MBBS in UK for Indian Students: A Complete Guide

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Overview

The United Kingdom is recognised for having one of the world's oldest and largest clusters of educational institutions. Indian students can easily find a variety of educational programs and courses in UK universities, such as engineering, business, humanities, medicine, and so on.

However, medicine remains one of the most intriguing and challenging programs for students. Around 54% more students studied MBBS in UK compared to last year, indicating the growing number of international students interested in studying in the UK. The high quality of education and professional training draw the attention of many international students from around the world to study MBBS in UK. Medical institutions in the United Kingdom are well-equipped with cutting-edge technology and distinguished professors to provide the finest academic and practical instruction possible.

The MBBS colleges in UK are structured so learners get extensive medical insight through theoretical and practical practice. Universities also allow medical students to interact with patients to better understand the ideas taught in the classes. Educational achievement in MBBS necessitates a perfect combination of theory and practice and research possibilities.

Read through the blog and learn more about studying MBBS in UK for Indian students in 2024.

Highlights about MBBS in UK

Here are some important highlights about MBBS in UK that you must know before planning to study MBBS in UK.

Types of MBBS Courses Offered in the UK BS (Bachelor of Science), ChB, BCh
Acceptable Entrance Exams BMAT, UKCAT, GAMSAT
Course Duration 4-6 years
Average Tuition Fee in GBP 30,000 GBP - 70,000 GBP (Approx.)
Estimated Average Annual Salary of MBBS Graduates in the UK Approx. 76,300 GBP per annum

About Studying Medicine in United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, MBBS is the equivalent of Bachelor of Medicine or Bachelor of Surgery, which is abbreviated as MB ChB or MB BCh at various universities. The MBBS program lasts 4-6 years.

Most British medicine schools provide a six—to twelve-week optional term for students to study outside their native medical university. Students take this opportunity to explore different cultures and discover their adaptability to various learning environments. They experience medicine use, reception, and practice in all parts of the world.

Where to choose to practice medicine after obtaining an MBBS degree from the United Kingdom does not matter. Graduated students can easily get work opportunities in the UK or any other part of the world with a recognised and esteemed degree by their side. This also allows them to earn a handsome salary. On average, Indian students can earn approximately 76,300 GBP after studying MBBS in UK.

Syllabus of MBBS in UK

MBBS includes a wide variety of disciplines in which students must gain proficiency. The disciplines in which students receive thorough academic preparation and practice are as follows:

Semesters Subjects
Pre-Clinical Semesters: 2
  • Physiology

  • Biochemistry

  • Anatomy

Para-Clinical Semesters: 3
  • Microbiology

  • Pharmacology

  • Forensic Medicine and Toxicology

  • Pathology

Clinical Semesters: 4
  • Community Medicine

  • Anesthesiology

  • Psychiatry

  • Medicine

  • Ophthalmology

  • Obstetrics & Gynaecology

  • Dermatology and Venereology

  • Otorhinolaryngology

  • Orthopaedics

  • Paediatrics

  • Surgery

Reasons to Study MBBS in UK

Here are some reasons to study MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) in UK

  • Internationally Recognized - A UK MBBS degree is respected worldwide, offering global career opportunities.

  • Quality Education - Top-notch medical schools with advanced facilities and experienced faculty.

  • Research Opportunities - Access to cutting-edge research and clinical trials.

  • Clinical Exposure - Early patient interaction and practical training in hospitals.

  • Multicultural Environment - Study alongside students from diverse backgrounds.

  • Language - English-taught programs with opportunities to improve language skills.

  • Career Prospects - There is a high demand for UK-trained doctors globally.

  • Residency Programs - Pathways to residency and specialisation within the UK.

  • Professional Recognition - Accredited by professional bodies like the General Medical Council (GMC).

  • Support Services - Academic and personal support for international students.

Top MBBS Colleges/ Universities in UK

More than 45 universities in the UK offer MBBS courses to international students. Some are even highly ranked by the QS world ranking organisation and recognised worldwide. Here is a list of some of the best MBBS colleges in UK.

S. No. University Name Location QS Ranking 2025
1 University of Oxford Wellington Square, Oxford 2
2 University of Cambridge The Old Schools, Trinity Ln, Cambridge 5
3 UCL Bloomsbury, central London 6
4 Imperial College London Exhibition Rd, South Kensington, London 8
5 King's College London Central London 13
6 The University of Edinburgh South Bridge, Edinburgh 22
7 The University of Manchester Oxford Rd, Manchester 30
8 University of Glasgow Glasgow 48
9 Queen Mary University of London London 57
10 University of Bristol Queens Rd, Bristol 68

Top Specialisations for MBBS in UK

The MBBS degree itself offers many specialisations. Here are some of the best specialisations that most international students choose while studying MBBS in UK.

S. No. Specialisation
1 Plastic surgery
2 Trauma and orthopaedic surgery
3 Neurosurgery
4 Otolaryngology
5 Cardiology

Intakes to Study MBBS in UK

Majorly, UK universities offer only one intake to study MBBS for international students, which is mentioned below:

  • September Intake - September Intake in UK is the primary intake for most medical schools in the UK. The application deadline for this intake is in February. Almost all the universities in UK offer courses during this intake.

Eligibility Criteria to Study MBBS in UK for Indian Students

A student from India planning to enrol in MBBS universities in UK must meet the following criteria. It is crucial to note that these standards may differ significantly from those established for other overseas students.

  • Age - Students who wish to pursue medicine in UK must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.

  • Higher Secondary Marks - Candidates must have a minimum of 85% in their 10 + 2 grade. This percentage must be achieved compulsorily in the Chemistry and Biology stream.

  • IELTS Score - International students from non-native English-speaking countries applying for an MBBS in UK universities must pass the IELTS with a score of 7.0 to prove their language skills.

  • Entrance Exam - Aspiring students must submit their scores from a certified medical entrance exam to pursue medicine in the United Kingdom during application. These exams are primarily UKCAT, GAMSAT, or BMAT, but any of these scores will do.

Application Process to Apply for MBBS in UK for Indian Students

Here is a step by step guide for Indian students on how to apply for MBBS courses in UK universities.

  • Step 1: Research Universities — Check which UK universities offer MBBS programs. Popular ones include Oxford, Cambridge, and others. Each university has different requirements, so check their specific criteria.

  • Step 2: Prepare for Entrance Exams - Most universities require you to take either the UCAT or UKCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) or BMAT (Biomedical Admissions Test). Prepare for these exams. In UKCAT, one must score at least 650 and 4.5- 5.0 in BMAT in order to enrol for MBBS in UK university.

  • Step 3: Academic Qualifications - You need to have completed your 12th grade with subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Ensure you meet the minimum grade requirements set by the universities.

  • Step 4: Prove your Language Proficiency - Since English is the medium of instruction, you may need to take an English proficiency test like IELTS or TOEFL if you are from a non-native English-speaking country.

  • Step 5: Apply Through UCAS - Create an account on the UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) website. Fill in your personal details and education history, and write a personal statement explaining why you want to study medicine.

  • Step 6: Submit Your Application — Submit your application by the deadline and pay the application fee as required by UCAS.

  • Step 7: Attend Interviews - If shortlisted, you may be invited for an interview. Research common questions and practice your responses.

  • Step 8: Wait for the Offer Letter - After interviews, universities will send you offers. These can be conditional (based on exam results) or unconditional. Decide which university’s offer to accept and respond accordingly.

  • Step 9: Meet Conditions - If your offer is conditional, ensure you achieve the required exam grades. Once you meet the conditions, confirm your place with the university.

  • Step 10: Apply for Visa - After securing your place, apply for a UK student visa (Tier 4). Gather necessary documents like the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) and financial proof for the visa.

  • Step 11: Plan Your Accommodation - Once you receive visa approval, arrange for housing near your university, book your flights, and plan your arrival.

Documents Required to Study MBBS in UK

A list of documents required from Indian students to study at MBBS in UK is given below.

  • Diploma certificate

  • Experience Letters with recommendations from supervisors (if any)

  • Your updated resume (CV)

  • Statement of purpose (SOP)

  • A reference letter about your academics from any new professor

  • Copies of UKCAT / BMAT/ GAMSAT scores

  • Academic transcripts or evidence of prior academic achievements such as 10 + 2 certified sheets, bachelor's degree with their copies

  • A certificate issued by your former institution

  • A legitimate passport photocopy

  • Certificate of English Proficiency (IELTS/ TOEFL/ C1 Advanced )

  • A personal statement that explains why you are visiting the UK

  • Prior VISA photocopy (in case of availability)

  • Financial capability Evidence

Cost of MBBS in UK

The most important thing that Indian students consider before planning to study MBBS in UK is the cost involved. The cost of studying MBBS in UK varies between 22,800 GBP and 70,000 GBP, depending on the university and its location. Therefore, we have mentioned the cost of MBBS in UK for Indian students according to the top-notch universities.

University Name Courses Tuition fees
University of Oxford Medicine, Medicine (graduate-entry) 57,690 GBP per year
University of Cambridge Medicine, MB and BChir, Medicine (Graduate course) 67,194 GBP per year
UCL Medicine MBBS BSc 50,300 GBP per year
Imperial College London MBBS/BSc in Medicine 53,700 GBP per year
King's College London Medicine MBBS, Graduate Entry Medicine, Programme MBBS 48,600 GBP per year
London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine MSc Medical Microbiology, MSc Veterinary Epidemiology -
The University of Edinburgh MBChB Medicine (6-year programme) 37,500 GBP per year
The University of Manchester MedicineMBChB (5 years)MBChB, Medicine (6 years including foundation year), Medicine (Graduate Entry) 38,000 GBP per year
University of Glasgow MEDICINE MBChB 56,520 GBP per year
Queen Mary University of London Medicine MBBS, Medicine MBBS (graduate-entry) 48,700 GBP per year
University of Bristol MB ChB Medicine 42,800 GBP per year

Total Fee Structure For MBBS in UK

Study MBBS in UK Fees in USD and Fees in INR

Tuition Fees (Approx)

  • Fees in GBP - 22,800 GBP to 70,000 GBP

  • Fees in INR - Rs. 24,71,900 to Rs 75,89,162

Living Cost (Approx)

  • Fees in GBP - 12,000 GBP to 15,500 GBP

  • Fees in INR – Rs. 13,00,215 to Rs. 16,79,445

Total Cost

  • Fees in GBP - 34,800 GBP to 85,500 GBP

  • Fees in INR – Rs. 37,70,626 to Rs. 92,64,038

Cost of Living in UK While Studying MBBS

The costs incurred in gaining medical education in the UK also include your cost of living in UK, which is determined by the location and type of your residence and your lifestyle.

The residence location and type factors are extremely important - living in the university hostel or residential complexes will undoubtedly cost less, while living independently might be a bit heavier on the pocket. On the other hand, living in and around or outside the city of London is bound to make a huge impact on your finances.

The average range of costs of living in London starts from 1200 GBP every month, while living outside the city can bring your expenditure down by almost 200 GBP per month. Students are also given the option of sharing off-campus residences with other batchmates. These options range from apartments and flats to independent hostels.

Below, we have mentioned some of the basic expenses that international students have to spend while studying for MBBS in UK.

Particulars Monthly Costs
Accommodation GBP 500 - GBP 1000
Food GBP 100 - GBP 250
Gas and electricity GBP 60
Internet GBP 40
Mobile phone GBP 50
Laundry GBP 25
Stationery and textbooks GBP 20 - GBP 40
Clothing GBP 50 - GBP 75
Travel (buses, trams, and trains) GBP 30 - GBP 40
Movie ticket GBP 9
Dinner at restaurant GBP 15

Scholarships for MBBS in UK

There are various scholarships for MBBS in UK. Achieving a scholarship helps Indian students make their education more affordable. Note that certain scholarships are need-based, while others are merit-based. Below, we have mentioned some of the most popular scholarships for MBBS in UK for Indian students.

Scholarship Name Eligibility Value Type Based
Global Health Future Leaders Scholarship Ielts 6.5 and TOEFL minimum score of 80 average of 60% in their corresponding 10+2 examination Full Tuition Fees Merit-based
Faculty of Medicine Scholarship You must be a graduate student enrolled full-time in a master's program at the Faculty of Medicine GBP 10,000 Merit-based
Rhodes Scholarship GPA of at least 3.5 while completing their undergraduate degree GBP 15,144 Merit-based
John Abernethy (Barts) Scholarships At least three grade A A-levels must be completed in one sitting by the student. GBP 5,000 Merit-based
King’s College London Scholarship Must enrol in programmes in the life sciences, including medicine, dentistry, and neuroscience GBP 4,000 Merit-based
Birmingham Global Scholarship of Excellence Candidates must have an undergraduate degree with a First-class or Upper Second-class GBP 2,000 Merit-based
Commonwealth Scholarship for Distance Learning You must be a citizen or legal resident of a Commonwealth nation to apply Total Expenses + GBP 1084 per month Merit-based

How to Get a Student Visa for MBBS in UK

After getting an offer letter from the UK university of your choice, you can apply for the UK student visa through the following process:

Step 1: Secure Your Place
Make sure you have your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your university.

Step 2: Check Visa Requirements
Ensure you meet all requirements, including course length (MBBS typically requires a student visa) and financial proof.

Step 3: Prepare Documents
Gather the following documents:

  • Valid Passport

  • CAS Statement

  • Proof of Funds

  • English Proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL scores if required)

  • Passport-sized Photos (as per UK visa guidelines)

Step 4: Apply Online
Go to the UK government website, fill out the student visa application form, and pay the visa fee.

Step 5: Biometric Appointment
Book a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photo at a local visa application centre. Make sure to bring all your documents to your biometric appointment.

Step 6: Wait for a Decision
It usually takes a few weeks to get a decision on your visa application.

Step 8: Receive Your Visa
If approved, you’ll receive a visa vignette (sticker) in your passport, allowing you to enter the UK.

Job Opportunities After Studying MBBS in UK

After completing the MBBS program, graduates can begin practising medicine in the UK by registering with the UK Medical Registrar and acquiring a licence to practice. Below is a list of some of the MBBS doctor salary in UK according to their specialisations.

Specialisation Average MBBS Salary in UK (Per Year in INR)
Neurosurgeon 1.02 Crore
Anaesthetist 96.47 Lakhs
Plastic Surgeon 96.68 Lakhs
Cardiologist 76.86 Lakhs
Psychiatrist 70.00 Lakhs

Top Recruiters for MBBS in UK

Knowing the top recruiters for MBBS in UK is important before applying for the course. Here is a list of some of the best recruiters for MBBS in UK.

S. No. Recruiters
1 Actalent
2 AL2S3 LTD
3 Achieva Group Ltd
4 BTH Recruitment
5 Carys Mills Consulting
6 Chemistree Solutions
7 Compass Life Sciences
8 GI Group
9 Global Life Science Hub
10 Barrington James

FAQ's

Ans. Yes, Indian students are allowed to practice in India after studying MBBS in UK. They are not required to clear the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination to practice in their home country after studying there.

Ans. Yes, it is feasible to pursue a postgraduate course after receiving an MBBS in UK. The country's universities offer globally recognised MBBS degrees, making it easy for students to pursue advanced courses anywhere in the world.

Ans. In the United Kingdom, an MBBS program lasts for around 4 to 6 years. However, this can differ by university.

Ans. The cost of studying MBBS in UK for Indian students varies between 22,800 GBP and 70,000 GBP, depending on the university and its location.

Ans. The salaries of MBBS doctors in the UK vary according to specialisation and skills. However, the average MBBS salary in UK is 76,300 GBP per annum.

Ans. Neurologists are among the highest-paid doctors in the UK. However, other professions, such as Urologist, ENT, Psychiatrist, Dentist, etc., are also highly paid in the country.

Ans. More than 45 universities offer MBBS degrees in UK for international students.

Ans. In order to study MBBS in UK, indian students must achieve good results of more than 90% in their 12th grade. Apart from this, the student must pass entry tests in the UK, such as the UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT), the Biomedical Admissions Test (BMAT), GAMSAT or NEET. Moreover, they also have to prove their English proficiency skills through tests like IELTS, C1 advanced, and TOEFL.

Ans. Studying MBBS in UK offers several advantages as compared to India. UK medical degrees are globally recognised and highly respected for their quality and rigorous curriculum. The UK education system emphasises practical training and critical thinking, preparing students to excel in their careers worldwide. Moreover, graduates from UK medical schools often have competitive advantages in pursuing postgraduate training or careers internationally, making it a preferred choice for many aspiring doctors.

Ans. Yes, Indian students in the UK can study MBBS without taking or passing the NEET test. Some UK colleges that offer MBBS are willing to accept other tests in place of the NEET to admit Indian candidates to the program.

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