Studying MBBS abroad has become one of the most popular choices among Indian students. Every year, nearly 20,000+ Indian students travel to countries like Russia, Georgia, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and the Philippines to fulfill their dream of becoming doctors.
However, despite the relatively affordable tuition fees abroad (compared to Indian private colleges), many families still find the total expenses—ranging from ₹20 lakhs to ₹50 lakhs—challenging to manage.
This raises a crucial question:
Can Indian students get scholarships for MBBS abroad?
The answer is YES. Several governments, universities, and private organizations provide scholarships, grants, and financial aid to international medical students, including Indians. While not every MBBS abroad student will qualify for a scholarship, there are ample opportunities available if students apply smartly, meet eligibility criteria, and maintain strong academic performance.
In this detailed article, we will cover:
Types of MBBS abroad scholarships.
Country-wise scholarship options for Indian students.
Eligibility requirements.
How to apply successfully.
Pros and cons of relying on scholarships.
Reduce Financial Burden – A full MBBS abroad course can cost between ₹20–50 lakhs. Scholarships can reduce costs by 20–80%.
Encourage Merit – Bright students get recognized and rewarded for their academic achievements.
Promote Global Diversity – Many governments/universities support Indian students to increase cultural and academic exchange.
Access to Better Institutions – With scholarships, students can study at top-ranked universities that may otherwise feel financially out of reach.
Indian students can access multiple categories of scholarships when pursuing MBBS abroad:
Offered by the government of India or the host country.
Example: ICCR (Indian Council for Cultural Relations), Ministry of Education scholarships.
Provided directly by medical universities abroad.
Based on academic merit, entrance exam scores, or performance during the course.
Charitable foundations, trusts, and private organizations often support deserving students.
Example: JN Tata Endowment, Reliance Foundation scholarships.
Awarded to students from financially weaker backgrounds.
Requires proof of family income.
Based on marks in NEET, 12th-grade science scores, or exceptional academic records.
Few universities abroad also recognize achievements in sports or arts and offer partial tuition waivers.
Russian Government Scholarship (Open Doors Olympiad) – Covers tuition, living allowance, and sometimes travel.
Universities like Kazan Federal University and People’s Friendship University (RUDN) also offer merit scholarships.
Georgian universities often provide partial tuition fee waivers for high-achieving international students.
Scholarships usually cover 20–50% of tuition fees.
Some universities offer merit-based fee reductions for Indian students with strong NEET/12th-grade results.
Limited government-level scholarships but universities are affordable.
Scholarships available in top universities like Kyrgyz State Medical Academy (KSMA).
Typically need-based or performance-based tuition discounts.
Bolashak International Scholarship (Kazakhstan government) – Covers education for international students in select universities.
Partial university-based scholarships also available.
SAARC Scholarship Scheme – Indian students can receive partial to full fee waivers.
Bangladesh medical colleges often reduce tuition fees for top-ranking students.
Nepalese government provides a small number of reserved scholarships for Indian students under SAARC agreements.
Medical colleges also provide merit scholarships.
Some private universities provide entrance exam-based scholarships.
Usually cover 10–40% of tuition fees.
Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) – Covers tuition, accommodation, medical insurance, and stipend.
Provincial scholarships also available (Beijing, Jiangsu, etc.).
DAAD (Germany) – Offers partial to full scholarships.
Poland and Hungary also offer EU-funded scholarships for MBBS aspirants.
While each scholarship has unique requirements, common criteria include:
Academic Performance – High scores in Physics, Chemistry, Biology (PCB) and a good NEET score.
English Proficiency – For some universities, proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) is required.
Financial Background – Need-based scholarships require income certificates.
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Explaining career goals, motivation, and why you deserve financial support.
Recommendation Letters – From teachers, principals, or mentors.
Clean Academic Record – No gaps or failures during previous studies.
Research Early – Start at least 6–12 months before admission.
Check Eligibility – Ensure you meet academic and financial requirements.
Prepare Documents:
Mark sheets (10th, 12th).
NEET scorecard.
Passport, admission letter.
SOP and LORs.
Financial proof (for need-based).
Submit Applications – Directly to universities, embassy, or through government portals.
Appear for Interviews/Exams – Some scholarships require interviews or entrance tests.
Await Results – Results are usually announced within 2–6 months of applying.
Affordable Education – Reduces tuition fees significantly.
Encourages Excellence – Motivates students to perform better.
Global Recognition – Being a scholarship holder enhances your profile for PG studies.
Networking Opportunities – Many scholarships connect students with alumni and mentors.
Highly Competitive – Limited seats for thousands of applicants.
Partial Coverage – Most scholarships cover only tuition, not living costs.
Annual Renewal – Many scholarships require maintaining a minimum GPA.
Complex Process – Application procedures can be time-consuming and paperwork-heavy.
If a student does not get a scholarship, other financial support options include:
Educational Loans – Indian banks and NBFCs provide loans for MBBS abroad.
Part-Time Work (where allowed) – In some countries (Germany, UK), students can work during studies.
Fee Installment Plans – Many universities allow tuition to be paid in installments.
Maintain excellent academic records from school onwards.
Score well in NEET as it strengthens applications.
Apply to multiple universities/countries to increase chances.
Write a strong SOP highlighting passion for medicine.
Gather recommendation letters early.
So, can Indian students get scholarships for MBBS abroad?
Absolutely yes. Indian students can apply for:
Government scholarships (India, Russia, China, Bangladesh, etc.).
University scholarships (Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Philippines, etc.).
Private/NGO scholarships (JN Tata, Reliance Foundation).
While scholarships may not always cover 100% of expenses, they can reduce tuition costs by 20–80%, making MBBS abroad more affordable and accessible.
Always research early and apply widely.
Maintain academic excellence to stay eligible.
Even if you don’t secure a scholarship, explore educational loans or installment-based fee payments.
With proper planning, scholarships can make your dream of becoming a doctor abroad financially achievable.