LeapScholar

Which courses should I consider abroad after 12th PCB, and how do they compare?

27 Oct 2026 · Answered by Saru Sharma · 1 min read
Quick Answer verified

After 12th PCB, you can choose from five broad areas abroad: alternative healthcare, biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences, healthcare tech and data, biotech and life sciences, and veterinary and environmental sciences. Medicine options such as MBBS typically take 5 to 6 years. Check university pages for details.

Saru Sharma
Saru Sharma Verified
Leap Scholar's Counsellor
View Profile →

After 12th PCB you are not limited to MBBS. You can pick from five disciplines abroad, and you can also choose physics or chemistry related fields such as sub-disciplines of engineering. Compare durations and career options before choosing.

Popular Courses and Typical Duration

CourseTypical duration
MBBS5 to 6 years
BSc in Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Nursing and more3 to 5 years
Dentistry4 to 5 years
Occupational Therapy3 to 5 years
Physiotherapy3 to 4 years
Bachelor of Veterinary Science4 to 5 years

Five Discipline Areas

  • Alternative healthcare and therapeutic sciences, such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy and nursing.
  • Biomedical, laboratory and pharmaceutical sciences, such as biomedical science and B.Pharm.
  • Healthcare tech and data sciences, such as bioinformatics and health informatics.
  • Advanced biotech and life sciences, such as biotechnology and microbiology.
  • Veterinary and environmental sciences, such as veterinary science and environmental science.

My Advice

Choose by interest and long-term goal rather than only salary. Durations vary by country and university, so check each programme page and the licensing route for the career you want.

Planning to study abroad?

Get a personalised university shortlist with courses, costs and career outcomes.

4.7/5 Google 🎓 25K+ admits
Get My Free Shortlist
Related topics

More Courses comparison questions

🎓 Planning to study abroad? Get a free plan Get Free Shortlist