Difference of Studying MBBS in Russia Vs India for Indian Students

Pursuing an MBBS degree is a dream for many Indian students but due to high competition, high tuition fees, and limited seats in government colleges, many students consider studying abroad. There are many choices for doing MBBS but most of students prefer to study MBBS from Russia because there medical education is affordable and good in term of hostel and educational facilities. Choosing MBBS between India VS Russia depends on multiple factors like budget, academic preferences, and career goals. While Russia offers affordable medical education with international exposure, Indian students must clear FMGE/NExT to practice in India. On the other hand, studying in India provides better integration into the Indian healthcare system but comes with a high cost for private college students. Indian students should carefully evaluate both options based on affordability, career scope, and personal aspirations before making a decision.

Difference in Cost of Education between Russia and India

The cost of education depends on the type of college which can be different as per location, city, and type of college.

MBBS in Russia	MBBS in India
Russia is an affordable option for most of students who want to make their career in the medical line and want to do an MBBS. Russian government are supporting by subsidizing medical colleges which so Russian universities and colleges are work comes at the lowest cost. From Russia students can complete their MBBS at 20 to 40 lakh. Some of the most affordable universities may even offer courses for as low as INR 3 to INR 4 lakhs per year.	MBBS in India is little quite expensive in comparison to Russia particularly in private medical colleges. Tuition fees for MBBS in Government medical colleges can be 1 to 5 lakh for the complete course but competition is high to obtain a seat in government medical colleges.
Russian Medical Universities do not require students to pay high capitation fees or donations as in private institutions in India.	For students who do not secure government seats, private medical colleges charge anywhere between ₹50 lakhs to ₹1 crore for the entire MBBS course. Additionally, some colleges demand hefty capitation fees, making medical education financially burdensome for many students.

 

Advantages for Indian Students to Study MBBS in Russia and in India

Advantages of Studying MBBS in Russia

• Affordable Tuition Fees – Russian Medical universities are offering MBBS at an affordable cost which can be easily paid by middle-class students as there are no donation fees required.
• High-Quality Education – Russian medical universities are globally recognized and maintain high educational standards, with many universities ranked among the top medical institutions worldwide.
• No Entrance Exam (Except NEET) – Unlike India, where students must clear the NEET exam with high scores for government seats, Russian universities accept Indian students based on their NEET qualification without any additional entrance exam.
• Globally Recognized Degree – MBBS degree from Russian medical universities are valid for doing practise or working as doctor because all universities are affiliated and approved by medical bodies like WHO, nmc etc.
• Easy Admission Process – The admission process for MBBS in Russia is simpler and hassle-free compared to India which can be completed in a few easy steps.
• Exposure to International Medical Practices – Studying in Russia will give a chance for students to experience an international curriculum, multiple kinds of patient cases, and advanced medical technology.
• English-Medium Programs – Many Russian universities offer MBBS programs in English, making it easier for Indian students to study.
• Indian Community & Food Availability – Several universities cater to Indian students with Indian food options and cultural festivals, making it a comfortable environment for studying.

Advantages of Studying MBBS in India

• Better Understanding – Medical students who are studying MBBS in India can gain better experience by treating diseases prevalent in the country which is important for their medical practice in India.
• No Language Barrier – Indian students are getting an education in English and the local language which makes students understand subjects and during practical it also helps to better understanding.
• Easier Licensing Process in India – Graduates from Indian medical colleges directly qualify for medical practice in India without taking additional screening exams like the FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination).
• Internship Opportunities – Indian students can complete their internships in hospitals affiliated with their universities, gaining direct exposure to India’s healthcare system.
• More Career Stability in India – Indian medical graduates find it easier to get residency positions and jobs in India compared to foreign graduates.

Cost of Living in Russia vs India

The cost of living in Russia and India can be different and depends on the opt facilities. If students opt for more facilities then it can be a little bit expensive.

Type of expenses	Expenses in Russia	Expenses in India
Living Cost	Living cost in Russia depends on the type of city and college where students choose to live. Living cost in Russia can be between 15 thousand to 25 thousands monthly.	Living cost in India also depends on the type of city and facilities accommodated in hostels. Some metropolitan cities in India can be a little expensive where the monthly cost can be 25 to 50 thousand per month and in small cities it can be 10 to 20 thousand per month.
Hostel accommodation	5 to 10 thousand per month	5 to 15 thousand per month
Food expenses	6 to 10 thousands per month	5 to 10 thousand per month
Transportation	1 to 2 thousand per month	1 to 3 thousand per month
Miscellaneous expenses	3 to 5 thousand per month	3 to 10 thousand per month

 

Scope After MBBS in Russia or India

After completing MBBS students have multiple options and they can choose as per their choice

Type of option	Scope After MBBS in Russia	Scope After MBBS in India
Practice in India (After FMGE/NExT Exam)	Indian students who complete MBBS in Russia they need to clear the National Exit Test - NExT to practice in India and NEET-PG for PG course.	Indian MBBS graduates can directly start practising in India after completing their MBBS and internship but they are supposed to qualify for NExt entrance which is mandatory for 2023.
Pursuing Postgraduate Studies	Graduates can opt for MD/MS courses in India, Russia, the US, the UK, Canada, or other countries.	Many MBBS graduates opt for NEET-PG to pursue MD/MS in India and specialize in various medical fields.
Opportunities in Other Countries	After completing an MBBS from Russia students can apply for job or PG course in any country after qualifying for entrance exams like USMLE which is the United States Medical Licensing Examination or PLAB Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board.	Indian students who graduate with MBBS they can also apply for further studies or medical practice in countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia after qualifying exams like USMLE, PLAB, or AMC - Australian Medical Council Exam.