MBBS in UK Complete Guidebook for Indian Students 2025 Updated

UK 3,646 Views Updated On Jan 24, 2025 12:02 PM IST
MBBS in UK for Indian Students

Study MBBS in UK: A Pathway to World-Class Medical Education and Global Opportunities for Pursuing Medical Studies.

Why study MBBS in UK? Pursuing MBBS from UK is an excellent opportunity to build a strong foundation in a medical career. Known for its globally recognized curriculum, MBBS in UK provides high-quality education that lasts up to 4 - 6 years.

Moreover, the introduction of the Medical Licensing Assessment by GMC (General Medical Council UK), ensures that every student gets the necessary hands-on practical and theoretical knowledge and skill set required for practice in the UK after completing their graduation.

This blog by The Student Helpline study in UK consultants walks you through the essential steps to successfully pursue an MBBS in UK.

Overview Of Studying MBBS In UK

Take a look at the key highlights regarding MBBS in UK for 2025

Parameters Overview
MBBS in UK Intake September
Number of MBBS Universities in UK 46+
Number of applicants for 2025 entry 23,350
Average Cost of Studying MBBS in UK (per year) More than INR 30L per year
Application Deadline for MBBS IN UK
(UCAS and individual Universities)
29th January to 4th July 2025
Entrance Exams For MBBS in UK NEET/UKCAT
Semester-wise distribution of MBBS Courses in UK
  • Semester 1 & 2 (Pre - Clinical)
  • Semester 3-5 (Para - Clinical)
  • Semester 6-9 (Clinical)

Table 1: Essential aspects of studying MBBS in UK for Indian students. As accessed on 20 January 2025 from the official UCAS website. (Source: UCAS, Gov.UK, themedicportal.com, medschool.ac.uk)

Types Of MBBS Degrees In UK

The UK offers a variety of MBBS degree options, including MBBS, MBChB, BSc, and others, which are a result of the historical development and diverse customs of medical institutions around the country.

Although they all refer to the same core degree, which is a medical and surgical certification, the primary differences between them are found in nomenclature conventions and a few structural or programmatic variations.

Listed below are the types of MBBS degrees in UK

S.No. Degrees Description Medical Universities Offering
1 MBBS Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery Degree awarded University of Oxford University of Cambridge
2 BSc Intercalated year degree in Bachelor in Science awarded during or alongside MBBS University College London University of Edinburgh
3 MBChB An alternative abbreviation for MBBS used in UK University of Glasgow University of Bristol
4 BMBS Bachelor of Medicine, and Bachelor of Surgery, another variant used by medical schools in UK University of Nottingham University of Southampton
5 BMedSci Bachelor in Medical Sciences, Intercalated year degree for MBBS University of Sheffield University of Birmingham

Table 2: Types of MBBS Degrees Offered in UK and the Top Medical Colleges Offering Them.

How To Get MBBS Admission In London, UK?

Every university has set certain admission requirements through which they shortlist the students. For 2025, new criteria have been issued by the Medical Schools Council of UK.

Listed below are the admission requirements to study MBBS in UK for Indian Students:

  1. Must be 18 years or older
  2. Minimum of 80-90% in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
  3. Entrance Exam Requirements:
    • UCAT Requirement For MBBS in UK: 300-900 for each cognitive subtest
    • NEET Requirement For MBBS in UK : 50thpercentile for Indian students
  4. English Language Proficiency Requirements:
    • IELTS: 0 to 7.5 band score
    • IELTS for Foundation Programme: 5 band score(UKFPO will only accept IELTS Academic and UKVI while IELTS General Training is no longer accepted)
    • TOEFL: 90 to 100
    • OET (Occupational English Test): Grade B or higher
  5. Work Experience (Preferred but not mandatory)

Documents Checklist To Study MBBS In UK

Listed below is the final document checklist you need to submit when applying for MBBS in UK:

  1. UCAS application form
  2. High school transcripts and certificates
  3. English proficiency scorecard
  4. MBBSentrance exam scorecard (NEET/UKCAT)
  5. Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose
  6. Reference Letters
  7. Medical Records(Hepatitis B and TB, if required)
  8. Police Clearance Certificate
  9. Updated CV/Resume
  10. A valid passport
  11. Photographs
  12. Bank statements (Minimum: INR 21L)

Best Universities In UK For MBBS

Out of 46+ Medical schools and colleges in UK, 10 of them are ranked under the top 100 universities in the world according to QS World Ranking 2025.

List of high-ranking universities to study MBBS in UK (Updated List 2025)

S.No Best Medicine Schools in UK QS Ranking 2025
1 Imperial College London School of Medical Science #2
2 University of Oxford Medical School #3
3 University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine #5
4 University College London School of Medical Science #9
5 The University of Edinburgh Medical #27
6 University of Manchester School of Medicine #34
7 King's College London GKT School of Medical Education #40
8 University of Bristol Medical School #54
9 University of Glasgow School of Medicine #78
10 University of Birmingham College of Medical & Dental Sciences #80

Table 3: Best Medicine Schools and Colleges to study MBBS in UK. (Source: QS Quacquarelli Symonds Limited, Medschools.ac.uk)

Affordable Universities For MBBS In UK For Indian Students

Since the majority of the MBBS universities in UK charge very high tuition fees. However, certain MBBS universities in the UK offer affordable tuition fees.

Here's a list of top 5 affordable MBBS universities in UK:

  1. Queen's University Belfast Medical School - INR 40.52L per year
  2. University of Leicester Medical School - INR 30.60L per year
  3. Newcastle University Medical School - INR 46.96L per year
  4. University of Plymouth Peninsula Medical School - INR 42.95L per year
  5. University of Southampton - INR 31.97L per year

Please note that the tuition fees for the above-mentioned universities in UK are subject to change due to inflation each year.

Best Medical Colleges In London For Indian Students

MBBS colleges in London are the most competitive and highly prestigious colleges in the world that offer high-quality teaching and state-of-the-art medical facilities to students

List of best MBBS Colleges in London for Indian students:

  • University College London (UCL) Medical School
  • King's College London GKT School of Medical Education
  • Imperial College London Faculty of Medicine
  • St George's, University of London
  • Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry (Queen Mary University of London)

MCI Recognized Universities To Study MBBS In UK

Studying MBBS in UK is a dream for many individuals, and to top it all, getting enrolled at an MCI-recognized MBBS university in UK will ensure a smoother transition for Indian students who have plans to move back to India post-completion of their MBBS degrees.

List of MCI-recognized MBBS universities in UK:

  1. Oxford University
  2. University of Newcastle Upon Tyne
  3. University College London
  4. University of Bristol
  5. University of Glasgow
  6. University of Liverpool
  7. Queen's Mary University of London
  8. Georges University of London

If you wish to get enrolled in the best MCI recognized MBBS universities in UK, The Student Helpline study abroad consultants will provide you with the best resources and study abroad services that will enhance your chances of getting enrolled.

Career Pathway For Indian Students After MBBS In England

Post-completion MBBS in UK, students can start their journey as medical practitioners.

In the table listed below you will find the essential details regarding how to practice medicine in UK and India.

Parameters Practice Medicine in UK Practice Medicine in India
Exams Required Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) National Exit Test (NEXT)
Accredited By General Medical Council (GMC) National Medical Council (NMC)
Essential Requirements Have to undertake a foundation year programme, and opt for Specialty Training/ General Practice Training After clearing NExT paper 1, students have to undertake 1-year internship before appearing for NExT paper 2
Exemptions No exceptions Indian students who completed their MBBS in India, and pursued training or medical practice in the UK are exempted from appearing for NEXT.

Table 4: Key highlights on how to practice MBBS in the UK and India (Source: UKFPO, GMC, NMC).

Best Universities In England For Foundation Programme

Foundation programs offer work-based training, bridging the gap between the knowledge gained at medical schools and Specialty/General Practice Training. These programs often come with 4-month placements aiming to attract and retain doctors in remote areas where there is a shortage of specialists doctors.

There are three types of foundation programs after studying MBBS in UK, General Foundation Programme (FY1 & FY2), Foundation Priority Programme, and Specialized Foundation Programme.

List of best universities in England for foundation programs -

  1. London Foundation School
  2. Oxford (Thames Valley) Foundation School
  3. Yorkshire & Humber Foundation School
  4. West Midlands North Foundation School
  5. West Midlands South Foundation School
  6. Trent Foundation School
  7. Northern Foundation School
  8. Peninsula Foundation School
  9. Wales Foundation School
  10. Wessex Foundation School

After completing MBBS in UK, students have to undertake the Foundation Year program and Specialty Training/General Practice Training to pursue a PG degree in the UK.

Here's a list of Popular Master's Specializations After Doing MBBS from UK

  1. MSc Cardiology
  2. MSc Orthopedics
  3. MSc Public Health
  4. MSc Anesthesiology
  5. MSc Gynecology
  6. MSc Neurosurgery
  7. MSc Ophthalmology
  8. MSc Internal Medicine
  9. PG Diploma in Dermatology
  10. PG Diploma in Radiology

Best Scholarships To Study MBBS In UK For Indian Students

Some of the most outstanding students get the privilege to secure MBBS scholarships in the UK. These scholarships cover tuition fees and also offer monthly stipends.

List of best scholarships to study MBBS in UK:

S.No. Scholarship To Study MBBS in UK Award Amount
1 Hull York Medical School International Excellence Scholarship 5% of the overseas tuition fees per year
2 India Birmingham UG Outstanding Achievement Scholarship INR 4.26L per award
3 Oxford-Weidenfeld and Hoffmann Scholarships 100% tuition fees and living cost grant up to INR 20.53L
4 John Abernathy (Barts) Scholarship INR 5.33L for each of the 5 years

Table 5: Top scholarships to study MBBS in UK for Indian students (Source: Official University Websites).

Upcoming Important Dates To Study MBBS In UK (For 2026 Intake)

Although the key dates for the 2026 entry have not yet been published, you can still take a look at the medical application timeline for the 2026 entry and plan your transition to study MBBS in UK accordingly.

The Medical Application Timeline For 2026 Entry

  1. May - June 2025:Undergraduate applications open for 2026 entry (Start preparing for your UCAT exam)
  2. July - September 2025: UCAT Exam will be conducted
  3. September 2025: Finalize your 4 Medical School University options
  4. 15thOctober 2025: UCAS Application deadline
  5. Early November 2025: UCAT results are sent to universities
  6. November 2025 - March 2026: Attend Multiple Mini Interviews conducted by Medical schools in UK
  7. March - April 2026:Receive your offer letter for MBBS in UK

Top Places For Internships And Clinical Placements In London For MBBS Students

The King's Trust in alliance with the NHS offers courses and clinical placements to students aged between 16 to 30 years of age. Students have to work for at least 25 to 35 hours per week under senior Doctors at various clinical settings and NHS hospitals in London.

Here are some of the top options for clinical placements and internships for MBBS students

  1. Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust
  2. King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
  3. University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
  4. Barts Health NHS Trust
  5. Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust
  6. UCL Medical School
  7. King's College London GKT School of Medical Education
  8. Imperial College London Faculty of Medicine
  9. St George's, University of London
  10. The Francis Crick Institute
  11. The Institute of Cancer Research
  12. The Royal Marsden Hospital

Easy To Get Into MBBS Schools In England

Considering the fact that the majority of the medical schools and colleges in England have very low acceptance rates, listed below are some universities that have marginally higher acceptance rates than usual. Also, the average UCAT scores for these universities are also lower as compared to highly competitive MBBS universities in England.

List Of Easy To Get Into Medical Schools In England -

  1. Manchester Medical School
  2. University of Lincoln Medical School
  3. Newcastle University Medical School
  4. Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry
  5. Aston University Medical School

Best Cities To Study MBBS In England For Indian Students

When choosing the best city in England to study MBBS, Indian students should consider several factors, including university rankings, cost of living, career prospects, cultural environment, and exposure.

List of Top 5 Cities for MBBS in England

Rank City Top Medical Universities Cost of Living NHS & Career Prospects Indian Student Community
1 London UCL, King's College, Imperial College High Excellent (Top NHS Hospitals) Largest
2 Oxford University of Oxford High Excellent Moderate
3 Cambridge University of Cambridge High Excellent Moderate
4 Manchester University of Manchester Moderate Strong NHS Presence Large
5 irmingham University of Birmingham Affordable Strong NHS & Research Large

Table 6: Top cities to study MBBS in England for Indian students based on their financial situation, career goals, and career opportunities.

Want To Study MBBS In UK? Contact The Best Study Abroad Consultants

Looking forward to the opportunity to study MBBS in UK? The Student Helpline study abroad consultants will help you apply for the top-ranking MBBS colleges in the country.

From writing your personalized academic SOPs for applications to helping you shortlist the best MBBS scholarships, we will help you every step of the way, and provide you with the means to access the latest and important information related to MBBS in UK that will help you make informed decisions. Contact Now!

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding MBBS In UK

Can I study MBBS in UK for free?

No, you cannot study MBBS in UK for free, but you can apply for certain scholarships that will help you reduce the overall cost of studying MBBS in UK. To learn more about such opportunities, contact The Student Helpline.

Do MBBS universities in UK accept gaps?

Yes, majority of the MBBS universities in the UK accept gap years ranging between 2 to 5 years. However, you will be asked to explain the reason behind the gap in your academic statement of purpose. Connect with The Student Helpline SOP writing services to assist you in crafting a well-structured statement that justifies your gap year.

How long does it take to become a trained doctor in UK?

11 to 15 years. The duration of MBBS in UK is 5 or 6 years. However, to become a trained specialist, you must enroll in a 2-year Foundation Year Programme and attend the subsequent Specialty training which might take an additional 5-8 years, or General Practice training which might take an additional 3 years.

What are the top professional sectors to work in the UK for MBBS students?

The defense medical services, expedition medical services, pharmaceutical medicine, medical politics and ethics, and prison health services are some of the top professional sectors where students can find high-paying job roles after completing their MBBS in the UK.

Is it necessary to undertake a foundation year program after completion of MBBS in the UK?

Yes, any graduate who wishes to practice medicine in the UK or intend to pursue a master's level degree in the UK must complete 2 years of a foundation programme in the UK. Following that, students become eligible to opt for necessary clinical training and can pursue master's degree of their choice.

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About the Author
Vikash
Written by Vikash Vikash Study Abroad Expert

I'm a Study Abroad Consultant with 3+ years of experience, helping 1000+ students secure admission to top universities. Certified in TOEFL and Business English, he focuses on IELTS preparation and practical advice to guide students toward their academic goals.