MBBS in USA Fees, Costs & Top Colleges for Indian Students 2026-27

In India, nearly 18 lakh students appeared for NEET in 2024, but fewer than 1 lakh MBBS seats were available. This shortage pushes many students to explore medical education overseas.

The United States attracts students who want structured clinical exposure from the early years, access to research-driven teaching, and better chances of pursuing medical residencies in multiple specialties. The pathway is longer than in India, usually around 8 years, including a pre-medical degree and medical school, but it equips graduates with strong clinical and academic credentials. Tuition fees generally range from $40,000 to $65,000 per year (₹35L–₹57L), and living costs vary across states, making budgeting a key step for Indian families.

This blog outlines MBBS in USA fees in detail, explains how the course structure differs from India, and covers eligibility, scholarships, and job prospects. By presenting figures in both USD and INR, students can weigh the financial requirements alongside career opportunities.

What Is the MBBS in USA Fees?

The major cost for MBBS in USA comes from tuition, which depends on whether the medical school is public or private and whether the student is a resident or non-resident. For Indian students, annual tuition fees range between $41,869 (₹36.9 L) and $68,767 (₹60.6 L). Over four years, this adds up to about $240,000–$270,000 (₹2.1–₹2.4 Cr).

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For Indian students, these costs are higher than in most other countries. However, U.S. medical schools offer direct access to the USMLE pathway, residency programs, and strong career prospects. Graduates who continue their medical careers in the U.S. often find the return on investment worthwhile due to high physician salaries and international recognition of U.S. medical degrees.

Application Costs for MBBS in USA

Applying for MBBS in USA involves understanding the MBBS in USA fees, which cover tuition and several upfront costs for Indian students. These include exams, application fees, and visa-related expenses. As these are non-refundable, students should budget for them separately before starting the admission process

These costs vary depending on the number of universities applied to and whether students need additional services like document evaluations. On average, Indian students should set aside around $1,500 (₹1.32L) for the complete application stage.

MBBS Tuition Fees by Specialisation in USA

MBBS in USA fees are not uniform across all fields. It depends on the specialization chosen and the length of residency training. Specializations with longer clinical training, such as surgery or cardiology, tend to be more expensive than pediatrics or internal medicine.

These figures represent tuition only and do not cover residency-related living expenses or clinical fees. Students should also note that specialization costs increase with each additional year of training.

Cost of Living in USA While Pursuing MBBS

Understanding the cost of living in USA is essential for Indian students planning to study MBBS. Expenses vary depending on the city, lifestyle, and accommodation type, so proper budgeting is crucial.

Indian students should plan a monthly budget of $1,500–$3,000 (₹1.32–2.64 Lakh) to comfortably cover accommodation, food, transport, and health insurance.

Which are the Top 10 Medical Colleges in the USA?

Indian students seeking an MBBS in USA should consider Harvard Medical School, Stanford University School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Yale School of Medicine, and the University of Pennsylvania (Perelman). These schools offer USMLE-aligned MD programs, structured clinical rotations, and support for international students pursuing residency in the USA.

Other top schools include Duke University, Columbia, David Geffen School of Medicine (UCLA), UCSF School of Medicine, and Vanderbilt University. Indian students can benefit from their US hospital rotations and the guidance they provide for USMLE exams, which helps in securing residency opportunities.

Why Study MBBS in USA?

Indian students should study MBBS in the USA because it provides a US MD degree, guaranteed clinical rotations in teaching hospitals, and a clear pathway to US residency, allowing them to practice in the USA or return to India with a globally recognized qualification.

Key Features

• Course Duration: Typically spans 7 to 9 years, including a 4-year undergraduate program followed by a 3–7 year residency.
  
• USMLE Requirement: Completion of the USMLE Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 3 is mandatory for residency eligibility.
  
• Residency Options: Post-graduation, students can apply for residency programs in various specialties, with durations ranging from 3 to 7 years.
  
• Career Prospects: Graduates are positioned for roles in clinical practice, research, and academia, with competitive salaries and job stability.
  
• Recognition in India: An MD from a US medical school is recognized by the Medical Council of India, allowing practice without additional examinations.

Course Structure for MBBS in USA

MBBS in the USA differs from other countries because it follows the MD pathway, which requires a 4-year undergraduate pre-med program before entering medical school. Unlike many countries where students join medical school directly after 12th grade, US programs emphasize foundational sciences, research experience, and clinical skills from the start.

Year-wise Curriculum

• Pre-Med / Undergraduate (4 years):
  Focus on biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and communication skills. Students must also complete extracurricular and research activities to strengthen their medical school application.
  
• Medical School (4 years):
  
  • Years 1–2 (Classroom & Lab-based learning): Anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, pharmacology, and pathology. Students learn basic clinical skills through simulations and early patient exposure.
  • Years 3–4 (Clinical Rotations): Hands-on experience in hospitals and clinics under supervision. Rotations cover specialties such as internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, psychiatry, obstetrics, and gynecology.
    
• Residency (3–7 years depending on specialty):
  After earning the MD degree and clearing USMLE exams, graduates enter residency programs in their chosen specialty, gaining full clinical responsibility and practical patient care experience.

Practical Exposure

• Students engage in hospital rotations from Year 3, working alongside experienced physicians.
• Emphasis on evidence-based medicine, patient communication, and procedural skills.

Opportunities for research and electives in specialized fields are widely available, which enhances residency applications.

Difference from Other Countries:

• Direct-entry MBBS programs (like in India) start after 12th grade, whereas in the USA, students complete an undergraduate degree first.
• US programs are structured to integrate research, early clinical exposure, and USMLE preparation, providing a smoother pathway to residency in the USA.

The MBBS (MD) program in the USA gives Indian students strong science training, early clinical experience, and research opportunities. The year-wise curriculum and hospital rotations prepare them for USMLE exams and residency programs, helping build a clear path for a medical career in the USA or India.

What are the Eligibility Criteria for MBBS in USA?

Indian students must meet academic, language, and exam requirements to study MBBS (MD) in the USA.

Academic Requirements

1. Bachelor’s Degree: 4-year undergraduate degree in biology, chemistry, and physics from a recognized university.
2. NEET Qualification: Medical Council of India (MCI) mandates it as a qualifying exam for any student who wants to pursue an MBBS or equivalent medical degree abroad and return to India to practice. 
3. English Language Test: 

Entrance Exam

• MCAT: Required by most medical schools.
  
  • Computer-based, multiple-choice, 7.5 hours.
    
  • Total score: 472–528 (median ~500).

Financial Requirement

• Tuition Fees: $19,000–$113,000 (₹17 L–₹1 Cr) per year.
  
• Students must demonstrate funds to cover tuition and living expenses

Documents Required for an MBBS in USA

To pursue an MBBS degree in the USA, the documents you would need to submit are:

• Academic transcripts of prior studies. An approved agency evaluates international transcripts.
• MCAT scores
• English proficiency test scores (IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL)
• Copy of a valid passport
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of Purpose
• Resume/CV
• An investigation of the applicant's criminal history is conducted
• F1 Visa for students
• Photocopies in passport size

What is the Admission Process for MBBS in USA?

Indian students should follow these steps to apply for MBBS (MD) programs in the USA:

Step 1: Research and Shortlist Medical Schools

• Identify schools based on specialties, clinical exposure, USMLE support, and tuition fees.
  
• Note application deadlines, typically January to October, for the next academic year.
  

Step 2: Prepare and Submit Applications

• Apply through AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service).
  
• Submit secondary applications if required by the university.
  
• Include required documents such as recommendation letters, statement of purpose, and resume/CV.
  

Step 3: Attend Interviews

• Selected candidates are invited for virtual or in-person interviews.
  
• Focus on clinical understanding, communication skills, and motivation.
  

Step 4: Receive Admission Offer

• Accepted students receive an I-20 form from the university.
  
• Complete university formalities and confirm enrollment.
  

Step 5: Apply for F1 Student Visa

• Use the I-20 to apply for an F1 visa.
  
• Attend the visa interview and submit the required documents.
  

Step 6: Travel and Orientation

• Arrange accommodation and travel.
  
• Attend orientation programs before classes begin to familiarize yourself with the campus and curriculum.

Scholarships for MBBS in USA

Pursuing MBBS in the USA can be expensive, but several scholarships in USA help Indian students manage tuition and living costs. These scholarships are awarded based on merit, financial need, or a combination of both. 

Note: Deadlines vary by university; students should check each scholarship’s official website and apply early.

Securing scholarships can significantly lower MBBS in USA fees. Harvard and Stanford offer full tuition for eligible students, while Dr. Moopen’s Legacy Scholarship benefits meritorious Indian students with strong NEET scores. Applying early improves your chances of success.

Career Opportunities After MBBS in USA

Indian MBBS graduates can work in clinical practice, research, public health, or healthcare administration. Around 20% of U.S. physicians are international medical graduates (IMGs).

Licensing & Residency:
To practice in the USA, IMGs must pass USMLE exams and complete a residency, which lasts 3–7 years depending on the specialty.

Salary by Specialty (Average Annual):

Completing residency in high-demand specialties increases employment opportunities and salary potential. Salaries vary depending on experience, location, and type of employer. Specialties in high demand often offer higher compensation.

Summing Up

To study MBBS in the USA, start by researching universities and their tuition fees, then calculate living expenses for your preferred city. Complete the USMLE steps and gather all academic documents before applying. Identify scholarships offered by universities and external organizations to reduce costs, and submit applications early to improve your chances of financial aid.

Next, prepare for residency applications by understanding specialty requirements and timelines. Track deadlines for admissions, exams, and visas to ensure a smooth process. Following these steps helps Indian students plan their finances, meet admission requirements, and secure career opportunities in high-demand specialties. 

For personalised guidance on selecting universities, preparing applications, and planning finances for MBBS in the USA, students can consult LeapScholar to get step-by-step support.