For students planning to study MBBS in China, one of the most confusing and frequently asked questions is about internship. Many students and parents worry:
Is internship compulsory after MBBS in China?
Can the internship be done in the home country instead of China?
Will my medical council accept the degree if the internship is done abroad?
These concerns are valid because internship plays a critical role in medical licensing and practice. In this detailed guide, we will clearly explain the internship rules after MBBS in China, country-wise options, and what students must do to stay compliant in 2026 and beyond.
Why Internship Is Important After MBBS
An internship is a mandatory practical training period where medical graduates gain real-world clinical experience under supervision.
Key Purposes of Internship
- Hands-on patient exposure
- Clinical skill development
- Understanding hospital systems
- Eligibility for medical licensing exams
- Requirement for permanent registration
Without completing a recognized internship, you cannot legally practice medicine in most countries.
Internship Structure in MBBS in China
Duration of MBBS in China
- 5 years academic study
- 1 year compulsory internship
Total duration: 6 years
The internship year focuses on:
- Internal Medicine
- Surgery
- Pediatrics
- Gynecology & Obstetrics
- Emergency Medicine
- Community Medicine
Is Internship Mandatory After MBBS in China?
Yes, internship is compulsory
According to Chinese medical universities and international medical councils:
- Internship is mandatory
- It must be properly documented
- It must meet home country medical council guidelines
Skipping or improperly completing internship can lead to:
- Degree rejection
- Licensing exam disqualification
- Delays in medical practice
Can You Do Internship in Your Home Country After MBBS in China?
YES , but with conditions
Many students can complete an internship in their home country instead of China, if rules are followed correctly.
The option depends on:
- Home country medical council rules
- University approval
- Internship hospital recognition
Internship Options After MBBS in China
Option 1: Internship in China (University-Affiliated Hospital)
Advantages
Direct continuation after 5th year
University supervision
No licensing exam required before internship
Recognized by most medical councils
Challenges
Language barrier (Chinese patients
Limited patient interaction for foreigners
Travel and living expenses
Option 2: Internship in Home Country
This option is very popular among students from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and African countries.
Advantages
No language barrier
Familiar healthcare system
Better preparation for licensing exams
Lower cost
Important Requirement
Internship must be approved by both:
- Chinese university
- Home country medical council
Country-Wise Internship Rules After MBBS in China
🇵🇰 Pakistan (PMC)
- Internship can be done in Pakistan
- Must be completed in a PMC-recognized teaching hospital
- Degree must be verified by the university
- Internship completion certificate is required for PMC registration
Widely accepted pathway for Pakistani students
🇮🇳 India (NMC)
- Internship in China or India is allowed
- Student must qualify NEET
- Degree must follow NMC guidelines
- Internship must be 12 months
Without NEET, Indian students cannot register
🇧🇩 Bangladesh (BMDC)
- Internship can be done in Bangladesh
- Must be in BMDC-approved hospital
- Internship report must match curriculum standards
🇳🇵 Nepal (NMC Nepal)
- Internship can be completed in Nepal
- Must pass NMC screening exam
- Hospital approval required
African Countries
- Most African medical councils accept:
- Internship in home country
- OR internship in China
- Verification and equivalency required
Documents Required for Home Country Internship
To do internship outside China, you typically need:
- MBBS degree certificate
- Academic transcripts
- Internship permission letter from Chinese university
- Curriculum details
- Passport & visa copies
- Hospital acceptance letter
Always verify documentation requirements before leaving China.
Common Mistakes Students Make
Not Taking Written Permission
Some students start internships without official approval; this can invalidate the internship.
Choosing Non-Recognized Hospitals
Only recognized teaching hospitals are accepted.
Incomplete Internship Duration
Less than 12 months may cause rejection.
Mismatch of Departments
Internship rotations must match the MBBS curriculum.
Internship After MBBS in China & Licensing Exams
Internship plays a major role in eligibility for:
- FMGE / NExT (India)
- PMC NLE (Pakistan)
- PLAB (UK)
- USMLE (USA)
Many students prefer home-country internship because it helps with:
- Clinical exposure
- Exam-oriented preparation
- Patient communication skills
Is Internship in China Better or Home Country?
Internship in China Is Better If:
You plan to work in China
Your university offers strong clinical exposure
You are comfortable with Mandarin
Home Country Internship Is Better If:
You plan to practice locally
You want exam-focused preparation
You prefer familiar systems
Cost Comparison of Internship
China Internship Cost
- Living expenses: USD 300–600/month
- No salary
- Visa renewal required
Home Country Internship Cost
- Lower living expenses
- Sometimes stipend available
- No visa issues
Final Verdict: Can You Do Internship in Your Home Country?
Yes, you can do internship in your home country after MBBS in China
But only if:
- You follow official procedures
- Your hospital is recognized
- Internship duration & departments are correct
- Documentation is complete
Best Advice
Plan your internship before starting MBBS, not after graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is internship mandatory after MBBS in China?
Yes, it is compulsory for licensing.
Can Pakistani students do internships in Pakistan?
Yes, in PMC-recognized hospitals.
Is an internship in China compulsory for Indian students?
No, internships can be done in India if NMC rules are followed.
Does internship affect FMGE/NLE eligibility?
Yes, an incomplete internship may disqualify you.
Conclusion
Internship is a critical bridge between your MBBS degree and medical practice. China offers flexibility, but rules must be followed carefully. Whether you choose China or your home country, proper planning will ensure your degree remains valid, recognized, and career-ready.
