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Difference Between MBBS in Russia Vs MBBS in India 2025

Rajat Diwakar • 6 Mins read • 7 Jul 25

Difference Between MBBS in Russia Vs MBBS in India

Russia has become a popular destination for many MBBS aspirants all across the world. They provide MBBS at a relatively low cost of education with high-quality education, as compared to many other countries, making it more accessible for aspiring medical students. Pursuing an MBBS in India provides a diverse range of clinical cases and patient populations, offering valuable learning opportunities and exposure to a wide variety of medical conditions.

Now here is the puzzle. I am pretty sure you might be confused about which country is best to pursue an MBBS?

This doubt has arisen for many students like you. Therefore, to clarify your confusion, we are here to help you with this blog about the difference between MBBS in Russia Vs MBBS in India.

Why Russia is a Popular Destination for MBBS Abroad?

Russia is a popular destination for studying MBBS abroad for several reasons. A few points on why to pursue MBBS in Russia are listed below:

Russian medical universities offer high-quality education and are recognized by global bodies like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India.
The cost of studying MBBS in Russia is relatively affordable compared to other countries, making it attractive for international students.
The Russian medical curriculum emphasizes practical training, providing students with valuable hands-on experience.
Russia's rich cultural heritage, diverse population, and vibrant student life contribute to its appeal.

These are the major factors that make Russia an appealing choice for students seeking a quality and affordable MBBS education abroad.

Comparison between MBBS in Russia vs MBBS in India

Here is the list of contents that outlines the difference between MBBS in Russia vs. India for Indian students:

Points	MBBS in Russia	MBBS in India
Recognition	Recognized by NMC, WHO, ECFMG, FAIMER, WFME, etc.	Recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC)
Degree	Medical Degree (MD)	Bachelor of Medicine or Bachelor of Surgery
Entrance Test	NEET Exam	NEET Exam UG
Fees Structure	₹ 20 - ₹ 35 lakhs	₹ 50 - ₹ 80 lakhs
Course Duration	6 years, including a 1-year internship	5.5 years, including a 1-year paid internship
Teaching Language	English	English
Cost of Living	₹5000-15000 per month	$30–$100 per month

Is a Russian MBBS degree valid in India?

The MBBS degree obtained from recognized medical universities in Russia is considered valid in India. The National Medical Commission (NMC) recognizes several Russian universities and their medical programs.

Indian students who graduate from these recognized institutions are eligible to appear for the NMC screening test, known as the Foreign Medical Graduates Examination (FMGE). Upon passing the FMGE, students can register with the NMC and practice medicine in India.

It is important for students to ensure that they attend NMC-approved universities in Russia and fulfill the eligibility criteria set by the NMC to ensure the validity of their degree in India.

Top Russian Universities for MBBS

Below, we have listed the top universities to pursue MBBS in Russia.

Read More - MBBS Universities in Russia

Conclusion

Ultimately, both Russia and India offer unique advantages for pursuing an MBBS degree. MBBS in Russia provides affordable education, strong practical training, and global recognition, making it an attractive option for international students. On the other hand, MBBS in India offers exposure to diverse clinical cases, a familiar culture, and better opportunities for postgraduate studies and higher salaries within the country.

However, it's important to note that the cost of studying MBBS in private medical colleges in India is significantly higher compared to Russian universities, making Russia a more cost-effective choice for many aspiring doctors.

If you are a fellow MBBS aspirant and are willing to pursue MBBS in Russia or India, then we are here to serve you. You can contact us at Select Your University

FAQs

Ques: Is an MBBS degree from Russia valid in India?

Ans: Yes, MBBS degrees from NMC (National Medical Commission)-approved Russian universities are valid in India. However, graduates must pass the FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) to practice medicine legally in India.

Ques: Can Indian students study MBBS in Russia without NEET?

Ans: No, Indian students must qualify for the NEET exam to pursue MBBS in Russia or any other foreign country. NEET is also required to appear for FMGE and practice in India later.

Ques: Is studying MBBS in Russia affordable for Indian students?

Ans: Yes! MBBS in Russia is significantly more cost-effective than private medical colleges in India, with total tuition fees typically ranging from ₹20 to ₹35 lakhs for the entire 6-year course.

This affordability is a key difference between MBBS in Russia vs MBBS in India, where private colleges often cost ₹50–₹80 lakhs or more.

Ques: Do Russian medical universities teach in English?

Ans: Yes, most top Russian universities offer English-medium MBBS programs for international students. However, learning basic Russian is encouraged for better communication during hospital internships and daily living.

Ques: How is life for Indian students studying MBBS in Russia?

Ans: Indian students generally adjust well. Most universities offer hostel accommodation, Indian mess facilities, and supportive student communities. Major cities like Moscow and Kazan are multicultural, safe, and student-friendly.

Ques: Is a Russian MBBS degree recognized in the USA?

Ans: Yes, but to practice in the USA, students must pass the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) and complete a residency program. The MBBS degree from Russia is valid globally, but every country requires its own licensing exams.

Ques: Which countries accept an MBBS degree from Russia?

Ans: Russian MBBS degrees are recognized by international bodies like the WHO and UNESCO, and accepted by medical councils in India, Canada, Australia, the UK, Germany, and more, provided local licensing exams are cleared.

Ques: What are the top medical universities in Moscow for Indian students?

Ans: Some of the best options include:

Voronezh State Medical University
Lomonosov Moscow State University
People’s Friendship University of Russia (RUDN)

Ques: What comes after completing MBBS in Russia for Indian students?

Ans: After graduation, Indian students have several options:

Return to India and pass the FMGE to practice.
Pursue postgraduate studies abroad in the USA, UK, Germany, etc.
Practice in Russia or other countries after passing local licensing exams.

Ques: Is MBBS in Russia better than private colleges in India?

Ans: For many students, yes. Russian universities offer globally recognized degrees, lower tuition, modern infrastructure, and clinical exposure. In contrast, private colleges in India charge significantly higher fees, making Russia a more practical and economical choice. This highlights a major difference between MBBS in Russia vs MBBS in India.