For many Indian students aspiring to become doctors, Nepal has emerged as one of the top destinations to pursue MBBS. The country offers high-quality education, globally recognized medical degrees, affordable tuition fees, and a cultural environment that closely resembles India. In addition, the geographical proximity, open border policy, and ease of travel make Nepal a practical choice.
However, before planning admission, Indian students must understand the eligibility rules for MBBS in Nepal, as set by the Medical Education Commission (MEC), Government of Nepal. These rules cover educational qualifications, subject requirements, entrance exam performance, and other mandatory conditions.
This guide provides a complete breakdown of the eligibility criteria, admission pathway, required documents, and special considerations for Indian students.
Before exploring eligibility, it’s worth highlighting why Nepal has become so popular:
No Visa Requirement: Indian students do not need a visa to study in Nepal.
Affordable Tuition Fees: Costs are lower compared to private Indian medical colleges.
NMC Recognition: Degrees from Nepal are recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC), allowing Indian students to appear for the NEXT exam after graduation.
English-Medium Education: MBBS programs are taught in English, making learning convenient.
Cultural Similarity: Shared food habits, traditions, and lifestyle reduce adjustment challenges.
Close to Home: Easy connectivity by road and air.
The Medical Education Commission (MEC) regulates MBBS admissions in Nepal. To apply, Indian students must fulfill the following:
Students must have completed 10+2 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) as core subjects.
Minimum aggregate requirement: 50% in PCB combined.
Minimum marks in each subject: 50% individually in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
English must be one of the studied subjects.
This rule applies equally to students from CBSE, ICSE, State Boards, and equivalent systems.
Since 2018, the Government of India has made NEET qualification mandatory for Indian students applying for MBBS abroad, including Nepal.
Indian applicants must have a valid NEET scorecard from the year of admission.
Without NEET, students cannot secure admission nor register their degree with the NMC after graduation.
Minimum qualifying percentile:
50th percentile for General category.
40th percentile for SC/ST/OBC.
45th percentile for General-PwD.
Minimum age: 17 years by 31st December of the admission year.
No fixed upper age limit, but candidates should meet the eligibility rules of NEET.
In addition to NEET, Indian students must also clear the MEC entrance exam, conducted by the Medical Education Commission, Nepal.
The test is usually a Computer-Based Test (CBT).
Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and basic General Knowledge.
Total Questions: Around 200 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Passing Criteria: Minimum 50% marks in the entrance exam.
Exam Centers: Conducted in Kathmandu and sometimes in selected Indian cities.
Admission is purely merit-based, based on MEC exam scores.
Students must be medically fit to pursue MBBS. A health certificate is required during admission.
Ensure 50% marks in PCB in 12th grade.
Confirm NEET qualification.
Register online on the MEC official website.
Upload academic and identification documents.
Pay the exam fee.
Appear for the CBT exam at designated centers.
Secure a score above the cutoff for eligibility.
Based on MEC scores, students are allotted seats in medical colleges through counseling.
Preference can be given to government or private institutions depending on rank.
Once allotted, students must pay the initial admission fee.
Submit original documents for verification.
Classes usually begin in September–October.
Duration: 5.5 years (4.5 years academic + 1 year internship).
Indian students must submit the following:
Class 10 mark sheet and certificate.
Class 12 mark sheet and certificate.
NEET scorecard (valid for admission year).
Birth certificate or proof of age.
Recent passport-size photographs.
Valid ID proof (Aadhar card, PAN card, or passport).
Medical fitness certificate.
Character certificate from last attended institution.
Migration certificate.
| Requirement | Details for Indian Students |
|---|---|
| Educational Qualification | 50% in PCB (12th grade) |
| Minimum Marks in Each Subject | 50% individually in PCB |
| English Subject | Mandatory |
| NEET Exam | Mandatory with valid score |
| MEC Entrance Exam | Mandatory |
| Age | 17+ years by 31st Dec |
| Health Requirement | Medically fit |
Institute of Medicine (IOM), Kathmandu
B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences (BPKIHS), Dharan
Kathmandu Medical College
Manipal College of Medical Sciences, Pokhara
Nepal Medical College, Kathmandu
Nobel Medical College, Biratnagar
National Medical College, Birgunj
These colleges are recognized by the NMC (India), WHO, and international medical boards, making them excellent choices for Indian students.
Affordable Fees: Average tuition fees range from INR 35–60 lakhs for the entire course, lower than Indian private colleges.
Recognized Degrees: Approved by NMC, WHO, and global authorities.
Shared Culture: Similar lifestyle, festivals, and language make adaptation easy.
No Visa Requirement: Hassle-free travel and stay.
High FMGE Pass Rates: Graduates from Nepal often perform well in India’s FMGE/NEXT exams.
Limited Seats: High competition due to fewer seats compared to India.
Entrance Exam: Clearing both NEET and MEC is mandatory, requiring preparation.
Cost vs Government Colleges in India: Though cheaper than Indian private colleges, fees are still higher compared to Indian government medical colleges.
Prepare for Both NEET and MEC: Since both exams are required, align preparation strategies.
Apply Early: Seats are limited and fill up quickly.
Focus on Biology: A large portion of both NEET and MEC exams emphasizes Biology.
Verify Recognition: Always check that the chosen college is NMC-approved.
Plan Financially: Budget for tuition fees plus living expenses (approx. INR 10,000–15,000 per month).
The eligibility rules for Indian students for MBBS in Nepal are clear and standardized. To qualify, candidates must:
Pass Class 12 with 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology individually.
Have 50% aggregate in PCB.
Qualify NEET exam in the year of admission.
Clear the MEC entrance exam in Nepal.
Be at least 17 years old and medically fit.
By meeting these conditions, Indian students can secure admission into some of Nepal’s finest medical colleges, earning a globally recognized MBBS degree at an affordable cost.
For those who find MBBS admission in India too competitive or expensive, Nepal stands out as a perfect alternative—offering quality education, cultural familiarity, and future opportunities in India and abroad.