For thousands of Indian students each year, MBBS in India is a challenge because of restricted seats and cutthroat competition. Medical studies are exceedingly expensive as private Indian schools cost between ₹70 lakh and more than ₹1 crore. Hence, numerous students go for affordable MBBS abroad with international recognition, English medium of instruction, and low expenditure on living.
Though most apparent to look for are the costs of tuition, other factors like living costs, FMGE performance, NMC recognition, and cultural adjustment also contribute significantly. FMGE, soon to be replaced by NExT (National Exit Test), is compulsory for Indian students to practice medicine in India if they have pursued MBBS abroad.
The following are the top 10 affordable MBBS Abroad options for Indian students that are considered cheap and quality places on the basis of tuition costs, living costs, FMGE performances, and overall benefits.
Read Also: MBBS in India vs MBBS Abroad: Which is Right for You?
Table of Contents
At a Glance: Top 10 MBBS Abroad Countries
These are the 10 countries which offer the best quality of MBBS education in the most affordable expenditures. Indian candidates who wish to pursue MBBS from abroad should surely consider these countries especially the one’s who are looking for budget friendly options.
| Country | Tuition (USD/year) | Tuition (INR/year) | Living (USD/year) | Living (INR/year) | Total (USD/year) | Total (INR/year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uzbekistan | $2,800-$4,000 | ₹2,46,400-₹3,52,000 | $2,000-$2,500 | ₹1,76,000-₹2,20,000 | $4,800-$6,500 | ₹4,22,400-₹5,72,000 |
| Kazakhstan | $3,000-$4,500 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,96,000 | $2,500-$3,000 | ₹2,20,000-₹2,64,000 | $5,500-$7,500 | ₹4,84,000-₹6,60,000 |
| Kyrgyzstan | $3,000-$4,200 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,69,600 | $2,000-$2,500 | ₹1,76,000-₹2,20,000 | $5,000-$6,700 | ₹4,40,000-₹5,89,600 |
| Bangladesh | $3,500-$5,000 | ₹3,08,000-₹4,40,000 | $2,500-$3,000 | ₹2,20,000-₹2,64,000 | $6,000-$8,000 | ₹5,28,000-₹7,04,000 |
| Georgia | $4,500-$6,000 | ₹3,96,000-₹5,28,000 | $3,000-$3,500 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,08,000 | $7,500-$9,500 | ₹6,60,000-₹8,36,000 |
| Nepal | $4,000-$6,000 | ₹3,52,000-₹5,28,000 | $3,000-$3,500 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,08,000 | $7,000-$9,500 | ₹6,16,000-₹8,36,000 |
| Egypt | $4,500-$6,000 | ₹3,96,000-₹5,28,000 | $2,500-$3,000 | ₹2,20,000-₹2,64,000 | $7,000-$9,000 | ₹6,16,000-₹7,92,000 |
| Philippines | $4,500-$6,500 | ₹3,96,000-₹5,72,000 | $3,000-$3,500 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,08,000 | $7,500-$10,000 | ₹6,60,000-₹8,80,000 |
| Russia | $4,000-$6,000 | ₹3,52,000-₹5,28,000 | $3,000-$4,000 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,52,000 | $7,000-$10,000 | ₹6,16,000-₹8,80,000 |
| China | $4,000-$7,000 | ₹3,52,000-₹6,16,000 | $3,000-$4,000 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,52,000 | $7,500-$11,000 | ₹6,60,000-₹9,68,000 |
Note: Approximate fee conversions (1 USD = ₹88 INR) can differ due to the exchange rate.
Read Also: MBBS in India vs Russia vs Georgia vs Bangadesh: Complete Comparision
Georgia: A Popular Destination for Indian Students
MBBS in Georgia has been steadily becoming popular for Indian students by providing the appropriate combination of affordability and quality. With lower fees than most Western countries and affordable living costs, Georgia has a balance that is extremely appealing to middle-class Indian families. Fees range from $4,500-$6,000/year (₹3,96,000-₹5,28,000), and living costs range from $3,000-$3,500/year (₹2,64,000-₹3,08,000).
| University | Tuition (USD/year) | Tuition (INR/year) | Living (USD/year) | Living (INR/year) | Total (USD/year) | Total (INR/year) | FMGE Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tbilisi State Medical University | $5,000-$6,000 | ₹4,40,000-₹5,28,000 | $3,000-$3,500 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,08,000 | $8,000-$9,500 | ₹7,04,000-₹8,36,000 | 22-25% |
| University of Georgia, Tbilisi | $4,800-$5,500 | ₹4,22,400-₹4,84,000 | $3,000-$3,500 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,08,000 | $7,800-$9,000 | ₹6,86,400-₹7,92,000 | 21-23% |
| Grigol Robakidze University Georgia (GRUNI) | $5,000-$5500 | ₹4.41,300-₹4,85,500 | $2,500-$3,000 | ₹2,20,600-₹2,64,800 | $7,500-$8,500 | ₹6,62,000-₹7,50,300 | 17-20% |
The medical universities of Georgia are NMC-approved and WHO-listed and provide English-medium instruction. The cherry on top is that the FMGE passing rate of Indian students in Georgia has been noticeably better than those from China or Russia. Georgia’s near-30-35% pass rates in 2024 were significantly higher than China’s meager single-digit low.
Strengths:
- Lower fees compared to Western universities.
- English-medium teaching, which simplifies learning for Indian students.
- Better FMGE pass rates than China and Russia.
- European-style medical education and exposure.
Weaknesses:
- Slightly higher living costs than Nepal or Bangladesh.
- Adjustment period due to European culture and climate.
Verdict: Georgia is in balance with cost, quality, and success in FMGE and hence a good option for affordable MBBS abroad.
Kazakhstan: Accessible and Affordable
MBBS in Kazakhstan has a number of NMC-approved universities with fees ranging from $3,000 -$4,500/year (₹2,64,000-₹3,96,000) and living expenses $2,500-$3,000/year (₹2,20,000-₹2,64,000). Kazakhstan offers low-cost MBBS courses with a focus on practical exposure. Fee packages are similar to Kyrgyzstan, but slightly higher.
| University | Tuition (USD/year) | Tuition (INR/year) | Living (USD/year) | Living (INR/year) | Total (USD/year) | Total (INR/year) | FMGE Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al-Farabi Kazakh National Univ. | $3,500-$4,000 | ₹3,08,000-₹3,52,000 | $2,500-$3,000 | ₹2,20,000-₹2,64,000 | $6,000-$7,000 | ₹5,28,000-₹6,16,000 | 18-20% |
| Kazakh National Medical Univ. | $3,800-$4,500 | ₹3,34,400-₹3,96,000 | $2,500-$3,000 | ₹2,20,000-₹2,64,000 | $6,300-$7,500 | ₹5,54,400-₹6,60,000 | 16-18% |
| South Kazakhstan Medical Acad. | $3,000-$3,500 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,08,000 | $2,300-$2,800 | ₹2,02,400-₹2,46,400 | $5,300-$6,300 | ₹4,66,400-₹5,54,400 | 15-17% |
FMGE scores range around 15-20%, which indicates that while it may be affordable, it may not guarantee very high levels of performance for Indian students.
Strengths:
- Low fee structure.
- English-medium courses conducted.
- Spacious campus with decent facilities.
Weaknesses:
- Low FMGE pass percentage compared to Nepal and Georgia.
- Harsh climate and need to adapt to culture.
Verdict: Kazakhstan offers affordable MBBS abroad with moderate FMGE results.
Uzbekistan: Getting Popular
MBBS in Uzbekistan provides affordable tuition and living costs with NMC-approved universities. The fees are between $2,800-$3,500/year (₹2,46,400-₹3,08,000), and living cost $2,000 -$2,500/year (₹1,76,000-₹2,20,000). Uzbekistan has also become a hub for Indian students in recent times by offering very reasonable tuition fees and low living costs. MBBS courses are NMC-approved and in English.
| University | Tuition (USD/year) | Tuition (INR/year) | Living (USD/year) | Living (INR/year) | Total (USD/year) | Total (INR/year) | FMGE Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tashkent Medical Academy | $3,000-$3,500 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,08,000 | $2,000-$2,500 | ₹1,76,000-₹2,20,000 | $5,000-$6,000 | ₹4,40,000-₹5,28,000 | 12-14% |
| Samarkand State Medical Univ | $2,800-$3,200 | ₹2,46,400-₹2,81,600 | $2,000-$2,300 | ₹1,76,000-₹2,02,400 | $4,800-$5,500 | ₹4,22,400-₹4,84,000 | 10-12% |
Passing percentage in FMGE is mediocre with pass percentages of 12-14%. Yet, because of the affordability, students with tight purse strings find Uzbekistan to be one among the low-cost MBBS abroad options.
Strengths:
- Extremely low living and fee costs.
- English medium available in most of the universities.
- More popularity among Indian students.
Weak aspects:
- FMGE scores below Nepal, Bangladesh, Georgia.
- Clinical exposure not as developed as in Europe or Philippines.
Verdict: Uzbekistan is a good bet for budget-conscious students seeking affordable MBBS abroad, albeit FMGE results are lower compared to Georgia and Nepal.
Kyrgyzstan: Affordable MBBS Education
MBBS in Kyrgyzstan has moderate fees ($3,000-$4,200/year; ₹2,64,000-₹3,69,600) and living expenses ($2,000-$2,500/year; ₹1,76,000-₹2,20,000). Kyrgyzstan is greatly well-known for very low fees. Most of the Indian students are fond of this country due to cost restrictions.
| University | Tuition (USD/year) | Tuition (INR/year) | Living (USD/year) | Living (INR/year) | Total (USD/year) | Total (INR/year) | FMGE Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kyrgyz State Medical Academy | $3,200-$3,800 | ₹2,81,600-₹3,34,400 | $2,000-$2,500 | ₹1,76,000 – ₹2,20,000 | $5,200-$6,300 | ₹4,57,600-₹5,54,400 | 14-16% |
| Osh State University | $3,000-$3,500 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,08,000 | $2,000-$2,300 | ₹1,76,000-₹2,02,400 | $5,000-$5,800 | ₹4,40,000-₹5,10,400 | 13-15% |
FMGE scores are average, with pass percentages being 15-18%. While infrastructure is not as developed as Russia or China, the cost-effectiveness makes Kyrgyzstan a top contender among cheap MBBS abroad destinations.
Strengths:
- Low-cost MBBS option (very low price).
- Shorter duration of course (5 years) minimizes cost.
- Straightforward admission process.
Weaknesses:
- Less international recognition than Georgia or Russia.
- FMGE pass rate less than 20%.
Verdict: Kyrgyzstan is suitable for students seeking one of the cheapest MBBS abroad with good value for money.
Bangladesh: Cultural and Academic Proximity
MBBS in Bangladesh is culturally close to India with moderate tuition ($3,500-$5,000/year; ₹3,08,000-₹4,40,000) and living costs ($2,500-$3,000/year; ₹2,20,000-₹2,64,000). FMGE pass rates range 24-27%. Bangladesh is similarly a top choice for affordable MBBS abroad as its educational pattern closely replicates India’s MBBS model. The fees are marginally higher than Nepal but affordable.
| University | Tuition (USD/year) | Tuition (INR/year) | Living (USD/year) | Living (INR/year) | Total (USD/year) | Total (INR/year) | FMGE Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dhaka National Medical College | $3,500-$4,500 | ₹3,08,000-₹3,96,000 | $2,500-$3,000 | ₹2,20,000-₹2,64,000 | $6,000-$7,500 | ₹5,28,000-₹6,60,000 | 25-27% |
| Chittagong Medical College | $3,500-$5,000 | ₹3,08,000-₹4,40,000 | $2,500-$3,000 | ₹2,20,000-₹2,64,000 | $6,000-$8,000 | ₹5,28,000-₹7,04,000 | 24-26% |
Strengths:
- Known culture, food, and climate.
- Exceptional FMGE pass percentages (over 30%).
- Low accommodation and living expenses.
Weak points:
- Slightly higher tuition fees than Central Asia.
- Limited seats in top government colleges.
Verdict: Bangladesh is a solid option for students looking for cheapest MBBS option nearer to home with cultural convenience and positive FMGE results.
Nepal: Low-Cost and Nearby
MBBS in Nepal has fees of $4,000-$6,000/year (₹3,52,000-₹5,28,000) and living expenses of $3,000-$3,500/year (₹2,64,000-₹3,08,000). FMGE pass percentages are 20-23%. Nepal’s popularity due to cultural familiarity, identical eating habits, and no language barrier. Nepal fees are affordable in comparison to Central Asia but still much lower than Indian private colleges.
| University | Tuition (USD/year) | Tuition (INR/year) | Living (USD/year) | Living (INR/year) | Total (USD/year) | Total (INR/year) | FMGE Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu University | $4,000-$5,500 | ₹3,52,000-₹4,84,000 | $3,000-$3,500 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,08,000 | $7,000-$9,000 | ₹6,16,000-₹7,92,000 | 21-23% |
| BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences | $4,000-$6,000 | ₹3,52,000-₹5,28,000 | $3,000-$3,500 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,08,000 | $7,000-$9,500 | ₹6,16,000-₹8,36,000 | 20-22% |
Nepal’s FMGE pass percentages are one of the highest, at 30-35% in recent years. For economically seeking MBBS abroad Indian students, Nepal is familiarity and nearness, with no need for further cultural adaptation.
Strengths:
- Culturally and geographically closest to India.
- Reasonably good fees with good clinical exposure.
- FMGE pass percentages higher compared to most countries.
Weaknesses:
- Slightly higher than the fees of Central Asian nations.
- Very few seats for foreign students.
Verdict: Nepal is within reach for students looking for cheapest MBBS abroad with proximity and acceptable academic standards.
Egypt: Inexpensive and Popular
MBBS in Egypt provides fees between $4,500-$6,000/year (₹3,96,000-₹5,28,000) and living expenses $2,500-$3,000/year (₹2,20,000-₹2,64,000). Egypt rounds off the list with a mix of history, culture, and affordability. Cost is moderate, with living expenses less than Russia or China.
| University | Tuition (USD/year) | Tuition (INR/year) | Living (USD/year) | Living (INR/year) | Total (USD/year) | Total (INR/year) | FMGE Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cairo University | $4,500-$6,000 | ₹3,96,000-₹5,28,000 | $2,500-$3,000 | ₹2,20,000-₹2,64,000 | $7,000-$9,000 | ₹6,16,000-₹7,92,000 | 18-20% |
| Ain Shams University | $4,500-$5,500 | ₹3,96,000-₹4,84,000 | $2,500-$3,000 | ₹2,20,000-₹2,64,000 | $7,000-$8,500 | ₹6,16,000-₹7,48,000 | 17-19% |
FMGE pass percentages range from 17-20%, so although affordable, may not be the best for students focusing on practicing in India.
Strengths:
- Low charges and living expenses
- Strong background and rich heritage
- Good infrastructure of medical universities
Weak points:
- Moderate FMGE results
- Arabic language exposure during clinicals
- FMGE Pass Percentage Comparison of Best MBBS Foreign Countries
- table
Verdict: Egypt is a good choice for students looking for cheapest MBBS abroad with acceptable results.
Philippines: American-Style MBBS
English-medium education is offeredfor MBBS in the Philippines with tuition charges $4,500-$6,500/year (₹3,96,000-₹5,72,000) and living expenses $3,000-$3,500/year (₹2,64,000-₹3,08,000). Philippines has gained steam due to its US-based medical education. It follows a BS+MD pattern in which students pursue a pre-medical course first followed by MBBS.
| University | Tuition (USD/year) | Tuition (INR/year) | Living (USD/year) | Living (INR/year) | Total (USD/year) | Total (INR/year) | FMGE Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Santo Tomas | $4,500-$6,000 | ₹3,96,000-₹5,28,000 | $3,000-$3,500 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,08,000 | $7,500-$9,500 | ₹6,60,000-₹8,36,000 | 18-20% |
| University of Perpetual Help | $4,500-$5,500 | ₹3,96,000-₹4,84,000 | $3,000-$3,500 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,08,000 | $7,500-$9,000 | ₹6,60,000-₹7,92,000 | 17-19% |
| Cebu Doctors’ University | $4,800-$6,000 | ₹4,22,400-₹5,28,000 | $3,000-$3,500 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,08,000 | $7,800-$9,500 | ₹6,86,400-₹8,36,000 | 18-21% |
FMGE passing percentages are slightly higher than most Central Asian nations at 17-21%. Living expenses are moderate but a bit higher than Bangladesh.
Strengths:
- English-speaking nation, no language issue
- US-style curriculum good for USMLE exams
- FMGE passing percentage around 25%
Weaknesses:
- Course duration longer due to BS+MD model.
- Increased living expenses relative to Central Asia.
- Verdict: The Philippines is apt for cheapest MBBS abroad with English-medium education and good FMGE results.
Russia: Budget-friendly Russian MBBS
MBBS in Russia offers tuition $4,000-$6,000/annum (₹3,52,000-₹5,28,000) and living expenses $3,000-$4,000/annum (₹2,64,000 -₹3,52,000). Russia has remained a popular destination for Indian students over the decades. Although more expensive MBBS abroad here relative to Central Asia, Russia provides good academics and cultural experience.
| University | Tuition (USD/year) | Tuition (INR/year) | Living (USD/year) | Living (INR/year) | Total (USD/year) | Total (INR/year) | FMGE Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moscow State Medical University | $5,000-$6,000 | ₹4,40,000-₹5,28,000 | $3,500-$4,000 | ₹3,08,000-₹3,52,000 | $8,500-$10,000 | ₹7,48,000-₹8,80,000 | 19-21% |
| Saint Petersburg State Medical University | $4,000-$5,500 | ₹3,52,000-₹4,84,000 | $3,000-$3,500 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,08,000 | $7,000-$9,000 | ₹6,16,000-₹7,92,000 | 18-20% |
FMGE pass percentage is moderate between 15-20%. Living expenses are slightly higher with urban lifestyle in large Russian cities.
Strengths:
- Established global-standard institutions
- Good cultural exposure
- Good range of specializations available
Weaknesses:
- FMGE pass percentage relatively low
- Russian language required in the hospital for clinical practice
Verdict: Russia offers cheapest MBBS abroad with high quality academic exposure and approved degrees.
China: Contemporary MBBS Abroad Choice
MBBS in China attracts Indian students with huge universities, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and English-medium courses. Fee varies $4,000-$7,000/year (₹3,52,000-₹6,16,000) and living expenses $3,000-$4,000/year (₹2,64,000-₹3,52,000). China offers cutting-edge infrastructure and internationally recognized degrees. Tuition costs more than in most Central Asian countries, yet less than private Indian institutes.
| University | Tuition (USD/year) | Tuition (INR/year) | Living (USD/year) | Living (INR/year) | Total (USD/year) | Total (INR/year) | FMGE Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zhejiang University | $5,000-$7,000 | ₹4,40,000-₹6,16,000 | $3,000-$4,000 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,52,000 | $8,000-$11,000 | ₹7,04,000-₹9,68,000 | 18-20% |
| China Medical University | $4,000-$6,000 | ₹3,52,000-₹5,28,000 | $3,000-$4,000 | ₹2,64,000-₹3,52,000 | $7,000-$10,000 | ₹6,16,000-₹8,80,000 | 17-19% |
FMGE performance has been weak, however. It dipped to as low as 9.09% in 2023, which is a weak point despite quality education. However, it did jump back to a respectable 17-20%
Strengths:
- World-class infrastructure
- Global recognition of Chinese universities
- High clinical exposure
Weaknesses:
- Average FMGE performance.
- Language barrier in clinical practice
Verdict: China is suitable for students seeking modern infrastructure and globally recognized degrees.
FMGE/NExT Performance Comparison
FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) results are a crucial factor for Indian students to practice medicine after completing MBBS abroad. The table below summarizes the average FMGE pass rates across the top 10 cheapest MBBS abroad countries.
| Country | Average FMGE Pass Rate (%) |
|---|---|
| Georgia | 20-25 |
| Nepal | 20-23 |
| Bangladesh | 24-27 |
| Philippines | 17-21 |
| Russia | 18-21 |
| China | 17-20 |
| Kazakhstan | 15-20 |
| Kyrgyzstan | 13-16 |
| Uzbekistan | 10-14 |
| Egypt | 17-20 |
Key Takeaways for Students Seeking Affordable MBBS Abroad
Cost vs Quality
Central Asian countries like Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan are extremely low-cost but with relatively average FMGE success.
Georgia, Nepal, and Bangladesh balance cheapness and higher FMGE passing percentages.
Cultural Convenience
Nepal and Bangladesh are culturally similar to India and acclimatize sooner.
Georgia offers a safe and English-speaking nation with medium cultural adaptability.
Accreditation & Recognition
All 10 mentioned countries have NMC-approved universities.
WHO approval exists for most top universities, which is essential for practicing medicine abroad.
approval is seen in most of the top institutions, which is most pertinent for foreign practice.
Living Cost
Bangladesh, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan are lowest in living cost.
China, Russia, and Philippines are relatively higher in living expense but provide advanced infrastructure.
Academic Exposure & Infrastructure
Philippines, China, Georgia, and Russia provide decent clinical exposure and recent infrastructure.
Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan provide low-cost MBBS with low-profile clinical training.
Read Also: Top 10 NMC Approved Medical Colleges Abroad For Indian Students
Conclusion
Choosing a nation for MBBS abroad should be an optimal blend of fees, living expenses, FMGE marks, and cultural acclimatization. Though extremely low-priced are the Central Asian countries like Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, relatively costlier but better in FMGE scores and picturesque to live are Georgia, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
For affordable MBBS abroad, Georgia is ideal because:
- Affordable fee and living expenses
- High FMGE pass rates
- Safe and English-speaking country
Nepal, Bangladesh, Philippines, Russia, and China are some other alternatives that provide a balance between affordability, modern facilities, and international acceptability. Ultimately, it depends on budget, comfort level with culture, and future career options.
Indian students looking for affordable MBBS abroad need to look at all these considerations and choose an option that has cost, quality, and future prospects balanced.
Read Also: MBBS Abroad Migration Trends 2025
Note: All fees are calculated at 1 USD = ₹88 INR and may vary with currency exchange rates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it necessary to learn the local language while studying MBBS abroad?
While most universities in the listed countries offer English-medium courses, learning the local language is often required for clinical practice in hospitals during later years. Basic proficiency helps in patient interaction and daily life.
Can Indian students work part-time while studying MBBS abroad?
This depends on the country’s visa rules. For example, students in Russia and China usually cannot work during studies, while countries like the Philippines and Georgia allow limited part-time work with conditions.
What documents are generally required for MBBS admission abroad?
Typically, students need: 10th and 12th marksheets (with PCB subjects), Passport and valid student visa, NEET qualification scorecard, Admission letter from the university, Medical fitness and financial proof.
What is the duration of MBBS abroad compared to India?
In most countries, MBBS abroad takes 5-6 years (including internship), which is similar to India. However, some countries like the Philippines may require a pre-med course before MBBS, slightly extending the duration.
Do students get scholarships for MBBS abroad?
Yes, many universities offer merit-based or need-based scholarships. For example, some universities in Russia, China, and Georgia have government scholarships, while others offer partial tuition waivers for top-performing students.
