Nepal Medical Council Announces New Licensing Process for Foreign Medical Graduates

Kathmandu, Nepal – On 10 November 2024, the Nepal Medical Council (NMC) issued a crucial notice regarding the licensing process for foreign medical graduates. The announcement has garnered attention from international students pursuing medical education in Nepal, as it outlines significant updates to the licensing procedures for foreign nationals seeking to practice medicine in the country.

Key Highlights of the Notice

The notice issued by the Nepal Medical Council confirms that foreign students who have completed undergraduate medical degrees such as MBBS, BDS, or equivalent courses will be eligible to apply for a medical license in Nepal. These degrees must meet the following requirements:

• The degree must have a minimum academic duration of 5.5 years, which includes a compulsory one-year internship.
• All medical programs in Nepal, including those for foreign students, are taught in English, which serves as the primary medium of instruction in the country’s medical colleges.

Provisional Registration During Internship

In an important development, it has been confirmed that provisional registration will continue to be provided to all MBBS/BDS students, including international students, during their internship period. According to the NMC internship guidelines, these students must complete their internship in teaching hospitals that are affiliated with their respective medical colleges.

The provisional registration granted to foreign students will be equivalent to that of Nepali students, ensuring that international students can practice medicine under the same conditions as their local counterparts during their internship year.

Licensing Examination for Foreign Graduates

After completing their internship, foreign graduates will be eligible to take the licensing examinations as per the regulations set by the Nepal Medical Council. These exams are designed to assess the knowledge and competency of medical graduates before they are granted the legal authority to practice in Nepal.

Upon successfully passing the licensing examinations, foreign nationals will be granted a medical license that is equivalent to that of Nepali citizens. This represents a significant step in ensuring that foreign graduates are given equal opportunities to practice medicine in Nepal, without being subject to discriminatory procedures.

No Requirement for Good Standing Certificates

One of the most notable aspects of the notice is the waiver of the requirement for good standing certificates from the graduates’ home country medical councils. This procedure, which is often a hurdle for foreign graduates wishing to practice medicine abroad, will not be necessary for students wishing to obtain a medical license in Nepal. This change is expected to streamline the process for foreign graduates, eliminating an often complex and time-consuming step in obtaining licensure.

What This Means for Foreign Students

This announcement has the potential to significantly impact the prospects of foreign medical students who have graduated or are planning to graduate from medical colleges in Nepal. The updated policy ensures that international students will face fewer barriers in obtaining the necessary licensure to practice medicine in Nepal, making the country a more attractive destination for foreign medical students.

The Nepal Medical Council has outlined that the licensing process for foreign graduates will be handled with the same procedures and regulations as those for Nepali nationals, ensuring equality in opportunities for all graduates. The move is likely to encourage more international students to consider Nepal for their medical education, confident in the knowledge that their degrees will be recognized and that they will have the opportunity to practice medicine upon graduation.

Here are some of the top medical universities in Russia, known for their high-quality education, research facilities, and international recognition in the field of medicine:

Call Now for MBBS in Russia

1. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University)

• Location: Moscow
• Overview: Established in 1758, Sechenov University is the oldest and one of the most prestigious medical universities in Russia. It is renowned for its medical research, clinical practice, and comprehensive medical education. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate prgrams in various medical fields.

2. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University (RNRMU)

• Location: Moscow
• Overview: Founded in 1906, RNRMU is one of the leading medical universities in Russia, known for its strong academic programs, research facilities, and clinical training. It offers a wide range of medical courses and has a significant international student population.

3. Kazan Federal University – Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology

• Location: Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan
• Overview: Kazan Federal University’s medical institute is known for its strong emphasis on research and practical training in medicine and biology. The university offers high-quality medical education and has modern facilities for clinical practice.

4. Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University

• Location: Saint Petersburg
• Overview: Established in 1925, this university specializes in pediatric medicine and is one of the leading institutions in Russia for training pediatricians. It has a strong reputation for its clinical training and research in child health.

5. People’s Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University) – Faculty of Medicine

• Location: Moscow
• Overview: RUDN University is known for its diverse international student body and high-quality medical education. The Faculty of Medicine offers various programs in general medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy, with a focus on international standards.

6. Novosibirsk State University – Faculty of Medicine

• Location: Novosibirsk
• Overview: Novosibirsk State University’s Faculty of Medicine is recognized for its research-oriented medical education, particularly in the fields of oncology, cardiology, and neurology. The university is closely associated with the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

7. Siberian State Medical University

• Location: Tomsk
• Overview: Founded in 1888, Siberian State Medical University is one of Russia’s oldest and most respected medical schools. It is known for its rigorous academic programs, research opportunities, and extensive clinical training.

8. Pavlov First Saint Petersburg State Medical University

• Location: Saint Petersburg
• Overview: Established in 1897, Pavlov University is one of the leading medical institutions in Russia. It offers a wide range of medical programs and is known for its research contributions, particularly in the fields of surgery, internal medicine, and neurology.

9. Altai State Medical University

• Location: Barnaul
• Overview: Altai State Medical University is a well-regarded institution in Russia, offering comprehensive medical education and training. It has a strong focus on public health and preventive medicine, and it attracts a large number of international students.

10. Volgograd State Medical University

• Location: Volgograd
• Overview: Volgograd State Medical University is known for its robust medical programs, particularly in general medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy. The university has modern facilities and a strong emphasis on clinical training and research.

These universities are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and are listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools, making their degrees widely accepted and respected internationally. Many of them offer English-medium programs, which attract a large number of international students.

When considering pursuing an MBBS degree abroad, several countries are renowned for their medical education, providing quality instruction, modern facilities, and recognized degrees. Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the best countries for MBBS abroad, with insights from Bodmas Education, a leading consultancy in medical education.

1. MBBS in Russia

Advantages:

• Affordable Tuition Fees: Russian medical universities offer relatively low tuition fees compared to Western countries.
• High-Quality Education: Russian universities are known for their strong educational standards and advanced medical research.
• English Medium: Many universities offer MBBS programs in English, eliminating language barriers.
• Global Recognition: Degrees from Russian universities are recognized by medical councils worldwide, including the MCI (Medical Council of India).

Popular Universities:

• Moscow State Medical University
• St. Petersburg State Medical University
• Kazan Federal University

2. MBBS in China

Advantages:

• Cost-Effective: Tuition fees and living expenses in China are lower than in many Western countries.
• Advanced Infrastructure: Chinese universities boast modern facilities and state-of-the-art laboratories.
• Cultural Experience: Studying in China provides a unique cultural experience and the opportunity to learn Mandarin.
• MCI Recognized: Many Chinese medical universities are recognized by the MCI.

Popular Universities:

• Peking University Health Science Center
• Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
• Zhejiang University School of Medicine

3. MBBS in Ukraine

Advantages:

• Affordable Education: Ukraine offers low tuition fees and cost of living.
• Quality Education: Ukrainian universities provide high standards of education with experienced faculty.
• English Medium: Courses are available in English for international students.
• Global Acceptance: Degrees are recognized by WHO, UNESCO, and MCI.

Popular Universities:

• Bogomolets National Medical University
• Kyiv Medical University
• Vinnitsa National Medical University

4. MBBS in Philippines

Advantages:

• American Style Education: The Philippines follows the American educational system, making it easier for students to adapt.
• High Success Rate in USMLE: Graduates from the Philippines have a high success rate in the USMLE.
• English Speaking Country: The medium of instruction is English, facilitating easier communication and learning.
• Affordable Fees: Compared to Western countries, the Philippines offers affordable tuition fees.

Popular Universities:

• University of Santo Tomas
• University of the Philippines
• Cebu Doctors’ University

5. MBBS in Germany

Advantages:

• No Tuition Fees: Public universities in Germany charge no tuition fees, only a nominal administrative fee.
• High Standard of Education: Germany is known for its rigorous education system and high standards.
• Research Opportunities: Students have access to extensive research opportunities and modern facilities.
• Global Recognition: German medical degrees are highly regarded worldwide.

Popular Universities:

• Heidelberg University
• Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich
• Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin

6. MBBS in United Kingdom

Advantages:

• World-Class Education: The UK is home to some of the world’s top medical schools.
• Clinical Exposure: Students get extensive clinical exposure in NHS hospitals.
• Research Opportunities: Opportunities for cutting-edge medical research are abundant.
• Global Recognition: Medical degrees from the UK are recognized and respected globally.

Popular Universities:

• University of Oxford
• University of Cambridge
• Imperial College London

7. MBBS in Australia

Advantages:

• High Standard of Living: Australia offers a high standard of living and excellent healthcare.
• World-Class Universities: Australian universities are known for their quality education and research facilities.
• English Medium: All courses are taught in English.
• Global Recognition: Australian medical degrees are recognized worldwide.

Popular Universities:

• University of Melbourne
• University of Sydney
• Monash University

8. MBBS in Canada

Advantages:

• High Quality of Education: Canadian universities offer high standards of education and research opportunities.
• Multicultural Environment: Canada is known for its multicultural society and welcoming environment for international students.
• English and French Medium: Courses are available in both English and French.
• Global Recognition: Medical degrees from Canada are globally recognized and respected.

Popular Universities:

• University of Toronto
• McGill University
• University of British Columbia

Choosing the right country for your MBBS education depends on various factors, including your budget, language preference, and career goals. Bodmas Education, a leading consultancy, can guide you through the entire process, from selecting the right country and university to securing admission and providing post-admission support. Their expertise and personalized approach ensure that you make an informed decision and achieve your dream of becoming a doctor.

Embarking on an MBBS journey abroad is a significant decision, and with the right guidance and support, you can make the most of this opportunity to gain world-class education and experience diverse cultures.