High NEET cut off this year makes MBBS abroad a vise choice for Indian students

It has been marked over decades that MBBS as a career and profession is a prime choice in India. For the outside world, earning an MBBS degree is a mark of prestige, intelligence and a secured future, the white coat, the stethoscope and the honor of being called “Doctor” command respect. The diverse and stable career paths, high earning potential, and a fundamental role of serving humanity makes it a highly esteemed profession. At its core, medicine is a noble profession dedicated to saving lives, alleviating suffering, and improving public health, which garners immense respect and appreciation from society. 

Becoming an MBBS doctor requires extensive academic dedication with a curriculum that covers a vast and complex range of subjects, from anatomy and physiology to pharmacology and clinical practice, The medical field is constantly advancing which makes it an expensive degree option. In India for getting admission in MBBS college it is compulsory to clear NEET exam, NEET serves as the sole entrance exam for admission to undergraduate medical (MBBS), dental (BDS), and other health-related courses in India. This single exam streamlines the process, preventing the need to take multiple state-level or institution-specific exams. 

 A growing number of students appearing for the NEET exam each year increases the competition, driving up the cutoff scores. Also, the availability of finite number of seats in medical and dental colleges, means that only the highest-scoring candidates can secure a spot, leading to higher cutoffs to fill the limited positions. Which makes it tough to qualify. A high NEET cutoff in India often signals increased competition and lower availability of seats, pushing aspiring students to consider MBBS abroad, where a minimum qualifying NEET score (often around 130-144 for the general category in recent years) is required for admission to NMC-approved institutions in countries like Russia, Georgia, and Bangladesh. While a lower NEET score may qualify a student for admission abroad, a higher score improves chances for top-tier foreign universities, making the overall high cutoff a factor driving the shift to international medical programs.  

“What makes students shift abroad for MBBS”?  

 Students prefer to study abroad and get an international qualification as it boosts their career prospects. Apart from the qualifications, graduates receive higher salaries and get more job opportunities. International qualifications are valued much more than domestic degrees in India.  

“Is that the only reason MBBS abroad is a better choice for students"?  

 For many Indian students, choosing to pursue an MBBS abroad is a better choice than private colleges in India due to significantly lower costs, the absence of donation fees, and comparable or better quality of education in some countries. However, the decision depends on individual circumstances and must also account for additional costs like living expenses. 

MBBS is regarded as one of the most prestigious professions in India, symbolizing respect, intelligence, and service to humanity. However, pursuing it is challenging due to limited seats, rising NEET cutoffs, and high fees in private colleges. NEET acts as the sole gateway for MBBS admissions, making competition intense, which often drives students to consider studying abroad. Countries like Russia, Georgia, and Bangladesh offer opportunities with lower NEET scores, affordable tuition, and no donation requirements, making them attractive alternatives. Additionally, international MBBS degrees provide global exposure, better career opportunities, and higher salary prospects. While studying abroad is often more cost-effective, students must also factor in living expenses before planning, balancing affordability, quality education, and future scope. 

The National Medical Commission (NMC): 

The National Medical Commission (NMC) is responsible for establishing benchmarks in medical education, overseeing the functioning of medical colleges, evaluating the country's healthcare needs, and maintaining the official registry of medical practitioners. It also upholds ethical practices in the medical profession and offers a system for addressing complaints and concerns. 

The core objective of the NMC is to make quality medical education more accessible and affordable, ensure an adequate number of skilled healthcare professionals, and support fair and inclusive healthcare delivery across the nation." 

Key Guidelines by NMC: 

To have their foreign degrees recognized in India, students pursuing MBBS abroad must fulfill these requirements:  

 Foreign Medical Graduates Examination (FMGE): 

The Foreign Medical Graduates Examination (FMGE) is a vital licensing test for medical students who have earned their degrees from universities abroad. Conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE), the exam acts as a screening process to assess whether foreign-trained doctors possess the essential knowledge, skills, and competencies to practice medicine in India. 

Clearing the FMGE is not just an option but a mandatory requirement. Only after passing this exam can a foreign medical graduate apply for provisional or permanent registration with the National Medical Commission (NMC) or a State Medical Council. This registration is necessary to legally work as a doctor and serve patients within the country. 

The FMGE plays a crucial role in safeguarding the quality of healthcare in India. By setting a uniform benchmark, it ensures that all doctors, whether educated in India or abroad, meet the same professional standards before treating patients. For thousands of medical aspirants who pursue studies overseas, this exam is the gateway to beginning their medical careers at home.