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Indian Express
11 hours ago
- Health
- Indian Express
Why so many Indian students — especially from Kashmir — go to Iran for higher education
The ongoing Iran–Israel conflict, and the Indian government's efforts to evacuate its citizens — especially medical students — from the region, has once again thrown the spotlight on a recurring question: Why do so many Indian students go abroad to study medicine? According to the MEA's estimated data of Indian students studying abroad, in 2022, about 2,050 students were enrolled in Iran, mostly for medical studies, at institutions like the Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University and Islamic Azad University. A significant number of the students are from Kashmir. This is not the first time a geopolitical crisis has exposed the scale of India's outbound medical education. In 2022, during the Russia – Ukraine war, the Indian government had to evacuate thousands of medical students under 'Operation Ganga'. Now, as tensions escalate in West Asia, the spotlight returns to the systemic, economic, and cultural factors that continue to drive Indian students to pursue medical degrees overseas. A growing trend Despite a significant rise in the number of medical seats in India—from around 51,000 MBBS seats in 2014 to 1.18 lakh in 2024 —tens of thousands of students continue to pursue medical education abroad. The trend is visible in the rising number of candidates appearing for the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE), which is mandatory for practicing medicine in India after studying abroad. About 79,000 students appeared for the FMGE in 2024, up from 61,616 in 2023 and just over 52,000 in 2022. This outward movement is driven by two main factors: competitiveness and cost. 'While the number of MBBS seats have increased in the country, the field continues to remain competitive. Students have to get a very good rank to get into government colleges,' said Dr Pawanindra Lal, former executive director of the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences, which conducts the FMGE. More than 22.7 lakh candidates appeared for NEET-UG in 2024 for just over 1 lakh MBBS seats. Only around half of these seats are in government colleges. The rest are in private institutions, where costs can soar. 'A candidate ranked 50,000 can get admission in a good private college but the fees can run into crores. How many people in the country can afford that? It is just simple economics that pushes students towards pursuing medical education in other countries. They can get the degree at one-tenth the cost in some of the countries,' said Dr Lal. Why Iran — And why so many Kashmiris? While affordability draws many Indian students abroad, Iran holds a unique appeal for those from the Kashmir Valley. For them, the choice is shaped not just by economics, but also by cultural and historical ties. 'Kashmir for a very long time has been called Iran-e-Sagheer or Iran Minor,' said Professor Syed Akhtar Hussain, a Persian scholar at Jawaharlal Nehru University. 'There is a historical factor—that the topography of Kashmir and the culture of Kashmir are similar to that of Iran. In the old times, they always thought Kashmir was a part of Iran in a way.' Religious affinity is another driver. 'Because there is a Shia element in Kashmir, and presence of Shia in Iran, that presence makes it more familiar for Kashmiris to associate themselves with… Iran became a country that they wanted to maintain affinity with. Iran is also a Shia country. Iran also feels happy that it has that special space in the heart of Kashmir,' he said. The relationship has practical benefits as well. Most Kashmiri students pursue medical education in Tehran, while others study Islamic theology in the holy cities of Qom and Mashhad. According to Prof. Hussain, Iran has even created admission pathways tailored for Kashmiri students. 'Iran gives some concessions to Kashmiri students to go and study there. By virtue of being Shia, they get admission very quickly and easily… for Kashmiris in Iran, it's less expensive.' This is often referred to as the 'pargees quota'. 'Shia students not only go to Iran to study medical sciences, they also study theology in Iran. Since the Islamic governance was formed in 1979, since then Kashmiri students have been going to Iran to study,' he added. Beyond academics, many students describe Iran as a 'second home,' noting the similarities in food, culture, climate, and community warmth. 'Students feel very homely while studying there. The cuisine, everything is almost the same, and students feel like they are in Kashmir. Because the regime is Shia, the Iranians also have a soft corner for Kashmiris,' said Prof. Hussain. He traced this deep-rooted connection back to the 13th century: 'One person named Meer Sayyed Ahmed Ali Hamadani from Iran came to Kashmir. He brought about 200 Syeds along with him, and those people brought crafts and industry from Iran to Kashmir. They brought carpet, papier-mâché, dry fruits and saffron too. Historically, this is the link. Kashmir and Central Asia's biggest link is Hamadani.' What are the risks? Though admission is relatively easier and cheaper abroad, experts warn of important caveats. 'There are not a lot of eligibility requirements. If the student can pay, they usually get admission. Some universities run two batches for each year to accommodate more students,' said Dr Lal. However, he warned that some foreign universities operate two tiers of medical education: one designed to produce local doctors, and another primarily to award degrees to foreigners. 'In fact, after completing some of the courses meant for foreigners, the students may not be eligible to practice in the host country. This means they are running two different medical courses,' he said. To address this, India's National Medical Commission (NMC) has introduced a rule stating that students will be eligible to practice in India only if they are also eligible to practice in the country where they studied. The NMC also mandates that the medical course be 54 months long, completed at a single university, followed by a one-year internship at the same institution. Dr Lal also flagged the lack of transparent information: 'There are no foreign colleges or universities listed by the country's medical education regulator that people can trust… The regulator should either provide a list of approved colleges or select, say, the top 100 colleges from a given country.' What happens when they return? Even after securing their degree, foreign-trained doctors face several hurdles in India. Students from the Philippines, for instance, faced recognition issues because their courses were only 48 months long, short of the required 54. A major bottleneck is the FMGE, which all foreign-trained doctors must clear. The pass rate has historically been low: 25.8% in 2024, 16.65% in 2023, and 23.35% in 2022. 'Even afterwards, they face challenges in getting employed. This is because their training is not as robust. There have been cases where the students did not have a single stamp on their passport. Sometimes there is a lack of patients and practical training. The FMGE questions are simple, meant to test the students' practical knowledge. And, yet, many are unable to pass the examination even after several attempts,' said Dr Lal. Anonna Dutt is a Principal Correspondent who writes primarily on health at the Indian Express. She reports on myriad topics ranging from the growing burden of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension to the problems with pervasive infectious conditions. She reported on the government's management of the Covid-19 pandemic and closely followed the vaccination programme. Her stories have resulted in the city government investing in high-end tests for the poor and acknowledging errors in their official reports. Dutt also takes a keen interest in the country's space programme and has written on key missions like Chandrayaan 2 and 3, Aditya L1, and Gaganyaan. She was among the first batch of eleven media fellows with RBM Partnership to End Malaria. She was also selected to participate in the short-term programme on early childhood reporting at Columbia University's Dart Centre. Dutt has a Bachelor's Degree from the Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication, Pune and a PG Diploma from the Asian College of Journalism, Chennai. She started her reporting career with the Hindustan Times. When not at work, she tries to appease the Duolingo owl with her French skills and sometimes takes to the dance floor. ... Read More
Indian Express
2 days ago
- Health
- Indian Express
NEET UG 2025 Result: Getting a seat in India seems difficult? Here's how to choose the right medical college abroad
– Abhijit Zaveri With NEET UG 2025 results declared and 12,36,531 students clearing the exam, the limited availability of just 1.25 lakh MBBS seats in India is compelling many qualified candidates to explore alternative options — ranging from allied health science streams like dentistry, pharmacy, public health, and biotechnology to pursuing MBBS degrees abroad. Given the rising competition, limited government seats, and the high cost of private medical education in India, overseas medical education is no longer seen as a fallback, but a strategic choice. Countries like Russia, Georgia, the Philippines, and Hungary offer globally recognised programs that are often more affordable, provide international exposure, and follow curricula aligned with global standards – making them increasingly attractive for thousands of students each year. Timely planning is key, as aspiring students must begin applications, complete documentation, and prepare for visa processes by mid-summer. Importantly, a Supreme Court ruling from February 2025 and NMC (National Medical Commission) guidelines mandate that all students – whether studying in India or abroad – must qualify NEET-UG for admission into any medical program and to gain eligibility for practice in India. Key Factors in Choosing a Country, or University Affordability vs Quality: Private MBBS programs in India can cost upwards of Rs 60–80 lakh. In contrast, countries like Russia and Georgia offer tuition in the range of Rs 15–40 lakh for the full course duration. Monthly living expenses range from Rs 10,000 – Rs20,000, depending on the country. While affordability is a key factor for many families, it should not be the sole criterion. A lower fee structure may sometimes come at the cost of compromised academic standards or inadequate clinical training, both of which are crucial for a successful medical career. One reliable way to assess the quality of education offered by foreign institutions is by looking at the pass rates of the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE), a mandatory licensure test in India for students who have earned their MBBS degrees overseas. The upcoming National Exit Test (NExT) will serve a similar purpose. High FMGE or NExT pass rates are a strong indicator of a university's academic rigour and how well it prepares students for medical practice in India. Ultimately, affordability must be weighed against long-term value – including educational quality, clinical exposure, and the ability to secure a medical licence upon returning home. Accreditation and Curriculum Compatibility: A critical aspect often overlooked is program recognition. Students must ensure that their chosen foreign university is approved by the NMC. With the impending transition from FMGE to NExT (National Exit Test) from 2024–25, aligning the curriculum with Indian licensure requirements is essential. Programs with strong clinical rotations, English-medium instruction, and hospital tie-ups tend to better prepare students for these assessments. Language, Culture, and Student Support: Even in English-taught programs, basic proficiency in the local language is crucial for everyday interactions, especially during clinical postings. For example, learning languages like Russian or Georgian can greatly enhance the clinical experience, allowing students to communicate more effectively with patients and healthcare staff. Additionally, quality-of-life factors such as climate, food, culture, and safety play a significant role in choosing a destination. Countries like Georgia offer milder climates and cultural proximity, making it an appealing option for many students. On the other hand, Russia's harsh winters might present challenges for those unaccustomed to extreme cold. These considerations are essential for making an informed decision about studying abroad. Licensing Outcomes and Pass Rates: Pass rates for exams like the FMGE and the upcoming NExT are strong indicators of a country's medical education quality. Georgian medical universities consistently report high FMGE success rates, ranging from 60% to 80% at leading institutions, compared to much lower rates in countries like China and Ukraine, where success often falls below 20%. These figures are important factors students should consider when choosing where to study Popular destinations: Pros and cons Russia: Russia has long been a popular choice for Indian students pursuing MBBS. The 6-year program, which includes an internship, is offered in both English and Russian, providing a unique opportunity to learn the local language. Tuition fees are affordable, ranging from Rs 3–5 lakh per year, with moderate living costs. The visa process is efficient, and many Russian universities collaborate with Indian agents, making it easier for students to navigate the application process. Russia also boasts excellent infrastructure and a sizable Indian community. However, it's important to note that FMGE pass rates typically range from 40–55%. Georgia: Georgia's 6-year MBBS programs, taught in English, are approved by both WHO and NMC. Tuition ranges from Rs 4 – 6 lakh per year, with hostel expenses between Rs 16,000 – Rs20,000 per month. Several universities report FMGE success rates above 60%, and the country is known for its welcoming environment, mild climate, and European lifestyle. Due to limited university options, students must apply by June–July for September intake. Philippines: Adopting a US-based system, medical education in the Philippines consists of a 2-year BS (pre-med) and a 4-year MD program. All courses are taught in English, and tuition is affordable (Rs 2.5 – 6 lakh per year). Living costs are comparable to India. The American-style curriculum is ideal for students planning to take USMLE or NExT. However, students must clear NMAT and hold a bachelor's degree, adding 2–3 years to their timeline. While NMC approval exists, FMGE eligibility has sparked debate—although recent data shows improved licensing outcomes for Philippine graduates. Other Countries: Hungary's leading institutions, such as Semmelweis and Debrecen, offer 6-year English-language MBBS programs with annual tuition around Rs 13–15 lakh. FMGE pass rates average about 50%. Slovakia's Comenius and Pavol Jozef Šafárik Universities charge Rs 8,80,000- Rs 10,27,000(€9,000–€10,500) annually, with living costs ranging from Rs 49,000- Rs 78,000(€500–€800) per month. Though FMGE data for Slovakia is limited, these universities meet NMC norms and are becoming increasingly popular among Indian students. Immediate Abroad vs gap year Once the NEET results are declared, students are required to choose whether to go abroad or take a year off. Applying as soon as the results of NEET are out means students are in line with the academic calendar abroad (applications in summer, visas in fall, and classes in winter). This way, students don't have their education slowed by unexpected events. However, quick decisions require preparedness in documentation, finances, and visa procedures. Reappearing for NEET offers candidates another opportunity to secure a government medical seat in India. During this period, students can also explore foreign institutions more thoroughly, learn a new language, and plan their finances. At the same time, taking a gap year can be both tough emotionally and academically. Delays in starting medical education may impact future practice timelines—a concern backed by studies that show delayed NEET success pushes career start dates further. –A hybrid approach can work well: Students who are NEET-eligible and do not secure seats could take advantage of approved foreign programs, so they don't waste time. Common Pitfalls and Best Practices –Skipping NEET: Any Indian student planning to pursue medical degree overseas is required to have NEET qualification. –Overlooking NMC Approval: Always verify that both the university and its medical program are officially recognised by the National Medical Commission (NMC) for eligibility to practice in India. –Basing Decisions Solely on Cost: Lower fees in a medical program might mean sacrificing either the infrastructure or clinical quality. Looking at the past performance of FMGE/NExT can give you a clear picture of long-term worth. –Ignoring Language and Culture Barriers: English-medium classes don't eliminate the need for daily communication in local languages. Cultural compatibility impacts comfort and success. –Trusting Unverified Agents: Trust the resources given by embassies, well-known education portals, and comments from your peers. –Missing Application or Visa Deadlines: Students should mark all important dates—NEET application (Feb–Mar), results (June), international college deadlines (July), visa approvals (August–September). –Underestimating Total Expenses: Apart from tuition, students are required to cover costs for housing, meals, insurance, traveling, and unexpected emergencies. Visa applications often require proof of funds. Pursuing medical studies in a foreign country can have a major impact when planned well. Student should realize that low price does not always show the entire picture and think about the degrees they'll earn, quality of the institution, and their own qualifications. Because of programs like NExT as well as new opportunities worldwide, Indian medical students have a wide range of options, but they are responsible for making smart, forward-looking choices. If students consider the details of tuition, how the curriculum matches their needs, the university's accreditation, the place to live, and the influence on their future, students can chart a path that not only leads to a degree, but also a successful and fulfilling medical career. (The author is the founder and director of Career Mosaic)
New Indian Express
2 days ago
- Health
- New Indian Express
Foreign MBBS a necessity, not choice, for aspiring doctors in Andhra Pradesh
VIJAYAWADA: For thousands of aspiring doctors in Andhra Pradesh, studying medicine abroad is becoming less of a choice and more of a necessity. Despite a steady rise in MBBS seats in India, the growing dominance of private medical colleges and skewed seat allocations have made affordable medical education elusive, especially for middle-class families. Parents and students are raising concerns about the limited availability of convener quota (Category A) seats in private medical colleges, which are priced reasonably. As per the National Medical Commission (NMC), 35% of seats are reserved under the management quota (Category B), and 15% under the NRI quota (Category C), leaving fewer affordable options for deserving students. Dr Veena Baddipudi, a native of Chirala in Bapatla district, who completed her MBBS from Sichuan University in China, told TNIE, 'Though I got a dental seat in Andhra, I wanted to pursue medicine. I went to China in 2007 and completed my MBBS by 2012. Students must choose universities approved by the Indian Embassy, as the approved list changes annually. After returning, I had to clear the Foreign Medical Graduate Exam (FMGE) and undergo a two-year internship.' Parents like Maridu Madhavi from Hanuman Junction in Eluru district echoed similar concerns.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
‘Blasts around us': Indians in Iran seek evacuation
Lucknow: Sabia (name changed), a fourth-year MBBS student at Tehran University of Medical Sciences, recalled the fear that gripped her when fighter jets roared over the campus and sirens pierced the skies. "On Saturday, I heard jets overhead and sirens blaring. It was unusual — Tehran is mostly peaceful. We rushed to take shelter with other students," Sabia, who hails from Lucknow, told TOI over a call from an undisclosed location. "Later, it was confirmed that Israel hit Iran. Panic spread across the campus. Soon after, we were moved to the city of Qom, 140km south of Tehran, with other Indian students," she Qom, too, didn't stay safe for long. "Our hopes for safety were dashed, as attacks began there as well. We thought things would improve but, instead, we were relocated again to a secret location," Sabia said. She said around 110 Indian medical students were recently shifted from Iran to a safer location in Armenia amid rising hostilities between Iran and Israel. She said around 1,500 Indian students still remain in Iran, pursuing different courses. Along with her, there are four students from Lucknow, while others hail from Bengaluru, Delhi, and other parts of India. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Memperdagangkan CFD Emas dengan salah satu spread terendah? IC Markets Mendaftar Undo Though they are currently safe and being taken care of, the students are worried. "Our families are deeply anxious. I am worried about the future and how the course will continue. My father and brothers constantly monitor the news. Embassies of other countries evacuated their students through the borders, but we are still waiting for clear answers," Sabia said. "We appeal to the Indian embassy to rescue us and help us return to India," she said. Her current term was scheduled to end in mid-August after an academic break, and she was likely to return to India then. However, classes are now suspended indefinitely. When asked why Indian students opt for Iran, Sabia said affordability and simpler entrance procedures are the main reasons. "Private medical colleges in India are expensive. Here, the cost is far more manageable," she said. A full six-year MBBS programme at Tehran University of Medical Sciences costs between Rs 22 lakh to Rs 28 lakh, including tuition and academic fees, she says. In contrast, private Indian medical colleges charge anywhere upwards of Rs 25 lakh per year. Most Iranian medical universities are recognized by the Indian govt and the WHO. Students returning to India are required to clear the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) and complete a one-year internship to receive a medical licence here. Despite the current care and safety, the uncertainty has left the students unsettled. "We just want to get home. We hope the situation improves soon — for all of us here, and for everyone affected by the conflict," Sabia says.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Foreign medical graduates' internship in limbo over stipend row, limited seats
1 2 Jaipur: Nearly 100 foreign medical graduates (FMGs) in Rajasthan are facing an uncertain future as their mandatory internships at ESIC Medical College, Alwar, remain in limbo due to technical and administrative hurdles. Despite the Rajasthan Medical Council's (RMC) allocation of internship positions five months after the foreign medical graduate examination (FMGE) results, these aspiring doctors are still waiting to begin their clinical training. The deadline for joining the internship passed on June 15, leaving the graduates in a state of distress while their peers at other institutions have already commenced their hospital duties. The primary obstacle appears to be a complex web of limited number of seats, regulatory requirements and stipend-related issues. Dr Asim Das, Dean of ESIC Hospital, cited multiple challenges, including conflicting guidelines from various authorities. "There's a Supreme Court ruling mandating stipends for all FMGs, while National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines allow paid internships for only 7.5% of total seats," Das said. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Run Your Business Like a Pro - Top Trending Accounting Software (Check Now) Accounting ERP Click Here Undo "This is a govt organisation where we are answerable for the audit. So how do we then differentiate the payment of the stipend? The Rajasthan govt is saying give a stipend to 7.5% of FMGs, but the question is which 7.5% out of the 100 FMGs," said Das. Adding to the complexity is the limited capacity at ESIC Medical College. With 100 internship seats available and an equal number of Indian medical graduates already competing for the same positions, the institution faces a significant logistical challenge. "We have only 100 internship seats. There is going to be a clash of 100 FMGs and 100 Indian medical graduates against these seats," Das said. "We're running from pillar to post, but neither ESIC is accepting our applications nor are the RMC and medical education department taking proper notice of our situation," said one affected foreign medical graduate, who requested anonymity. The delay in internship completion could have serious implications for these graduates, potentially affecting their eligibility for medical practice and further studies, including post-graduation programmes.
