Have you dreamed of a career in medicine abroad? An MBBS degree in the UK could be a great starting point. Bachelor of Medicine or MBBS equips you with the knowledge and skills to excel in the medical field.
The UK offers a supportive learning environment with renowned universities, diverse course options, and potential scholarships. This article discusses everything you need to know about pursuing an MBBS in UK.
MBBS in UK Program Highlights
Types of MBBS Courses Offered in the UK | BS (Bachelor of Science), ChB, BCh |
|---|---|
Admission Criteria | Copies of attested 10+2 mark sheets, Certificate of Diploma in any field, relevant work experience (if any), updated CV, copies of test scores, and proof of funds |
Acceptable Tests | BMAT, UKCAT, NEET, GAMSAT |
Acceptable Tests for Indian Students | NEET |
Available Scholarships | Global Health Future Leaders Scholarship, Chevening Scholarship, Hulk York Medical School International Scholarship, Rhodes Scholarship, Imperial College Faculty of Medicine Scholarship |
Course Duration | 4-6 years |
Average Tuition Fee in GBP | 22,800 - 52,000 (Approx) |
Estimated Average Annual Salary of MBBS Graduates in the UK | Approx. 76,300 GBP per annum |
Top MBBS Colleges in UK for Indian Students
The following are the top 10 medical colleges in UK for MBBS, as ranked by the QS World Rankings 2024.
University | Ranking |
|---|---|
University of Oxford | 2 |
University of Cambridge | 5 |
UCL | 6 |
Imperial College London | 8 |
King's College London | 13 |
The University of Edinburgh | 22 |
London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine | 24 |
The University of Manchester | 30 |
University of Chicago | 34 |
University of Glasgow | 48 |
Cost of MBBS in UK
Achieving an MBBS degree in the UK involves more than just tuition fees. Here's a breakdown of the main cost components to consider:
Pre-admission fees for MBBS in UK:
These are one-time fees incurred by Indian students before applying to universities.
Expense Incurred | Approx. Cost to the Student (in INR) |
|---|---|
Fee for IELTS Exam | 15,000 |
Fee for NEET | 15,170 |
Application Fee | Between 6,000 and 9,000 |
Fee for Visa Application | 35,000 |
Tuition Fees for MBBS in UK:
Once you've covered the initial pre-admission costs, you'll need to factor in annual tuition fees for the MBBS program. These fees can vary significantly depending on the university you choose. To get the most accurate information, it's highly recommended to consult the official website of each university you're interested in and check their specific fee structure for the MBBS program.
As a general estimate, expect tuition fees for MBBS in the UK for Indian students to typically range between GBP 22,800 and GBP 52,000 per year.
Living Expenses:
The cost of living in the UK for international students depends on your lifestyle choices, spending habits, and, most importantly, the city you choose to live in. London, for example, is a major global city with a higher cost of living compared to other parts of the UK.
Here's a general estimate: living costs range between GBP 12,000 and GBP 15,600 per year. To get a more accurate idea of your living expenses, factor in the following:
Accommodation:
This is your biggest expense. Renting a room in shared housing will be cheaper than a private flat, and costs will vary depending on the city.
Food:
Groceries and eating out can add up quickly. Consider budgeting for both and explore affordable options like cooking at home.
Transportation:
Look into student discounts for public transport passes or explore cycling options to save money.
Other Expenses:
Factor in additional costs like phone bills, internet access, and entertainment.
Considering all these elements will help you get a realistic idea of the total financial investment required to obtain an MBBS degree in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria for Studying MBBS in UK
To pursue an MBBS degree in the UK, Indian students must fulfil specific requirements, which may differ slightly from those for other international applicants.
Academic Requirements for MBBS in UK:
Completion of 10+2: You must have completed your higher secondary education (10+2) from a recognised board like CBSE or ICSE, with high marks (often exceeding 90%).
Entrance Exams: Pass one of the following entrance exams: Biomedical Admissions Test (BMAT), Graduate Australian Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT), or UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT).
Application Documents for MBBS in UK:
Statement of Purpose: A well-written essay outlining your motivations for pursuing an MBBS in the UK and your future career goals.
Test Scores: Photocopies of your scores on IELTS (English language proficiency) and the relevant entrance exam (UKCAT, BMAT, or GAMSAT).
Academic Background: Updated CV/Resume, attested marksheets from your 10+2 education, and any diploma certificates you may hold.
Work Experience (Optional): If applicable, provide details of your professional work experience, particularly in the medical field (if any).
Proof of Funds: Demonstrate your financial ability to cover program costs by submitting bank statements or sponsorship letters.
By fulfilling these requirements and submitting the necessary documents, you'll be ready to apply for MBBS programs at UK universities.
Jobs for MBBS Graduates in UK
After completing your MBBS program, you can pursue a fulfilling career as a doctor in the UK.
To practice medicine in the UK, you must register with the General Medical Council (GMC) and obtain a license to practice. This process involves meeting specific criteria, including:
Medical Qualification: Possess a primary medical qualification, such as your MBBS degree.
English Language Proficiency: Demonstrating your English language skills with a minimum IELTS band score of 7.
Medical history: Provide proof of your medical history and outline any non-medical activities or gaps in your academic or medical practice over the past five years.
Once registered and licensed, you can explore various career paths in the UK healthcare system.
Here are some potential specialisations and their estimated average annual salaries (in both GBP):
Job Position for MBBS Graduates | Average Salary Per Annum (in GBP) |
|---|---|
Gynecologist/Obstetrician | 197,000 |
General Medical Practitioner | 138,000 |
Invasive Cardiologist | 276,000 |
Ophthalmologist | 156,000 |
Neurologist | 214,000 |
Why Study MBBS in UK?
Studying MBBS in the UK offers several advantages, including:
World-Class Education and Experience: The UK has an excellent healthcare system, providing you with exposure to cutting-edge medical facilities and research opportunities. This practical experience complements your classroom learning and prepares you for a successful career.
Globally Recognised Qualification: A UK MBBS degree is internationally recognised, offering a wider range of career opportunities worldwide. You'll have the flexibility to practice medicine in various countries, including returning to India without needing to take the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination.
Enriching Multicultural Environment: Studying in the UK's diverse and multicultural environment provides a rich learning experience. You'll interact with people from different backgrounds, instilling a broader perspective and cultural competency.
High Earning Potential: UK MBBS graduates are known to have some of the highest earning potentials globally, exceeding graduates from countries like Canada and Australia.
Summary
Studying MBBS in the UK is a great opportunity. To seize this opportunity, it is important to consider various factors such as the program, campus life, and the cost of studying and living in the UK. Don't forget to check if you meet the entry requirements and enhance your English with IELTS for UK. With some planning, hard work, and good English skills, you can totally ace the application process and start your journey to becoming a doctor in the UK's prestigious medical schools.