Scholarships for MBBS in USA for International Students: Eligibility & Requirements

Many students, especially from India, share the ambition of pursuing an MBBS in the USA. However, the cost of medical education in the USA can be a significant barrier for international students. 

Imagine a yearly tuition fee of over INR 37.6L to INR 58.5L (USD 45k to USD 70k) to pursue an MBBS in the USA. As an international student, this can seem daunting but don’t worry. Many scholarships are available for MBBS in the USA to help ease this financial strain. 

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Securing scholarships for MBBS in the USA can make this dream more achievable, and understanding the available options is the first step towards financial relief. In this guide, you’ll discover ten essential scholarships for MBBS in the USA. 

Here is the crucial highlights table incorporating the aspects from the blog.

Types of Scholarships for MBBS in the USA

Did you know that over 97k students have recently enrolled in MBBS in the USA? As the number of medical students grows, finding financial support through scholarships becomes increasingly essential. 

Here’s a quick guide to the different types of scholarships for MBBS in the USA.

1. Merit-Based Scholarships

These are awarded to students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance or exceptional skills in extracurricular activities. They recognise and reward excellence and can significantly reduce tuition costs for high-achieving students.

Example: AUA Provost Scholarship

2. Need-Based Scholarships

These scholarships are designed to assist students who demonstrate financial need. Providing financial support based on the student’s economic situation helps make medical education more accessible.

Example: Yale Scholarship 

3. University-Specific Scholarships

Many medical schools offer their own scholarships to attract talented students or provide financial aid. These can be based on academic performance, research interests, or other criteria specific to the institution.

Example: Harvard Medical School Scholarship

4. External Scholarships

These scholarships, funded by private organisations, foundations, or government programs, aim to support medical students from various backgrounds. They often have specific eligibility requirements and can help reduce the overall cost of medical education.

Example: Fulbright Scholar Program

Top 4 University Scholarships for MBBS in the USA

Pursuing an MBBS degree in the USA is an aspiration for many, but the high costs associated with medical education can be daunting. Luckily, there are several scholarships for MBBS in the USA designed to mitigate the financial burden for international students, including Indian students. 

Below are four notable university scholarships that offer significant financial support. Each of these scholarships provides unique benefits to help you on your journey to becoming a medical professional.

1. Harvard Medical School Scholarship

Harvard Medical School offers various need-based financial aid programs, including scholarships for international MBBS students. The school provides substantial financial assistance, covering up to 100% of tuition fees. 

Each year, 55% of undergraduate students receive need-based Harvard scholarships, making it one of the most supportive institutions for international students.

Eligibility Criteria 

The HMS scholarship amount is determined solely based on the financial need.

2. Stanford School of Medicine Scholarship

Stanford University is renowned for offering need-based and merit-based scholarships for medical students, including international candidates. In recent years, 84% to 95% of students have received financial aid at the Stanford School of Medicine worth USD 21.3M.

Here are the eligibility criteria.

• Based on financial need
• Completed CSS profile
• Tax return information of parents
  

3. AUA Provost Scholarship

The American University of Antigua (AUA) offers the Provost Scholarship to reward students who have maintained an excellent GPA while achieving a competitive MCAT score. 

This scholarship covers both the pre-clinical and clinical science phases, offering USD 10k (INR 8.3L) during the pre-clinical period and USD 12.5k (INR 10.4L) for the clinical sciences phase.

Here are the eligibility criteria. 

• MCAT score of 505+
• Undergraduate GPA of 3.5+
• Must hold a U.S. equivalent bachelor’s degree
  

4. Yale Scholarship

Yale offers need-based grant aid for undergraduates through the Yale Scholarship. The Yale Scholarship amount will be listed on their Financial Aid Award Letter if you qualify for financial aid.

Additional grants, like Area Yale Club awards, endowed scholarships, and alumni contributions, may replace part of the Yale Scholarship funds.

Here are the eligibility criteria.

• Based solely on financial need
• Completion of CSS profile

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Top 6 External Scholarships for MBBS in the USA

Did you know that the Fulbright Program alone offers 8,000 grants annually? External scholarships like these present valuable opportunities to ease your financial burdens and achieve your medical career goals.

Here are the top 6 external scholarships for MBBS in the USA to consider.

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is one of the most esteemed scholarships globally, offering comprehensive funding to international students, including those pursuing MBBS in the USA. The Fulbright Foreign student program operates in more than 160 countries worldwide.

Here are the eligibility criteria.

• Must have an exceptional academic record.
• Must demonstrate financial need.
  

2. AMAF Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship

The American Medical Association Foundation (AMAF) offers the Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship to outstanding medical students in their final years of study. 

Although not specifically aimed at international students, Indian students pursuing MBBS in the USA can qualify for this award based on academic merit.

Here are the eligibility criteria.

• Final-year medical students with high academic achievement
• Should demonstrate a dedication to serving vulnerable or underserved populations
  

3. American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA) Medical Education Scholarship

The AMWA provides scholarships aimed at female medical students, including international applicants like yourself. 

This scholarship supports women in medicine and is a crucial source of financial aid for those who excel academically while contributing to the advancement of women in the field.

Here are the eligibility criteria.

• AMWA medical student membership
• Letter of recommendation
• Must demonstrate financial need (optional)
• Completed essay responses
  

4. Joseph Collins Foundation Scholarship

The Joseph Collins Foundation Scholarship honours Dr. Joseph Collins, a pioneer in neurology since 1888. This scholarship supports medical degree candidates specialising in general practice, neurology, and psychiatry. 

It is open to students attending medical schools located east of the Mississippi River, with preference given to those who rank in the upper half of their class academically.

Here are the eligibility criteria.

• Must demonstrate financial need
• Scholastic report
  

5. MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship

The MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship financially supports international students, including Indian students, pursuing higher education in the USA. 

This scholarship aims to empower promising future leaders and is open to medical students who commit to improving their communities.

Here are the eligibility criteria.

• Should be an international student enrolled in a US or Canadian degree program
• Should demonstrate commitment to community service
  

6. The United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) Nehru-Fulbright Scholarship

The Nehru-Fulbright Scholarship, managed by the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF), is a prestigious award designed for Indian students like yourself. 

One key benefit of this scholarship is that it offers monthly financial assistance for one dependent along with you and provides assistance with a J-1 visa.

Here are the eligibility criteria.

• Must hold a U.S. bachelor’s degree equivalent from a recognised Indian university with at least 55% marks.
• You should have a four-year bachelor’s, master’s, or postgraduate diploma if the bachelor’s is under four years old.
• Must have three years of relevant full-time work experience.
• Should demonstrate leadership and community service.
• Must not have a U.S. degree or be enrolled in a U.S. program.

While scholarships are available, you can also secure a USA education loan without collateral to easily cover your tuition and living expenses! With low-interest rates starting at 11% and a fast 10-minute application process. Apply now with Leap Finance!

How to Apply for Scholarships for MBBS in the USA?

As an Indian student, pursuing an MBBS in the USA is a significant investment in your future, with tuition fees ranging from INR 37.6L to INR 58.5L (USD 45k to USD 70k) per year. However, the good news is that several scholarship opportunities are available to help fund your medical education.

In fact, Fulbright Student and Scholar Programs has offered over 5,000 grants to Indian students to study and conduct research in the United States.

Below are general steps to follow when applying for scholarships for MBBS in the USA.

1. Research Early: Start researching available MBBS scholarships in the USA for Indian students at least a year before the academic year begins.
2. Prepare Strong Documents: Most scholarships will require a combination of academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and proof of financial need.
3. Meet Deadlines: Ensure you submit all required documents well before the deadline to avoid disqualification.
4. Tailor Your Application: Personalise each application to highlight why you’re an excellent fit for that particular scholarship.

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Documents Required to Apply for Scholarships for MBBS in the USA

Following is the list of documents you need to submit to apply for a scholarship to study medicine in the USA for Indian students.

• Original certificates of 10th and 12th grade 

• Original degree or high school certificate or transcripts 
• Official transcripts from secondary and post-secondary schools attended 
• Passport-size photo 
• Personal statement 
• Resume / CV 

• Application fee 
• TOEFL or IELTS test score (if requested) 
• NEET scorecard 

Now, it is time to shift your focus to tips that can improve your chances of securing an MBBS scholarship in the USA for Indian students in the next section.

Tips to Secure an MBBS Scholarship in the USA for Indian Students

Securing a scholarship to study medicine in the USA for Indian students is highly competitive. Here are some useful tips to enhance your chances.

1. Maintain Strong Academic Records: Scholarships often prioritise academic excellence. Keeping a high GPA can set you apart.
2. Demonstrate Leadership and Service: Many scholarships value leadership skills and community involvement. Highlight your extracurricular activities and volunteer work.
3. Apply to Multiple Scholarships: To maximise your chances, apply to as many relevant scholarships as possible. Diversifying your applications increases your odds of securing financial aid.
4. Seek Expert Guidance: Consulting with academic advisors or mentors can help refine your applications, ensuring they align with the scholarship’s goals.

With these strategies in mind, you’ll improve your chances of securing a USA MBBS scholarship.

Tips for Writing a Winning Scholarship Essay

A winning scholarship essay requires strong writing skills, a clear understanding of the scholarship’s requirements, and a compelling personal story. One key point is that the word count for a scholarship essay should be around 300 words. 

Here are some additional tips to help you increase your chances of standing out from the competition.

1. Understand the Criteria: Thoroughly read the requirements and tailor your essay to the scholarship’s values.
2. Show, Don’t Tell: Use examples to illustrate your achievements rather than just listing them.
3. Be Authentic: Reflect your genuine voice and avoid clichés.
4. Use Clear Language: Keep your writing simple and easy to follow.
5. Proofread: Review for any errors and seek feedback from others.

Top 5 Universities in the USA for MBBS

Did you know that according to the QS World University Rankings 2024 for Medicine, the United States is home to 10 of the world’s top 20 medical schools?   

With so many excellent options to choose from, it can be challenging to decide which university to apply to. 

Here’s a list of the top 5 universities in the USA for MBBS.

Please Note: An MD in the USA is equivalent to an MBBS degree in India.

With the best universities in mind, consider why pursuing an MBBS in the USA could be the right choice for you in the next section.

Also Read: Cost of Studying in the USA: A Complete Guide for 2024

Eligibility Criteria for MBBS in the USA for Indian Students

Did you know that over 2.3L students appeared for the NEET Exam in 2024? If you’re planning to appear next year and aim to pursue an MBBS in the USA, you’ll need to meet certain academic and exam requirements.

Here’s an overview of the key eligibility criteria.

1. Academic Requirements

Students should have completed 10th and 12th grade with a focus on science subjects. Specifically, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology must be included in their 12th-grade curriculum.

2. NEET Examination

You must qualify for the NEET exam if you’re an Indian applicant. To register, you must complete your 12th-grade boards with the required science subjects. 

If you haven’t finished your boards yet, you can still apply to universities like the American University of Antigua, but you’ll need to clear NEET before being considered for admission.

3. MCAT Scores

A strong MCAT score is crucial for admission into US medical programs. While universities typically do not specify a minimum MCAT score, a score above 510 is generally considered competitive. The MCAT score must also be no older than four years.

4. English Proficiency

As the curriculum is delivered in English, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the language. Acceptable scores are as follows.

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Why Pursue an MBBS in the USA?

Pursuing an MBBS (Doctor of Medicine) degree in the USA can be a highly rewarding experience for international students. Here are five compelling reasons to consider.

1. World-class Education

The USA is renowned for its high-quality medical education, emphasising research, clinical practice, and patient care. In fact, the USA has a 96% graduation rate (six years program) for medical students, which is significantly higher than many other countries.

2. Diverse Clinical Experience

Medical students in the USA have access to a diverse range of clinical experiences. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the USA has over 150 accredited medical schools, offering a wide range of clinical opportunities. 

3. Research Opportunities

The USA leads medical research, with top-ranked schools and institutions offering innovative research opportunities. In fact, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) invests over $32 billion annually in medical research. 

4. Career Growth

The USA provides you with a wide range of career opportunities for medical graduates. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics has predicted that employment of physicians and surgeons will grow 4% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.

5. Cultural Diversity

The USA is a melting pot of cultures, offering you a unique opportunity to engage with people from different backgrounds and gain a global outlook on healthcare. In fact, the USA is home to over 1 million international students.

Also Read: Masters in Health Administration in USA: Top Universities, Scholarships & more

Conclusion

Securing scholarships for MBBS in the USA can be a game-changer in pursuing your medical career. 

With options like the Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships and Harvard’s financial aid programmes, you can significantly reduce your financial burden by even covering your full tuition fees.

Ready to begin your MBBS journey but worried about the hurdles along the way? Connect with Leap Scholar for SOP reviews, university selection, visa support and more. Get tailored guidance to make your application process smoother. 

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