicine Scholarships
  • Ohio State University Merit-Based Scholarships

Government and Foundation Scholarships

  • Fulbright-Nehru International Fellowship
  • National Health Service Corps Scholarship Program
  • MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship
  • Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship
  • Joseph Collins Foundation Scholarship

Other Possibilities

  • National Medical Fellowships (NMF) Scholarships
  • MyMichigan Health Foundation Scholarships
  • Moopen’s Legacy Scholarship and Fellowships Programme

Eligibility Criteria to pursue an MBBS in USA

To pursue an MBBS degree in USA, students need to fulfill the typical entry prerequisites mentioned below:

  • The student needs to have completed 12th grade or comparable with science subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Biology). He/she needs to have an outstanding academic record, particularly in science and mathematics.
  • He/she needs to hold an undergraduate degree (typically 4 years) in a pertinent field (Pre-Med/Science). Non-science majors are accepted by certain programs provided pre-med requirements are completed.
  • The student needs to have secured a GPA of ≥3.0/4.0. For leading schools, the GPA requirement is higher.
  • As part of the pre-med prerequisites, Physics, Biology, Chemistry (General & Organic), and frequently Math/English courses are needed.
  • The student needs to appear for the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test).
  • If the student’s previous education was not instructed in English, he/she needs to prove his/her fluency in the language by appearing for English language proficiency tests like the IELTS or TOEFL.
  • Clinical exposure, research, volunteering, or shadowing physicians are highly preferred.
  • The student may be required to prove his/her ability to pay for high tuition fees and living costs.
  • Submission of generally 3 letters of recommendation.
  • The student needs to apply via AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service).
  • After securing admission to a medical school in the USA, the student needs to apply for an F-1 student visa.

Jobs after completing an MBBS in USA

Post completing an MBBS course in USA, students can bag any of the following jobs:

  • Hospitalist
  • Public Health Specialist
  • Residency (Specialty Training)
  • Urgent Care/Walk-in Clinic Physician
  • Administrative/Healthcare Management Roles
  • Academic/Teaching Positions
  • Occupational Medicine Physician
  • Fellowship (Sub-specialization)
  • Telemedicine Physician
  • Researcher in Medical Sciences
  • Emergency Medicine Physician
  • Clinical Trials/Pharmaceutical Industry
  • Medical Writing/Health Communications
  • Primary Care Physician (Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics)
  • Medical Advisor/Consultant

FAQs: MBBS in USA

What is the admission process for MBBS in USA for Indian students?

MBBS admission in USA for Indian students requires them to first finish an undergraduate degree with pre-medical courses, then appear for the MCAT exam, and apply to medical schools in the USA via AMCAS; post securing admission, they undergo 4 years of medical school followed by residency in the country.

Which are the top medical colleges in USA for Indian students?

The best medical colleges in the US for Indian students include Harvard Medical School, Stanford University School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, and University of California, San Francisco (UCSF).

How much does an MBBS cost in USA?

An MBBS in USA for Indian students fees typically ranges between $75,000 and $190,000, entailing tuition fees and living expenses.

Can international students work while pursuing an MBBS in USA?

Yes, while pursuing an MBBS degree in USA, international students on an F-1 visa are permitted to work for a maximum of 20 hours per week during the academic term, nevertheless specific authorization like CPT or OPT is required for off-campus work, including clinical rotations.  

Post completing an MBBS in USA, can Indian students practice medicine in India?

Yes, post completing an MBBS degree in USA (or equivalent MD), in order to practice medicine legally in India, Indian students must pass the Foreign Medical Graduates Examination (FMGE) or the National Exit Test (NEXT). Failing to pass this exam, can result in them not being able to register with the Medical Council of India or practice.

For further assistance or queries students can contact us, Edwise International, and avail our wide range of services for students on destinations like Universities in USA, study in USA, study in UK, study in Ireland, study in Canada, study in Australia, study in New-Zealand, study in Singapore, study in France, study in Germany and many other countries.

Navigating the Admissions Maze: Tips for Aspiring Student

Read More

Cost of Living Demystified: Budgeting Tips for Students Abroad

Read More

Embracing Cultural Experiences in Your Host Country

Read More