How to Get Admission in MBBS in USA in 2025: Step-by-Step Guide for Indian Students

In the US, an MBBS is not the entry level medical degree. Instead, the primary medical degree is the Doctor of Medicine, which is a postgraduate program. To become eligible for an MD program, students must first complete a 4-year bachelor degree in medical science. Securing admission to an MBBS(equivalent to the MD course) in the USA is a difficult but rewarding journey.

Candidates must clear the medical entrance exams, i.e., MCAT exam, along with English proficiency via TOEFL/IELTS (for international students). Indian students must qualify for the NEET Exam to meet eligibility criteria. More than 40,000 applications are submitted for admission to MBBS in the USA by international students, and only 20,000 get through. 

This guide lets you know the MBBS in the USA eligibility criteria and admission process, from choosing the right pre-med courses to preparing for interviews and securing available scholarships.

How to get admission for MBBS in USA?  Step by Step Guide

The steps below guide you on how to get admission to a medical college in the USA

• Complete a Pre-Medical Undergraduate Degree: Candidates must complete a bachelor degree, in the field of medical science, from a university recognized by the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS).
• MCAT: Candidates must participate in the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) exam, which is required for most medical schools in the USA. 
• Prepare for Interviews: Many medical schools require interviews as part of the admissions process.
• Complete the MD Program: If accepted, the Candidate needs to complete a 4-year medical degree (MD) program. 
• Pass USMLE Exams: After completing the MD program, the Candidate needs to pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). 
• Complete Residency: To practice medicine, the Candidate needs to complete a residency program. 

MBBS in USA Admission: Eligibility Criteria

If you dream of studying for an MBBS in the USA, you must meet specific eligibility criteria before applying. Only qualified candidates who fulfill these requirements are considered for admission. The main qualifying requirements for admission to MBBS in America are listed in the table below:

MBBS in USA Admission: Entrance Exam (MCAT)

The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is the entrance exam for MBBS in the United States. It is a standardized, computer-based test that evaluates a student's critical thinking, problem-solving, and knowledge of physical and biological sciences. However, some colleges in the USA require pre-medical courses to get admission to MBBS. Those who have already taken the MCAT exam in previous years can check their score based on the US university they are applying to for MBBS admissions.

MCAT Exam Pattern

The MCAT exam pattern consists of four sections and 230 multiple-choice questions. The exam is designed to assess a candidate's knowledge of the sciences, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. 

• Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems: Tests knowledge of living systems 
• Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems: Tests knowledge of biological systems from a chemical and physical perspective 
• Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior: Tests knowledge of behavior from a psychological, social, and biological perspective 
• Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS): Tests critical thinking and reasoning skills.

Question breakdown

• 10 passages with 4–7 questions each in the science sections
• 9 passages with 5–7 questions each in the CARS section
• 15 stand-alone questions in each of the science sections

MCAT Exam Syllabus

The test has 4 sections in total, 3 of which test your scientific understanding, and 1 test your critical thinking and reasoning. The 3 science-based sections cover a gamut of subjects: physics, biology, chemistry, sociology, and psychology. The table below represents the MCAT exam syllabus.

Adding all sections together, the total is 6 hours and 15 minutes for the examination. However, some breaks make it to a total “seated time” of around 7 and 30 minutes.

Admission Process for Studying MBBS in USA

The admission process for MBBS in the USA requires an MCAT examination. This examination is a computer-based test that assesses your scientific, reasoning, and writing abilities. The admission process for an MBBS degree in the USA involves the following steps:

Step 1 - Preparing application materials: The candidate needs to gather documents like transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation.

Step 2 - Taking the MCAT: The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) assesses candidates' critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific knowledge. It's best to take the MCAT in the spring before you plan to start medical school. 

Step 3 - Obtaining a student visa: The candidate needs an F-class student visa to study in the US. 

Step 4 - Applying for ECFMG certification: The candidate needs this certification to apply for a residency program in the US. 

Step 5 - Taking the USMLE: The candidate needs to pass the USMLE Step 1 and Step 2, and then take the final step, USMLE Step 3. 

Step 6 - Preparing for an interview: Some universities may require a personal interview with shortlisted candidates. 

Read More: How to Get Admission in Abroad for MBBS

Top Medical Universities in USA

Harvard, Johns Hopkins, Stanford, and UPenn are among the best for MD programs. The table below represents the top medical schools in America, with their ranking.

Cost of Studying MBBS in the USA

The cost of studying MBBS in the United States can range from $200,000 to $300,000 for the entire program, with average annual tuition fees between $58,000 and $65,000, depending on the institution and state of residence, making it a very expensive option due to high tuition fees and living costs. 

Conclusion

Securing admission to an MBBS program (or its equivalent, the MD program) in America is challenging but can be easily achievable with focused planning, determination, and proper guidance. Start early: complete your bachelor’s degree with a strong GPA in science subjects, clear the MCAT exam, and gain hands-on experience through volunteering, internships, or research in the medical sector. 

U.S. medical colleges consider hands-on experience with a good academic profile with extracurriculars like community service or leadership roles. Apply via the AMCAS portal, prepare thoroughly for interviews and all its related questions, and ensure your summary highlights your passion for medical science. While the costs of MBBS in America are high, explore scholarships, loans, or partnership programs with institutions like WHO. Stay updated, seek mentorship, and keep updating your application; every setback is a step closer. With clear understanding and plans, your dream of studying MBBS in America. is possible. 

FAQs About How to Get Admission in MBBS in USA?

Ques: Is there any entrance exam for MBBS in the USA?

Ans: Yes, students must take the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) to apply for MD programs in the USA, which is equivalent to MBBS in other countries.

Ques: What are the eligibility criteria for MBBS admission in the USA?

Ans: Candidates must complete a bachelor's degree in science, primarily with biology and chemistry, and have a good MCAT score to apply for medical schools in the USA.

Ques: How can I get admission in MBBS in the USA as an international student?

Ans: International students must hold a science-based undergraduate degree, take the MCAT, prove English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS), and apply through AMCAS to medical schools offering MD programs.

Ques: What is the admission process for MBBS in the USA?

Ans: The process involves earning a pre-medical bachelor's degree, taking the MCAT exam, submitting applications through AMCAS, and attending interviews at shortlisted medical colleges.

Ques: Which medical entrance exams are accepted in the USA for MBBS admission?

Ans: The primary medical entrance exam accepted in the USA is the MCAT. TOEFL or IELTS may also be required for non-native English-speaking international students.

Ques: What qualifications are required for MBBS admission in the USA?

Ans: You need a bachelor's degree with strong science coursework, a competitive MCAT score, letters of recommendation, and proof of English proficiency for MBBS-equivalent MD programs.

Ques: How to get admission in MBBS after 12th in the USA?

Ans: You cannot join MBBS after 12th in the USA. First, complete a 4-year pre-medical undergraduate degree, then apply to a medical school through the MCAT route.

Ques: Are international students eligible to study MBBS in the USA?

Ans: Yes, international students can study MBBS-equivalent MD in the USA if they fulfill academic, exam, and visa requirements, including MCAT scores and a valid student visa.

Ques: How do I download my MBBS admit card or admission letter?

Ans: Once shortlisted by a medical school, candidates can download their admission letter or MBBS admit card from the official portal or receive it via registered email.