Nepal has become one of the most favored destinations for Indian students who wish to pursue MBBS abroad. Its geographical proximity, cultural similarities, affordable education, and globally recognized medical universities make it an excellent option. For Indian aspirants, Nepal offers the advantage of not just world-class medical training but also an environment that feels close to home.
However, before applying, students must clearly understand the eligibility requirements, especially regarding age limits and NEET score validity. Since the National Medical Commission (NMC) in India has established strict guidelines for those studying MBBS abroad, meeting these conditions is essential to ensure recognition of your degree when you return to India.
In this article, we will provide a detailed explanation of the age limit for MBBS in Nepal, the validity of NEET scores, and all related admission requirements for the 2025 academic session.
Before diving into specific eligibility details, it is worth understanding why Nepal has gained popularity among Indian students for MBBS.
NMC-Approved Universities – Many medical colleges in Nepal are recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC) and World Health Organization (WHO).
Affordable Fees – Compared to private medical colleges in India, tuition fees in Nepal are much lower.
No Language Barrier – English is the medium of instruction, and Hindi is widely understood.
Cultural and Geographical Proximity – Similar lifestyle and cuisine make it easier for Indian students to adapt.
Easy Travel – Direct road and air connectivity ensures smooth movement between India and Nepal.
International Recognition – Graduates from Nepal are eligible for licensing exams like NEXT, FMGE, USMLE, and PLAB.
With these benefits in mind, let’s focus on the key eligibility conditions.
The age limit is one of the most crucial eligibility factors for MBBS admission in Nepal.
Minimum Age Requirement: Students must be at least 17 years old on or before 31st December of the admission year (for 2025 intake, by 31st December 2025).
Maximum Age Limit: There is generally no upper age limit imposed by Nepalese universities themselves. However, Indian students must also meet the age requirements of NEET, since NEET qualification is compulsory for them.
General category candidates: 25 years maximum (as of exam year).
Reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC): 30 years maximum.
Therefore, while Nepalese medical colleges may not restrict older candidates, Indian students who want to practice in India after graduation must fall within the NEET age limits to be eligible.
For Indian students, qualifying NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) is mandatory to study MBBS abroad, including Nepal. The validity of NEET scores plays a key role in the admission process.
NEET Score Validity Period: A NEET score is valid for 3 years for admission to MBBS abroad.
This means if you qualify NEET in 2025, your score will remain valid for admissions up to 2027.
However, for MBBS admissions within India, NEET scores are valid for 1 year only.
NMC Regulation: The National Medical Commission has made NEET qualification compulsory for Indian students going abroad for MBBS.
Eligibility for NEXT/FMGE: Only those students who qualified NEET before admission are allowed to appear in the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) or the upcoming National Exit Test (NEXT) after returning from abroad.
Legal Requirement: Without NEET, even if you graduate from Nepal, your MBBS degree will not be recognized in India.
Along with the age and NEET requirements, students must meet certain academic and documentation criteria:
Academic Qualifications
Completion of 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board.
Physics, Chemistry, Biology as compulsory subjects.
Minimum marks:
General category: 50% aggregate in PCB.
Reserved category: 40% aggregate in PCB.
NEET Qualification
Students must have qualified NEET in the admission year or within the past three years.
Language Requirements
MBBS programs are taught in English, so no additional language test is required.
Medical Fitness
Students must submit a medical certificate declaring them fit to pursue MBBS.
Here is a step-by-step outline of how Indian students can apply for MBBS in Nepal in 2025:
Appear for NEET and ensure you qualify with the required percentile.
Choose among NMC-approved medical colleges such as:
Institute of Medicine (IOM), Kathmandu
B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences
Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences
KIST Medical College
Fill out the university’s application form and attach required documents (10th and 12th certificates, NEET scorecard, passport, photographs, etc.).
If eligible, you will receive an admission offer letter from the university.
Apply for a student visa (though Indian students can travel with valid documents under bilateral agreements).
Complete travel arrangements to Nepal.
Register at the university and attend orientation before starting the MBBS program.
No Language Barrier – Easier interaction with teachers and patients.
Lower Cost – Tuition fees are between INR 40–60 lakhs for the entire course, much cheaper than private colleges in India.
WHO & NMC Recognition – Ensures your degree is globally accepted.
Practical Exposure – Universities are affiliated with hospitals for clinical training.
Cultural Similarities – Indian students adapt easily due to similar traditions, food habits, and lifestyle.
Myth: NEET is not required for MBBS in Nepal.
Reality: While Nepalese universities may not require NEET, Indian students cannot practice in India without it.
Myth: NEET scores are valid only for one year.
Reality: For MBBS abroad (including Nepal), NEET scores remain valid for three years.
Myth: There is no age restriction for MBBS abroad.
Reality: While many foreign universities don’t restrict maximum age, Indian students must follow NEET age guidelines.
Though beneficial, studying MBBS in Nepal comes with some challenges:
Competitive Admissions: Top universities in Nepal have limited seats for international students.
Licensing Exam Preparation: Indian students must prepare for NEXT or FMGE after graduation.
Living Costs: Although affordable, the cost of living in Kathmandu and other major cities can be slightly higher compared to smaller towns in India.
Qualify NEET Early: Attempt NEET as soon as possible to secure a three-year validity.
Keep Track of Deadlines: Nepalese universities often release admission notifications earlier than expected.
Choose NMC-Approved Colleges: Ensure the university is recognized to avoid future complications.
Prepare for NEXT/FMGE: Start preparing while studying MBBS in Nepal for a smoother transition.
The age limit and NEET score validity for MBBS in Nepal are two of the most crucial aspects Indian students must understand before applying. To summarize:
Students must be at least 17 years old by 31st December of the admission year.
While Nepalese universities do not set a maximum age, Indian students must comply with NEET’s upper age limits (25 years for general, 30 years for reserved categories).
NEET qualification is mandatory for Indian students, and the score remains valid for 3 years for MBBS admissions abroad, including Nepal.
By meeting these requirements, students ensure that their MBBS degree is recognized in India, making them eligible to practice after clearing NEXT or FMGE. Nepal offers an excellent balance of affordability, quality education, and cultural familiarity, making it one of the best destinations for MBBS in 2025.