Studying MBBS in Bangladesh has become a preferred option for many students from India, Nepal, Bhutan, Africa, and the Middle East. With its affordable tuition fees, cultural similarities, and globally recognized medical colleges, Bangladesh attracts thousands of international students each year. However, while tuition, hostel, and living expenses often dominate financial discussions, one crucial aspect that many families overlook is the mandatory medical check-up charges.
Medical examinations are essential for both admission and visa purposes. Universities and governments require international students to undergo specific health screenings before enrollment. These costs, though comparatively small when seen against total MBBS expenses, are unavoidable and should be planned in advance.
This article provides a comprehensive and detailed analysis of medical check-up charges in Bangladesh MBBS, covering fee structures, procedures, government requirements, and practical tips for students and parents.
Before breaking down the charges, it’s important to understand why medical check-ups are necessary.
Health Clearance for University Admission
Medical universities in Bangladesh require a health fitness certificate to ensure that students are physically and mentally capable of pursuing rigorous medical training.
Visa Requirements
The Bangladesh embassy often requires medical screening results to confirm that applicants are free from contagious diseases like tuberculosis or hepatitis.
Hostel and Campus Safety
Universities mandate medical checks to ensure that hostel residents live in a healthy environment, minimizing the risk of infections spreading.
Clinical Exposure Readiness
Since students begin attending hospitals and clinics during training, it is necessary to confirm that they meet health standards for patient safety.
Medical check-ups for MBBS students in Bangladesh generally cover:
General Physical Examination (height, weight, blood pressure, vision)
Chest X-Ray (to detect tuberculosis and lung health issues)
Blood Tests (including CBC, HIV, hepatitis B and C screening)
Urine Analysis (basic kidney and urinary tract health)
Vaccination Status (proof of vaccinations against diseases like hepatitis B, measles, and polio may be requested)
Special Tests (depending on the university or embassy, such as COVID-19 PCR tests in recent years)
The charges for medical check-ups vary depending on whether they are conducted in the home country before departure or in Bangladesh after arrival.
Students often undergo pre-departure tests required by the Bangladesh embassy.
Average cost range: ₹5,000 – ₹12,000 (USD 60 – 150) depending on the hospital.
Upon arrival, universities may require another round of health checks to maintain their records.
Average cost range: Tk 4,000 – Tk 10,000 (USD 40 – 100).
Some universities recommend annual medical check-ups for students.
Average yearly expense: Tk 3,000 – Tk 6,000 (USD 30 – 60).
| Test/Service | Approximate Charges in Bangladesh |
|---|---|
| General Physical Examination | Tk 500 – Tk 1,000 |
| Chest X-Ray | Tk 1,000 – Tk 1,500 |
| Blood Tests (CBC, HIV, Hepatitis) | Tk 2,500 – Tk 4,500 |
| Urine Test | Tk 500 – Tk 800 |
| Vaccinations (per dose) | Tk 1,000 – Tk 3,000 |
| COVID-19 PCR (if required) | Tk 2,000 – Tk 3,500 |
Government-Approved Hospitals in Home Country
For visa purposes, tests must be conducted at recognized medical centers listed by the Bangladesh embassy.
University-Affiliated Hospitals in Bangladesh
Most medical colleges have their own hospitals where students can complete mandatory screenings.
Private Clinics and Diagnostic Centers
Some students prefer private centers for faster results, though costs may be slightly higher.
Cash Payments – The most common method in Bangladesh diagnostic centers.
Bank Transfers – Larger hospitals may accept transfers.
Mobile Wallets – Services like bKash or Nagad are increasingly popular among students for small medical payments.
Travel Costs
Students may need to travel to major cities like Dhaka or Chittagong for embassy-approved medical centers.
Documentation Charges
Some hospitals charge extra for official health reports, attestation, or additional copies.
Follow-Up Tests
If an initial test shows abnormal results, repeat tests may add to expenses.
Insurance Premiums
Some universities encourage students to purchase health insurance, which may cover future check-ups.
If a medical check-up reveals a health condition that makes a student ineligible for MBBS in Bangladesh, tuition fee deposits may be refundable depending on the university’s policy. However:
Medical check-up charges are never refunded since they are service-based payments to hospitals or labs.
Complete Mandatory Tests in Home Country Before Departure – Prices may be lower and reports more easily authenticated.
Choose University Hospitals for Tests – Generally cheaper than private diagnostic centers.
Get Vaccinations in Home Country – Vaccine doses can be significantly more expensive in Bangladesh.
Maintain Proper Medical Records – Reduces the need for repeat tests.
A student from India applying for MBBS in Dhaka underwent medical check-ups at an embassy-listed hospital in Kolkata. The total cost was ₹8,500. After arrival in Bangladesh, the university requested another health screening costing Tk 6,000. The combined expense for medical clearance was roughly ₹12,500 (USD 150).
Although these charges seem small compared to tuition fees (ranging from ₹20–30 lakh for the full course), they are compulsory and unavoidable. Many students forget to include them in their financial planning, leading to last-minute stress.
Planning ahead ensures:
Smoother visa approvals
Faster hostel allocation
Fewer medical complications during the course
Financial preparedness for unforeseen health needs
Get a list of embassy-approved hospitals for pre-departure tests
Carry original health reports and vaccination cards to Bangladesh
Budget Tk 8,000 – Tk 12,000 per year for health-related expenses
Use university hospitals for affordability and authenticity
Always keep medical records in both hard copy and digital format
The medical check-up charges in Bangladesh MBBS are a small yet crucial part of the overall financial planning for international students. On average, students should expect to spend Tk 8,000 – Tk 15,000 (USD 80 – 150) during the admission process, with possible additional annual health expenses.
While these charges are modest compared to tuition and living costs, they play a critical role in ensuring student health, safety, and compliance with university and embassy requirements. By planning these expenses in advance, students can avoid unexpected hurdles and focus on their medical education journey in Bangladesh with peace of mind.