Study MBBS In America
MBBS, or Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, is a highly attractive degree among students worldwide. Pursuing an 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 the 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 an MBBS in the 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 by the majority of medical institutions and universities, a Doctor of Medicine (MD). The MD program is a four-year medical degree that is compared favorably to the Indian MBBS degree. It is accredited and widely regarded.
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.
Additionally, students must complete assignments throughout 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 the 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.
Universities in the United States accept MBBS applications for both the September and March semesters. Through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS), foreign students can apply to US universities. You can apply to numerous medical schools using this consolidated application tool. On their websites, some universities also accept direct applications.
Eligibility Criteria
You typically need to have a 4-year bachelor’s degree from a reputable university, with majors in biology, chemistry, or physics to be eligible for medical schools in the USA. 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 for 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 an MBBS in the USA. The MCAT is a computer-based test that assesses the aptitude of prospective medical candidates in various areas.
It uses multiple-choice questions to assess a candidate’s aptitude, reasoning, and understanding abilities. The lengthy exam, which lasts over 7.5 hours, is given 15 times a year. The MCAT has six sections, with a maximum score of 528 and a typical score of 500.
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 the USA
- Valid passport copy
- Student visa
- English Proficiency Test Certificate
- Assessments of international transcripts by a recognized organization
- Statement of purpose
- Transcripts of previous academic study
- Relevant test results, as required by the university
- Letters of recommendations
- Application background check for criminal history
- Resume
- Duplicates of the photographs in passport size
MBBS in the 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 the USA
Several top colleges and medical institutes in the US
and external organizations offer scholarships to support students in completing their studies without financial constraints. Check some of the scholarships offered by American Medical Universities.
| Scholarships in USA | Awarding Institute | Amount in USD |
| ASAHP Scholarship of Excellence | Allied Health Professions Schools Association | 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 medical practice, secure well-paying jobs in private or public institutions, or pursue research opportunities.
It is important to note that college students need to finish a residency course to practice medicine in the United States. However, Learners from India who earn their MD or MBBS in the US 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, In the United States, doctors and surgeons earn an average yearly salary of about $208,000, or roughly 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 |
