For many young people in India, becoming a doctor is a lifelong dream, but the cost of MBBS can be prohibitive. Consequently, an increasing number of students are opting to study MBBS in China, where esteemed medical universities offer affordable education and globally recognised degrees.

Chinese medical universities feature modern facilities and use English as the medium of instruction for international students. The fees for MBBS in China range from ₹20–40 Lakh for the full course, significantly less than private medical colleges in India. Currently, over 20,000 Indian students are studying in China, benefiting from strong peer support, diverse food options, safe housing, and a welcoming cultural environment.

Graduates can sit for exams like FMGE/NEXT, USMLE, and PLAB, which open up various career opportunities. This blog will cover everything you need to know about studying MBBS in China as an Indian student, including eligibility, admission, fees, universities, scholarships, and student experiences.

MBBS in China Highlights

MBBS in China has become one of the top choices for many Indian students due to various reasons, including affordability, global recognition, modern infrastructure, and effective teaching methodologies. These institutions teach the MBBS course to international standards at an affordable cost, when compared to the high costs of MBBS from private colleges in India. Below are the key highlights that every student should be aware of before making an application:

Feature	Details
Course Duration	6 years (5 years academics + 1 year internship)
Medium of Instruction	English (Mandarin required during internship)
Eligibility	Minimum 50–60% in PCB, NEET qualification required
China MBBS Fees in Indian Rupees	₹3.5–6 lakh per year (₹20–40 lakh total)
Cost of Living	₹70,000–1,00,000 per year
Top Universities in China	Peking University, Fudan University, Shanghai Jiao Tong, Wuhan University, Zhejiang University
Recognition	NMC (India), WHO, FAIMER, ECFMG
Scholarships	Available through the Chinese government & universities
Student Community	20,000+ Indian students already studying MBBS in China

Why Do MBBS in China?

In recent years, China has emerged as one of the most popular destinations for international students, especially for Indian students seeking to study MBBS abroad, primarily due to its low tuition fees, global recognition of MBBS degrees, a world-class medical education system, and student-friendly campus culture.

Chinese medical universities don’t just provide up-to-date facilities and advanced technology; English-medium MBBS programs also make adaptation easier. An excellent combination of global recognition, practical experience, good salary potential, and safety makes China an incredible option for students wanting to study medicine, with a more affordable price range.

Reasons to Choose China for Studying MBBS:

Low Costs: Save on tuition fees, accommodation, food and transport fares, compared to the same fees you can expect from Western public universities while studying abroad.
Developed Medical Education Systems: Chinese Universities continue to maintain high levels of academic integrity, placements at modern labs and well-established teaching hospitals.
English Medium MBBS Programs: The majority of MBBS courses are 100% English-medium programs, which will save you effort in overcoming the language barrier when studying in a non-English-speaking country.
Well-Respected Qualifications: China MBBS degrees are recognised by nearly all countries around the world and will be accepted by the NMC (India) and other countries as faculty members of the WHO.
Access to Advanced Healthcare System: Students will have access to modern healthcare facilities and advanced technology while studying medicine.
Accredited Universities: Many universities are registered with various national and international accreditation councils.
Whole Cultural Experience: You have the opportunity to experience Chinese culture whilst also gaining international exposure.

Requirements for Studying MBBS in China for Indian Students

To study MBBS in China, Indian students must satisfy specific academic, age-related, and documentation requirements established by universities and regulations, which prepare them for medical activities abroad.

1. Academic Requirements

Must have completed 10+2 (or equivalent), with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English as fundamental modules.
Must have achieved at least 50-60% marks in PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology). Some leading universities will require marks in the range of 70-75% or higher.
All Indian students must qualify for NEET.

2. Age and Health Requirements

The student is expected to be between the ages of 17 and 25 as of the last day of December in the admission year (i.e., students born after January 1, 1997, are not eligible).
Medically fit to study MBBS in China and produce a valid medical fitness certificate.

3. Language Requirements

Most universities would teach using English (medium of instruction).
A basic knowledge of the Chinese language (equivalent to HSK-4) will be required to undertake clinical practice.

4. Other Important Documents

Valid passport with a minimum of 2 years' validity.
10th & 12th mark sheets and certificates.
A No Criminal Record certificate (if required by a university).
An official admission/confirmation letter from the required university.

How to Apply for MBBS in China?

The procedure for MBBS admissions in China comprises four main stages: university selection, eligibility verification, application/admission, and visa/travel arrangements. For any international student with proper planning, the process is straightforward and step-by-step.

1. University Selection & Eligibility

• Search & shortlist top medical universities in China.

• Fulfil the basic eligibility requirements: age 17-26 years; 10+2 - required minimum scores in Physics, Chemistry and Biology (PCB); NEET qualifying score.

2. Application & Admission

• Either complete an online application form or apply through an authorised representative of the university.

• Submit required documents and await admission or invitation letter.

• Pay the first year's tuition and registration fee to secure your seat.

3. Visa & Travel

• Apply for your student visa (J-visa) and obtain it at the Chinese embassy/consulate using your admission letter and a valid passport.

• After your visa is granted, book your flight and prepare for your trip to China!

MBBS Study Duration in China

The MBBS program in China consists of a 6-year curriculum that combines academic and practical medical training components. The study program combines the two to ensure that students receive both good theoretical knowledge and strong practical clinical knowledge.

MBBS Study Duration Summary

5 years of Academic Study: Covers the core subjects of medicine, clinical skills, and present-day medical practice.
1 Year of Internship: A required internship that the student will undertake in China or other countries, including their home country, such as India.

Why is the 6-year duration necessary?

Comprehensive Training: In-depth medical education, as well as practical experience.
Professional Recognition: Before a student can register with the licensing regulatory body, they must obtain an education that is at the same level and competence as required to practice in another country.

Best Medical Universities in China for MBBS

China has some of the world's top medical universities, to which students from around the globe flock every year. Medical universities are renowned for their state-of-the-art infrastructure, English-based MBBS programs, affordable fees, and international recognition. MBBS in China offers students a high-quality education and the opportunity to become global medical practitioners.

Here is a list of some of the top medical universities in China that offer MBBS programs, including their locations, average tuition fees, and key highlights.

University Name	Location	Average Fees (per year)	Highlights
Peking University	Beijing	₹4.5–5.5 Lakhs	Prestigious institution, strong global reputation, advanced research facilities.
Shanghai Jiao Tong University	Shanghai	₹4–5 Lakhs	One of the top-ranked universities in China, modern medical labs, excellent faculty.
Fudan University (Shanghai Medical College)	Shanghai	₹4–5.5 Lakhs	Renowned for clinical medicine, globally recognised, top research output.
Zhejiang University (School of Medicine)	Hangzhou	₹3.5–4.5 Lakhs	Offers international MBBS programs, affordable fees, strong teaching hospitals.
Capital Medical University	Beijing	₹3.5–4.5 Lakhs	Leading medical university in Beijing, international student-friendly.
Nanjing Medical University	Nanjing	₹3–4 Lakhs	Modern teaching methods, advanced clinical training, research-oriented.
Huazhong University of Science & Technology (Tongji Medical College)	Wuhan	₹3–4 Lakhs	Famous for clinical and surgical training, English-medium programs.
China Medical University	Shenyang	₹3–4 Lakhs	Long history of medical education, recognised by MCI/NMC & WHO.
Dalian Medical University	Dalian	₹2.5–3.5 Lakhs	Popular among Indian students, English MBBS program, affordable.
Tianjin Medical University	Tianjin	₹2.5–3.5 Lakhs	Strong emphasis on medical research and clinical practice.
Sun Yat-Sen University	Guangzhou	₹3.5–4.5 Lakhs	Comprehensive university, reputed medical school, good for MBBS aspirants.
Southern Medical University	Guangzhou	₹3–4 Lakhs	Excellent medical facilities, international student support.
Xi’an Jiaotong University	Xi’an	₹2.5–3.5 Lakhs	Known for research facilities, English-medium MBBS program.
Wuhan University	Wuhan	₹3–4 Lakhs	Strong faculty, modern infrastructure, WHO-recognised.

Syllabus for MBBS in China (6-Year Course)

The MBBS course in China is structured over six years, including five years of classroom learning and one year of clinical internship. The syllabus moves from basic sciences to advanced clinical training, ensuring students are well-prepared for medical practice.

Year/Phase	Subjects Covered	Highlights
Years 1–2 (Pre-Clinical)	Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Histology, Embryology, Medical Chemistry, Medical Physics	Focus on fundamentals; foundation for higher studies.
Years 3–4 (Para-Clinical)	Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, Immunology, Parasitology, Community Medicine, Medical Genetics	Deeper medical understanding; bridges basic and clinical sciences.
Year 5 (Clinical)	Surgery, Internal Medicine, Paediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, Psychiatry, Radiology	Hands-on exposure; integration of theory with patient care.
Year 6 (Internship)	Rotational Internship across departments	Compulsory 1-year hospital training; practical patient interaction.
Electives (Optional)	Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Dentistry, Forensic Pathology, Medical Law	Additional exposure; broadens knowledge and practice areas.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying MBBS in China

Studying MBBS in China is gaining popularity among Indian students due to its affordable fees and globally recognised universities. However, just like any other decision, it comes with both benefits and challenges. Let’s look at them clearly:

Advantages of Studying MBBS in China	Disadvantages of Studying MBBS in China
Affordable tuition fees compared to private medical colleges in India	Language barrier in daily life, even though classes are in English
MCI/NMC-approved universities with global recognition	Cultural differences may take time to adjust.
Modern infrastructure and advanced teaching methods	Some universities may not offer high-quality clinical exposure
Easy admission process with no entrance exam in most universities	Distance from home and long travel time
Exposure to international students and global learning environment	Graduates must clear FMGE/NExT exam to practice in India
The Cost of living is lower compared to many other countries.	The weather may be challenging for some students.
Opportunity to learn Mandarin, which can add value to your career	Limited availability of Indian food in some cities

Scholarships for MBBS in China

There are several scholarships available for studying MBBS in China, which reduce the overall China MBBS fees in Indian rupees and provide students with some financial aid. Scholarships are beneficial for international students, including Indians, as they cover tuition fees, accommodation, and even daily expenses.

Types of Scholarships Available:

Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC Scholarship): This covers all tuition fees, accommodation, medical insurance, and a monthly allowance.
University Scholarships: Many Chinese medical universities will provide either full or partial scholarships to students.
Belt and Road Scholarships: These scholarships are available to students from countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative, including India.
Local/Provincial scholarships: Some Chinese provinces offer scholarships to international students.
Confucius Institute Scholarships: These are primarily for scholarships in Chinese language and culture, but may also be available to MBBS students.

Why Choose invest4Edu for Your Study Abroad Journey?

Studying abroad can be daunting, from selecting the right university to deciding how to pay for it. invest4Edu has streamlined your study abroad journey. With trusted advisers, financial solutions, and personalised support and guidance, the process is easier and less stressful. Choosing your studying abroad journey is made easy by invest4Edu, providing reassurance for the students and parents that each decision is made without stress.

Here is how invest4Edu Helps Your Study Abroad Journey

University Selection: personalised counselling for students to find the best-fit university and best-fit program for their respective careers.
Application Information: Complete support throughout the application with university documentation, SOPS, LORS, and application submission.
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Scholarship support: We assist in locating and applying for scholarships that minimise your overall costs.
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Moreover, invest4Edu provides:

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Conclusion

When it comes to studying MBBS in China, this is one of the most sought-after options for Indian students seeking quality education at an economical cost. The educational facilities available in world-class universities in China, with modern infrastructure, an English medium, and recognition globally, make China a desired education destination for medical aspirants. The cost of pursuing your MBBS in China in Indian rupees is significantly lower than in other countries, such as the USA, UK, and Australia, which also makes this the most viable option from a family perspective.

When planning your education abroad, it is essential to receive the proper guidance. At invest4Edu, we offer an option to assist with admission and financial planning, while also providing end-to-end support, including career counselling, psychometric tests, and education loans. With the right planning, studying MBBS in China could be the first of many successful steps in your medical career.