Why MBBS in USA or America? The MBBS Degree, or Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, degree program is widely sought after by students who want to become doctors.
While there are various alternatives for pursuing MBBS in other countries, many students are also thinking about studying mbbs abroad, specifically in the United States. Pursuing an MBBS degree in the United States has various benefits, including access to world-class medical facilities, research opportunities, and outstanding employment options.
In this article, we will go through top colleges and universities for MBBS in USA to pursue a successful career as a doctor, nurse or healthcare specialist. We will also discuss the qualifying criteria, admission process, and other important facts that students should be aware of before applying to an MBBS programme in the USA (United States).
Whether you are a student aspiring to become a doctor or a parent looking for the best options for your child’s education, this article will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
Why Study MBBS in USA?
Students choose to study MBBS in the United States for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the primary benefits:
World-class education: The United States has some of the world’s greatest medical schools, with cutting-edge research facilities and cutting-edge technology. Studying in such a setting can provide students with a world-class education as well as exposure to the most recent advances in the area of medicine.
Career opportunities: Medical professionals are in high demand in the United States, and graduates with an MBBS degree from a top US medical school have good career possibilities. They can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, research organisations, and private practises.
Opportunities for research: The United States is a centre for medical research, and students seeking an MBBS degree can gain hands-on experience in research projects, clinical trials, and other ways to contribute to the field of medicine.
Flexibility in specialisation selection: Unlike in India, where students must choose a specialisation before attending medical school, medical schools in the United States enable students to study several areas of medicine before deciding on a specialisation. This adaptability can assist students in making educated career options.
Exposure to different cultures: Studying in the United States can expose students to different cultures, which can help them develop a broader perspective and cultural competence. This is especially useful for medical personnel who must work with people from diverse backgrounds.
MBBS in USA: Specializations
International students can pick from a variety of specialisations in healthcare and medicine. The following are some of the most common specialisations at the top medical universities in the United States:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Urology
- Dermatology
- Psychology
- Psychiatry
- Oncology and various other specialties.
MBBS in USA: Standardized Test Scores
To be eligible to apply for MBBS in the United States, international students must furnish a few standardised test scores. These include programme admission tests as well as English proficiency test results. The following are some of the most common tests necessary for MBBS in the United States:
MCAT: The Medical College Admission Test, or MCAT, is the most popular aptitude test for medical schools. Top colleges consider an MCAT score of 511 or above, with at least 117 in each part, to be a strong MCAT score.
NEET is an all-India medical admission exam that is also accepted by a select top universities in the United States. For students from the unreserved category, a NEET score over the 50th percentile is considered acceptable.
TOEFL: The most frequently recognized English proficiency test result for international students in the United States is the TOEFL iBT. For MBBS programmes in the US, a TOEFL score of 100 or better is frequently needed. Additionally, students may submit equivalent scores from other English proficiency tests, such as the PTE, IELTS, and Duolingo.
Top Universities for MBBS in USA
The top universities for MBBS in USA are provided below. These universities are highly competitive, and the admission process is rigorous. However, students who are accepted into these programs can expect to receive a world-class education, excellent career prospects, and opportunities to make a significant contribution to the field of medicine.
Harvard University (Harvard Medical School): With a demanding curriculum and state-of-the-art research facilities, the Harvard Medical School is regarded as one of the greatest medical institutions in the world.
Stanford University: The Stanford School of Medicine is well known for its research initiatives and cutting-edge instructional strategies that emphasise experiential, interdisciplinary learning.
Johns Hopkins University: With a focus on individualised teaching and mentorship, the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine is renowned for its potent research initiatives and top-notch clinical facilities.
University of California, Los Angeles: With a focus on diversity, community engagement, and research quality, UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine is one of the top medical schools in the nation.
Duke University: With a focus on personalised medicine and interdisciplinary collaboration, the Duke University School of Medicine is famous for its research programmes, clinical facilities, and innovative teaching methods.
University of Pennsylvania: The Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania is renowned for its clinical services, research programmes, and emphasis on public health.
Yale University‘s School of Medicine is well-known for its research programmes and interdisciplinary approach to medical education, with an emphasis on patient-centered care and social justice.
San Diego University of California: In La Jolla, California, the institution of California, San Diego (UCSD) is a public research institution. The UCSD School of Medicine is one of the nation’s top-ranked medical schools, with a highly competitive MD programme. The UCSD School of Medicine is well-known for its robust research programmes, clinical facilities, and dedication to social justice and community involvement.
UCSF (University of California, San Francisco): UCSF (institution of California, San Francisco) is a public research institution in San Francisco, California. The University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine is widely considered as one of the country’s finest medical schools, with a focus on research excellence, patient-centered treatment, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Program Offered and Duration
The program offered in the university and the duration of the program is provided in the table below.
| University | Program Offered | Program Duration |
| Harvard University | MD | 5 years |
| Columbia University | MD | 5 years |
| Johns Hopkins University | MD | 4 years |
| Stanford University | MD | 4 years |
| University of Pennsylvania | MD | 4 years |
| University of California, Los Angeles | MD | 7 years (MD and PhD) |
| Yale University | MD | 5 years |
| Duke University | MD | 4 years |
| University of California, San Diego | MD | 5 years |
| University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) | MD | 4 years |
| Cornell University | MD | 6 years |
MBBS in USA: Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for pursuing MBBS Degree in the USA varies from university to university, but some of the common requirements are:
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed their high school education or an equivalent program with science subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
- Standardized Tests: Candidates must have taken the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) and scored well in it. Some universities may also require scores from other standardized tests like the SAT or ACT.
- English Language Proficiency: Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in English by taking tests like the TOEFL or IELTS. The minimum scores required for admission may vary from university to university.
- Letters of Recommendation: Candidates may be required to provide letters of recommendation from their high school teachers or other academic professionals who can attest to their academic ability and potential.
- Personal Statement: Candidates may be required to submit a personal statement that outlines their motivation for pursuing a career in medicine and their personal experiences and qualities that make them a good fit for the program.
MBBS In USA : Fees
The Fee in USA for MBBS is provided in the table below with respective fees for indian students:
| Universities | Tuition Fee (USD) | Tuition Fee (INR) |
| University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) | 11,700 | 9 lakhs |
| University of California, Los Angeles | 41,229 | 33 lakhs |
| University of California, San Diego | 41,574 | 34 lakhs |
| Columbia University | 62,570 | 51 lakhs |
| Johns Hopkins University | 62,685 | 51 lakhs |
| University of Pennsylvania | 63,434 | 52 lakhs |
| Cornell University | 64,500 | 53 lakhs |
| Duke University | 68,147 | 56 lakhs |
| Harvard University | 69,300 | 57 lakhs |
| Yale University | 70,184 | 57 lakhs |
| Stanford University | 84,996 | 70 lakhs |
MBBS in USA Scholarships
Domestic and international students can apply for MBBS scholarships in the United States. These scholarships can assist to alleviate the financial burden of pursuing a medical degree and make it more accessible to individuals from a variety of backgrounds.
Scholarships for MBBS programmes in the United States include:
| Scholarship | Awarding Institute | Eligibility | Award Details |
| Harvard Medical School Scholarships | Harvard University | Demonstrated financial need, full-need students can avail funding for both tuition and mandatory fees | Tuition and mandatory fees |
| ASAHP Scholarship of Excellence | Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions | Academic excellence of students in allied health professions and leadership potential | 1,000 USD |
| Vagelos Scholarship | Dr. P. Roy and Diana Vagelos Scholarships | Demonstrated need (difference between the total budget and total available resources) | Required amount for total budget |
| Stanford University Financial Aid | Stanford University | Eligibility is based on financial condition of family,intent for scholarship must be demonstrated in application, SSN or ITIN status | Variable fund based on financial condition of family |
| AMTIE Scholarship | American Medical Technologists | Enrolled to an accredited institution, 2 LORs | 500 USD and above |
Conclusion:
In conclusion, obtaining an MBBS Degree in USA (United States of America) can be a highly rewarding experience for those who are interested in medicine and want to work in healthcare.
While schooling can be expensive, the quality of education, research opportunities, and clinical experience available at elite colleges can make the investment worthwhile. Students should conduct extensive research and comparisons of MBBS programs, taking into consideration variables such as cost, location, curriculum, and reputation.
Individual goals, interests, and circumstances should ultimately guide the decision to pursue an MBBS in the United States. Students can fulfill their aim of becoming doctors and make a good influence on the health and well-being of communities around the world with the proper preparation and effort.
