Study MBBS in China
for International Students – 2025 Guide
(with Guidance for Indian Students)
Affordable | NMC/WHO Approved | English Medium | Global Recognition
Why Choose China for MBBS?
China is one of the world’s most popular destinations for studying MBBS. Every year, thousands of students from India, Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe choose Chinese medical universities because of their affordable fees, global recognition, modern infrastructure, and English-medium teaching.
In this complete 2025 guide, we explain why MBBS in China is a smart choice, what it costs, admission requirements, the top universities, and a dedicated section for Indian students (NEET, NMC, NEXT exam, INR costs).
👉 Need expert help? Book a Free Consultation with our admission team today.
Quick Highlights – MBBS in China
🎓 Course Duration: 5 + 1 Years (Internship)
💰 Tuition Fees: $3,000 – $5,000 / year
🧾 Eligibility: 50% PCB + NEET Qualified
🌍 Language: English Medium + Mandarin support
🏫 Universities: 45+ NMC & WHO recognized
Table of Contents
Why Study MBBS in China?
(Global Benefits for International Students)
Studying MBBS in China offers unique advantages compared to other countries:
Globally Recognized Degrees — Many Chinese universities are listed in the WHO, WFME, ECFMG, and NMC directories.
English-Medium Programs — No need to be fluent in Chinese for classroom studies (though learning basic Mandarin helps in hospitals).
Affordable Fees — Tuition costs are 60–70% lower than private MBBS colleges in India or Western countries.
Modern Facilities — Advanced labs, smart classrooms, and high-patient-flow teaching hospitals.
International Community — Students from over 50+ countries, providing multicultural exposure.
Safe & Student-Friendly — University campuses are secure, with dedicated support for international students.
MBBS in China for Indian Students
While MBBS in China attracts students globally, India is the single largest source of international MBBS students in China. Below are the key details specifically for Indian aspirants.
NEET & NMC Requirements
Indian students must qualify NEET to be eligible for MBBS abroad.
Only apply to NMC-recognized universities in China (always verify with the official NMC Gazette).
After graduation, students must clear the NEXT exam (formerly FMGE/MCI Screening Test) to practice in India.
Some Chinese internships are recognized in India, while others require completion of an additional internship in India.
Indian Community & Food Facilities
Most universities with Indian students have Indian mess facilities, including vegetarian options.
Indian student associations help newcomers adjust with academics, festivals, and local culture.
Coaching support is sometimes offered for the NEXT/FMGE exam.
MBBS in China Fees for Indian Students (2025 in INR)
| EXPENSE CATEGORY | AVERAGE COST (USD) | EQUIVALENT IN INR (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (per year) | $3,000 – $6,000 | ₹2.5 L – ₹5 L |
| Hostel | $600 – $1,200 | ₹50,000 – ₹1 L |
| Food & Living | $800 – $1,500 | ₹65,000 – ₹1.25 L |
| Medical Insurance, Visa, Misc. | $200 – $400 | ₹16,000 – ₹32,000 |
✅ Total yearly cost for an Indian student ranges from ₹3.8 L – ₹7.5 L, much cheaper than private MBBS in India (₹20–25 L per year).
🧭 Challenges & How to Mitigate
⚠️ Potential Challenges of Studying MBBS in China
While China offers high-quality, affordable medical education, international students should be aware of certain practical challenges that may impact their academic and career paths. Being informed in advance allows students to prepare proactively and make smarter decisions.
🔹 1. Licensing Exams & Practice Limitations
Graduates need to pass licensing exams like:
FMGE/NEXT (India)
USMLE (USA)
PLAB (UK)
AMC (Australia)
FMGE pass rates for China-educated students have historically been below 20–25%, due to gaps in clinical training or curriculum mismatch with local exams.
Licensing in China for foreign students is limited. Most Chinese hospitals require native-level Mandarin proficiency (HSK 5–6), and licenses are primarily issued to locals.
🔍 Mitigation Tip: Choose universities that provide strong clinical exposure, MOE-approved English-medium programs, and offer FMGE/USMLE coaching support.
🔹 2. Language Barrier During Clinical Rotations
Even if classes are in English, clinical interactions with patients during hospital training require knowledge of Mandarin Chinese.
Students may struggle to communicate effectively during hospital rotations without adequate language skills.
🔍 Mitigation Tip: Start learning Chinese early (many universities offer beginner courses in Year 1). Aim to achieve at least HSK Level 3–4 by the third year.
🔹 3. Internship Recognition Issues
Some countries do not recognize the internship done in China. Students from India, for example, may have to repeat their internship in India after clearing FMGE/NEXT.
Not all Chinese universities allow internships outside China.
🔍 Mitigation Tip: Confirm if the university allows the 6th-year internship to be done in your home country and whether that complies with your country’s medical council.
🔹 4. University Selection Confusion
Not all medical universities in China are approved by the Ministry of Education (MOE) to admit international students.
Some agents push unlisted universities with low admission fees but poor infrastructure or recognition.
🔍 Mitigation Tip: Refer to the official MOE list of 45 English-medium medical universities. Avoid institutions not listed in this database.
🔹 5. Cultural & Academic Adjustment
Students from non-Asian countries may face cultural shock adjusting to food, climate, or academic teaching styles.
Some universities enforce strict attendance, self-study hours, and classroom discipline unfamiliar to Western students.
🔍 Mitigation Tip: Choose universities with diverse international communities and peer support systems.
How to Overcome the Challenges
Language barrier in clinical practice → Solution: Take optional Mandarin classes, practice with patients.
Licensing exam preparation (NEXT/FMGE, USMLE, PLAB) → Solution: Join coaching support groups.
Internship recognition for Indian students → Solution: Choose an NMC-recognized university, or plan to complete internship in India.
Cultural adjustment → Solution: Connect with Indian associations and participate in campus activities.
🏫 List of MCI/NMC & WHO Recognized Universities
Here are some top medical universities in China recognized by global medical councils:
| UNIVERSITY NAME | CITY | TUITION (PER YEAR) | MEDIUM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shihezi University | Shihezi | English | |
| Qingdao University | Qingdao | English | |
| Jilin University | Changchun | English | |
| China Medical University | Shenyang | English | |
| Nanjing Medical University | Nanjing | English | |
| Dalian Medical University | Dalian | English |
📌 Note:
Fees and availability may vary by intake year. Contact us for verified updates and admission assistance.
“One of the popular options is Shihezi University, well-known for its affordable MBBS program.”
🎓 Duration & Curriculum of MBBS in China
Total Duration: 6 years
5 years classroom & practical study
1 year of internship (can be done in China or student’s home country depending on university policy)
Medium of Instruction: English (with optional Chinese language classes for daily life & clinical interaction).
Curriculum: Adapted from global MBBS standards, including:
Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology
Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology
Internal Medicine, Surgery, Gynecology
Preventive and Social Medicine
Chinese Language (for patient interaction)
📝 MBBS in China Eligibility Criteria (For All Countries)
General Requirements:
Minimum 60% marks in Physics, Chemistry, Biology
Must be 17 years old by December 31 of the admission year
English proficiency (IELTS not always required)
NEET qualification is mandatory for Indian students (as per NMC)
Need More Information?
Talk to our experienced counselors and get a free personalized consultation to guide your next steps.
📊 MBBS in China vs Other Countries – Comparison Chart
| FEATURE | CHINA | RUSSIA | UKRAINE | PHILIPPINES | INDIA (PRIVATE) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees (6 yrs) | $18,000–$30,000 | $25,000–$35,000 | Varies | $25,000–$35,000 | $50,000+ |
| Language of Instruction | English/Mandarin | English/Russian | English/Ukrainian | English | English |
| NMC Approved | Yes (MOE-Listed) | Yes | Limited post-war | Yes | Yes |
| Clinical Exposure | Tier-III Hospitals | Govt. Hospitals | Varies | Community Clinics | Mixed Quality |
| FMGE/NEXT Pass Rate | Moderate | Low–Moderate | Moderate | High | N/A |
✅ China is 70% cheaper than private MBBS colleges in India.
💼 Admission Process for MBBS in China
Step-by-step Guide:
Choose your university – Ensure NMC & WHO recognition.
Apply online or through authorized admission partners
Submit documents:
Passport
12th mark sheet and NEET score (for Indian students)
Medical report
Passport-sized photos
Police clearance
Receive admission letter
Pay initial fee
Get JW202 Visa Invitation
Apply for Student Visa (X1)
Fly to China & start your MBBS journey
📌 Pro Tip: Apply early! Seats are limited and get filled fast.
🛏 Life in China for International Students
Campus Facilities
Modern hostels, sports grounds, libraries, canteens with Halal/vegetarian food
Cultural Diversity
International student bodies from 50+ countries
Travel & Transport
Affordable public transport and student discounts
Safety & Healthcare
Highly secure campuses with dedicated international student support
Safe campuses with 24/7 security and student support offices.
Affordable hostel rooms (2–3 sharing) with internet, laundry, and study facilities.
Indian mess halls and diverse food options.
Student festivals, sports, cultural clubs, and international exchange programs.
Reliable public transport, metro, and affordable travel options.
💰 Cost of Studying MBBS in China
| EXPENSE CATEGORY | APPROX. COST (USD/YEAR) |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $2,500 – $6,000 |
| Hostel Accommodation | $800 – $1,200 |
| Food & Living Expenses | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| Insurance & Visa | $300 – $500 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $4,500 – $9,000 |
✨ Compared to countries like the US, UK, or Australia, MBBS in China is 70% more affordable.
Career Opportunities After MBBS in China (India & Abroad)
In India — Appear for NEXT/FMGE, complete internship (if required), and register with NMC.
In the US — Prepare for USMLE and apply for residency.
In the UK — Take PLAB, GMC registration, practice medicine.
In Australia — AMC exam and internship.
In China or Abroad — Postgraduate studies, hospital work, or research.
👨⚕️ Internship & Career Opportunities
Final year internship in China or home country (as per university rules)
Graduates are eligible to appear in FMGE (India), USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), AMC (Australia), etc.
Growing opportunities for postgraduate studies worldwide
Global demand for multilingual medical graduates with clinical exposure in China
📚 Scholarships for MBBS in China
Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) — Covers tuition, hostel, and stipend for eligible students.
Provincial Scholarships — Offered by some universities.
University Merit Scholarships — For high-performing students in later years.
Private/NGO Funding — Available in certain cases.
Contact us to apply for current scholarships.
🧑🎓 Language Requirements & Preparation
📘 Learning Mandarin – A Necessary Investment
Most medical universities in China require students to learn basic Mandarin as part of the MBBS curriculum, especially for smooth interaction during hospital internships.
🔤 Chinese Language Curriculum Overview:
Year 1–2: Basic Chinese (Reading, Listening, Speaking)
Year 3–5: Focused on medical Chinese
By internship (Year 5–6), students should ideally attain:
HSK Level 3–4 for hospital communication
Higher levels (HSK 5–6) may be needed for those planning to stay and practice in China
✍️ Tips for Success:
Use language apps like HelloChinese or Duolingo
Practice with local Chinese students or join language clubs
Engage in hospital volunteering or community outreach
🏛️ Top MBBS Universities in China (2025)
Here are some of the leading NMC and WHO recognized universities:
China Medical University (Shenyang) — One of the oldest and most reputed universities, with English MBBS programs.
Jilin University (Changchun) — Large international student base, affordable fees.
Qingdao University (Shandong) — Known for FMGE/NEXT support for Indian students.
Nanjing Medical University (Jiangsu) — High global ranking, modern hospital tie-ups.
Shihezi University (Xinjiang) — Strong Indian student community, affordable cost.
Dalian Medical University (Liaoning) — Located in a developed city with modern campus.
👉 See our full list of Top Medical Universities in China for details on fees, eligibility, and admission.
🎓 Shihezi University
City: Shihezi, Xinjiang
Tuition: $3,500/year
MOE-Approved: ✅ Yes
Language: English (6-year program)
Affiliated Hospitals: Tier-III A
Highlights:
Strong Indian and Pakistani student base
Offers Indian mess facility
Recognized by NMC, WHO, WFME
Known for strict academic discipline and high graduation rate
🎓 China Medical University
City: Shenyang
Tuition: $4,200/year
Language: English
MOE-Approved: ✅ Yes
Key Points:
FMGE coaching assistance provided
Advanced research facilities
Medium batch sizes for clinical learning
- Excellent student-to-patient ratio in affiliated hospitals
🎓 Qingdao University
City: Qingdao, Shandong Province
Tuition: $3,500–$4,000/year
Language: English
MOE-Approved: ✅ Yes
Key Points:
FMGE coaching assistance provided
Strong presence of Indian, Sri Lankan, Nepali, and African students
Affiliated hospital has direct patient interaction starting from the 3rd year
🎓 Dalian Medical University
City: Dalian
Tuition: $4,500/year
Highlights:
Very high FMGE pass rates in past years
Language support center for foreigners
Popular among Nepalese and African students
- Excellent infrastructure, advanced simulation labs, and English-taught MBBS for over a decade
🎓 Jilin University
City: Changchun, Jilin Province
Tuition: $4,000/year
Language: English
MOE-Approved: ✅ Yes
Key Points:
One of China’s top-ranked universities under Project 211 & 985
Includes clinical skill training from Year 2 onwards
Offers FMGE/USMLE preparation workshops in collaboration with Indian and international alumni
🎓 Nanjing Medical University
City: Nanjing, Jiangsu Province
Tuition: $5,000/year
Language: English
MOE-Approved: ✅ Yes
Key Points:
One of the oldest and most prestigious medical universities in Eastern China
Active international student union, with cultural and academic mentorship programs
Affiliated hospital has direct patient interaction starting from the 3rd year
💬 Student Testimonials
Experience from International student in China Medical College
Hetal Gandhi
Qingdao University
China.
In-fact I was doubtful if I would ever become a doctor or even pay off the MBBS fees in China, every year. In the month of April and May, just before my examination results, I managed to go to Mumbai to find out the admission procedure for the medical education in India. There I realized that now-a-days the ONLY people who can get an admission to the doctorate colleges or become a doctor are those who have money. You should have enough money to first pay off the huge donations and then pay off the academic year fees, books, hostel fees and many more. There also is a restriction for the aggregate percentage you get for your H.S.C examinations, which means a student who doesn’t have enough money or marks above 90% cannot dream of becoming a doctor.
Then I came across the site called China MBBS. I was thinking, if I don’t get admission here in India, then how would I go to study MBBS abroad? However, I got all the information and the best customer support from the China MBBS team. The China MBBS University fees which I came across was unbelievable. After going through all the information about best medical universities in China English medium, I was certain that i can achieve my dream to become a doctor and make my parents proud.
Friends, there are lot of top universities in China for MBBS, which are giving away admission to study medicine in China on scholarship to foreign students. I got my visa, my air ticket, admission fees, hostel fees and food expenses in unbelievable prices. The fees in China for Indian students is very much affordable, compared to any medical universities in India or other countries. Also most of the med school in China have been recognized and approved by the Medical Council of India and have started their course of MBBS in English medium.
I am studying in Qingdao University, which is the North Eastern part of China and is considered to be top 10 MBBS colleges in China. The duration of MBBS in China is 5 years of academic study and one year of internship. The experience of studying in China for a student like me, who has never been out of her state till the age of 17 is amazing. I have around 40 friends in my university who are from India and I hope there are more to come this year. So here is my suggestion who is looking for best medical college in China for Indian students, instead of spending lot of money in just donations in India, I would recommend you to come to China and get your admission here.
I am in the 3rd year now and studying MBBS in English in China was the best ever decision I had made in my life. Many of my friends in India ask me, MBBS in China or Russia which is better? and for me without a doubt it is China. I am giving my thoughts here in the CMEI Official site, only because the people handling this institution are trustworthy and genuine, I am the live example of that.
Thanks for this opportunity, CMEI Team and to express my opinion, you are the best consultants for MBBS in China.
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FAQs — MBBS in China 2025
Yes, but only if you study at an NMC-approved university. You must also pass the NEXT exam to practice in India.
The MBBS degree is 6 years (5 academic + 1 internship).
On average, it costs ₹3.8 L – ₹7.5 L per year including tuition, hostel, and living expenses.
Yes — the 1-year clinical internship is mandatory. It counts for FMGE eligibility only if completed in China; some universities allow completing internship in India after passing NMC screening.
Yes, programs are taught in English. However, you’ll need to learn Mandarin (HSK 4+) for patient interaction during clinical rotations and licensing requirements.
You’ll need a passport, university invitation (JW202/JW201 form), admission letter, recent photos, first-year tuition fee receipt, medical records, and proof of NEET qualification.
Yes — most university towns like Jinan, Qingdao, Shihezi, Changchun, Xinxiang offer low crime rates, security services, and modern campus infrastructure safe for international students.
Typically 4–8 weeks from initial application to visa invitation. Best time to apply is between January and March for optimal seat availability.
Yes — degrees from WHO and NMC-approved Chinese universities are recognized globally. Graduates must pass local licensing (e.g. PLAB, AMC, USMLE) to practice.
Annual tuition ranges from 30,000–50,000 RMB (₹3.5–6 LPA), with living costs around 6,000 RMB/month (₹71,000), depending on the city.
Part-time jobs are not allowed. Paid internships require university approval and residence permits. Illegal work is not permitted and can affect visa status.
Yes, most universities offer complete English-medium MBBS programs.
Yes, after passing the relevant licensing exams in your country (FMGE, USMLE, PLAB, etc.).