Every year, lakhs of Indian students dream of becoming doctors, but only a fraction manage to secure a seat in Indian medical colleges. With over 23 lakh NEET UG aspirants and barely 1.2 lakh seats available, the odds are slim. That’s where the opportunity to study MBBS abroad becomes a life-changing alternative.
But here’s the question that echoes across every aspiring medical student’s mind — “Is NEET compulsory for MBBS abroad?”
Let’s decode everything you need to know about the NEET exam for MBBS abroad, the latest updates on the NEET Exam 2025, and how Indian students can navigate eligibility requirements to pursue their medical dream internationally.
Why NEET Matters Even for MBBS Abroad Aspirants
Before 2018, studying MBBS abroad was relatively straightforward. You just had to meet the academic eligibility criteria of the foreign university. But now, things have changed.
As per the directives of the National Medical Commission (NMC) and a Supreme Court ruling, it is mandatory to qualify for NEET UG even if you intend to study MBBS abroad. Without this qualification, your degree will not be recognised in India, making it impossible to practice or appear for FMGE or NExT.
So yes, to clear the air once and for all:
NEET Exam 2025 is absolutely compulsory for MBBS abroad.
Whether you plan to study in Russia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, or the Philippines, a valid NEET score is essential.
Understanding the Requirement of the NEET Exam to Study Abroad
You don’t need a high score. Even bare minimum qualifying marks will do. For General Category students, that’s around 137+, and for SC/ST/OBC, it’s slightly lower.
Once you’re back in India after pursuing an MBBS abroad, you’ll need to pass the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (abbreviated as FMGE, soon to be replaced by NExT exam). NEET qualification is a prerequisite even to be eligible for these.
Not every university abroad is the best. Ensure that you only take admission in a medical college/university that’s accredited by the National Medical Commission (previously known as MCI)
Book a FREE consultation with Educafic. Their ace counsellors will explain you the entire process in an easy manner so that you can make an informed decision.
MBBS Abroad Without NEET: Is It Possible?
A common misconception is that there are still countries offering MBBS without NEET. Let’s clarify:
There are many universities abroad that do not require NEET for admission, but if you’re an Indian citizen, you must qualify for NEET to get your degree recognised back home.
According to the recent mandate by the Supreme Court of India, no matter which university you are taking admission in, in India or abroad, you need to qualify for NEET. The major difference is that, unlike India, you typically need a high score or have a fear of cut-offs while applying abroad. Medical colleges abroad need you to just pass the NEET exam as part of their eligibility criteria.
NEET Admit Card 2025: Everything You Need to Know
The NEET Admit Card is your golden ticket to a successful medical career. Here’s all you need to know about the hall ticket to appear for the most coveted exam.
NEET Admit Card 2025 Release Date
The NEET admit card date is expected to be around the last week of April 2025, with the exam tentatively scheduled on 4th April 2025.
NEET Admit Card Download
You can download the NEET 2025 admit card directly from the official website. Use your application number, DOB, and security pin to log in.
What Does the NEET Admit Card Include?
- Name and Roll Number
- Exam Centre and Address
- Reporting Time
- Exam Guidelines
- Photograph and Signature
Pro Tip: Double-check all details. Even a small mismatch in name or photo can cause issues on exam day.
Appeared for your NEET exam already? Are you curious to know your All India Rank? Try Educafic’s NEET Rank Predictor 2025 today and plan your future.
Top Countries for MBBS Abroad Where NEET Is Required
While NEET has become the norm for Indian students pursuing MBBS abroad, some countries have emerged as top destinations where NEET qualification is accepted but not necessarily used as a selection metric. Let’s explore these options.
MBBS in Russia
- NEET Requirement: Yes (just passing marks needed)
- Why Russia? Affordable tuition, English-medium instruction, accreditation from WHO, WSDOMS, FAIMER & NMC
- Highlights: No entrance exams, no donation fees and degrees recognised in India post-FMGE/NExT.
MBBS in Georgia
- NEET Requirement: Yes (minimum NEET score required)
- Why Georgia? European curriculum, modern infrastructure, and direct clinical exposure
- Popular among: Indian students seeking European-style education without the high cost.
- Fees are extremely low: Starts from just ₹2.7 lakhs per year
MBBS in Kazakhstan
- NEET Requirement: Yes (qualifying NEET score sufficient)
- Why Kazakhstan? 5-year programme, budget-friendly, Indian food available, recognised by WHO & NMC
- Acceptance rate: Very high and promises a high employment rate too
MBBS in Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Armenia
- NEET Requirement: Yes. (you just need ot pass the exam)
- Advantage: Universities offer globally recognised medical degrees and are increasingly gaining favour among Indian students due to affordability and quality.
Eligibility Criteria to Pursue MBBS Abroad for Indian Students in 2025
| Criteria | Requirement |
| Age | Minimum 17 years by December 31, 2025 |
| Academic Qualification | 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology |
| Minimum Marks | 50% for General, 40% for SC/ST/OBC |
| NEET Qualification | Mandatory for Indian citizens |
| Valid Passport | Required for visa and travel |
| Accreditation | Admission must be in an NMC-approved college |
Point to Remember: NEET qualification is mandatory even if the foreign university does not demand it during admission, due to the recent judgment by the Supreme Court of India.
Is There Any NEET Exemption for MBBS Abroad in 2025?
This is one of the most misunderstood topics. Here’s the truth:
There is no official NEET exemption for Indian citizens aspiring to study MBBS abroad, not in 2025, not since 2018.
However, the following groups may be exempt:
- Non-resident Indians (NRIS) with foreign citizenship.
- Students who have passed NEET UG in any of the past three years (validity window as per NMC rules).
- Those pursuing non-MBBS medical courses, like nursing, pharmacy, or paramedical degrees, abroad.
But for MBBS?
NEET qualification is mandatory as per the Supreme Court of India’s judgment, and it is absolutely non-negotiable.
Why is FMGE important?
Indian students pursuing MBBS abroad must clear the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) or the National Exit Test (NExT) to practice medicine in India. But here’s the catch:
No NEET = No eligibility for FMGE/NExT
The NMC mandates that only those who qualify for NEET will be eligible for licensing in India, even if the foreign MBBS degree is from a top-tier global university.
Key Points:
- NEET acts as the official record of intent and eligibility.
- FMGE/NExT is a medical screening test to ensure quality standards as per the Indian medical system.
Debunking Common Myths About NEET and MBBS Abroad
Despite clear guidelines from the NMC, many myths about the NEET exam for MBBS abroad persist among students and parents. Let’s break them down with facts.
Myth 1: “You don’t need NEET if you’re studying abroad.”
Reality: According to the recent mandate by the Supreme Court of India, you have to pass the NEET exam to study MBBS abroad.
Myth 2: “Private agents say NEET isn’t needed for MBBS abroad.”
Reality: Many agents mislead students to secure quick admissions. Always verify claims with official notification by the NMC.
Myth 3: “Once admitted abroad, I can clear NEET later.”
Reality: NEET must be cleared before you begin your MBBS abroad programme for it to be valid in India.
Myth 4: “NEET-qualified students can get direct scholarships abroad.”
Reality: NEET qualification is an eligibility criterion, not a scholarship guarantee. Some universities offer discounts based on academic merit or early admission.
NEET Timeline & Study Plan for 2025 Aspirants
Understanding the timeline helps align both your NEET and MBBS abroad goals. Here’s a suggested roadmap:
Tentative Key Dates for NEET 2025
| NEET 2025 Notification | January 2025 |
| Application Start | February 2025 |
| NEET Admit Card Release | Last Week of April 2025/First Week of May |
| NEET Exam Date | 4th May 2025 |
| NEET Result Declaration | June 2025 |
Study Plan for NEET + Abroad Admissions
- Jan to Feb: Foundation revision + fill your NEET form + shortlist foreign universities.
- March to April: Full NEET syllabus revisions, take 3 to 5 mock tests.
- May: Take NEET + finalise university choices.
- June to July: Apply to MBBS abroad universities after NEET results.
- Aug to Sep: Receive offer letters, apply for visas, and prepare documents.
Expert Advice for Indian Students Planning MBBS Abroad
Here’s what education consultants and doctors recommend for aspirants balancing NEET and foreign admissions:
Tip 1: Don’t Delay NEET Prep Thinking It’s Just a Formality
Even though a high rank isn’t required, you still need to qualify for NEET. Some students lose years because they ignored this.
Tip 2: Choose Only NMC-Recognised Universities
The NEET exam is just the first step. If your foreign university isn’t NMC-approved, your degree won’t be valid in India when you return to practice medicine.
Tip 3: Prepare for FMGE/NExT from Day 1
Start familiarising yourself with the Indian curriculum, as FMGE/NExT is tougher than NEET and mandatory for returning graduates.
Tip 4: Plan Admission Abroad Based on NEET Timeline
Many students try to manage NEET and MBBS admissions together. You must align university deadlines with the NEET schedule.
The dream to study MBBS abroad for Indian students is more achievable than ever, thanks to the options available worldwide, English-medium universities, and cost-effective tuition. But don’t fall for shortcuts!
Whether you’re eyeing MBBS in Russia, Georgia, or Kazakhstan or any other country, always remember: a qualified NEET score is extremely important.
All the best!
