Study MBBS In America
MBBS, or Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, is a highly attractive degree among students worldwide. Pursuing MBBS in the United States is indeed a dream for many students due to the country’s best course curriculum, top-notch infrastructure facilities, and the global recognition and validity of the degree. In this article, we will delve into various aspects of studying MBBS in the USA, including the fee structure, best universities offering MBBS programs, cost of living, course duration, and other essential details.
MBBS in USA – Key Information
Course Name | MBBS/MD |
Duration of Course | Minimum 4 years |
Medium of Education | English |
Country | USA |
Eligibility | 50% in PCB for General and 40% for SC/ ST/OBCs in 10+2 |
NEET | Required |
MCAT | Required |
IELTS and TOEFL | Required |
Average Course Fee | INR 67 Lakhs [Approximately] |
Cost of Living in USA | INR 15,000 to 18,000 per month |
Why Pursue MBBS in USA?
The USA is known for its achievements in technology and medicine research, with top research institutions located in the country. Pursuing an MBBS in the USA offers several advantages, such as globally recognized degrees that are highly valued. The country provides ample facilities and resources to support research and learning. After completing the course, students can find the best opportunities to work.
MBBS Course Structure & Duration
In the USA, the medical degree offered is Doctor of Medicine (MD) by most medical schools and universities. The MD program is a 4-year medical degree and is considered equivalent to the MBBS degree in India. It is globally recognized and accredited. After completing the MD degree, students can pursue a residency program, which is a postgraduate level course. The duration of the residency program varies based on the chosen specialization and can range from 7 to 9 years. Some American universities integrate both the MD program and residency training, leading to a longer duration of study. During the course, students are also required to undertake the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) exams I, II, and III. Upon successfully passing the third exam, students are awarded the MD degree.
MBBS/MD Degree is approved by the prestigious organizations.
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- Medical Council of India (MCI)
- Ministry of Education, USA
- The Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER)
- Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG)
- World Federation for Medical Education (WFME)
Cost of Study for MBBS in USA
Studying MBBS in the USA can be financially challenging, as tuition fees in American universities are generally higher compared to other countries. The exact fee structure varies depending on the university and program. On average, the annual tuition fees for international students range from $30,000 to $60,000. It’s crucial to research and explore scholarships, grants, and financial aid options offered by universities to ease the financial burden.
University/Medical College | Total Fees in USD (Approximately) | Total Fees in INR (Approximately) |
Harvard University | 325,000 | 2.42 Crs |
Stanford University | 482,000 | 3.59 Crs |
University of California, San Diego | 165,500 | 1.23 Cr |
Columbia University | 73,800 | 55.04 lakhs |
University of Pennsylvania | 240,000 | 1.79 Cr |
Duke University | 248,000 | 1.84 Cr |
University of California, San Francisco | 187,100 | 1.39 Cr |
Yale University | 252,000 | 1.87 Cr |
University of California, Los Angeles | 105,300 | 78.54 lakhs |
Johns Hopkins University | 214,000 | 1.59 Cr |
MBBS Admission Process in the USA
To apply for a Doctor of Medicine (MD) program in the United States, there are a few requirements. Firstly, you need to complete a pre-medical course, which typically includes the subjects, biology, chemistry, physics, and other related subjects. Moreover, you will need to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and obtain a competitive score.
MBBS applications are accepted at universities in the United States for both the September and March semesters. International students can apply to US universities through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). This centralized application service allows you to submit your application to multiple medical schools. Some universities also accept direct applications through their own websites.
Eligibility Criteria
To meet the eligibility criteria for medical schools in the USA, you generally need to have a 4-year bachelor’s degree from a recognized university, with main subjects Physics, Biology, and Chemistry. It is important to note that this requirement may vary slightly among different universities, so it’s essential to check the specific requirements of the medical universities you are interested in.
Language Test:
Another requirement for admissions in US medical schools is to showcase proficiency in the English language. You will typically need to qualify a language test such as the IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. The specific test and minimum score requirements may vary among universities, so it is advisable to review the information provided on the university’s website (Language test and minimum percentile Appendix.)
MCAT:
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a mandatory eligibility criterion for pursuing MBBS in the USA. The MCAT is a computer-based test that assesses the aptitude of prospective medical candidates in various areas. It consists of multiple-choice questions and aims to evaluate reasoning, aptitude, and comprehension skills. The test is extensive, lasting around 7.5 hours, and is conducted 15 times a year. The maximum score for the six sections of the MCAT is 528, with 500 being the median score.
NEET:
For Indian students aspiring to pursue MBBS abroad, it is also mandatory to clear the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) with qualifying marks.
Documents Required for MBBS in USA
- Valid passport copy
- Student visa
- English Proficiency Test Certificate
- Evaluation of foreign transcripts by an accredited agency
- Statement of purpose
- Transcripts of previous academic study
- Relevant test scores (as asked by the university)
- Letters of recommendations
- Criminal background check of the applicant
- Resume
- Passport size copies of photographs
MBBS in USA: Top Colleges
Several prestigious universities in the USA offer excellent MBBS programs. Here are some renowned institutions known for their medical education:
University/Med-College | QS World University Rankings: 2022 | Duration of the Program in years |
Harvard University | 5 | 5 |
Johns Hopkins University | 25 | 4 |
Stanford University | 3 | 6 |
Columbia University | 19 | 4 |
University of California, San Diego | 48 | 4 |
University of Pennsylvania | 13 | 4 |
Duke University | 52 | 4 |
University of California, San Francisco | – | 4 |
Yale University | 14 | 4 |
University of California, Los Angeles | 40 | 4 |
Scholarships for MBBS in USA
Many US medical schools, prestigious universities, and external organizations offer scholarships to support students in completing their studies without financial constraints. Check some of the scholarships offered by the American Medical Universities.
Scholarships in USA | Awarding Institute | Amount in USD |
ASAHP Scholarship of Excellence | Association of Schools of Allied Health Professions | 1,000 |
AMTIE Student Scholarship | American Medical Technologists (AMT) | Up to 500 |
Vagelos Scholarship | Columbia University | Tuition fees + cost of living |
Financial Aid for Non-US Medical Students | John Hopkins University | Varies |
AHIMA Foundation Merit Scholarship | AHIMA Foundation | Varies |
Stanford Institutional Aid | Stanford University | Varies |
Harvard Medical School Scholarship | Harvard University | Tuition fee waiver |
Job after MBBS in USA & Salary Information
After completing their MD/MBBS in the United States, Indian students have various career options available to them. They can start their own medical practice, secure well-paying jobs in private or public institutions, or pursue research opportunities. It is important to note that to practice medicine in the United States, students must complete a residency program in addition to their MD/MBBS degree.
However, Indian students who complete their MD/MBBS in the United States are exempt from taking the National Medical Commission (NMC) screening test to practice in India. Furthermore, the global recognition of medical degrees from the United States ensures that Indian students can practice medicine in both government and non-government facilities in the United States.
In terms of salary prospects, the average annual income for physicians and surgeons in the United States is approximately $208,000, which is equivalent to around INR 1,55,06,254. It’s important to keep in mind that individual salaries may vary depending on factors such as specialization, experience, location, and type of practice.
Overall, completing MD/MBBS in the United States opens up a wide range of career opportunities for Indian students, both in the USA and India, with the potential for well-paid salaries and a respected professional status.
Job specializations | Average annual salary in USD (estimated) | Average annual salary in INR (estimated) |
Surgeons | 255,500 | 1.90 Cr |
Psychiatrists | 220,500 | 1.64 Cr |
General Pediatricians | 183,500 | 1.36 Cr |
General Internists | 196,500 | 1.46 Cr |
Obstetricians and Gynecologists | 238,500 | 1.77 Cr |
Family and General Physician | 212,000 | 1.58 Cr |
Anesthesiologists | 267,000 | 1.99 Cr |