MBBS In Philippines Counseling Started for September Intake
When it comes to pursuing an MBBS in the Philippines, India's educational landscape offers around 350 private and government medical colleges, collectively providing approximately 50,000 undergraduate medical seats. However, not every aspiring student secures admission. This challenge is exacerbated by India's population of 1.32 billion people, which faces an acute shortage of medical professionals.
Half of these medical seats are allocated to private colleges, with tuition fees ranging from 50 to 70 lakhs and an additional burden of up to 50 lakhs in capitation fees. This significant financial strain has prompted many Indian students to explore alternative destinations where they can access a similar standard of education, accommodation, and the significance of their MBBS degree at a substantially lower cost. In this context, pursuing an MBBS in the Philippines stands out as an attractive and viable option.
The Philippines proves to be an ideal choice for Indian students looking to study MBBS abroad. Filipinos are renowned for their warm hospitality and politeness, ensuring that students feel right at home. The cultural similarities, ease of communication, shared climate, and language make the Philippines the top destination for Indian students embarking on their MBBS journey. Here, we delve into some compelling reasons why Indian students prefer to pursue their MBBS in the Philippines.
MBBS from Foreign Countries
Exploring the complexities of studying abroad, many students are now considering pursuing an MBBS in the Philippines. This Asian nation has emerged as an attractive option due to its unique advantages compared to other destinations, including Bangladesh. One standout feature is its exceptional quality of medical instruction. In contrast, some medical colleges in Bangladesh may not meet the high standards desired by many students. Consequently, a growing number of individuals are leaning towards the Philippines as their preferred choice.
The Philippines holds significant appeal for aspiring medical professionals, especially from regions like South India, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. There are several reasons behind this preference. Firstly, the Philippines primarily uses English as its medium of instruction, making it a comfortable environment for international students, including those from India. In fact, the Philippines is recognized as the world's third-largest English-speaking country, paralleling India's use of English in various educational levels.
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Moreover, the Philippines boasts a tropical climate akin to that of India. This shared climate not only provides Indian students with a familiar environment but also exposes them to disease patterns similar to those found in their home country. This practical experience can significantly enhance their medical education.
In recent years, the number of Indian students seeking MBBS in the Philippines has surged, thanks to these advantages. The country's warm and welcoming atmosphere, coupled with the convenience of studying in English, has made it an increasingly popular choice.
Conversely, some students opt for medical education in countries like China, Ukraine, Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Georgia. However, these countries present different challenges. They often have cold climates, with temperatures dropping significantly, sometimes reaching below freezing. Such conditions can be quite demanding for Indian students who are unaccustomed to such weather.
Furthermore, the diseases prevalent in these cold-climate countries differ from those in India's tropical setting. This variance can pose a challenge when applying medical knowledge gained abroad back in India. Another hurdle faced by students in these countries is language. Learning the host nation's language can be a formidable task, and a lack of proficiency can hinder effective patient care and limit overall learning opportunities.
In conclusion, the Philippines has become an increasingly attractive destination for pursuing an MBBS degree, offering a high-quality medical education experience tailored to the needs and preferences of Indian students.
Study MBBS in Philippines
Medical studies in the Philippines run on American practice. The whole study is divided into two parts. The first part is a BS program which is one year, after which the student has to appear in an examination called APPEAR. After this, the MD course is done, which is for four years. Here students get the chance to go to a better college than their current college, or they can continue their studies in their own college.
The total expenditure for Medical education in the Philippines for the full five years is about 18 lakh to 25 lakh Indian Rupees including Hostel and Mess charges. This expenditure can be given in installments. In the first year, the college takes fees up to 7 lakhs. The remaining fee can be paid in the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th years respectively, which comes to around 3.5 lac to 4 lac per year.
Except for the service charge or consultancy fee (if you take services of a consultant), all fees are to be paid in the college account, so everything remains transparent. Given the number of students from India in the Philippines, the colleges have also provided different mess facilities for the students where Indian food is available. Moreover, at every nook and corner, Indian restaurants are also there.
Eligibility for Admission in MBBS in Philippines
The criteria set by MBBS colleges in the Philippines are very moderate:
Before 31st Dec of the year in which the student wants to go to Philippines, the student should have completed 17 years of age.
A student should have passed 12th science with a 50% aggregate in physics, chemistry and biology.
He/she must have English as a subject and passed in English.
The college fees for MBBS in the Philippines are regulated by the Philippines ministry of education, making it very affordable compared to medical colleges in India. Moreover, the colleges for MBBS in the Philippines do not have any capitation or donations, nor are there any under-the-table deals. So this country is undoubtedly a good choice for those who want to be a doctor.
Cost of Living in Philippines
Here's the information with figures converted to Indian Rupees (INR) for the cost of living for a student studying MBBS in the Philippines:
The cost of living for an MBBS student in the Philippines is relatively affordable, contributing to a comfortable lifestyle during their academic journey. Accommodation costs vary based on location and type; university dormitories typically range from ₹4,500 to ₹11,000 per month, while off-campus shared apartments might cost around ₹7,500 to ₹15,000 per month.
Food expenses are budget-friendly, with an average monthly cost ranging from ₹7,000 to ₹10,500. This can be further reduced by utilizing on-campus dining options and local eateries. Public transportation costs, such as buses and trains, are reasonable at approximately ₹1,100 to ₹2,200 per month. Other miscellaneous expenses, including study materials, mobile phone plans, and leisure activities, may amount to around ₹3,750 to ₹7,500 per month.
Overall, the cost of living in the Philippines allows international MBBS students to manage their finances effectively while benefiting from quality education and a culturally enriching experience. Planning and budgeting wisely can ensure a rewarding academic journey without financial constraints.
Reasons to Study MBBS in Philippines
MCI Recognition: Because the Philippines has established and maintained uniform standards of medical education, the MD in the Philippines is recognized and approved as an equivalent course to the MBBS by the MCI (Medical Council of India). After the MCI formalities, you can practice in most of the world, including India. Moreover, they not only prepare you for medical practice but also for the MCI screening test.
Global Recognition: Most of the medical universities of the Philippines are listed in the WHO, IMED and ECFMG medical education directories and are widely renowned in many countries for the superior standard of education.
Qualified Faculty: All the top medical colleges of the Philippines have highly qualified and experienced Professors and teaching and non-teaching staff from different countries, including the USA, Europe and India. The entire faculty are co-operative and ready to help you with every query.
English Medium: Because the medium of instruction is English, it diminishes the barrier of learning the native language as in many other countries and helps to concentrate only on the study. It also helps when you communicate with the patient as the Philippines is the 3rd largest English speaking country where more than 90% of Filipinos speak English.
No Capitation Fees: Philippines colleges do not have any capitation fees or donation, nor is there any kind of under-the-table dealing for admission because they are regulated by the Philippines ministry of education.
Affordable Fees: The present President Mr Rodrigo Duterte has signed a bill related to providing free education to 112 government universities in the country. This has an impact on the private universities as well and they have decreased their fee, which was already very low compared to world standards.
Similar Climate & Disease Patterns: As the climate of the Philippines is very similar to that of most parts of India, the people have the same pattern of medical problems and diseases. This aids Indian students who want to practice in India. Moreover, it helps Indian students settle with no trouble when they come to the country.
Career Opportunities: Education from the Philippines, especially in medical fields, opens numerous opportunities to make a career in English-speaking countries including the UK, USA, Australia, Canada, etc., where there is a scarcity of Doctors and medical professionals because the Philippines largely follows the US education system.
International Practice: An MBBS degree from the Philippines offers you a great career opportunity of working in the US, Canada, Australia and other developed countries because it is recognized by the medical council of every major country. You can practice in India after completing the MCI registration formalities.
Indian Food Available: In the hostel of the medical colleges of the Philippines, you will get Indian food because there is a large number of Indian students. Therefore, they have a large number of messes and a team of Indian chefs to make all the Indian dishes available for Indian students at affordable rates.
Low Living Cost: Low living cost is another advantage in the Philippines. The difference in the Philippines peso and Indian rupee is very less, making the Philippines more affordable compared to most European countries.
Renowned for MD Studies: For the study of MD, the Philippines is a renowned country, which is confirmed by the students coming from the US, UK, Japan, France, Australia, and Germany, including India.
Easy Visa Process: It is easy to obtain a student visa and processing of documentation is quick because the Philippines embassy is very liberal when it comes to student and education visas.
Excellent Connectivity: Excellent flight connectivity from India offers easy commutation throughout the year. You can get a to-and-fro ticket for as low as Rs 15,000.
Popular Destination: Approximately 20,000 students from all over the world enrol every year to study MBBS in the Philippines. The number of Indian students enrolling for MBBS in the Philippines has drastically increased in recent years.
Top Medical Colleges in Philippines
Here's a list of some top medical colleges and universities in the Philippines, along with their year of establishment, admission procedures, and website details:
University of the Philippines College of Medicine
Year Established: 1905
Admission Procedure: Admissions are highly competitive and based on the National Medical Admission Test (NMAT) score and interviews.
Please note that admission procedures and requirements may change over time, so it's essential to visit the respective university websites or contact their admissions offices for the most up-to-date information on admissions and application procedures. Additionally, each university may have specific eligibility criteria and deadlines for applications.
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation (VMUF) is a privately supported, co-educational, Catholic university in San Carlos, Pangasinan, Philippines. It was founded in 1958 by Dr. Martin Posadas and Dr. Rosalina Q. Posadas. It offers courses in the medical and paramedical fields, in liberal and applied arts, sciences, and technical-vocational courses, senior high school, secondary, elementary and pre-school courses.
VMUF covers 19 hectares of land area in MP Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, about 200 km north of Manila, the capital of the Philippines. The Philippine national games (Palarong Pambansa) were held for the first time there in 1995.
Awards & Accreditation
PACUCOA Awardee as an Institution with the highest number of Accredited Programs in the Philippines (Category A)
The first Dental School in the Philippines accredited by PACUCOA
The only School of Nursing in Pangasinan accredited by PACUCOA
The only Veterinary Hospital accredited in Region I by Philippine Animal Hospital Association (PAHA)
The only university in Region 1 granted level III accreditation for Master of Science in Teaching, Master in Public Health, BSN, BSE, BEED, BSBio, Arts and Sciences by PACUCOA.
Fee & other Details of VMUF University
Code: VMUF
Course Name: MBBS
Course Duration: 6 years (including Internship)
Medium of Instruction: English
First Year Fee: Rs.6,25,100/-
Total Package for 6 years: Rs.22,87,600/-
First Year Fee Includes: Tuition Fees, Visa Fee, Registration, Medical & Quarantine in Philippines, Service Charges, NICA/ACR Card, Admission Fees, Pre-Medical Orientation, Airport pick-up in Manila, Accommodation arrangements, Administrative Fees. 8,930 USD (Rs.6,25,100/- approx)
Particulars
2nd Year
3rd Year
4th Year
5th Year
6th Year
Tuition Fees
4,750 USD
4,750 USD
4,750 USD
4,750 USD
4,750 USD
Total in (INR)
3,32,500 INR
3,32,500 INR
3,32,500 INR
3,32,500 INR
3,32,500 INR
Documents Required for Admission VMUF
VMUF Application Form
NOA (original Notice Of Acceptance)
Color copy of 10th Mark Sheet
Color Copy of 12th Mark Sheet
NEET Score Card
Birth Certificate
Valid Passport
Police Clearance Certificate (Issued by Passport Office)
Passport size photo with white background - 30
Medical Examination Certificate issued by Indian NABH approved Hospital
Parent's bank statement with more than Rs. 5 Lakhs balance
