Educate Yourself — Know Before You Go
Everything you need to know about MBBS abroad — NMC guidelines, NEXT exam, costs, country comparisons, and honest answers to every question.
Watch This Before You Decide
A complete overview of everything you need to know about MBBS abroad — don't skip this.
Important: NMC guidelines are updated periodically. Always verify the latest requirements on the official NMC website (nmc.org.in) before making any decisions. ABHA counsellors are always available to help you navigate the latest rules.
Everything You Need to Know
NMC Guidelines
- NEET qualification is mandatory for all Indian students
- University must be WHO-listed and NMC-eligible
- Minimum 54-month MBBS programme duration
- 12-month compulsory internship
- Mandatory attendance as per university rules
- Must clear NEXT exam to practice in India
NEXT / FMGE Exam
- Replaces FMGE from 2024 onwards (phased rollout)
- Two parts: NEXT Step 1 (theory) + NEXT Step 2 (clinical)
- Must be cleared before practice in India
- ABHA Clinical Workshops are aligned with NEXT pattern
- Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry are heavily tested
- Case-based clinical reasoning is key for Step 2
Choosing the Right Country
- Ensure university is NMC-eligible (check NMC website)
- Consider political stability and student safety
- Look for English-medium instruction
- Evaluate accommodation and food arrangements
- Check presence of Indian community and support
- Verify clinical exposure and hospital tie-ups
Cost Breakdown
- Tuition: ₹3–6L per year depending on country/university
- Accommodation: ₹1.5–3L per year (ABHA-managed hostels)
- Food: ₹60K–1.2L per year (Indian mess)
- Travel & misc: ₹1–1.5L per year
- Total 6-year cost: ₹25–50L (vs ₹80L–1.2Cr in India private)
- AGEST Scholarship can offset $6,000 from tuition
Application & Visa Process
- NEET scorecard + 10th & 12th marksheets required
- Passport (minimum 2 years validity)
- Medical fitness certificate
- Offer letter from university for student visa
- ABHA handles all documentation and visa guidance
- Standard processing: 4–8 weeks from application
Recognitions to Verify
- WHO (World Health Organization) listing
- NMC (National Medical Commission) eligibility
- WFME (World Federation for Medical Education) recognition
- ECFMG eligibility (for those aiming for USA residency)
- Check AVICENNA directory for updated status
- All ABHA partner universities meet these criteria
India vs Georgia vs Kyrgyzstan
| Aspect | India (Private) | 🇬🇪 Georgia | 🇰🇬 Kyrgyzstan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Cost (6 yrs) | ₹80L – 1.2 Cr (Private) | ₹30 – 50L | ₹25 – 35L |
| Medium of Instruction | English | English | English |
| NMC Eligible | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| NEET Required | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Weather | Tropical/Mixed | Mild European | Continental |
| Indian Food Available | Everywhere | ✅ ABHA Indian Mess | ✅ ABHA Indian Mess |
| Own Hostel by Agent | — | ✅ Sterling Suites | ✅ Managed Hostels |
| Safety | Varies | ✅ Among Europe's safest | ✅ Large Indian community |
Clearing the NEXT Exam
The National Exit Test is the gateway to practicing medicine in India after MBBS abroad. Here's what you need to know.
NEXT Step 1
Theory-based MCQ exam covering pre-clinical and para-clinical subjects. Similar to FMGE but more comprehensive.
NEXT Step 2
Clinical skills assessment — OSCE pattern with practical stations. Covers clinical reasoning and patient management.
ABHA Workshops
Our Clinical Workshops align with NEXT pattern — cadaver labs, OSCE prep, and case-based learning to maximise your score.
Pass Rate
ABHA students who complete Clinical Workshops report significantly higher NEXT/FMGE pass rates than the national average.
Still Have Questions?
Here are the most common questions from students and parents.
Didn't find your answer?
Our expert counsellors are available to answer any question — no obligation, completely free.