The Philippines has steadily emerged as one of the most preferred destinations for Indian students seeking to study MBBS abroad.
According to higher education enrollment statistics, there were about 17,202 foreign students in the Philippines in the 2022 – 2023 academic year, with Indians comprising the largest group at 8,973. Other estimates suggest that roughly 15,000 Indian students are studying in the Philippines across disciplines, including an estimated 2,500 – 3,200 in medical programs.
As competition for government medical seats in India intensifies and private college fees remain high, the Philippines continues to attract students looking for quality medical education delivered in English and recognized globally.
Several factors make the Philippines a strong choice for medical aspirants from India. One of the biggest advantages is affordability. The overall cost of completing an MBBS or MD degree in the Philippines is significantly lower than private medical colleges in India and many other foreign destinations.
Medical education in the Philippines follows a curriculum inspired by the United States system. This approach places strong emphasis on conceptual learning, clinical exposure and patient interaction. Since English is the primary language of instruction, Indian students adapt easily to academics and clinical training.
Another major reason for its popularity is global recognition. Medical degrees awarded by recognised universities in the Philippines allow graduates to appear for licensing examinations in India, such as FMGE or the upcoming NExT, provided they meet the eligibility criteria laid down by the National Medical Commission. Recognition is therefore pathway based rather than automatic.
The medical education system in the Philippines follows a two stage structure.
Students first complete a Bachelor of Science program, commonly referred to as the pre medical course. This stage usually lasts one and a half to two years and covers core subjects such as biology, chemistry and basic medical sciences. This foundation prepares students for the professional medical program.
After completing the pre medical course, students enter the Doctor of Medicine program, which runs for four years. This phase includes classroom learning in the initial years followed by extensive clinical exposure and hospital rotations in the later stages.
Clinical training continues through a compulsory internship that allows students to work directly with patients under supervision. Under current National Medical Commission regulations, Indian graduates must fulfil internship requirements as specified at the time of licensing, which may include additional training in India depending on prevailing norms.
The total duration of studying medicine in the Philippines typically ranges between five and a half to six years.
Indian students applying for MBBS in the Philippines must meet the following requirements:
Candidates should have completed Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry and Biology as core subjects. A minimum of 50 percent aggregate marks in PCB is required for general category students, while reserved category students need at least 40 percent.
Qualifying the NEET examination is mandatory for Indian students who wish to study medicine abroad and later practice in India. Applicants must be at least 17 years old at the time of admission. English proficiency tests are generally not required, as the entire course is taught in English.
The admission process for MBBS in the Philippines is straightforward and student friendly. Applicants begin by selecting a recognized medical university and submitting an application along with academic documents, passport copy and NEET scorecard.
Once the university reviews the application, it issues an admission or offer letter. Students then proceed with the student visa application using the admission letter. After completing fee formalities and travel arrangements, students can begin their medical education in the Philippines.
Tuition fees for MBBS in the Philippines vary depending on the university but generally range between two and a half to six lakh rupees per year. The total cost for completing the full medical course, including tuition, accommodation and basic living expenses, typically falls between fifteen and twenty five lakh rupees.
Living expenses in the Philippines are relatively affordable for Indian students. Monthly costs for food, accommodation and local transport usually remain manageable, making it easier for families to plan long term finances.
Location: Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines
Location: Sampaloc, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Location: Davao City, Davao del Sur, Philippines
With more than ten thousand Indian students already studying medicine there, the Philippines has established itself as a trusted destination for MBBS abroad. Its combination of affordable education, English medium teaching, early clinical exposure and internationally aligned curriculum continues to draw aspiring doctors each year.
For students seeking a balance between quality education and practical affordability, MBBS in the Philippines remains a realistic and well travelled path toward a medical career.
Is MBBS from the Philippines valid in India?
Yes. Graduates from recognized Philippine medical universities are eligible to appear for FMGE or NExT, subject to National Medical Commission regulations in force at the time of licensing.
Is internship in the Philippines accepted in India?
Internship acceptance depends on prevailing NMC norms. In some cases, additional internship or training in India may be required before permanent registration.
Is NEET mandatory for studying MBBS in the Philippines?
Yes. NEET qualification is mandatory for Indian students who plan to study medicine abroad and practice in India.
References:
National Medical Commission, Government of India, Foreign Medical Graduate Licentiate Regulations, 2021, accessed January 3, 2026, https://www.nmc.org.in/MCIRest/open/getDocument?path=/Documents/Public/Portal/LatestNews/20220222165635.pdf.
Embassy of India, Manila, Advisory on Medical Education in the Philippines for Indian Students, accessed January 3, 2026, https://www.eoimanila.gov.in/docs/1662441495Advisory%20on%20Medical%20Education%20in%20the%20Philippines.pdf.
Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Government of the Philippines, About the Commission on Higher Education, accessed January 3, 2026, https://ched.gov.ph.
Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Government of the Philippines, Medical Education in the Philippines, accessed January 3, 2026, https://www.ched.gov.ph/medical-education/.
National Medical Commission, Government of India, Information for Foreign Medical Graduates, accessed January 3, 2026, https://www.nmc.org.in/information-desk/for-foreign-medical-graduates/.
RMC Education. Study MBBS in Philippines: Admission Process, Fee Structure, and Eligibility. Accessed January 3, 2026. RMC Education. https://www.rmcedu.com/study-mbbs-in-philippines-admission-process-fee-structure-and-eligibility.html.
MSM
