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MBBS in the US

Written by  Rachit Agrawal, MBA

Published on Thu, November 26, 2020 7:34 AM   Updated on Tue, November 23, 2021 12:30 PM   16 mins read
Source: Yukti Belwal

Medicine is considered to be one of the noblest professions all across the world. If you have studied medicine in the US you will be among the most sought-after medical professionals in the world. MBBS in the US is a dream for many students in India and all around the world who aspire to become the best medical practitioners in the world as well for those who want to pursue research. MBBS in the US is known as Doctor of Medicine (MD). The system of medical education in the US is quite different from the rest of the world and for the same reason of rigorousness, MBBS from the US is greatly valued. 

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MBBS in the US after 12th:

The pattern of medical education in the US is a bit complicated as one has to go through a rigorous procedure to get themselves into the best medical schools in the world. Getting admission in a prestigious medical school in the US is as tough and competitive as in India. However, all the hardship is worth it as you get to become one of the best doctors in the world. 

The eligibility criteria for MBBS in the US after 12th are as follows:

  • Higher Secondary Examination Certificate from a recognized Indian education board.
  • A bachelor’s or equivalent degree with physics, chemistry, biology, and related subjects.
  • NEET and MCAT scorecards.
  • IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent English proficiency scorecards.
  • Letters of recommendation.
  • Resume

MBBS in the US Fee Structure

Fee structure for MBBS in the US is illustrated as follows:

Fee TypeFee Amount (in USD)
AMCAS170
US Student Visa160
MCAT315
NEET20
IELTS/TOEFL185-190/160-250
Tuition 13,790-80,000

Cost Of MBBS In the USA

The cost of MBBS in the USA is comparatively high as compared to other countries; also, the fees of private colleges are very high than public colleges. Though the chances of getting admission to public colleges are very slim. Thus the cost of pursuing MBBS from a reputed private college is around $50000 per year. Cost of living RS.15000 per month 

  • Expensive compared to other countries 
  • The fee is about $45000 per year 
  • Cost of living is around 15000 rupees per month excluding accommodation 
  • Students can work part-time to reduce expenses 
  • Scholarships available to students on merit 

MBBS in USA Eligibility 

Students who meet minimum eligibility criteria can apply to colleges and universities in the USA. The student should be of at least 18 years. MBBS in India is an undergraduate degree, whereas, in the USA, it is a postgraduate degree; thus, either student can go to the USA after completing their graduation in India itself or pursue their graduation in the USA.

  • Should be of at least 18 years of age 
  • Completed 10+2 with physics, chemistry, and biology 
  • With more than 50% marks 
  • The cleared MCAT entrance test 
  • Qualified English proficiency exams – IELTS/TOEFL 
  • As there is a lot of competition, students with extraordinary marks have a more competitive edge.

Universities for MBBS in the US

The US boasts of one of the most prominent medical universities in the world. Universities in the US are known for their state-of-the-art infrastructure and research facilities. They produce one of the best medical practitioners in the world. Some of the best universities for MBBS in the US are as follows:

  • Harvard University.
  • Tufts University.
  • Brown University.
  • Columbia University.
  • Washington University. 

Government Medical Colleges in the US

Though the funding pattern of universities and colleges is different in the US than in India or any other country, yet several medical schools in the US get generous federal and state funding and grants. However, most of the top universities and colleges are autonomous and self-sustaining. The list of some government medical colleges in the US is as follows:

  1. Johns Hopkins University.
  2. Mayo Clinic School of Medicine.
  3. The University of California-San Francisco.
  4. The University of Pennsylvania.
  5. University of California- Los Angeles.

Best MBBS Colleges in the US

The US is home to one of the best medical schools in the world. They offer world-class research-based education with a huge repository of knowledge. Some of the best MBBS colleges in the US are as follows:

  • Harvard Medical School.
  • John Hopkins School of Medicine.
  • University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine.
  • NYU Grossman School of Medicine.
  • Stanford University School of Medicine.

Medical Colleges In USA For MBBS 

USA is a home to top medical colleges that offers MBBS, MB, and MS courses for the students. Students should ensure that MCI should recognize whichever University or college they choose. Some of the top colleges in the USA offering MBBS are –

Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Harvard University is an Ivy League research university. It is ranked number 1 in almost all the overall surveys of the world for medicine and research. Harvard graduates have a reputation because of the prestige and the standard maintained by the University since its beginning. Besides this, the other degrees, the University also offers Ph.D. Programs in biological and biomedical sciences, immunology, neuroscience, and virology.

John Hopkins, Baltimore, Maryland

One of the first research universities in the USA, John Hopkins University, has a good reputation. It is one of the most sought after universities and medical schools in the country. As high the cut off seems, the admission rate makes it even more challenging to get in. The acceptance rate is very low i.e., close to 2 %.

University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania is an Ivy League research university. In addition to MD, Ph.D. and post-doctoral degrees, the University of Pennsylvania also offers certificates courses. This University is known for producing the best doctors. Sheer and hard work and determination can quickly help you get a seat here.

Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut

Yale has been a pioneer institute in the field of medical science. It has been rewarded as an institute for major medical innovations; most importantly, the use of robotics to reduce trauma and recovery of surgery has won many awards. It has also been ranked first for its drug and alcohol abuse program.

Stanford University, Stanford, California

Stanford is a leading university in the world and has a global ranking ranging between 1-5. It is an American research university. It is a research-driven school that aims to promote diversity and empowering future generations to make them resourceful and adaptable. What makes it stand out from the others is its diversity, collaborative discoveries, and innovations in the field of research and education. 

The University of California, San Francisco, California

The University of California (UC) is a public university system in the US. It is a center for health sciences research, patient care, and education, widely famed as the best for medical and health sciences. There are several other departments to it, and after MBBS, one can also pursue specialization or research in related medical fields.

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), California

UCLA is home to the teaching hospital, Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, which ranks among the top 5 hospitals. Known for various news positive as well as negative, it still stands as one of the topmost universities for medical sciences. It is coupled with a large number of funds in donations to medical students regardless of their economic background.

The University of Washington – School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington

The University of Washington – School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, is a private research university. It is ranked as one of the top medical colleges. It offers Undergraduate programs in various fields.

University of Oklahoma College of Medicine

The University of Oklahoma College of Medicine is a constituent of University and was founded in 1900. The college has more than 650students enrolled and offers admission through MCAT. There are many medical centers on campus.

MBBS in the US for Indian Students

Pursuing MBBS in the US is a dream for many students in India. However, it may turn into a nightmare if the planning is not proper. MD, as is known in the US is a rigorous and tedious process that demands grit, determination, and perseverance. Hence, it attracts the most promising candidates all over the world. For an Indian student, it takes around an average of seven to eight years to complete the MBBS/MD in the US right from a bachelor’s degree to appearing for MCAT, USMLE 1, USMLE 2, and USMLE 3 examinations to practice in the US, India, or anywhere in the world. Some mandatory requirements for Indian students who want to pursue MBBS in the US are:

  • 10+2 mark sheet from a recognized Board.
  • NEET scorecard
  • A bachelor’s degree (BS/ B.Sc.).
  • English proficiency test scorecard.
  • MCAT scorecard.
  • USMLE Level-1, 2, 3 certifications.

After completing the degree, one can practice almost anywhere in the world including India as the US MD degrees are valid everywhere.

Fees for MBBS in the US for Indian Students

Pursuing MBBS in the US can be quite an expensive affair for an ordinary student. It may range from ₹11 lakhs to ₹61 lakhs including the student visa fee, application fee, English proficiency test fee, MCAT, and AMCAS fee. However, many colleges offer generous scholarships depending upon the merit.

Medical Colleges in the US for Indian Students

44 out of 50 states in the US have a sophisticated network of medical schools and colleges with excellent faculties and a good repository of in-depth knowledge and skills. The list of some top medical colleges for Indian students is given below:

  • Harvard Medical School.
  • John Hopkins School of Medicine.
  • Texas A&M School of Medicine.
  • Chapel School of Medicine, University of North Carolina.
  • Mayo Clinic School of Medicine.

MBBS in the US for International Students

The US is the most sought after place for pursuing medicine (MBBS) by international students. It opens the door to industrial exposure, intense research, and a treasure trove of knowledge for ambitious students all over the world. The basic pre-requisites for pursuing MBBS in the US for international students are:

  • A minimum of 50% at the 10+2 level.
  • A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university in the home country or a BS degree from the US.
  • A competitive English proficiency test scorecard.
  • MCAT scorecard.

A candidate may apply for admission through the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) with documents such as travel and health insurance, copies of academic certificates, passport and a valid visa, birth certificate, passport size photographs, letter of recommendation, NOC, sponsor letter, and a document proving your financial status.

How to Study MBBS in the US

MBBS in the US is an MD degree whose process starts with a bachelor’s degree (BS) with majors like physics, chemistry, biology, calculus, sociology, medical terminology, mathematics, anatomy, and English. It takes around 1.5 years to complete a BS or a pre-medical course. After successful completion of the pre-medical course, you become eligible for an MD program for which you will have to qualify for Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). It is a 4-year specialization program which is divided into two stages of equal duration, viz. theoretical and practical stage. You will have to appear for Unites States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) in two stages to get the certification for both stages. Students who have qualifies USMLE Stage 2 are eligible for the Residency program which generally USMLE Stage 3 to get the license to practice as a doctor. Your degree is finally complete with this process.

Courses After MBBS in the US

MBBS degree is the first step in a medical career, a student who has completed his/her MBA can go for practice right away. Still, most students go for further studies because there is a lot of scope of post-graduation after MBBS Specialization courses are available for students. MD or MS can be done along with diploma courses to gain knowledge and add value to one’s career. Students have to pass the USMLE entrance exam for PG aspirants in the USA.

Top 10 courses after MBBS

Practice in Dermatology

It is a PG level course of 3 years, which gives specialization in skin, hair, and other parts of the human body.

Practice in General Surgery 

It is a PG level course of 3 years which gives specialization in general surgeries, which include minor surgeries which can be done in case of emergencies. 

Practice in Obstetrics & Gynaecology

It is a PG level course of 3 years, which gives specialization in pregnancy and childbirth.

Practice in Ophthalmology 

It is a PG level course of 3 years, which gives specialization in eye disorders and its treatment.

Diploma in ENT.

It is a PG level course of 3 years, which gives specialization in Ear, Nose, and Throat and deals with neck and head problems.

Immuno-technology 

Immuno-technology is an emerging field in medicine that relates to developing antidotes and preventive medicine.

Diploma in Radiotherapy 

Radiotherapy deals with reducing cancer cells and the removal of cancer and its cure.

Early Detection of Cancer

Study in this field is research-related and helps to identify ways to detect cancer at its starting stage.

Biomedical Simulation 

This course is also research and applied science-based; students learn to facilitate the transfer of cognitive, psychomotor, and proper communication competences.

MBA

MBA is also an option after MBBS, and many students pursue an MBA to get better knowledge about the management of staff and work.

MBBS In the USA For International Students 

The USA is the leading destination in the world to study medicine and attracts many students from all over the world; some of the top universities and colleges are present in the State for medicine. The USA boasts the latest technology and quality education with worldwide recognition.

Also, there are excellent employment opportunities in the USA for medical practitioners.

  • Excellent Quality of Education.
  • Degree recognized worldwide.
  • No language problem as only the English language is used for the study.
  • Easy admission process 
  • Great exposure and experience for students 
  • Number of employment opportunities available 

MBBS in the US with Scholarship

The scholarship provided to the students pursuing medicine depends upon their financial status, marital status, dependency, merit, country of origin. Many top universities such as Harvard, Yale, John Hopkins, and Washington offer generous scholarships in the form of grants, easy term loans, fellowships, etc. The scholarship may also depend upon the status of your residence and country of origin. Some universities do not offer any scholarship to the immigrating students while others do. Universities such as Harvard provide a tuition-fee waiver in the form of Harvard Medical School Scholarship while Columbia offers tuition as well as living cost waivers in the form of Vagelos Scholarship.   

Duration of MBBS in the US

The duration of MBBS depends upon the type of specialization you choose. It takes around four years to complete MD followed by three to four years of Residency. The duration may range from 6 years for a pediatrician to 11 years for a neurosurgeon. On average, it takes around 7 years to complete the MBBS (MD) in the US.

Entrance Exam for MBBS in the US

You need to give an entrance exam for pursuing MBBS in the US, provided you have completed your bachelor’s degree. The entrance examination is called as Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) conducted by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). Scoring 500+ in MCAT is considered as a gateway to top medical schools in the US. After securing admission, you have to go for further certifications in the form of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) in various stages of Level 1, Ck, Cs, and Level 3 during your degree as well as Residency.

FAQs

✅ What is the average cost of doing MBBS from the US?

Ans. The cost of pursuing MBBS may vary according to the college, university, or state. Some state universities offer quite an affordable fee structure to the tune of USD 15000- USD 20000 excluding the cost of living. However, the average cost of doing MBBS is around ₹75 lakhs including food, accommodation, and transport.

✅ Do I have to pursue a BS again in the US after I have done my B.Sc. in India?

Ans. No. You don’t have to pursue BS or any bachelor’s degree again once you have done your bachelor’s degree from India. You can directly apply for MCAT to pursue MD.

✅ Can I practice in India directly after completing my MBBS from the US?

Ans. Yes. Medical education in the US is recognized by the Medical Council of India (MCI, now NMC). If you do an MBBS from any other country, you are required to take Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) to practice in India which is conducted by the MCI (now NMC) but if you complete your MBBS from the US then you don’t have to appear for FMGE and can directly practice medicine anywhere in the country.

✅ Can I pursue medicine in the US if I have passed my 10+2 examination in Humanities?

Ans. Passing your 10+2 in Humanities and appearing for MBBS entrance can be tricky. Although it is mandatory to have a bachelor’s degree in the related subjects of biology, chemistry, and physics (PCB/M), theoretically you can be eligible for MCAT while having a humanities background in 10+2. However, you are advised to take up PCB/M in your 10+2 as many universities may have criteria for the same.

✅ Can I appear for the MCAT with a graduate degree in Humanities?

Ans. No. You can not appear for the MCAT with a graduate degree in humanities. It is mandatory to have a graduate degree in the subjects of science.

About the Author & Expert

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Rachit Agrawal

Author • MBA • 20 Years

Rachit believes in the power of education and has studied from the top institutes of IIIT Allahabad, IIM Calcutta, and Francois Rabelias in France. He has worked as Software Developer with Microsoft and Adobe. Post his MBA, he worked with the world's # 1 consulting firm, The Boston Consulting Group across multiple geographies US, South-East Asia and Europe.

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