2 September 2025
6 minutes read
How to Study MBBS Abroad for Free: A Complete Guide for Indian Students

Key Takeaways
- How to study MBBS abroad for free begins with knowing top destinations, tuition-free programs, and scholarships like CSC, DAAD, and Türkiye.
- Limited MBBS seats in India make studying abroad a practical option, with universities offering fully funded opportunities.
- Early planning and strong academics are essential to secure scholarships and reduce living expenses effectively.
Did you know that over 12 lakh Indian students applied for NEET in 2024, but only a fraction secured government MBBS seats? With rising tuition fees and living expenses, many families struggle to afford an MBBS degree. The harsh truth is studying medicine in India is brutally expensive, pushing students to explore MBBS in abroad.
Luckily, several scholarships for international students like the CSC Scholarship, Rhodes Scholarship, and MBBS scholarships for Indian students make it possible. Wondering how to study MBBS abroad for free? Let’s find out.
Why Indian Students Look for MBBS Abroad Options?
Many Indian students who want to pursue MBBS face limited seats and high costs in India, making them explore how to study MBBS abroad for free. Universities abroad like Anhui Medical University, University of Oxford, and University of Sydney attract medical students with affordable MBBS programs and scholarships abroad.
From the CSC Scholarship and Lester B Pearson Scholarships to the Brunel Medical School International Scholarships, several scholarships available for Indian students help cover tuition, living costs, and simplify the admission process for students pursuing international MBBS.
Eligibility Criteria to Study Free MBBS Abroad for Indian Students
If you are wondering how to study MBBS abroad for free, knowing the eligibility criteria is the first step.

Many scholarships to study MBBS abroad are designed to help students lower costs, but only outstanding students who meet the requirements qualify.
- Must have cleared NEET to pursue MBBS abroad.
- Minimum 50% in Physics, Chemistry, Biology for students pursuing an MBBS degree.
- Students can apply for a government scholarship or international MBBS scholarship like the Anhui Medical University CSC Scholarship or Ibni Sina Medical Sciences Scholarship.
- Some scholarship covers full tuition, while others include living costs.
- MBBS students to study abroad may need IELTS/TOEFL.
- Students studying in Germany or Europe must meet country-specific requirements for education abroad.
- Applications for scholarships like Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship, Pearson International Scholarships, and MBBS scholarships abroad must be submitted on time.
- Scholarships for MBBS students are usually merit-based, and students are given preference if they are outstanding international students.
Best Countries and Universities to Study MBBS Abroad for Free
If you’re exploring how to study MBBS abroad for free, knowing the best countries and universities is crucial. Many nations in Europe and Asia offer affordable or fully-funded scholarship for MBBS abroad, making it possible for Indian students to pursue MBBS without heavy financial pressure.
These programs not only reduce tuition fees but also offer scholarships that cover living expenses, helping students who wish to study MBBS abroad.
Germany
Study MBBS in Germany is one of the most popular choices as public universities charge zero tuition fees. With scholarships abroad for Indian students, it becomes an ideal option for Indian students looking to study medicine in a foreign country.
University | Location | Type of Scholarship | Coverage |
---|---|---|---|
Heidelberg University | Heidelberg | DAAD Scholarships | Tuition + Living |
Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin | Berlin | Government & DAAD | Tuition + Part Stipend |
University of Munich (LMU) | Munich | Popular Scholarships | Tuition-Free |
RWTH Aachen University | Aachen | Scholarships to International Students | Tuition + Partial Support |
University of Hamburg | Hamburg | DAAD & Merit | Tuition-Free |
Russia
Russia is widely chosen for studying MBBS abroad for Indian students, offering low-cost education and scholarships to international students. Programs are affordable, and many universities abroad provide scholarship for medical students.
University | Location | Type of Scholarship | Coverage |
---|---|---|---|
Moscow State Medical University | Moscow | Government Scholarship | Tuition + Hostel |
Kazan Federal University | Kazan | Popular Scholarships to Study MBBS | Tuition-Free |
Saint Petersburg State University | St. Petersburg | Scholarships Abroad | Tuition + Partial Stipend |
Ural State Medical University | Yekaterinburg | Scholarship for MBBS Abroad | Tuition-Free |
Siberian State Medical University | Tomsk | Government Aid | Tuition + Living |
China
China is home to several MBBS scholarships abroad, including the CSC Scholarship. Universities like Anhui Medical University offer scholarship covers tuition and accommodation, making it possible to study MBBS at minimal cost.
University | Location | Type of Scholarship | Coverage |
---|---|---|---|
Anhui Medical University | Anhui | CSC Scholarship | Tuition + Living |
Peking University Health Science Center | Beijing | Scholarships to International Students | Tuition-Free |
Shanghai Jiao Tong University | Shanghai | International MBBS Scholarship | Tuition + Partial Support |
Wuhan University | Wuhan | Popular Scholarships | Tuition-Free |
Fudan University | Shanghai | Merit & CSC | Tuition + Hostel |
Europe (Other than Germany)
For students planning to study MBBS in Europe, countries like Poland, Hungary, and Italy are excellent choices. Scholarships abroad for Indian students are widely available for international students, helping reduce costs significantly.
University | Location | Type of Scholarship | Coverage |
---|---|---|---|
University of Warsaw Medical School | Poland | Erasmus+ & Govt. Aid | Tuition-Free |
Semmelweis University | Hungary | Popular Scholarships to Study MBBS | Tuition-Free |
University of Debrecen | Hungary | International MBBS Scholarships | Tuition-Free |
Sapienza University of Rome | Italy | Merit-Based Aid | Tuition + Partial Living |
Charles University | Czech Republic | Scholarships Abroad | Tuition-Free |
Turkey
Turkey is becoming a popular destination for students who are looking for affordable MBBS scholarships abroad. The Türkiye Scholarships are among the popular scholarships that students can apply for to cover all costs.
University | Location | Type of Scholarship | Coverage |
---|---|---|---|
Istanbul University | Istanbul | Türkiye Scholarships | Tuition + Living |
Hacettepe University | Ankara | Scholarship for MBBS Abroad | Tuition-Free |
Ankara University | Ankara | Scholarships to International Students | Tuition-Free |
Ege University | Izmir | Government & Merit Aid | Tuition + Hostel |
Marmara University | Istanbul | Vice-Chancellor’s International MBBS Scholarship | Tuition + Living |
MBBS Scholarships and Financial Aid to Study Medicine for International Students
When exploring how to study MBBS abroad for free, the key lies in understanding the wide range of MBBS scholarships and financial aid. Many students interested in medicine are unaware that studying MBBS abroad offers more than just academics; it opens doors to scholarships available for Indian students to promote cultural exchange and gain global exposure.
But students need to check eligibility carefully, as MBBS scholarships are usually competitive and require strong academics. With the right approach, students to pursue MBBS abroad can secure full or partial funding.
Scholarship Name | Eligible Students | Coverage | Key Benefit |
---|---|---|---|
CSC Scholarship (China) | Indian students to study at universities like Anhui Medical University | Tuition, accommodation, stipend | Supports students to promote cultural exchange |
DAAD Scholarship (Germany) | Students looking to study MBBS in Europe | Tuition + Living | Allows students for pursuing free MBBS at public universities |
Türkiye Scholarships | Students to pursue MBBS abroad in Turkey | Tuition, living, health insurance | Encourages students interested in studying medicine in a foreign country |
Rhodes Scholarship (University of Oxford) | Outstanding students planning to study medical sciences | Tuition + Full Living Expenses | Global exposure and leadership for students to promote cultural exchange |
Vice-Chancellor’s International MBBS Scholarship (Australia) | Students who are looking at University of Sydney | Partial tuition | One of the mbbs scholarships usually offered for students to pursue MBBS abroad |
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (Canada) | Indian students to pursue MBBS abroad | Tuition, books, living | A popular scholarship for students interested in medical education abroad |
Ibni Sina Medical Sciences Scholarship (Turkey) | Students for pursuing MBBS | Tuition + Hostel | Promotes education abroad and cultural diversity |
Brunel Medical School International Scholarships (UK) | Students planning to study MBBS abroad | Partial Tuition Waiver | Helps students apply for various scholarships to reduce costs |
Cost of Living and Additional Expenses to Study Abroad
Managing expenses is a big part of understanding how to study MBBS abroad for free. Even when tuition is waived, students still need to consider daily costs like housing, food, and transportation.
To make smart choices, students can do thorough research on living costs in different countries and also know which scholarships cover these additional expenses.
Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost (USD) | Notes |
---|---|---|
Accommodation | 200 – 600 | Varies by country and city |
Food & Groceries | 150 – 400 | Eating out may increase costs |
Transportation | 40 – 120 | Public transport is cheaper than private |
Health Insurance | 50 – 200 | Often mandatory for international students |
Books & Supplies | 30 – 100 | Can be reduced through online resources |
Miscellaneous (Internet, Clothing, Leisure) | 50 – 200 | Lifestyle-dependent |
Tips to Secure Free MBBS Abroad Opportunities
Securing a fully funded medical education requires smart planning and awareness.

If you’re exploring how to study MBBS abroad for free, the right strategy can make all the difference in winning scholarships and reducing costs.
- Start Early: Research programs and funding options at least a year in advance to maximize your chances.
- Maintain Strong Academics: High grades and consistent performance make your application stand out.
- Craft a Strong Application: Highlight achievements, motivation, and commitment to medicine in essays and interviews.
- Apply Widely: Submit applications to multiple universities and scholarships to increase opportunities.
- Seek Guidance: Connect with mentors, alumni, or counselors who can guide you through the process effectively.
Conclusion
Exploring how to study MBBS abroad for free is not just a dream; it’s a real possibility with the right guidance, scholarships, and preparation. While opportunities exist, the challenge lies in building a strong profile that stands out among thousands of applicants worldwide.
That’s where Ambitio comes in. As a trusted study abroad consultancy specializing in profile building, Ambitio helps you transform aspirations into reality. From identifying the right scholarships to crafting winning applications, we simplify your journey. Ready to pursue your MBBS abroad with confidence? Join Ambitio Elite today. Your future in medicine starts here!
FAQs
What is the main way for how to study MBBS abroad for free?
The primary way for how to study MBBS abroad for free is by securing a full government scholarship or a merit-based grant that covers tuition and living expenses.
Which countries offer opportunities for how to study MBBS abroad for free?
Some countries such as Germany, Russia, and China allow how to study MBBS abroad for free or at very low cost through government or institutional funding.
Can Indian students use how to study MBBS abroad for free through exchange programs?
Yes, how to study MBBS abroad for free is possible via select university exchange programs that sponsor students based on merit.
Is how to study MBBS abroad for free available for students with lower academic grades?
How to study MBBS abroad for free is mainly available for high-achieving students; those with lower grades may find fewer opportunities.
What is the eligibility for how to study MBBS abroad for free?
Eligibility for how to study MBBS abroad for free includes strong academic records, language proficiency (like IELTS/TOEFL), and meeting scholarship guidelines.
Are living expenses included in how to study MBBS abroad for free schemes?
Certain schemes offering how to study MBBS abroad for free also provide stipends for living expenses, though not all do.
Do I need to repay anything in how to study MBBS abroad for free programs?
You usually don’t need to repay anything in how to study MBBS abroad for free programs, unless it is a loan-based scheme; scholarships are typically non-repayable.

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