Many Indian students struggle to understand how to pursue an MD (Doctor of Medicine) in the USA and what sets it apart from medical education in India. Without a clear understanding of the US medical pathway, preparing for USMLE exams, and planning for residency, students risk making costly mistakes or missing out on top programs.
Here, we will start by breaking down the exact steps you need to take to study medicine in the USA, from eligibility to residency.
Key Highlights
Here’s a quick overview of the key points discussed in this article on MD in the USA.
| Highlight | Details |
| Duration | 4 years for an MD degree; 3-6 years, including residency, depending on specialty. |
| Top Universities | Harvard University, Stanford University, Johns Hopkins University, UCSF, Mayo Clinic. |
| Top Specializations | Cardiology, Oncology, Neurology. |
| Average Fees (Tuition only) | $59,720/year (~₹52.8 lakh); total for 4 years: ~$238,880 (~₹2.11 crore). |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree required; must clear USMLE Step 1; NEET scores are not applicable. |
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Key Features
- Residency Match Rate: 93.5% of U.S. MD seniors match to residency programs; 73.2% secure one of their top three choices.
- Average Stipend: First-year residents (PGY-1) earn approximately $66,712/year.
- Specialty Demand: High-demand fields include Cardiology, Oncology, and Neurology.
- USMLE Eligibility for Indian Students: MBBS graduates from ECFMG-recognized institutions can appear for USMLE exams.
- Visa Process: Indian students require an F-1 visa, processed in their home country.
Why Study MD in the USA?
The USA provides internationally recognized medical degrees, structured clinical training, and direct pathways to competitive residency programs.
Also Read: Reasons to Why Study Masters in USA for International Students.
Top Medical Colleges for MD in USA
Harvard, Stanford, Johns Hopkins, the University of California, San Francisco, and Yale are the five highest-ranked universities for medicine in the United States. These institutions are competitive, expensive, and difficult to get into, but they also give the strongest chances of matching into top residency programs.
| University | QS Medicine Ranking 2025 | Average Annual MD Tuition Fees |
| Harvard University | 1 | $71,032 (₹62,70,000) |
| Stanford University | 3 | $74,460 (₹65,70,000) |
| Johns Hopkins University | 4 | $66,670 (₹58,90,000) |
| University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) | 6 | $55,000 (₹48,50,000) |
| Yale University | 10 | $69,500 (₹61,30,000) |
| University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) | 12 | $65,730 (₹58,10,000) |
| University of Pennsylvania (Perelman) | 13 | $71,080 (₹62,80,000) |
| Duke University | 16 | $67,000 (₹59,20,000) |
| Columbia University | 17 | $68,000 (₹60,10,000) |
Note: All tuition fees are for the MD course and are converted to INR using the current exchange rate of $1 = ₹88.27. Actual costs in INR may vary due to currency fluctuations at the time of payment.
UCLA emphasizes primary care and research but offers fewer high-demand specialty options. Penn focuses on research and clinical trials, though early clinical exposure is limited. Duke allows earlier rotations but has smaller research opportunities. Columbia provides intensive patient care, which is valuable but demanding.
Also Read: Best Medical Universities in USA for Indian Students: Fees & Rankings.
MD in the USA – Specializations at Top Medical Schools
Top U.S. medical schools allow students to focus on clinical specialties and research. Students can choose electives and rotations in areas like Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Cardiology, Neurology, and Oncology. For Indian students, knowing these options helps plan rotations, USMLE preparation, and residency applications.
| University | Specializations |
| Harvard University | Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Oncology, Global Health, Health Policy research, and Translational Medicine |
| Stanford University | Cardiovascular Medicine, Neurosurgery, Biomedical Research, Pediatrics, Oncology, Health Technology and Innovation research |
| Johns Hopkins University | Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Critical Care, and more |
| UCSF | Cardiology, Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, and research-focused tracks |
| Yale University | Pediatrics, Psychiatry, Surgery, Global Health, Cancer Biology, Health Policy, Translational Research |
| UCLA | Clinical electives and research in multiple specialties |
| University of Pennsylvania (Perelman) | Pediatrics, Psychiatry, Palliative Care, Geriatrics, Critical Care, and more |
| Duke University | Cardiology, Neurology, Oncology, Orthopedic Surgery, Internal Medicine, Biomedical Research, Health Policy research |
| Columbia University | Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, Cardiology, Neurology, Clinical Trials, Translational Medicine |
Indian students can use these opportunities to choose specialties in demand, gain research experience, and improve chances for U.S. residency programs.
Entry Requirements for MD in the USA for International Students
To pursue an MD in the USA, international students must meet specific academic, testing, and application requirements. These include completing a bachelor’s degree with science coursework, submitting MCAT scores, demonstrating English proficiency, providing recommendation letters and a personal statement, and obtaining an F-1 student visa. Meeting these requirements is essential for eligibility and successful admission.
1. Academic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree: Completion of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required, preferably with courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and English.
- Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions must be submitted and evaluated for U.S. equivalency if issued outside the U.S.
2. Standardized Tests
- MCAT: Most schools require the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Competitive scores are typically 511 or higher.
- English Proficiency: TOEFL (minimum 90 overall) or IELTS (6.5–7.5) is required if the undergraduate instruction was not in English.
3. Application Materials
- AMCAS Application: The primary application through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) is required by most schools.
- Letters of Recommendation (LOR): Two to three LORs from professors or medical professionals are required.
Statement of purpose: Must outline motivation for medicine, relevant experience, and career goals.
4. Visa Requirements
- F-1 Visa: Requires an I-20 from the accepted medical school, payment of the SEVIS fee (USD 350 / ₹29,300), and the visa application fee (USD 160 / ₹13,400).
- Visa Interview: Applicants must attend a U.S. embassy or consulate interview and show proof of financial support.
5. Financial Considerations
- Tuition varies by school and is higher for international students. Limited institutional financial aid is available.
Note: Requirements and deadlines vary by school. Students must verify details directly with each medical school.
Also Read: F1 Visa Slots for Fall 2024: How to Book?
How to Apply for an MD in the USA?
Once your eligibility is confirmed, the next step is submitting applications through AMCAS, completing school-specific requirements, attending interviews, and securing a student visa. Proper planning and timing are essential to improve admission chances.
1. Research and Select Eligible Medical Schools
- Only a limited number of U.S. medical schools accept international students. Verify each school's policy on international applicants.
2. Complete Required Coursework
- Ensure you have completed the necessary prerequisite courses, such as biology, chemistry, physics, and English. Some schools may require additional coursework at a U.S. institution.
3. Take the MCAT Exam
- Most schools require the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Aim for a competitive score; for example, top schools may expect scores closer to 520.
4. Prepare Application Materials
- Transcripts: Provide official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
- Letters of Recommendation: Obtain strong letters from professors or medical professionals who can speak to your qualifications.
- Personal Statement: Write a compelling statement outlining your motivation for pursuing medicine, relevant experiences, and career goals.
5. Submit Primary Application via AMCAS
- Use the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) to apply to most U.S. medical schools. Note that AMCAS does not verify foreign coursework unless it was accepted by an accredited U.S. institution.
6. Complete Secondary Applications
- If invited, submit secondary applications directly to the medical schools, which may include additional essays and fees.
7. Attend Interviews
- Prepare for and attend interviews with medical schools that offer them.
8. Obtain an F-1 Student Visa
- After acceptance, apply for an F-1 student visa. This process includes receiving an I-20 form, paying the SEVIS fee (approximately USD 350), and attending a visa interview.
9. Explore Financial Aid Options
- Research scholarships, grants, and loans available to international students. Note that financial aid may be limited for international applicants.
10. Choose the Right Medical School
- Evaluate offers and select the medical school that best aligns with your goals and preferences.
Tips for Indian Students
- Ensure coursework aligns with U.S. prerequisites.
- Prepare thoroughly for the MCAT.
- Obtain strong recommendation letters from professors or medical professionals.
- Understand the visa process, including interview requirements.
- Plan finances carefully; international tuition can be high, and aid is limited.
Application Timeline for Fall 2026 MD Programs
Generally, universities and colleges in the US have three intake sessions: Summer, Spring, and Fall. Most universities offer the most seats during the Fall intake, with September being the peak month for admissions.
For students aiming to start medical school in Fall 2026, the application process begins in May 2025. Key dates are as follows:
- AMCAS Application Opens: May 1, 2025
- First Day to Submit AMCAS: May 27, 2025
- First Day Processed Applications Are Released to Schools: June 27, 2025
- AMCAS Early Decision Program Deadline: August 1, 2025
- Secondary Applications Begin: July 2025
- Interviews Begin: August–September 2025
- Admissions Decisions: October–December 2025
- Commit to Enroll Deadline: April 2026
These dates are based on the AMCAS timeline for the 2025–2026 application cycle. Individual medical schools may have specific deadlines for secondary applications and interviews. Always verify deadlines directly with each school.
Cost of Studying MD in the USA for Indian Students 2025–26
Pursuing an MD in the USA involves tuition, living expenses, visa fees, and health insurance. Indian students should carefully plan their finances to understand the cost of studying in the USA and avoid unexpected expenses during their medical education.
Tuition Fees
- Annual: $55,000–$75,000 (₹48.5–66.2 lakh)
- Total for 4 years: $220,000–$300,000 (₹1.94–2.64 crore)
Example: University of Michigan charges $79,500/year, totaling $318,000 for 4 years.
Living Expenses
- Monthly: $1,000–$2,000 (₹88,000–1.77 lakh)
- Annual: $12,000–$24,000 (₹10.6–21.2 lakh)
Covers accommodation, food, transport, utilities, and personal expenses.
Visa and Related Fees
- SEVIS Fee: $350 (₹30,900)
- F-1 Visa Fee: $160 (₹14,100)
Note: A $250 Visa Integrity Fee may be implemented in 2026.
Health Insurance and Miscellaneous
- Health Insurance: $2,000–$4,000/year (₹1.77–3.53 lakh)
- Books, Supplies, Personal Expenses: $1,000–$2,000/year (₹88,000–1.77 lakh).
Total Estimated Cost for 4 Years
| Expense Category | USD Estimate | INR Estimate |
| Tuition | $66,355 – $79,500 | ₹58.5 – ₹70.2 lakh |
| Living Expenses | $12,000 – $35,400 | ₹10.6 – ₹31.3 lakh |
| Visa & Related Fees | $510 | ₹45,000 |
| Health Insurance | $2,000 – $4,000 | ₹1.77 – ₹3.53 lakh |
| Books & Miscellaneous | $1,000 – $2,000 | ₹88,000 – ₹1.77 lakh |
| Total | $81,865 – $121,410 | ₹72.7 lakh – ₹1.07 crore |
Note: INR conversions are based on $1 = ₹88.27. Costs vary by university and lifestyle.The total cost of pursuing an MD in the USA ranges from $81,865 to $121,410 (₹72.7 lakh to ₹1.07 crore). Indian students should carefully plan for tuition, visa fees, health insurance, and especially living expenses, which form a significant part of the cost of living in USA. Accounting for accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses upfront ensures smooth financial management throughout the 4-year program and helps avoid unexpected financial stress.
Total Estimated Cost for 4 Years
| Expense Category | USD Estimate | INR Estimate |
| Tuition | $66,355 – $79,500 | ₹58.5 – ₹70.2 lakh |
| Living Expenses | $12,000 – $35,400 | ₹10.6 – ₹31.3 lakh |
| Visa & Related Fees | $510 | ₹45,000 |
| Health Insurance | $2,000 – $4,000 | ₹1.77 – ₹3.53 lakh |
| Books & Miscellaneous | $1,000 – $2,000 | ₹88,000 – ₹1.77 lakh |
| Total | $81,865 – $121,410 | ₹72.7 lakh – ₹1.07 crore |
Scholarships to Reduce the Cost of Studying MD in the USA
Studying MD in the USA is expensive, but several scholarships and financial aid programs can significantly lower the cost. These programs are offered by top medical schools and organizations to support international students, including those from India.
Here are some scholarships to reduce the cost of MD in the USA for international students.
| Scholarship / Grant | Coverage (USD/INR) | Eligibility |
| Harvard Medical School Financial Aid | Up to ~$59,915/year (~₹52,86,000/year) | International MD students; need-based; must submit financial documentation equivalent to FAFSA or CSS profile. |
| Stanford Medicine Need-Based Grants | $44,000–88,000 (~₹38,80,000–₹77,64,000) | International MD students with documented financial need; no merit scholarships available. |
| Yale School of Medicine Need-Based Aid | Full need minus $10,000/year (~₹8,83,000/year) | International MD students must demonstrate financial need; $10,000/year loan is required. |
| Johns Hopkins Bloomberg Gift | Full tuition or full tuition + living costs | International MD students from families earning <$300,000/year; living expenses covered for families earning <$175,000/year. |
| AMA Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship | $10,000 (~₹8,83,000) | Medical students entering their final year; merit-based; open to international students. |
| Knight-Hennessy Scholars (Stanford) | Full funding for up to 3 years | Graduate-level students, including eligible MD students, must apply to both Knight-Hennessy Scholars and Stanford MD programs. |
| UCSF Global Health Grants | Up to $3,000 (~₹2,65,000) | MD students participating in global health clinical rotations or research; funding for travel and accommodation. |
| Roberta Ma Scholarship (University of Maryland) | Varies | International MD students in good academic standing; merit-based partial tuition scholarship. |
| Fulbright U.S. Student Program | Varies | International students proposing research or study projects in the U.S.; competitive selection. |
Note: Scholarship amounts and availability fluctuate annually. INR values are approximate conversions at $1 = ₹88.27.
Most top U.S. medical schools offer need-based financial aid, while some scholarships reward merit and community service. Full tuition or living-cost coverage is rare and competitive. Indian students should prepare strong financial documentation and check official university websites for exact eligibility and deadlines.
Also Read: Cost of Studying in the USA: A Complete Guide for 2025.
Career Opportunities After Pursuing MD in the USA
An MD in the USA offers numerous career opportunities for Indian students. High-demand specialties include Family Medicine, Psychiatry, Surgery, and Dermatology. Graduates can earn competitive salaries, secure residency positions through the NRMP (National Resident Matching Program), and practice internationally after obtaining the required medical licenses.
In-Demand Specialties
Certain medical specialties are currently in high demand in the U.S., offering better residency opportunities and job prospects:
- Family Medicine: Consistently one of the most sought-after specialties due to a nationwide shortage of primary care physicians.
- Psychiatry: Increasingly in demand, especially in rural and underserved areas.
- Surgical Specialties: Including general surgery, orthopedic surgery, and neurosurgery, which are experiencing a rise in demand.
- Dermatology: Offers high salaries and a favorable work-life balance, making it a competitive specialty.
Salary Ranges
Salaries vary by specialty and experience level. Here are some average figures:
- Primary Care Physicians: Approximately $287,000 per year (₹2.3 crore).
- Specialists: Approximately $404,000 per year (₹3.2 crore).
- Surgical Specialties: Can range from $400,000 to over $700,000 annually (₹3.2 crore to ₹5.6 crore), depending on the specialty.
Residency Opportunities
- Match Process: Indian graduates must participate in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), which typically takes place in March each year.
- Competitiveness: Specialties like dermatology and neurosurgery are highly competitive, requiring strong USMLE scores and clinical experience.
- Duration: Residency programs range from 3 years (e.g., Family Medicine) to 7 years (e.g., Neurosurgery).
International Practice Options
- Licensing: After completing residency, physicians can obtain state licensure to practice in the U.S.
- Global Opportunities: An MD from a U.S. institution is recognized internationally, giving access to practice in various countries.
To Conclude
To study MD in the USA, you need to complete a bachelor’s degree, achieve competitive MCAT and English test scores, and prepare for the residency match. Tuition fees are high, but scholarships can help reduce the cost. Some of the top universities for MD in the USA are Harvard, Stanford, Johns Hopkins, UCSF, Yale, UCLA, University of Pennsylvania, Duke, and Columbia.
The next steps for students are to shortlist universities, prepare for exams, plan finances, and gather all application documents. Careful planning and early preparation will increase your chances of admission and help you build a successful medical career in the USA.
If you need help with your MD application, LeapScholar’s counsellors can guide you with documents, qualifications, and test requirements. Book a free consultation today to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What is an MD in the USA?
Ans. An MD (Doctor of Medicine) in the USA is a graduate-level medical degree that qualifies students to become licensed physicians. The program typically requires completing a bachelor’s degree first, followed by intensive classroom learning, laboratory training, and clinical rotations. After graduation, students must pass the USMLE exams and complete a residency program to practice medicine independently in the USA.
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Q. What is the duration of an MD in the USA?
Ans. The MD program in the USA typically takes 4 years after completing a bachelor’s degree. Some accelerated programs may last 3 years, depending on the university.
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Q. What are the eligibility criteria for an MD in the USA?
Ans. Bachelor’s degree (preferably in sciences)
Competitive MCAT score
English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
Clinical experience and letters of recommendation -
Q. What is the cost of MD in the USA for international students?
Ans. Tuition fees range between ₹47.4 lakh and ₹75.3 lakh per year (USD 56.7K–85.3K). Students also need to budget for living expenses, health insurance, and visa-related costs of about ₹12.2 lakh/year (USD 14.5K).
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Q. How much can I earn after completing an MD in the USA?
Ans. MD graduates in the USA earn an average salary of ₹75.3 lakh/year (USD 90K). Specialists and surgeons can earn up to ₹6.17 crore/year (USD 700K) depending on experience and location.
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Q. What is the application process for MD in the USA for Indian students?
Ans. Indian students need to apply through AMCAS, submit transcripts and MCAT scores, provide recommendation letters, write a personal statement, and obtain an I-20 form for the F-1 visa. SEVIS (₹29.3K / USD 350) and visa fees (₹13.4K / USD 160) must also be paid.
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Q. Are there scholarships available for MD in the USA for international students?
Ans.Yes, scholarships help reduce tuition costs. Notable options include:
Harvard Medical School Scholarships
Fulbright Foreign Student Program
AMA Physicians of Tomorrow Awards -
Q. What are the top universities to study MD in the USA?
Ans. Some of the top institutions include Harvard University, Stanford University, Johns Hopkins University, University of Pennsylvania, and Duke University. These universities offer strong research programs, faculty support, and high residency match rates.
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Q. What is the cost of living in the USA for international students?
Ans. The monthly living expenses, excluding rent, are around ₹1 lakh (USD 1.2K). This includes food, local transport, utilities, and personal expenses, though costs vary by city.
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Q. What are the visa requirements for MD in the USA for Indian students?
Ans. Indian students need an F-1 visa, which requires an I-20 form from the university, DS-160 form completion, SEVIS and visa fee payments, and an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
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Q. How can I get the clinical experience required for MD in the USA eligibility?
Ans. Clinical experience can be gained through internships, volunteering, or working in hospitals or clinics. This hands-on exposure is essential for MCAT preparation and strong applications.
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Q. What specializations are available for MD in the USA at top universities?
Ans. Popular specializations include Cardiology, Neurology, Oncology, Pediatrics, and Orthopedic Surgery. Students can focus on their preferred field and gain advanced practical training.
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