Aspect |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Program Name |
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) |
|
Duration |
5 years (including 1-year clinical internship) |
|
Curriculum Structure |
Divided into Pre-clinical (Basic Sciences), Para-clinical, and Clinical phases |
|
Medium of Instruction |
English |
|
Eligibility Criteria |
Completion of 10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology; minimum 50% aggregate; NEET qualification (for Indian students) |
|
Admission Process |
Based on academic merit, entrance exams (if applicable), and interview |
|
Tuition Fees |
Approximately USD 7,000–10,000 per year (varies by institution) |
|
Recognized By |
WHO, NMC (India), and Maldives Medical and Dental Council (MMDC) |
|
Clinical Training |
Conducted in affiliated hospitals and health centers across the Maldives |
|
Accommodation |
On-campus hostels and affordable private housing available |
|
Internship |
Mandatory 12-month clinical internship after final year |
|
Career Opportunities |
Eligible for licensing exams like USMLE, PLAB, and FMGE; can practice or pursue PG studies globally |
|
Top Colleges |
Maldives National University (MNU) School of Medicine, Villa College Faculty of Health Sciences |
Globally Recognized Degree – Medical universities in the Maldives are recognized by global medical bodies such as WHO, NMC (India), and MMDC, ensuring graduates can pursue further studies or practice medicine worldwide after qualifying licensing exams.
Affordable Education – Compared to Western or other Asian countries, the Maldives offers high-quality medical education at a significantly lower cost, including reasonable tuition fees and living expenses.
English-Medium Instruction – All MBBS programs are taught in English, eliminating language barriers for international students and helping them easily adapt to the learning environment.
High Academic Standards – Medical colleges in the Maldives follow international teaching methods, emphasize practical learning, and maintain modern labs, simulation centers, and well-equipped hospitals for hands-on training.
Cultural Diversity & Safe Environment – The Maldives welcomes students from various countries, providing a peaceful, safe, and inclusive atmosphere ideal for academic growth and personal development.
Global Career Opportunities – Graduates can appear for exams like USMLE, PLAB, or FMGE, allowing them to pursue postgraduate studies or medical practice in countries such as the USA, UK, India, and others.
Rank |
Medical College / University |
Approx. Annual Tuition Fees (USD) |
Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
$8,000 – $10,000 |
Government university; WHO & NMC recognized; strong clinical training |
|
|
2 |
$7,000 – $9,000 |
Modern facilities; English-medium instruction; international collaboration |
|
|
3 |
International Medical and Technological University (IMTU) – Maldives Campus |
$6,500 – $8,500 |
Globally affiliated programs; experienced faculty |
|
4 |
$6,000 – $8,000 |
Focus on community medicine and practical exposure |
|
|
5 |
$6,500 – $8,500 |
Offers integrated MBBS with strong research base |
|
|
6 |
Avid College – Department of Medical Sciences |
$6,000 – $7,500 |
Affordable fees; student-friendly environment |
|
7 |
Tree Top International College – Faculty of Medicine |
$6,000 – $7,000 |
English-taught MBBS with international partnerships |
|
8 |
Focus Education Centre – School of Medical Sciences |
$5,500 – $7,000 |
Good infrastructure and clinical exposure |
|
9 |
Maldives Business School – Health Sciences Division |
$5,500 – $7,000 |
Expanding into medical education with modern labs |
|
10 |
College of Higher Education Maldives (CHEM) |
$5,000 – $6,500 |
Affordable, recognized, and supportive learning environment |
Expense Category |
Average Annual Cost (USD) |
Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Tuition Fees |
$6,000 – $10,000 |
Varies by university and year of study; government institutions are slightly cheaper than private ones. |
|
Hostel / Accommodation |
$1,000 – $2,000 |
On-campus or shared apartments; includes basic amenities like Wi-Fi and utilities. |
|
Food & Living Expenses |
$1,200 – $1,800 |
Affordable local and international cuisine available; average $100–150 per month. |
|
Books & Study Materials |
$300 – $500 |
Medical textbooks, lab materials, and clinical equipment. |
|
Health Insurance & Medical Checkups |
$100 – $200 |
Mandatory for all international students. |
|
Miscellaneous / Personal Expenses |
$500 – $800 |
Includes transport, clothing, and leisure activities. |
Globally Recognized Medical Education – The Maldives offers MBBS programs that are recognized by international medical bodies such as the WHO and the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India. This ensures Indian students can pursue postgraduate studies or medical practice globally after qualifying relevant licensing exams like FMGE, USMLE, or PLAB.
Affordable Tuition and Living Costs – Compared to private medical colleges in India or other countries, the Maldives provides affordable MBBS programs with lower tuition fees (around USD 6,000–10,000 per year) and reasonable living expenses.
English-Medium Curriculum – All MBBS courses are taught in English, allowing Indian students to study comfortably without any language barriers.
Safe and Student-Friendly Environment – The Maldives is known for its political stability, peaceful culture, and hospitality, making it a safe and welcoming destination for international students.
Proximity and Cultural Similarities – Located close to India, the Maldives offers cultural familiarity, convenient travel, and an easy adaptation process for Indian students seeking international exposure and practical medical training.
Event / Process |
Tentative Dates |
Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Application Start Date |
January – March |
Universities open online applications for the upcoming academic session. |
|
Application Deadline |
April – June |
Last date to submit application forms along with academic documents. |
|
Entrance Exam / Interview (if applicable) |
June – July |
Some universities conduct entrance tests or interviews for final selection. |
|
Offer Letter Issuance |
July – August |
Successful applicants receive admission confirmation and fee payment details. |
|
Visa Application Period |
August – September |
Students apply for a Maldives student visa after receiving the offer letter. |
|
Academic Session Commencement |
September – October |
MBBS classes officially begin at most medical universities. |
Category |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Academic Qualification |
Must have completed 10+2 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English as core subjects. |
|
Minimum Marks Required |
At least 50% aggregate in PCB (for general category); 40% for reserved categories as per NMC guidelines. |
|
Age Requirement |
Minimum 17 years of age on or before 31st December of the admission year. |
|
Entrance Exam (India) |
NEET qualification is mandatory for Indian students as per NMC regulations to study MBBS abroad. |
|
English Proficiency |
Courses are taught in English; no IELTS/TOEFL required if schooling was in English. |
|
Medical Fitness |
Students must be medically fit and may need to submit a health certificate. |
|
Documents Required |
10th & 12th mark sheets, NEET scorecard, passport, photos, and medical certificate. |
Document |
Purpose / Description |
|---|---|
|
10th Mark Sheet & Certificate |
Proof of completion of secondary education and academic record. |
|
12th Mark Sheet & Certificate |
Must show Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as main subjects with minimum 50% aggregate. |
|
NEET Scorecard |
Mandatory for Indian students as per NMC guidelines for studying MBBS abroad. |
|
Passport (Valid for at least 6 months) |
Required for visa processing and identity verification. |
|
Recent Passport-sized Photographs |
Needed for application forms, ID cards, and visa documentation. |
|
Admission Letter / Offer Letter from University |
Issued by the medical college confirming acceptance. |
|
Medical Fitness Certificate |
Confirms the student’s physical and mental health status. |
|
Police Clearance Certificate |
Proof of good conduct and no criminal record. |
|
Bank Statement / Financial Proof |
Demonstrates the ability to cover tuition and living expenses. |
Step |
Process Description |
|---|---|
|
1. Research and Shortlisting |
Select a recognized medical university in the Maldives approved by WHO and NMC (India). |
|
2. Check Eligibility |
Ensure 10+2 qualification with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, minimum 50% marks, and NEET qualification. |
|
3. Application Submission |
Apply online through the university’s official website and upload scanned academic documents. |
|
4. Offer Letter |
Once shortlisted, the university issues a provisional admission or offer letter. |
|
5. Fee Payment |
Pay the initial tuition or registration fee to confirm admission. |
|
6. Student Visa Application |
Apply for a Maldives student visa with the offer letter, passport, and financial proof. |
|
7. Travel and Enrollment |
Upon visa approval, travel to the Maldives and complete registration at the university. |
Intake Session |
Application Period |
Classes Begin |
Description |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Primary (Main) Intake |
January – June |
September – October |
Most universities open their main intake during this period; preferred by international students. |
|
Secondary (Mid-Year) Intake |
July – September |
November – December |
Limited seats available; offered by select institutions depending on seat availability. |
|
Late / Special Intake |
October – December |
January – February (Next Year) |
Conducted if seats remain vacant after main intakes. |
Aspect |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Total Duration |
5 years (including 1-year compulsory internship) |
|
Pre-Clinical Phase |
1.5 years – Focus on basic sciences such as Anatomy, Physiology, and Biochemistry. |
|
Para-Clinical Phase |
1 year – Covers subjects like Pathology, Pharmacology, and Microbiology. |
|
Clinical Phase |
2.5 years – Hands-on training in Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Gynecology, and other specialties. |
|
Internship |
1 year – Mandatory hospital-based clinical practice under supervision. |
|
Teaching Methods |
Combination of lectures, lab sessions, case studies, and clinical rotations. |
Aspect |
MBBS in Maldives |
MBBS in India |
|---|---|---|
|
Course Duration |
5 years (including 1-year internship) |
5.5 years (including 1-year internship) |
|
Tuition Fees |
USD 6,000 – 10,000 per year (affordable for international students) |
10 – 60 lakhs total (varies between government and private colleges) |
|
Medium of Instruction |
English |
English |
|
Admission Process |
Based on 10+2 marks and NEET qualification; simpler and less competitive |
Highly competitive; admission through NEET with limited government seats |
|
Recognition |
WHO, NMC, and MMDC approved |
NMC and WHO recognized |
|
Infrastructure & Exposure |
Modern facilities, smaller class sizes, and diverse international exposure |
Well-established infrastructure with vast patient exposure |
|
Career Opportunities |
Eligible for global exams like FMGE, PLAB, USMLE |
Direct eligibility for Indian medical practice after internship |
Indian students are generally required to qualify NEET to study MBBS abroad as per National Medical Commission (NMC) regulations. However, some universities in the Maldives may offer conditional admission without NEET for international students other than Indians. Indian students can technically enroll without NEET, but they cannot practice medicine in India or appear for the FMGE/NExT exam after graduation. Therefore, NEET qualification is essential for recognition by Indian authorities. For students aiming to work abroad after graduation, non-NEET admissions may be accepted based on academic merit and university-specific criteria.
Year |
Subjects / Focus Areas |
Description |
|---|---|---|
|
Year 1 |
Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry |
Foundation of medical sciences; focus on human body structure and function through lectures and lab work. |
|
Year 2 |
Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Community Medicine |
Introduction to disease mechanisms, drug actions, and public health concepts. |
|
Year 3 |
Forensic Medicine, Clinical Pathology, Clinical Skills |
Builds diagnostic and legal understanding; early exposure to patient care. |
|
Year 4 |
Medicine, Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Pediatrics |
Intensive clinical training through rotations and bedside teaching in hospitals. |
|
Year 5 |
Orthopedics, ENT, Ophthalmology, Psychiatry, Emergency Medicine |
Advanced clinical practice and specialty training before internship. |
|
Internship (1 Year) |
All Major Departments |
Compulsory hospital-based internship providing hands-on experience in real clinical settings. |
Indian students pursuing MBBS in the Maldives can apply for various university-based and government-supported scholarships. Leading institutions like Maldives National University and Villa College offer merit-based scholarshipscovering partial tuition fees for academically excellent students. Additionally, some SAARC and bilateral exchange programs provide financial assistance to promote regional education cooperation. Students may also explore private or NGO-funded scholarships supporting international medical education. To qualify, applicants must maintain strong academic performance, submit recommendation letters, and meet eligibility criteria set by the awarding body. Early application increases the chance of receiving financial aid.
Graduating with an MBBS degree from a recognized Maldivian university opens a wide range of career paths for both local and international students, including Indians. After completing the mandatory one-year internship, graduates can apply for medical licensure in the Maldives through the Maldives Medical and Dental Council (MMDC) and begin practicing as general physicians in hospitals, clinics, or community health centers.
Indian students who wish to practice in India must qualify for the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE)conducted by the National Medical Commission (NMC). Upon passing FMGE, they can register as medical practitioners in India. Additionally, MBBS graduates from the Maldives are eligible to appear for global licensing exams such as USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), and AMC (Australia), opening doors to international medical careers.
Students can also pursue postgraduate specializations (MD/MS) in fields like Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, or Obstetrics and Gynecology either in the Maldives, India, or abroad. Furthermore, opportunities exist in medical research, public health administration, teaching, and hospital management.
After earning an MBBS degree from a recognized university in the Maldives, students can pursue a variety of postgraduate (PG) pathways to specialize further or enhance their medical careers. One of the most common routes is enrolling in MD (Doctor of Medicine) or MS (Master of Surgery) programs in fields such as Internal Medicine, General Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Orthopedics, or Anesthesiology. These programs are available in the Maldives, India, or other countries, depending on the student’s eligibility and goals.
Graduates can also appear for international licensing and residency exams such as USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), AMC (Australia), or MCCQE (Canada), which lead to medical specialization and practice in those countries. Indian students may pursue NEET-PG after clearing the FMGE, allowing them to specialize in India.
For those inclined toward academics or research, options include Master’s in Public Health (MPH), Health Administration (MHA), or Biomedical Sciences, offered by universities worldwide.
In summary, MBBS graduates from the Maldives have multiple postgraduate options globally — ranging from clinical specialization and research to healthcare leadership — ensuring continuous career growth and global medical opportunities.
Doctors who complete their MBBS from recognized medical universities in the Maldives can expect an average starting salary of USD 1,000–2,000 per month when working locally in hospitals or clinics. With experience and specialization, salaries may rise to USD 3,500–5,000 per month. Indian graduates returning home after clearing the FMGE can earn between 6–12 lakhs per year, depending on experience and location. Those pursuing international medical practice after qualifying exams like USMLE or PLAB can earn significantly higher, up to USD 8,000–10,000 monthly. Earnings also increase with postgraduate qualifications and private practice.
Indian students planning to study MBBS in the Maldives must obtain a Maldivian Student Visa before beginning their studies. The process is straightforward and usually completed after receiving the official offer letter or admission confirmation from a recognized Maldivian medical university.
To apply, students must submit the following documents: a valid passport (minimum six months validity), university admission letter, passport-sized photographs, proof of financial stability (bank statements or sponsorship letter), medical fitness certificate, police clearance certificate, and a completed visa application form. Most universities assist students with visa documentation and processing.
The student visa is initially issued for 90 days upon arrival in the Maldives and later extended for the full duration of the MBBS course (typically five years) by the Department of Immigration and Emigration. Students must register their stay within the stipulated time frame after arrival.
Visa holders are permitted to live and study legally in the Maldives but are generally not allowed to work during their study period.
Yes, an MBBS degree from the Maldives is valid in India, provided the medical university is recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC) and listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS). According to NMC’s Foreign Medical Graduate (FMG) Regulations, 2021, Indian students who obtain an MBBS degree abroad — including from the Maldives — must fulfill specific conditions to practice in India.
After completing the MBBS program, Indian graduates must qualify the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) or the upcoming National Exit Test (NExT) to obtain a license to practice medicine in India. The duration of the course, internship training, and medium of instruction must also align with NMC guidelines.
Standyou offers complete end-to-end guidance for Indian students aspiring to study MBBS in the Maldives. The process begins with University Shortlisting, where Standyou’s experts analyze a student’s academic background, budget, and preferences to recommend top NMC- and WHO-recognized medical universities in the Maldives.
Next, the team assists with Application Documentation, ensuring all academic transcripts, NEET scorecards, passports, and other required documents are properly verified and formatted. University Applications are then submitted on the student’s behalf to maximize acceptance chances while maintaining all deadlines.
Standyou also helps students with Exam Preparation for NEET and, later, for FMGE/NExT through partner coaching programs, ensuring strong academic readiness. Additionally, the platform supports Scholarship Application Filing, helping students access merit-based and need-based financial aid opportunities offered by universities or international programs.
Finally, Standyou provides expert assistance in Visa Application Filing, guiding students through document submission, interview scheduling, and approval tracking.
In summary, Standyou simplifies the entire MBBS admission journey — from university selection to visa approval — ensuring a smooth, transparent, and stress-free admission process for Indian students pursuing medical education in the Maldives.
Question |
Answer |
|---|---|
|
1. Is MBBS in the Maldives recognized in India? |
Yes. MBBS degrees from NMC and WHO-recognized Maldivian universities are valid in India after passing the FMGE/NExT exam. |
|
2. What is the duration of the MBBS course in the Maldives? |
The MBBS program lasts 5 years, including a 1-year compulsory internship. |
|
3. Is NEET mandatory for Indian students? |
Yes. NEET qualification is required as per NMC guidelines for Indian students studying MBBS abroad. |
|
4. What is the medium of instruction? |
All MBBS programs in the Maldives are taught in English. |
|
5. What is the average cost of studying MBBS in the Maldives? |
The total cost ranges from USD 30,000–50,000 for the entire course, including tuition and living expenses. |
|
6. Are there scholarships available for Indian students? |
Yes. Universities and regional programs offer merit-based or need-based scholarships. |
|
7. Can I practice in India after MBBS from the Maldives? |
Yes, after clearing FMGE or NExT and registering with the NMC. |
|
8. When do admissions start? |
MBBS admissions typically begin between January and March each year. |
