For several decades, MBBS has been regarded as one of the most sought-after courses in India and abroad. The highly lucrative professional course gives one several reasons to study abroad and in India, especially those who wish to become medical practitioners or even establish their own practice. 

However, with more bright students appearing for MBBS entrance examinations in India each year, it’s no surprise that it is becoming progressively challenging to land an admission. This cut-throat competition propels many students to graduate from foreign universities as they do not wish to backtrack on their long-term career goals. 

If you are wondering whether these reasons to study abroad are sufficient to encourage young individuals, you are not alone. In this article, we discuss some of the most crucial reasons that implore students to make such a massive career move and take residence overseas to pursue a career in medicine.

Ten Big Reasons for Pursuing Medical Education Abroad

Here are a few reasons to study abroad and become a practising medical professional:

  1. Limited Number of Seats in Indian Colleges

Indian medical colleges are often associated with tough competition as more and more Indians aspire to become doctors each year. Since there are just about 542 medical schools across the country, it is inevitable that many applicants will not get a seat. However, this is not the case abroad as there are plenty of viable options to choose from.

  1. High Demand for Medical Practitioners

India has long been dealing with a shortage of doctors, nurses and hospital beds. Compared to the world average of 150 doctors per 100,000 people, India has only 86 doctors registered to practice. The shortage has been a source of encouragement for many young individuals to pursue the course abroad. This could also be one of the contributing factors behind many Indian students being passionate about saving lives.

  1. Financially Rewarding

Another important reason for studying abroad is the glorification attached with the degree and the job satisfaction it brings. Right after completing their six and a half years of medical school, students can apply for residency, during which their expenses are covered.

  1. Better Student Labs

Colleges abroad offer state-of-the-art labs along with a highly stimulating environment for learning. Their laboratories are typically well-equipped with the best quality tools and equipment that allow you to learn real-life application skills during your degree. 

  1. Globally Applicable Degree

A medical degree from a foreign university such as the American University of Antigua (AUA) allows you to pursue a professional career anywhere in North America and India. Thus, the degree certifies you to practice medicine in many countries.

  1. Exposure to New Cultures 

Many young individuals wish to fulfil the dream of experiencing various cultures when pursuing a degree. This becomes a major motivation as it helps broaden perspectives through exposure to foreign cultures and environments. Such experiences can indeed encourage holistic development and, in turn, broaden one’s career trajectory.

  1. Sharpening Soft Skills

Depending upon where one is moving, there may be a language barrier that could serve as an opportunity to learn a new language. Learning a second language to fit in can boost brain development and be helpful in the longer run, especially if one has future plans to settle down in the same country.

  1. Learning Independence

As many children live under the same roof as their parents, it can often hamper personal growth. It is thus believed that moving away from your family allows you to become more independent, responsible and self-reliant. These skills help one in overall personality development as well. 

  1. Better Return on Investment (ROI)

A professional degree from a college or university such as AUA offers you the opportunity to get paid through a residency programme for international students called the Match. This happens as soon as you complete your undergraduate degree. This is quite a big reason to study abroad, particularly for those who intend to settle down in North America.

  1. Options to Opt for Permanent Residency Abroad

As mentioned earlier, the Match allows you to settle in a foreign country simply based on academic merit. This creates excellent opportunities for those who wish to move abroad to study and apply for medical jobs there.

We hope this blog helped you gain some insight regarding pursuing MBBS abroad and its benefits. Now that you have a clearer idea about the reasons behind studying abroad, you might be feeling encouraged to pursue the degree yourself.