Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) is considered to be one of the most crucial, challenging, yet rewarding courses around the globe, which involves intensive learning as well as hands-on training opportunities.
In the USA, the MBBS degree is a postgraduate program, unlike some other countries where it is undertaken as a bachelor’s degree.
Every year, more than 40,000 students sign up for entrance preparation to get scholarship opportunities in the top colleges in the US. However, only a limited number of students can crack the opportunity.
Many universities stand as top-notch depending on their specialization, placement rates, graduation rates, acceptance rates, teaching approaches, etc.
To understand all about MBBS in the US, below highlights some important aspects for students considering this jumpstart.
Why study MBBS in the USA?
- Pursuing an MBBS degree in the USA, the country stands out in its top-notch education system, infrastructure, resources, and leading institutions worldwide.
- The education system in the US is thriving so highly due to its continuous improvement in research and development, advancement in technology and constant focus on innovation.
- The degree from the US is globally recognized, and students are given preferences worldwide.
- Most importantly, students can experience multiculturalism, diversity, a healthy lifestyle, and state-of-the-art technologies.
The US is considered the best fit for students to continue their education with an exceptional experience.
Top Colleges and Universities for MBBS in the USA
The universities in the US stand in an indisputable position with state-of-the-art teaching infrastructures, a comprehensive and updated curriculum, and advanced technologies in terms of medical studies.
Some of the leading medical schools in the US based on 2023's ranking have been presented in the following table.
College/ University |
Ranking in Best Medical Schools |
Acceptance rate |
Total Tuition Fee |
Harvard University |
1 |
3.7% |
$64,984 |
New York University (Grossman) |
=39 |
2.2% |
$58,226 |
Duke University |
21 |
3.2% |
$61,170 |
Columbia University |
=18 |
4% |
$64,868 |
Stanford University |
=4 |
2.3% |
$62,193 |
The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) |
8 |
2.2% |
$48,587 |
Johns Hopkins University |
3 |
7% |
$56,500 |
University of Washington |
16 |
4.1% |
$69,186 |
University of Pennsylvania (Perelman) |
17 |
5.2% |
$59,910 |
Yale University |
14 |
6.5% |
$64,864 |
Best MBBS Colleges in the World
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Course Duration of MBBS- How long does studying MBBS in the US take?
Since MBBS in the US is equivalent to an MD degree, it can be an excellent opportunity for students to acquire both degrees with a single program, unlike any other MBBS degree. Generally, the admissions take place in the fall and spring sessions. The MBBS academic course lasts four years, and a residency program of 3-4 consecutive years.
The program is divided into two stages, namely a theoretical stage and an experimental stage, each requiring 2 full dedicated years.
- The theoretical stage in MBBS involves the study of physiology, ethics in medical aspects, anatomy, pathology, and clinical science.
- The practical stage in MBBS involves clinical rotation and externships.
To qualify for the second stage, students must appear for the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE 1) and opt for USMLE-2 at the end of the second stage.
How do International Students apply for MBBS in the US?
International students applying for MBBS must enrol in a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree for 1.5 years, a pre-medical course, from an accredited university in the US.
The BS degree is considered a foundation course and can specialise in chemistry, physics, biology or any other related field.
However, the program duration offered by medical schools may vary, depending on the chosen specialization.
What is Residency Program under MBBS in the USA? Duration of Residency Program
- After 4 years of academic sessions, students can apply for a 3-5 years residency program to practice their learnings.
- During this period, students can get to practice and become an expert in their chosen specialization.
- After this, students must appear for USMLE-3, also recognized as a Licensee Examination, allowing them to practice as a Doctor in the USA or anywhere in the world.
- The entire MBBS, along with the residency program, takes 7 to 9 years to complete.
Admission Process for MBBS in the USA
The admission process for MBBS or MD in the US requires an eligibility check regarding academic history.
To apply, students should possess a pre-medical course or BS degree in any medical field and a satisfactory Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) Score.
The following table offers a quick look at the admission requirements and eligibility.
Requirements |
Eligibility |
Admission Requirements |
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Documents required |
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It is to be noted that international students must secure 6.5 to 7 points in IELTS and 90 to 100 points in TOEFL. However, some universities can waive English proficiency tests where students’ native language is English.
Total cost to study MBBS in the USA
Since the program involves intensive learning and rigorous practice, the tuition fees for MBBS in the US vary from $18000 to $65000.
The total cost is divided into two stages, i.e. BS degree and MD/MBBS Program. The tuition fee for a BS degree varies from $20000 to $50000 per year, whereas the MD/MBBS program can take from $18000 to $64000 per annum.
For international students pursuing MBBS in the US, the living cost generally takes around $15000 per annum, which covers accommodation, food, groceries, transportation, study materials and other miscellaneous expenses.
MBBS Scholarship Opportunities in the US
Depending on the university, students' academic history and financial need, students can secure various scholarships in the USA.
Some external educational agencies facilitate students to waive some percentage of their tuition fees, which can aid students in completing their program without any financial hurdles.
College/ University |
Scholarship and Financial Aid |
Details |
Harvard University |
Harvard Medical School Scholarship |
Waiver in Tuition fees |
New York University (Grossman) |
Federal Scholarship Programs |
Full-tuition scholarships and other merit-based scholarships |
Duke University |
Michael R. Nathan Memorial Fund, The Eva J. Salber Award |
Financial support and tuition fee waiver |
Columbia University |
Vagelos Scholarship |
Covers tuition fees along with living costs. |
Stanford University |
Stanford Institutional Financial Aid |
Depends on students’ needs and academic history. |
The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) |
Various internal and external scholarships are available |
Scholarship based on community work and educational research |
Johns Hopkins University |
Research scholarships and other awards |
Need-Based scholarship |
University of Washington |
SOM scholarship |
Need-Based scholarship |
University of Pennsylvania (Perelman) |
30 full-tuition scholarships annually. |
Based on outstanding academic performance and achievement. |
Yale University |
The Baim scholarship |
50% Tuition fee waiver- Based on Financial need and clinical drive. |
Placement/Job Opportunities and Salary Range after MBBS
After completing the MBBS program, the students can jumpstart their careers as physicians or surgeons in any specialization of their interest. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Report, the salary of MBBS graduates ranges from $200,000 and above.
Likewise, the job employment rate for physicians and surgeons is expected to increase to approximately 7% by 2028.
The salary range, along with the specialization, is presented in the following table.
Positions in the Medical field |
Average Salary (per annum) |
General Physician |
$211,000 approx. |
Anesthesiologist |
$267,000 approx. |
Gynaecologist |
$238,000 approx. |
Psychiatrist |
$220,000 approx. |
Surgeons |
$255,000 approx. |
Paediatricians |
$183,000 approx. |
Medical students' career prospects seem equally promising and rewarding, along with higher financial incentives. To be more precise, psychiatrists will be the highly sought-after job, followed by general physicians or practitioners by 2028.
After completing the course, students can choose to be at private or government hospitals.
Since it is considered one of the noblest professions, the academic life of students pursuing MBBS in the US is equally challenging and rigorous. Enrolling in the top medical schools in the US requires constant dedication and commitment.
The four years curriculum will be an enriching experience to facilitate students to become exceptional professionals in the world.
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