9 Best Countries to Study Medicine in the World | 2023

Medicine has always been one of the most lucrative and noblest professions in the world. It is a profession that generally promotes a healthier society. A lot of countries all over the world have a shortage of qualified medical doctors and a shortage of institutions where they can study medicine. If you are looking to study medicine abroad, we have a list of the 9 best countries to study medicine in the world.

There are endless opportunities to study medicine abroad, however, there are structural designs of the course developed in countries around the world according to the criteria they consider best suited.

Studying medicine is already hard work but what better way to study than to embrace the new world and the thrilling study abroad experience in the country you will be choosing to study? What separates these countries are their current curriculum, great infrastructure, commitment to research, love for humanity, and investment in technology.

Keep reading to learn more about the best countries to study medicine in the world.

While you are here, you can also check out 5 Top Countries to Study MS Abroad in 2023

Should I Study Medicine Abroad?

Studying abroad as well as studying medicine abroad in some of the best countries to study medicine in the world is about the most thrilling study abroad experiences one can gain.

Also, you get to gain a high-quality education with the latest medical research strategies and equipment.

Also, studying medicine abroad can give you a better knowledge of healthcare in various systems and cultures. It also gives you an edge over your peers as it boosts your employability rate.

What Makes the Best Countries to Study Medicine in the World?

Basically, you do not decide on a country and jump on a plane the next day to begin your journey to studying medicine in a new country. You will want to do some research and know what a country holds for you.

However, to assist you, we will be giving you the key points you should evaluate before selecting the best countries to study medicine in the world. Here are the key points:

World-renowned universities:

This is one of the points to choosing the best countries to study medicine in the world. Before you choose a country, ensure it has some of the top universities in the world. You can consider these universities based on their rankings and infrastructures and other aspects.

Cost of Study

Certainly, the cost of studying will vary across countries and universities. For instance, n the UK, most medical universities charge from £25-£30,000 a year for international students. On the other hand, countries such as Russia can charge between $2000-$5000 per year.

The plan is to find a country with universities that best suits your budget. The affordability is not only in tuition but also in other fees and accommodation. Also, this involves choosing a country with a high standard of living.

Course Duration

Certainly, the duration of studying medicine varies across countries. In countries such as the United Kingdom and Malaysia, the course durations stretch from 5 to 6 years. On the other hand, the course duration is seven years in countries like Russia. This is in addition to the intercalated program.

No Entrance Tests:

To ensure this is no challenge at all, choose countries that do not require entrance tests for students who want to study medicine. Most universities in the top countries to study medicine do not require this.

No Donations or Capitation Fees:

Choose a country with universities that do not require donations or capitation fees. Simply, universities do not charge additional fees aside from the university fees to get admission to study medicine.

Modern Infrastructure and Facilities:

Choose a country whose universities use advanced technologies and modern infrastructure. Our list of the best countries to study medicine in the world also offers opportunities to students to get hands-on training and real-life experiences. Basically, this prepares the students for the real world after graduation.

Vast Exposure:

Generally, studying abroad anywhere in the world exposes you to new cultures, lifestyles, and some exceptional experiences. However, studying medicine in one of the best countries to study medicine in the world allows you to have hands-on experience during your clinical rotations.

Worldwide Recognition:

Go for countries whose medical universities are recognized by WHO and MCI. you want to study medicine abroad in schools that are globally recognized for innovation and commitment to research.

English is a Widely Used Language:

To avoid the language barrier, it’s important to go to countries where the English language is widely used even in classes. this also depends on your official language.

Job Opportunities:

Generally, jobs come after graduation and you will want to go to countries jobs come easy to medical students after graduation. Basically, studying in one of the best countries to study medicine in the world will give you opportunities to work in many countries all around the world.

What are the Best Countries to Study Medicine in the World?

There are so many countries where one can study medicine abroad in the world, however, it is important to choose from the best. We have made a list of the best countries to study medicine abroad in the world below.

1. The United Kingdom – #1 Best Countries to Study Medicine in the World

The United Kingdom is one of the best countries to study medicine in the world. It is reputable for being an outstanding destination for study abroad experiences, especially for students looking to pursue their degrees in medicine.

The country is home to some of the best universities in the world offering top-quality education. Also, the country’s National Health Service is one of the largest public health services in the world and it is linked to every medical school in the country.

However, there are academic criteria for studying in medical schools in the UK. Students must meet them all before they can be qualified to study medicine at universities in the UK.

Meanwhile, colleges can also conduct aptitude exams such as GMAT, UKCAT, and BMAT. Furthermore, undergraduate and postgraduate medical applications undergo procession through the UCAS application system.

This process may also include an interview step although this depends on the admission method of the particular university in the UK.

Meanwhile, one grand reason you should choose the UK as one of the best countries to study medicine in the world is that students who study medicine in the country are eligible for about two years of work authorization in UK hospitals.

Required Documents For the Best Countries To Study Medicine in the World

• Attested copies of Class 10 and 12 mark sheets or any other diploma course
• Letters of academic reference from recent professors
• Letters of recommendation from employers (if working) highlighting the professional abilities.
• Statement of Purpose
• Scorecards of IELTS, UKCAT/BMAT
• Proof of funds
• Curriculum vitae

Best Universities in the UK to Study Medicine

1. University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge requires that prospective medical candidates take the BMAT test. Also, they are required to go through an extensive interview and admission procedure.

The University accepts 21 international students and the undergraduate course in medicine here runs for six years.

Apply here

2. University of Nottingham

Similar to the University of Cambridge, this university is also one of the most outstanding universities in the world that provides opportunities for students to have an exceptional medicine program at both undergraduate and graduate levels.

Meanwhile, University requires prospective candidates to take the UKCAT/GMAT exam for undergraduate and postgraduate studies, respectively. The medical program in this school lasts for five years.

Apply here

3. Keele University

This University offers an undergraduate program in medicine with a requirement for the local prospective candidates to take the UKCAT exam while the international students take the BMAT exam.

In addition to lectures, the university also uses a problem-based learning platform for students.

Apply here

2. Ukraine – Top Countries to Study Medicine in the World

This is also one of the best countries to study medicine in the world. Undoubtedly, Ukraine is home to many of the world-class medical universities in the world.

Also, it is home to universities that offer top-quality education and at reasonable costs too.

Meanwhile, studying medicine in-country costs between $4000-6000 for a year. So, if you’re looking for a country with universities that offer world-class education and a great study abroad experience at a very affordable price, Ukraine should be the country for you. Also, if you are already considering Ukraine, here are some universities to look at.

Best Universities in Ukraine to Study Medicine

1. Dnipropetrovsk Medical Academy

This medical school is one of the best in the world. It has many international collaborations that boost its continuous research and academic growth.

Some of these international collaborators are in France, Canada, Germany, Russia, the United States, and some other countries.

Courses are provided in English and French at this university. This is in addition to the Ukrainian language and prospective international students are required to apply for invitations from the admission department.

Basically, this invitation qualifies them to go to Ukraine and take the entrance examination and if successful, get la admitted into the medical school.

Apply here

2. Kharkiv National Medical University

This is also another one of the best medical universities in Ukraine. It is supported by prominent research facilities and a scientific library. Also, the university incorporates a special Education and Research Institute for International Citizenship Training.

Apply here

3. Hong Kong – Top Countries to Study Medicine in the World

Hong Kong is another one of the best countries to study medicine in the world. Basically, the country is home to universities offering top-quality education in the UK and the US.

To study in this country, prospective students are required to have obtained a minimum score of 7 in the IELTS/TOEFL. In addition, it also requires them to sit for an international examination like SAT or a national examination like the Indian Board Examination.

Also, to study medicine in this country, students are required to apply online after which they would grant admission based on their performances in the IELTS/TOEFL examinations.

Meanwhile, top-ranking students from Asian countries and India are awarded scholarships by the Targeted Scholarship Scheme under the HKSAR Government Scholarship Fund.

Also, students are required to show/prove proficiency in a second language or a language other than the English language.

Basically, the country uses a curriculum for its medicine program which lasts for a duration of six years. These six years comprise 12 semesters after which students go for their internships for one year.

In Medical schools in Hong Kong, the third year of the medical study is focused on personalized enrichment aimed towards the improvement of the learning experience and personality development generally.

Upon course completion, they offer students the opportunity to work in hospitals under the Hospital Authority of Hong Kong which may last up to 6 years.

Required Documents to Study Medicine Abroad in Hong Kong.

• Certified copies of Class 10 and 12 mark sheets and certificates.
• Statement of Purpose
• Curriculum Vitae
• Scorecard of IELTS/TOEFL and SAT

4. Malaysia – Best Countries to Study Medicine in the World

Malaysia is also one of the most popular and best countries to study medicine in the world. Also, it is one of the best countries for exceptional study abroad experience.

The country has been home to various top-quality universities and institutions that are wholly committed to teaching medicine and healthcare disciplines.

Also, the country has universities that provide top-quality medical education at affordable prices. The country also doubles as one of the countries in the world with a low cost of living. What better destination to study medicine in the world?

Meanwhile, the country does not require too many academic standards as other countries do. Only a few academic requirements and an interview after which students are admitted into their preferred medical schools.

Also, the country offers international students access to many scholarships and financial alternatives to begin or complete their studies.

It also allows students choice years after graduation to work in Malaysian hospitals.

Required Documents to Study Medicine Abroad in Malaysia.

• Certified copies of Class 10 and 12 mark sheets and certificates.
• Scorecard of ISAT
• Duly filled application form
• IELTS/TOEFL scorecard to access English proficiency.

So, if you are ever considering choosing Malaysia as one of the best countries to study medicine in the world, here are medical schools in the country to check out.

Best Universities in Malaysia to Study Medicine

1. Monash University, Malaysia

This University offers a 5-year medical program through world-class training in clinical, biological, and social sciences. To qualify to study here, students are required to take the International Admission Test.

Apply here

2. International Medical University

This is one of the best medical universities that provide opportunities for students in medicine and healthcare in collaboration with many universities all over the world.

For the first 2.5 years of study, the university focuses on medical sciences. After this, the students begin and complete their clinical training at one of the university’s Clinical Campuses in Malaysia’s southern region or Partner Medical School (PMS) abroad.

Apply here

5. France – Top Countries to Study Medicine in the World

France is one of the best countries to study medicine in the world. The country is popular for its prominent universities offering medicine programs in the most sought-after methodologies utilized in teaching and state-of-art infrastructure.

However, medical education in France is taught in French and prospective students to qualify to study, are mandated to register for the First Year of Health Studies (FYHS) and pass the Medical Entrance Examination.

This medical study in France involves six years of study and then an additional three-five years of clinical residency training. The study is classified into three cycles:

• Premier Cycle d’études Medicales (PCEM) – involving two years concluding with a competitive exam
• Deuxième Cycle des Etudes Médicale (DCEM) – this cycle involves four years concluding in a theoretical exam
• And the last cycle involves two study programs – general medicine or specialization either of which leads to a Specialised Studies Diploma called Diplômes d’ Études Spécialisées (DES) in French.

Required Documents to Study Medicine Abroad in France

• Certified copies of Class 10 and 12 mark sheets and certificates
• French Language Competency Certificate (B2)
• Application for entry in medical education.
• Curriculum vitae
• Proof of funds
• Health insurance

Best Universities in France to Study Medicine

• Pierre and Marie Curie University
• Paris Descartes University
• Claude Bernard University Lyon 1
• Paris Diderot University
• University of Paris Sud

6. Russia – Top Countries to Study Medicine in the World

If you are looking for a popular yet, economical country to study medicine in, Russia is the destination both for local and international students.

The country is home to students from all around the world as it is prominent for its affordable yet, top-quality education. This is because the Government of the country made the policy to subsidize tuition prices for international students coming into the country to study.

Here, lectures are taught in English even though provisions are made for students who want to learn the Russian language.

Required Documents to Study Medicine Abroad in Russia

• Certified copies of Class 10 and 12mark-sheets and certificates.
• Category certificate if applicable
• Copy of filled application form
• No Objection Certificate from MCI

If you are looking to choose Russia as one of our list of the best countries to study medicine in the world, here are the universities you should for.

Best Universities in Russia to Study Medicine

1. Lomonosov Moscow State University

This medical school was established in 1992 and has since offered students the opportunity to take their medical programs at undergraduate levels which lasts for a duration of six years.

To qualify to study in this university, amongst the basic admission requirements, prospective candidates are required to take entrance tests in the following:

• Russian language
• Specialisation

Apply here

2. Russian National Medical Research University

This University is officially known as the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University. It offers opportunities to students to students for their Medicine (MD) programs which last for up to six years.

And this program prepares the students for careers in basic and clinical medicine. Also, in humanities and natural sciences.

Here, lectures are taught both in English and Russian language.

Apply here

2. Kursk State Medical University

This one is one of the best universities to go to in Russia. It provides a general medical curriculum for the medicine program that lasts for a duration of six years.

It leads to the graduates getting a Degree in General Medicine (MD) and an integrated procedure to a medical education which includes clinical and research training.

7. Germany – Top Countries to Study Medicine in the World

If you are looking to study medicine in a country with universities that offer top-quality yet, affordable education, Germany is the place for you.

The country has been advocated as the best medical system in the world. Its medical study program lasts for six years and it is taught in the German language.

Students who are looking to study Medicine in this country will be mandated to take and pass the Test for Medical Studies (TMS) or Test für Medizinische Studiengange. This test accesses the prospective student’s abilities.

Out of the six years duration of the study, the first two are focused on the Preclinical studies followed by the Intermediate Medical Examination, or ‘Physikum.’

The first stage of Clinical study is focused on the next year followed by an exam. Furthermore, the second stage of the Clinical study is focused on the next two years and concludes in an exam.

After the exam, students who passed will go on to the third stage of the Clinical Study. This stage involves 48 weeks of practicals (Praktisches Jahr). Also, it consists of oral and written tests.

Required documents to study medicine abroad in Germany.

• Original and authenticated translations of Class 10 and 12 certificates depicting 13 years of study ( students with less than 13 years of study would have to apply to the medical preparatory course first)
• German language competency certificate B1.
• Scorecard of TMS
• Proof of sufficient funds

If you are considering Germany, here are the universities to check out:

Best Universities in Germany to Study Medicine

1. Heidelberg University

The University of Heidelberg offers one of the best medical programs in the world. It owns a six-decade history of instruction and research in the Department of Medicine.

Also, it strives to improve a core scientific institution, emphasizing research and supporting and progressing research agendas. This has made the department attain so much renown.

Apply here

2. Rwth Aachen University

This university offers one of the best Medicine programs in the world. It is made up of nine faculties and has several specialty clinics and theoretical and clinical institutes.

Also, it has other research centers, medical expertise schools, lecture rooms as well as other basic hospital amenities.

Apply here

8. Singapore – Top Countries to Study Medicine in the World

Singapore is also one of the best countries to study medicine in the world. If you are looking for a study destination that offers a low cost of living and medical institutions offering medicine programs at affordable prices with advanced technologies and infrastructures, Singapore is the best for you.

Individuals who completed their medical programs in Singapore are considered the best in the whole of Asia.

Also, there’s no language barrier in the country as most courses are in English. And here, you get not only to study in the best of schools offering top-quality education, but you also get to gain an exceptional cultural experience by exploring South-East Asia In your free time.

You could check out the schools offering the best medical programs in the country.

Required Documents to Study Medicine Abroad in Singapore.

• Certified copies of Class 10 and 12 mark sheets and certificates.
• Statement of Purpose
• Two academic references
• Curriculum Vitae
• Scorecard of IELTS/TOEFL and BMAT

9. Canada

Canada is another one of the best countries to study medicine in the world. However, prospective students looking to study medicine in this country will already need to have a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, or neuroscience to be able to study medicine.

Prospective students who are willing to study medicine in Canada will be mandated to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). And the Medicine degree in Canada is known as a Doctor of Medicine (MD). It is deemed an undergraduate degree.

The medical course in Canada lasts for 3-5 years although the duration varies across the different universities in the country and the medical background of each prospective student.

Students who already obtained bachelor’s degrees in sciences as mentioned above will only study for four years while the others will study for five.

Also, after graduation, residency training will be required of every student and this it’s from 2-7 years of study.

Required Documents to Study Medicine Abroad in Canada

• Certified copies of Class 10 and 12 mark sheets and certificates.
• Statement of Purpose
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two academic references
• Scorecard of MCAT

Conclusion

Medicine has always been one of the most professional and lucrative professions. If you are looking to study medicine, you had best done it abroad in one of the best countries to study medicine in the world.

We hope our list of countries and recommended universities will be helpful to you.

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