MBBS in UK: Top colleges, fees, eligibility and scholarships

MBBS is the most used acronym for Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery. This implies that the course imparts students with complete knowledge of medical science and prepares them to perform surgeries.

The UK is regarded as a highly preferred study location for Indian students aspiring to become specialist doctors after completing MBBS. This blog guides you through the steps of achieving your goal of studying MBBS in the UK.

Program Highlights

MBBS in the UK

An MBBS degree in the UK is equivalent to a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, commonly known as MB ChB or MB BCh, at certain universities in the UK. The MBBS program focuses on providing students with the professional skills and knowledge required to excel in a career in medicine. The program typically takes 4-6 years to complete.

Why study MBBS in the UK?

One of the most popular reasons for Indian students to pursue an MBBS in the UK is that they wouldn’t need to pass the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination to practice in their home country. Some of the other key reasons for most Indian students to study medicine in the UK include:

1. Quality Education and Global Recognition: The UK is home to some of the world's top medical schools. Degrees from these institutions are globally recognised, enhancing career prospects worldwide.

2. Shorter Course Duration: UK medical programs typically last 5 to 6 years, shorter than in many other countries, allowing for an earlier start to your medical career.

3. Comprehensive Clinical Exposure: UK medical schools provide extensive clinical training, often starting in the early years of study, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for medical practice.

4. High Earning Potential: The average salary for MBBS graduates in the UK is approximately £58,778, reflecting the country's high demand for medical professionals.

5. No Additional Licensing Exams for Indian Students: Indian students with a UK MBBS degree are eligible to register with the National Medical Council (NMC) in India without taking the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE).

6. Access to Scholarships and Financial Aid: Various scholarships and financial aid options are available to international students, helping to offset tuition and living expenses.

^{*Source: https://explore-education-statistics.service.gov.uk/find-statistics/education-health-and-care-plans/2024 https://explore-education-statistics.service.gov.uk/find-statistics/education-health-and-care-plans/2024/data-guidance
https://explore-education-statistics.service.gov.uk/find-statistics/education-health-and-care-plans/2024
https://educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2024/02/05/nhs-doctor-apprenticeships-everything-you-need-to-know/}

Top Medical Colleges in the UK for Indian Students

Here are the top medical colleges in the UK that Indian students should consider for a world-class education and global career opportunities.

Cost of studying MBBS in the UK

The cost of pursuing an MBBS degree in the UK varies depending on the university and its location. For international students, including those from India, tuition fees typically range from £20,000 to £40,000 per year. This estimate is based on data from the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA), which notes that 'overseas' fees can range from £3,500 to about £18,000 per year, depending on the institution and course type.*

^{*Please note: It's important to note that these figures are approximate and can vary. Connect with IDP experts for more accurate information.}

A quick look at each of these would help us get a fair idea of the actual expenses involved in the process or the total cost of MBBS in the UK.

Cost Before Admission into the University

This is a single-time payment required from Indian students and needs to be made before the university that they have applied to accepts their application.

Tuition Fees for MBBS

After making the first one-time payment (as mentioned in the table above), students need to pay the annual tuition fee for MBBS at the university. This fee may vary for each college or university. It is advisable to check the individual fee structure for the course at the university’s official website.

The fee for MBBS in the UK for Indian students would roughly range somewhere between GBP 22,800 and GBP 52,000 per annum.

Cost of Living in the UK

According to the UK government guidelines for international students:

• In London: The estimated cost of living is £1,334 per month.

• Outside London: The estimated cost of living is £1,023 per month.

These amounts are intended to cover accommodation, food, and general living expenses. Actual costs may vary based on lifestyle. For more details, refer to the

Eligibility Criteria for Studying MBBS in the UK

A student from India pursuing an MBBS degree in the United Kingdom must meet the following requirements. It is important to note that these requirements may vary slightly from those set for other international students.

1. Indian students must be certified by internationally recognised boards such as the CBSE or ICSE Boards. They must also have secured over 90% scores from these Boards.

2. Students must have cleared the required entrance examinations for entry into the UK. These include Biomedical Admissions Test (BMAT), GAMSAT, or UKCAT (UK Clinical Aptitude Test).

3. All students must be 18 years old or higher.

The following documents need to be submitted for admission into a UK university:

• Statement of Purpose

• Photocopy of the scores attained in competitive exams like IELTS, UKCAT, and BMAT

• Updated CV or Resume

• Professional work experience, preferably in the concerned field

• Marksheets of 10+2 and Certificate of Diploma in any field

• Proof of funds assuring the university of your ability to finance the program.

Scholarships for MBBS in the UK

UK Universities offer a variety of scholarships for MBBS, which make the program even more affordable and attractive. Note that these waivers on the program fee are offered only based on excellent academic records or any extracurricular achievements.

Students need to submit the following documents to be considered eligible for the scholarship program:

• A well-written Letter of Intent

• Copies of academic records and extracurricular milestones achieved.

• Certificates of IELTS scores secured.

• Updated CV

^{*Connect with IDP experts to check scholarships for the UK}

MBBS Course Duration in the UK

MBBS programs in the country typically last between 5-6 years, with some exceptions where they may be completed in 4 years. The duration of each program can vary by university, so it's best to check with the specific university at the time of application.

Jobs for MBBS Graduates in the UK

After finishing the MBBS program, graduates can begin practicing as doctors in the UK by registering with the UK Medical Registrar and obtaining a license to practice. To be eligible for a license, the student must meet certain criteria they are:

• A primary qualification in the field of medicine

• A minimum score of 7 in IELTS or equivalent eligible test scores as proof of English proficiency

• Proof of medical, non-medical, and any other activity undertaken in the last 5 years, or since graduation.

• A valid and reasonable explanation for any gap(s) in the academic or medical practice years (if applicable)

Below is a list of the potential jobs after MBBS, along with the estimated average annual salaries in GBP and INR for your easy reference:

Want more guidance on which college or university to opt for your MBBS program in the US in 2023? Allow IDP’s International Education experts to assist you in making the most critical decision of your career with ease.

Big News for Indian Students: The UK Is Ready to Welcome You!

Frequently Answered Questions

Ques 1. Is MBBS from the UK valid in India?

Ans: Yes, an MBBS received from the UK is valid in India since it is approved by the Medical Council of India or MCI. Moreover, MBBS graduates from UK universities do not need to give the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination to practice in their home country, India.

Ques 2. Can I study MBBS in the UK without NEET?

Ans: Yes, Indian students in the UK can pursue MBBS without appearing for or passing the NEET test. Some UK universities that offer MBBS are open to accepting other tests in place of NEET for admitting Indian students into the program.

Ques 3. How much does it cost to study medicine in the UK?

Ans: The average cost of studying Medicine in the UK is estimated to be approximately GBP 22,000. However, this cost may vary depending on the university chosen as well as the location of the institution.

Ques 4. How many medical colleges are there in the UK?

Ans: There are a total of 33 medical colleges in the country, which are recognized by the General Medical Council. Of these, 25 are situated in England, 5 are in Scotland, 2 can be found in Wales, and 1 finds a base in Northern Ireland.

Ques 5. How much does an MBBS doctor earn in the UK?

Ans: An MBBS doctor is estimated to earn around £58,778 in the UK, which may vary as per change in experience and upgrade in skillset.

Ques 6. How many years are required to study MBBS in the UK?

Ans: The average duration of an MBBS program in the UK is 5-6 years. However, this may sometimes vary from one university to another.

Ques 7. Can I do PG after MBBS in the UK?

Ans: Yes, it is possible to pursue a PG course after earning an MBBS from the UK. The country offers globally recognised MBBS degrees at its universities, which makes it easier for students to continue their advanced studies anywhere in the world.

Read more insightful articles