MBBS in USA—what it really takes

Thinking about doing MBBS in the USA? You’re not alone—it's a dream for many students around the world. The U.S. is home to some of the best medical schools globally, offering top-notch education, clinical exposure, and career opportunities that are hard to match.

But here’s something important to know: the U.S. doesn’t offer an MBBS degree the way some countries do. Instead, you’ll be working towards an MD (Doctor of Medicine)—and the journey looks a bit different. You’ll need to complete an undergraduate degree first (usually with a focus on science or pre-med), then move on to medical school.

It might sound like a long road, but for those truly passionate about medicine, it’s a path filled with growth, learning, and purpose. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything—how the U.S. system works, what it takes to get in, how much it costs, and what life looks like as a future doctor in the USA.

Is MBBS available in the USA?

Let’s clear this up right away—MBBS as a degree doesn’t exist in the USA.

In the US, students earn an MD (Doctor of Medicine) instead of an MBBS. But the goal is the same: to become a qualified medical doctor.

The main difference lies in the path. Unlike countries where you can start MBBS right after high school, in the U.S., you must complete a 4-year undergraduate degree first, usually with a focus on biology, chemistry, or another pre-medical field. After that, you apply to medical school for the MD program.

So, if you’re an international student hoping to pursue medicine in the U.S., you’re not applying directly for MBBS—you’re planning a two-step journey:

  1. Pre-med bachelor’s degree (4 years)

  2. MD program (4 years)

It’s a longer route, but it gives you a strong academic foundation and exposure to diverse fields before you specialise in medicine.

Pathway to becoming a doctor in the USA

Pursuing MBBS in the USA for international students is not a straight line—it’s a multi-step journey that requires commitment, preparation, and the right guidance.

Here’s a step-by-step look at how you can become a doctor in the USA:

Step 1: Complete a Pre-Medical Bachelor’s Degree (4 years)

Before applying to medical school, students must earn a bachelor’s degree in the U.S., usually in a science-related field like Biology, Chemistry, or Health Sciences. This is known as the pre-med track and includes the necessary subjects required for medical school admissions.

Step 2: Take the MCAT Exam

The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is a mandatory entrance exam for MD programs in the U.S. It tests your knowledge in sciences, critical thinking, and problem-solving. A high MCAT score is essential for getting into top U.S. medical schools.

Step 3: Apply to a 4-Year MD Program

Once your bachelor’s and MCAT are done, you can apply to MD programs at accredited U.S. medical schools. The MD program covers classroom training in the first two years, followed by clinical rotations in real hospitals and healthcare settings.

Step 4: Pass the USMLE Exams

To practise medicine in the U.S., you must clear the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE):

  • Step 1: Tests foundational medical knowledge

  • Step 2 CK: Tests clinical knowledge

  • Step 3: Tests your ability to practise medicine independently

Step 5: Complete a Residency Program (3–7 years)

After medical school, you enter a residency program in your chosen specialty (like surgery, paediatrics, etc.). This hands-on training in hospitals is crucial for becoming a licensed doctor.

Step 6: Optional Fellowship (1–3 years)

If you want to specialise even further, you can opt for a fellowship after residency (e.g., cardiology, oncology, etc.).

It’s a long journey—about 11–15 years in total—but if you’re passionate about healthcare, the experience, recognition, and career growth you gain from studying medicine in the USA is unmatched.

Eligibility criteria for international students

If you're planning to pursue MBBS in the USA (i.e., the MD pathway), there are several eligibility requirements you need to meet as an international student. Here’s what most medical schools in the U.S. look for:

1. Academic Qualifications: You must have completed or be in the process of completing a bachelor’s degree, ideally in a science or pre-medical field. Subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and English are typically required.

2. MCAT Score: A competitive MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) score is essential for admission into MD programs. Most top medical schools have average MCAT scores ranging from 510 to 520.

3. English Language Proficiency: Since the medium of instruction is English, you’ll need to demonstrate proficiency through tests like IELTS. Minimum required scores vary by university, but typically, IELTS 6.5–7.0 is acceptable.

4. Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Strong academic or professional recommendations from professors or mentors help strengthen your application. Most schools require at least two to three letters.

5. Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Personal Statement: SOP is your chance to explain why you want to study medicine in the USA, your long-term goals, and what makes you a good fit for the program.

6. Clinical or Volunteer Experience: While not always mandatory, clinical exposure or healthcare-related volunteer work can significantly boost your application and show your commitment to the medical field.

7. Visa Requirements: You’ll need to apply for an F-1 student visa to study in the U.S. Ensure your university is SEVP-certified and that you have the financial documentation required for the visa process.

Top Universities for MD in the USA

When it comes to medical education, the USA is home to some of the highest-ranked medical schools in the world. These universities offer cutting-edge research facilities, world-class faculty, and access to top-tier hospitals for clinical rotations.

Here are some of the most reputed universities for international students pursuing an MD in the USA (equivalent to MBBS):

Cost of Studying MBBS (MD) in the USA

Pursuing an MD degree in the USA is a significant financial investment, especially for international students. Unlike many countries where students enter medical school directly after high school, in the U.S., you first complete a 4-year undergraduate degree followed by 4 years of medical school—making the total cost higher.

Here’s a breakdown of the major expenses:

1. Bachelor’s Degree (Pre-Med Program) Tuition fees range from USD 20,000 to USD 50,000 per year, depending on the university and location. Duration: 4 years

2. MD Program (Medical School) Medical school tuition typically ranges from USD 40,000 to USD 70,000 per year for international students. Duration: 4 years

3. Living Expenses Expect to spend around USD 10,000 to USD 20,000 per year on accommodation, food, transport, books, health insurance, and personal expenses.

4. Other Costs

  • MCAT registration: Around USD 330

  • Application fees: Varies by school (approx. USD 100–150 per application)

  • Visa fees and SEVIS charges: Around USD 350–500

Total Estimated Cost (8 years) For international students, the complete journey can cost anywhere between USD 250,000 to USD 350,000 or more, depending on the university and lifestyle.

While the numbers may seem daunting, many students find the investment worthwhile due to the quality of education, training, and future earning potential in the medical field.

Scholarships & financial aid for MBBS in USA

The cost of pursuing MBBS in the USA (MD pathway) can be high, but the good news is that there are scholarships and financial aid options available—though they can be limited for international students.

Here’s what you should know:

1. Merit-Based Scholarships Some U.S. universities offer partial scholarships to international students based on academic excellence, MCAT scores, or research potential. These are competitive and awarded during the admission process.

2. University-Specific Aid A few medical schools may have institutional scholarships or grants available to international students. These can cover tuition, living costs, or both. Examples include:

  • Harvard Medical School Financial Aid

  • Stanford School of Medicine Need-Based Grants

3. External Scholarships There are several global scholarships that international students can apply for:

American Association of University Women (AAUW) International Fellowships

4. Need-Based Financial Aid While rare, a few universities extend need-based aid to international students. Applicants must submit detailed financial documentation to be considered.

5. Work Opportunities International students can take up on-campus jobs during their undergraduate studies (up to 20 hours per week during sessions). However, work opportunities during the MD program are limited due to the intensity of the course.

Tip: Start exploring scholarship options early, as deadlines often come before application cycles.

Advantages of studying Medicine in the USA

Studying medicine in the USA is a major commitment, but it comes with powerful long-term benefits—both academically and professionally. Here’s why so many international students choose the U.S. for their medical journey:

1. Globally Recognised Degrees An MD from a U.S. medical school is widely respected and accepted across the globe. Countries like Canada, the UK, Australia, and several others recognise U.S. qualifications—though additional licensing exams may be required for practice. U.S. medical training often exceeds the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) standards, enhancing its global value.

2. High-Quality Education and Clinical Exposure U.S. medical schools are consistently ranked among the top in the world. For instance, Harvard Medical School, Johns Hopkins, and Stanford feature in the QS World University Rankings for Medicine 2024. Clinical training is built into the MD curriculum from year 3 onwards, and students train in accredited teaching hospitals, many of which are part of the top 100 hospitals globally.

3. Innovative Research Opportunities The USA leads in biomedical and clinical research, spending over $245 billion annually on health-related R&D (NIH, 2023). Medical students have access to advanced labs and often co-author publications or participate in research projects that shape the future of healthcare.

4. Better Career Opportunities and Salary Potential U.S.-trained doctors are among the highest-paid professionals worldwide. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for physicians and surgeons in 2024 is over $235,000 per year, with specialists often earning more. Completing a residency in the U.S. opens doors to subspecialisations and academic medicine roles.

Post-MD Career Options

Once you complete your MD in the USA, a wide range of career paths open up depending on your goals, USMLE scores, and residency experience. Here's a look at what comes next:

1. Specialisation or Fellowship Post-residency, you can pursue a fellowship for further specialisation in areas such as cardiology, oncology, neurology, or anaesthesiology. These typically last 1–3 years and enhance your career prospects in both academic and clinical settings.

2. Practising Medicine in the USA Once you’ve completed residency and passed USMLE Step 3, you can apply for a state medical licence and begin practising. Physicians can work in hospitals, private clinics, academic institutions, or healthcare corporations. Some also pursue teaching or research roles.

3. Working in Other Countries Graduates from U.S. medical schools often qualify to take licensing exams in other countries. For example:

  • PLAB for the UK

  • MCCQE for Canada

  • AMC exams for Australia Each country has its own equivalency and licensing rules, but a U.S. medical degree is generally respected worldwide.

4. Research and Academic Careers Graduates interested in research can work with NIH, universities, or private biotech companies. U.S. medical schools often prepare students for roles in public health, global health policy, or medical innovation.

5. Entrepreneurship and Leadership Roles Doctors with a U.S. MD are increasingly seen in healthcare startups, digital health companies, and even in policy-making and administration roles. If you have an interest in combining medicine with leadership or innovation, the opportunities are vast.

Studying medicine in the USA isn’t a shortcut—it’s a long, demanding path that tests your academic strength, determination, and clarity of purpose. But for students who are serious about becoming world-class doctors, the rewards are well worth it. From cutting-edge clinical training to international recognition, an MD degree from the USA can open powerful opportunities across the globe.

Start planning early, understand each step clearly, and stay focused on your end goal. The journey may be challenging, but it’s designed to shape you into a doctor the world trusts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can international students pursue MBBS in the USA? Yes, but instead of an MBBS, students pursue an MD (Doctor of Medicine) degree after completing a 4-year undergraduate degree, usually in a science-related field.

Q2. What is the total duration to become a doctor in the USA? Typically 8 to 11 years:

  • 4 years of a bachelor’s degree

  • 4 years of MD

  • 3–7 years of residency (depending on specialisation)

Q3. Is NEET required to study medicine in the USA?

NEET is not required for admission to U.S. medical schools, but Indian students may still need it for eligibility certification from the Medical Council of India (NMC) if they wish to return to practise in India.

Q4. How much does it cost to study medicine in the USA?

Total expenses (including undergraduate and MD programs) can range between USD 250,000 to 350,000 or more, depending on the institution and lifestyle.

Q5. What exams do I need to take for medical school in the USA?

You need to take the MCAT for MD admission and USMLE Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 3 for licensing.

Q6. Can I practise medicine in the USA after MD?

Yes, after completing your residency and passing all USMLE steps, you can apply for a state medical license to practise.

Updated on June 5, 2025

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