Aspect |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Program Name |
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) |
|
Duration |
5 to 6 years (including 1-year internship) |
|
Medium of Instruction |
English (some universities offer bilingual support in Khmer) |
|
Eligibility Criteria |
Completion of 10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology; minimum 50% marks; NEET qualification (for Indian students) |
|
Top Universities |
University of Health Sciences (Phnom Penh), International University, University of Puthisastra |
|
Recognition & Accreditation |
Recognized by WHO, NMC (India), and other international medical councils depending on the university |
|
Tuition Fees |
USD 3,000 – 6,000 per year (approximate) |
|
Living Expenses |
USD 150 – 300 per month (affordable accommodation and food) |
|
Clinical Training |
Practical exposure in university-affiliated hospitals during later years |
|
Admission Intake |
Usually in February and September |
|
Advantages |
Low-cost education, globally recognized degree, English-medium teaching, modern infrastructure, multicultural environment |
|
Career Opportunities |
Eligible for global licensing exams (FMGE/NExT, USMLE, PLAB) and postgraduate studies worldwide |
Reason |
Description |
|---|---|
|
1. Affordable Education |
Cambodia offers MBBS programs at significantly lower tuition fees compared to Western countries and many Asian nations. The overall cost of living—covering accommodation, food, and transport—is also budget-friendly for international students. |
|
2. Globally Recognized Degree |
Many Cambodian medical universities are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), National Medical Commission (NMC – India), and other international bodies, allowing graduates to pursue medical careers or higher studies worldwide. |
|
3. English-Medium Instruction |
MBBS programs in Cambodia are taught in English, ensuring accessibility for international students and eliminating language barriers during coursework and examinations. |
|
4. High-Quality Clinical Exposure |
Students gain hands-on experience through internships and clinical rotations in well-equipped teaching hospitals, enhancing practical skills and patient interaction. |
|
5. Safe and Welcoming Environment |
Cambodia offers a peaceful, student-friendly atmosphere with a blend of traditional and modern lifestyles, making it comfortable and secure for foreign students. |
|
6. Global Career Opportunities |
Graduates can appear for licensing exams like USMLE, PLAB, or NExT, opening pathways to global medical practice and postgraduate education. |
Rank |
Medical College / University |
Location |
Approx. Annual Tuition Fees (USD) |
Remarks / Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Phnom Penh |
5,000 – 6,000 |
Oldest and most reputed medical university; WHO & NMC recognized. |
|
|
2 |
International University (IU) |
Phnom Penh |
4,500 – 5,500 |
English-medium MBBS; modern infrastructure and international collaborations. |
|
3 |
Phnom Penh |
5,000 – 6,000 |
Private medical university focused on global medical standards. |
|
|
4 |
Phnom Penh |
3,500 – 4,500 |
Affordable MBBS program with growing recognition. |
|
|
5 |
Phnom Penh |
3,000 – 4,000 |
Offers medicine and health sciences; cost-effective education. |
|
|
6 |
Western University |
Phnom Penh |
3,500 – 4,500 |
English-medium instruction; good clinical training facilities. |
|
7 |
Beltei International University |
Phnom Penh |
3,500 – 4,500 |
Offers globally oriented curriculum with modern labs. |
|
8 |
Paha Saastra University |
Phnom Penh |
3,000 – 4,000 |
Affordable MBBS with practical-oriented education. |
|
9 |
Phnom Penh |
3,000 – 4,000 |
Offers healthcare and medical programs; recognized locally. |
|
|
10 |
Phnom Penh |
5,000 – 6,000 |
Known for U.S.-standard academic environment and international exposure. |
Expense Category |
Estimated Annual Cost (USD) |
Description |
|---|---|---|
|
Tuition Fees |
3,000 – 6,000 |
Varies by university; public universities are cheaper than private ones. |
|
Accommodation |
600 – 1,200 |
On-campus or private housing; shared apartments are more economical. |
|
Food & Meals |
800 – 1,200 |
Affordable local cuisine and self-cooking options for students. |
|
Transportation |
200 – 300 |
Public transport and short-distance commuting are inexpensive. |
|
Health Insurance & Medical |
100 – 200 |
Basic health coverage for international students. |
|
Books & Study Materials |
100 – 150 |
Course books, lab coats, and stationery. |
|
Miscellaneous Expenses |
200 – 300 |
Personal expenses, internet, and leisure activities. |
Point |
Description |
|---|---|
|
1. Globally Recognized Medical Degree |
Cambodian medical universities are recognized by global organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India. This enables Indian students to pursue medical careers or postgraduate education in India and abroad after passing the required licensing exams. |
|
2. Affordable Education and Living Costs |
Cambodia offers high-quality medical education at a fraction of the cost compared to private medical colleges in India. Living expenses, including accommodation and food, are also very economical. |
|
3. English-Medium Instruction |
Most medical universities in Cambodia teach in English, making it easier for Indian students to adapt academically without facing language barriers. |
|
4. Quality Clinical Exposure |
Students gain practical experience in well-equipped teaching hospitals, ensuring strong clinical skills and hands-on learning. |
|
5. Safe and Friendly Environment |
Cambodia is known for its peaceful environment, hospitable culture, and welcoming attitude towards international students, providing a comfortable atmosphere for studying and living. |
Event / Activity |
Tentative Dates |
Description |
|---|---|---|
|
Application Start Date |
January – February |
Universities open applications for the February or September intake. |
|
Application Deadline |
May – July |
Last date to submit application forms and required documents. |
|
Offer Letter Issuance |
Within 2–4 weeks after application |
Universities review and send admission confirmation to eligible candidates. |
|
Visa Application Period |
June – August |
Students must apply for a Cambodian student visa after receiving their admission letter. |
|
Academic Session (Main Intake) |
September – October |
Classes for the main intake commence; orientation and registration occur in the first week. |
|
Secondary Intake (Optional) |
February – March |
Some universities offer a second intake for late applicants. |
Criteria / Exam |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Academic Qualification |
Candidates must have completed 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) as main subjects. |
|
Minimum Marks Required |
Minimum 50% aggregate in PCB (40% for SC/ST/OBC candidates as per NMC norms). |
|
Age Requirement |
Applicant must be at least 17 years old by 31st December of the admission year. |
|
NEET Qualification (For Indian Students) |
Mandatory as per NMC guidelines for students wishing to study MBBS abroad and practice in India after graduation. |
|
Language Proficiency |
No IELTS/TOEFL required; courses are taught in English. |
|
Entrance Exam in Cambodia |
Generally no local entrance exam; admission is merit-based on 10+2 marks and NEET qualification. |
Document |
Description / Purpose |
|---|---|
|
10th & 12th Mark Sheets |
Proof of academic qualification and eligibility with PCB subjects. |
|
Transfer Certificate / School Leaving Certificate |
Verifies completion of previous education and eligibility for higher studies. |
|
NEET Scorecard |
Mandatory for Indian students as per NMC guidelines for studying MBBS abroad. |
|
Passport (Valid) |
Required for international travel and visa processing (minimum 18 months validity). |
|
Birth Certificate |
Proof of age and nationality of the applicant. |
|
Passport-Sized Photographs |
Recent color photographs for application forms and ID cards. |
|
Medical Fitness Certificate |
Confirms that the student is physically and mentally fit to pursue the MBBS program. |
|
Police Clearance Certificate |
Ensures no criminal background for visa and university verification. |
|
Offer Letter / Admission Letter |
Issued by the university confirming acceptance into the MBBS program. |
Step |
Process Description |
|---|---|
|
1. Research and University Selection |
Choose a recognized Cambodian medical university approved by WHO and NMC (India). Review eligibility criteria, fees, and facilities. |
|
2. Application Submission |
Fill out the online or offline application form of the chosen university and upload scanned copies of required documents (academic certificates, NEET scorecard, passport, etc.). |
|
3. Receive Offer Letter |
Once the application is reviewed, eligible students receive a provisional admission or offer letterfrom the university. |
|
4. Pay Initial Fees |
Confirm your seat by paying the admission confirmation or registration fee as mentioned in the offer letter. |
|
5. Apply for Student Visa |
Submit visa application along with university documents, passport, and medical certificate to the Cambodian Embassy. |
|
6. Travel and Enrollment |
Upon visa approval, travel to Cambodia, complete university registration, and start classes. |
Intake Session |
Tentative Months |
Description |
|---|---|---|
|
Main Intake |
September – October |
The primary intake for most universities; majority of MBBS programs commence during this session. Ideal for international students, including Indians. |
|
Secondary Intake |
February – March |
Offered by select universities for students who miss the main intake. Limited seats and programs available. |
|
Application Period |
January – July |
Applications typically open early in the year; students are advised to apply 4–6 months in advance. |
|
Visa Processing |
June – August |
Students should complete visa formalities before the September session. |
Course Component |
Duration |
Description |
|---|---|---|
|
Pre-Clinical Phase |
1 – 2 Years |
Focuses on basic sciences such as Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, and Community Medicine. |
|
Para-Clinical Phase |
1 – 1.5 Years |
Covers subjects like Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, and Forensic Medicine. |
|
Clinical Phase |
2 – 2.5 Years |
Practical training in hospitals; subjects include Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynecology. |
|
Internship / Clinical Rotation |
1 Year |
Mandatory hospital-based training for real-world patient exposure and skill development. |
|
Total Duration |
5 – 6 Years |
Includes academic study and internship, following international MBBS standards. |
Parameter |
MBBS in Cambodia |
MBBS in India |
|---|---|---|
|
Duration |
5–6 years including internship |
5.5 years including internship |
|
Medium of Instruction |
English |
English and regional languages |
|
Annual Tuition Fees |
USD 3,000 – 6,000 (affordable) |
INR 10–25 lakhs (private colleges); low in government colleges |
|
Admission Criteria |
Based on 10+2 marks and NEET qualification |
Highly competitive NEET-based selection |
|
Global Recognition |
Recognized by WHO, NMC, and other global bodies |
Recognized worldwide; strong domestic reputation |
|
Clinical Exposure |
International exposure with modern hospital training |
Strong clinical training in Indian hospitals |
|
Living Cost |
Low (USD 150–300 per month) |
Moderate to high depending on location |
|
Availability of Seats |
Higher availability for international students |
Very limited seats in government colleges |
|
Best For |
Students seeking affordable global medical education |
Students preferring local practice and Indian system |
Indian students can technically apply for MBBS in Cambodia without NEET if the chosen university accepts direct admission based on 10+2 PCB marks. However, as per the National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines, NEET qualification is mandatory for Indian students who wish to practice medicine in India after completing their MBBS abroad. Without NEET, students can still study and work in Cambodia or other countries, but not in India. Therefore, NEET is not required for admission in Cambodia, but it is essential for career recognition in India post-graduation.
Year |
Subjects / Curriculum |
Description |
|---|---|---|
|
1st Year |
Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry |
Focus on foundational medical sciences and human body structure and function. |
|
2nd Year |
Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Forensic Medicine |
Covers disease mechanisms, drug actions, and lab-based diagnostics. |
|
3rd Year |
Community Medicine, Ophthalmology, ENT |
Introduces public health concepts and early clinical exposure. |
|
4th Year |
General Medicine, General Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology |
Core clinical subjects with hospital-based practical sessions. |
|
5th Year |
Psychiatry, Dermatology, Orthopedics, Emergency Medicine |
Advanced clinical studies and rotations in specialized fields. |
|
6th Year (Internship) |
Clinical Rotations in all major departments |
One-year compulsory internship to gain hands-on patient care experience. |
Several Cambodian universities offer scholarships and financial aid to attract talented international students, including Indians. Scholarships are usually merit-based, awarded to students with strong academic records in 10+2 (PCB) or excellent performance during the course. Some institutions, like the University of Puthisastra and International University, provide partial tuition fee waivers or performance-based grants. Additionally, Indian students can apply for private or NGO-funded scholarships that support overseas education in Asia. Although full scholarships are rare, these opportunities help reduce overall study costs, making MBBS in Cambodia more affordable for deserving candidates.
After completing an MBBS in Cambodia, graduates have a wide range of career opportunities both locally and internationally. Cambodian medical universities are recognized by WHO and the National Medical Commission (NMC), enabling Indian students to pursue careers or higher education worldwide.
Graduates can practice medicine in Cambodia by registering with the local medical council or return to India after clearing the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) or NExT as required by NMC. They can also appear for global licensing exams such as USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), or AMC (Australia) to practice in those countries.
Alternatively, students may choose to pursue postgraduate studies (MD/MS) in Cambodia, India, or abroad to specialize in areas like Surgery, Pediatrics, Cardiology, or Gynecology. Many graduates also find employment in research institutions, international NGOs, hospitals, and healthcare management organizations.
With growing demand for skilled doctors globally, an MBBS degree from Cambodia provides a strong foundation for medical practice, research, and higher education, offering both professional stability and international exposure to Indian students.
After earning an MBBS degree from Cambodia, students have multiple postgraduate (PG) study and specializationpathways in Cambodia, India, and other countries. Cambodian medical universities offer MD (Doctor of Medicine) and MS (Master of Surgery) programs in major disciplines such as Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Orthopedics, and Psychiatry. These programs emphasize research, clinical expertise, and advanced patient care.
Indian students who wish to pursue PG studies in India must clear the National Exit Test (NExT) or FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) to qualify for postgraduate admissions. For global opportunities, graduates can appear for international exams like USMLE (for the USA), PLAB (for the UK), AMC (for Australia), or MCCQE (for Canada) to enroll in PG medical programs abroad.
Some graduates also opt for Master’s degrees in Public Health (MPH), Hospital Management, or Biomedical Research, expanding their career scope beyond clinical practice.
Overall, completing MBBS in Cambodia opens doors to diverse postgraduate and specialization opportunities, both in clinical medicine and non-clinical healthcare sectors, helping students build successful international medical careers.
After completing an MBBS from Cambodia, doctors can earn competitive salaries depending on their location, experience, and specialization. In Cambodia, a fresh graduate typically earns around USD 800 – 1,500 per month, which increases with experience and specialization. Those who return to India and clear the FMGE/NExT exam can earn between INR 6 – 12 lakhs annually in hospitals or clinics. Doctors working abroad, such as in the USA, UK, or Gulf countries, can earn USD 60,000 – 120,000 per year after clearing respective licensing exams, making MBBS from Cambodia a rewarding global career option.
Indian students planning to pursue an MBBS in Cambodia must obtain a Cambodian Student Visa (Type E-Class). The process is straightforward and typically begins after receiving the official admission or offer letter from a recognized Cambodian medical university.
To apply, students must submit essential documents such as a valid passport (minimum 18 months validity), university offer letter, passport-sized photographs, visa application form, proof of financial capability, medical fitness certificate, and police clearance certificate. A visa processing fee is also applicable.
The student visa is usually issued for one year and can be extended annually for the duration of the MBBS program. Students must report to the Cambodian Immigration Department or through their university’s international office for renewal assistance.
The approval time typically ranges from 2 to 4 weeks, depending on documentation and embassy procedures. Once in Cambodia, students must register with local authorities and maintain valid visa status throughout their study period.
Yes, an MBBS degree from Cambodia is valid in India, provided the medical university is recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). According to the NMC’s Foreign Medical Graduate Regulations (2021), Indian students pursuing MBBS abroad must ensure that their university meets specific standards — including a minimum 54 months (4.5 years) of academic training plus a one-year internship.
After completing MBBS in Cambodia, graduates must clear the NMC’s National Exit Test (NExT) or the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) to obtain a license to practice in India. Without passing this exam, they cannot register as medical practitioners in India.
Therefore, while Cambodian MBBS degrees are recognized globally, Indian students must meet NMC eligibility criteria and pass the licensing exam to practice legally in India.
Standyou provides complete guidance and end-to-end support to Indian students aspiring to pursue MBBS in Cambodia. The process begins with University Shortlisting, where Standyou’s experts help students select the most suitable and NMC-recognized Cambodian universities based on academic profile, budget, and preferences.
In the Application Documentation stage, Standyou assists with preparing and verifying all necessary paperwork — including transcripts, NEET scorecards, passports, and recommendation letters — ensuring compliance with university and embassy requirements.
For Exam Preparation, Standyou offers resources and counseling for NEET and other relevant tests to strengthen students’ admission prospects.
During University Applications, the team handles online submissions, tracks application status, and coordinates with universities to secure offer letters quickly. Standyou also provides dedicated help with Scholarship Applications, guiding students on eligibility and assisting in form submissions for merit-based financial aid.
Finally, Standyou’s Visa Assistance Services ensure a smooth visa filing process — from document preparation to interview scheduling — for timely student visa approval.
In summary: Standyou offers a one-stop solution for MBBS admissions in Cambodia, simplifying the process and maximizing students’ chances of success through expert, personalized guidance.
Question |
Answer |
|---|---|
|
1. Is MBBS in Cambodia recognized in India? |
Yes, if the university is approved by the National Medical Commission (NMC)and WHO. Graduates must pass FMGE/NExT to practice in India. |
|
2. What is the duration of the MBBS course in Cambodia? |
The MBBS program typically lasts 5 to 6 years, including one year of internship. |
|
3. Is NEET required for MBBS admission in Cambodia? |
NEET is mandatory for Indian students who plan to practice medicine in India after graduation. |
|
4. What is the medium of instruction? |
MBBS courses are taught in English, making it suitable for international students. |
|
5. What is the cost of studying MBBS in Cambodia? |
The total cost ranges from USD 25,000 – 35,000 for the entire program, including tuition and living expenses. |
|
6. Are scholarships available for Indian students? |
Yes, some universities offer merit-based or need-based scholarships to outstanding students. |
|
7. Can I work in other countries after MBBS from Cambodia? |
Yes, graduates can appear for USMLE, PLAB, AMC, and other licensing exams to practice internationally. |
