MBBS in UK 2024: Colleges, Eligibility, Cost & Fees for Indian Students

In 2023, 54% more students studied MBBS in the UK than in 2022.

With this blog, you will learn everything you need to know about MBBS in the UK, including eligibility requirements, costs and fees, top colleges and universities, and the MBBS curriculum. 

Discover why the UK is the perfect destination for your MBBS studies, whether you’re a high school student exploring your options or a college graduate considering further studies.

Why study MBBS in the UK

In comparison to other countries such as the USA, Australia or Canada, studying MBBS in the UK can be an exciting and life-changing experience for you.

Here are some reasons why you should study medicine in the UK

1. In the UK, the average salary of a doctor is 70% higher than that of any other medical professional.
2. In the UK, a doctor’s salary is around 70L per annum, ranking among the highest in the world.
3. As compared to the USA, where MBBS takes about 7-9 years, the UK’s MBBS program lasts 5-6 years.
4. Additionally, if you complete your MBBS degree in the UK, you will not have to take the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination to practice in India.

Top 10 Medical Colleges in the UK for Indian Students

As we navigate through the complexities of each institution, we’ll explore not only the academic aspects, but also the unique cultural and educational experiences available to you.

A medical education journey is about more than acquiring knowledge; it’s about growing personally and learning about the world.

More than 45 universities in the United Kingdom are listed among the world’s top 600 medical institutions, spread across cities such as London, Liverpool, and Glasgow. Choosing the best medical colleges in the UK is therefore not difficult. 

Here is a list of colleges in the UK where you can study MBBS and the cost of MBBS in the country

Note: The above numbers are approximate. The tuition fee for your chosen course can vary.

Course Structure for MBBS in the UK

The MBBS curriculum and structure in the United Kingdom differ slightly from those in India. Bachelor of Medicine or Bachelor of Surgery degrees are awarded here, which qualify the student as a doctor. A minimum qualification is required to practice medicine in the United Kingdom.

1. The first two years of the program cover anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry, while basic clinical skills are introduced. The next three years will include rotations in different specialties, enhancing practical skills, and exposing students to real-world patient care.
2. For optional elective periods and intercalated years, specialization or research may be allowed. MBBS students spend the last year preparing for a career in medicine, including an evaluation and diploma award.
3. Doctors must undergo two years of rotations in various specialties before transitioning into professional practice.

Based on the guidelines of the General Medical Council, the overall structure emphasizes a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

Eligibility Requirements 

MBBS in the UK requires the following requirements:

1. A minimum age of 18 is required
2. A minimum of 80% aggregate in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology in 10+2 or its equivalent
3. The minimum score in the NEET-UG exam is the 50th percentile
4. Score on an English language proficiency test (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE)
5. Universities may also require other entrance exams, such as the UKCAT, BMAT, or GAMSAT.

It’s important to note that eligibility requirements vary from university to university and program to program.

Admission Process for MBBS in the UK

In order to apply for MBBS in the UK, Indian students must check the eligibility criteria set by their respective universities. Students from India must meet the following general eligibility requirements

1. Entrance exams such as the BMAT or UKCAT (depending on the university).
2. Applicants can apply through the UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) platform once they have checked their eligibility. Some universities, however, require you to apply through their official websites. 
3. During the application process, you will also need to submit academic transcripts and English language proficiency test scores.
4. You may be invited to an interview after submitting your application. Interviews may be conducted online or in person. 
5. Upon passing the interview, you will receive an offer letter from the university. To confirm your admission, you must accept the offer and pay the tuition fee.

Depending on the university and program, the admission process and requirements may vary.

Highest-paying Medical Jobs in UK 

In the medical field, completing an MBBS in the UK can lead to exciting career opportunities. With the comprehensive education and training provided by the program, graduates can pursue a variety of rewarding and fulfilling careers. 

The opportunities for those who complete their MBBS in the UK are virtually endless, from clinical practice to research and academia.

Here is a list of job opportunities after MBBS in UK 

Cost of Studying MBBS in the UK 

The cost of MBBS studies in the United Kingdom varies according to the university, location, and lifestyle choices of the student. You should consider tuition, living expenses (which may vary depending on the city you choose to live in), and other miscellaneous costs.

In the UK, the cost of studying MBBS can vary greatly between universities and programs. Students in India typically pay 30-50 lakhs per year in tuition fees.

Cost of living in the UK

Student living costs in the UK are around INR 1L-1.2L per month, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses. Depending on your location and type of accommodation, this can vary.

Student discounts and other cost-saving measures should be taken advantage of when budgeting.

Scholarships for MBBS in the UK

There are a variety of scholarships available to Indian students and other international students in the United Kingdom. In addition to academic merit, financial need, and extracurricular activities, these scholarships are awarded based on a variety of criteria.

In some scholarships, fees are waived or funds are provided to ease the financial burden of studying abroad. In order to increase your chances of receiving financial assistance, it is important to apply for scholarships that are appropriate for your qualifications and needs.

Here are a few scholarships you might be interested in

The Bottom Line 

There are many factors that you need to consider when choosing the best MBBS college in the UK, including the campus, education quality, fee structure, etc. You also need to know how to apply for admissions, eligibility, and other factors covered here.

Aside from all this, you’ll also need good English skills, which can be demonstrated through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, etc.

If you need assistance choosing a MBBS college in the UK, feel free to contact our My Awesome Career team.

Commonly Asked Queries

1. What are the necessary documents for a UK student visa?

Ans. For a UK student visa, you need a passport, an acceptance letter from a UK institution, evidence of financial support, proof of English language skills, a TB test certificate (if applicable), and any other documents requested by the UK embassy.

1. What is the typical income for an MBBS graduate in the UK?

Ans.In the UK, an MBBS holder’s salary can vary depending on a number of factors, including their job, their location, and how many years they’ve worked. As a junior doctor in the UK, you can expect to earn around INR 28L to 33L per year. As a senior doctor, you can expect to earn around INR 73L per year or even more.

1. What is the top city for studying medicine in the UK?

Ans.In choosing a medical school in the UK, it is important to take into account personal preferences and priorities. Some of the leading cities for medical studies in the UK include London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Liverpool, and Bristol. These cities are home to globally recognized medical schools, outstanding amenities, and offer a high quality of life.

1. How long is the MBBS course in the UK?

Ans. The MBBS program in the UK prepares you for a rewarding career in medicine after five years of study. An advanced syllabus and top-tier medical institutions make the UK a perfect option for Indian students seeking to study MBBS. Besides exceptional education, the UK offers a range of career advancement opportunities after graduation.

Q. How are MBBS degrees from UK universities accredited?

Ans. MBBS degrees from UK universities are accredited by the General Medical Council (GMC), the UK’s governing body for medical education and practice. The GMC’s standards for medical education, training, and practice ensure that MBBS graduates in the UK are well-equipped to navigate the rapidly changing healthcare environment.

1. Do international students pursuing MBBS in the UK have access to scholarships?

Ans. Yes, scholarships are provided for international students pursuing MBBS in the UK. Numerous UK universities offer scholarships and financial assistance to international students to help alleviate the burden of tuition and living costs. These scholarships are typically granted based on academic achievement, financial necessity, or a blend of both.

1. Is there a difference in tuition fees for international students pursuing MBBS in the UK?

Ans.It is true that tuition fees for international MBBS students differ in the UK. The The cost of education for foreign students is typically more than for local students, and it fluctuates based on the institution and course. In the UK, the annual tuition for MBBS courses for overseas students can be anywhere between INR 21L and 48L.

1. What constitutes the main elements of the UK’s MBBS syllabus?

Ans. MBBS students in the UK receive a comprehensive education in medical science and clinical practice. Alongside lectures, workshops, lab tasks, and clinical internships, the syllabus usually encompasses a mix of theoretical and hands-on elements. The core elements of the MBBS syllabus in the UK include anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, microbiology, clinical abilities, and patient care.

1. Do specific visa rules or post-graduation job prospects exist for international MBBS graduates in the UK?

Ans. Yes, in the UK, there are distinct visa rules and post-graduation job possibilities for international graduates. Students who complete a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate degree at an accredited UK institution are eligible for a post-study work visa, which allows them to work or look for work in the UK for up to two years after graduation.

1. Is it possible for individuals who have completed their MBBS studies in the UK to practice medicine in their native countries or in other nations outside the UK?

Ans.It is possible for graduates of MBBS programs in the UK to practice medicine in their own countries or other countries outside of the UK. MBBS degrees in the UK are highly respected internationally, making them valuable qualifications for medical professionals worldwide. Individuals who have completed MBBS programs in the UK may be required to fulfill extra licensing or certification prerequisites in their native countries or any other countries where they intend to practice medicine.

1. Does the curriculum or format of MBBS programs vary among different UK universities?

Ans. There may be slight differences in the curriculum or structure of MBBS programs between UK universities, but the program’s core components are generally similar. In the UK, all MBBS programs prepare students for a career in medicine and cover a range of theoretical and practical topics, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, microbiology, clinical skills, and patient care.