Studying MBBS in China is becoming more popular every year. Thousands of students from Asia, Africa, and other parts of the world choose China for their medical education. The reason is simple high-quality education, affordable fees, and a chance to study in a safe and modern country.
But with more than 45 medical universities in China approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), it can be difficult to choose the right one. In this blog, we will guide you step-by-step on how to select the best medical university in China for your MBBS degree.
1. Check MCI/NMC and WHO Approval
Before applying, make sure the university is approved by the WHO and the National Medical Commission (NMC) of your country (in India, NMC was earlier called MCI).
Why this matters:
- A degree from a recognized university is valid in your home country.
- You can sit for licensing exams like FMGE, USMLE, or PLAB after graduation.
Most top medical universities in China are listed on the WHO World Directory of Medical Schools, so always check this before applying.
2. Understand the Medium of Instruction
Many Chinese universities offer MBBS in English for international students. This is very important if you are not fluent in Chinese.
When choosing a university, confirm:
- Is the MBBS program fully taught in English?
- Will you need to learn Mandarin for clinical practice?
3. Compare Tuition Fees and Living Costs
One of the biggest advantages of studying MBBS in China is affordability. But fees can vary between universities.
Example fee range:
- Low-cost universities: $3,000 – $4,000 per year
- Top-tier universities: $5,000 – $7,000 per year
Also, consider living costs in the city. Smaller cities are cheaper, while big cities like Beijing or Shanghai are more expensive.
4. Look at University Rankings and Reputation
University rankings give you an idea of academic quality. While rankings should not be the only factor, they help in understanding the university’s global standing.
Check:
- QS World University Rankings
- Times Higher Education Rankings
- Alumni success stories
Top medical universities in China like Peking University, Fudan University, and Zhejiang University are well respected worldwide.
5. Check Hospital Affiliations
A good MBBS program should include clinical training in well-equipped hospitals. This hands-on experience is essential for becoming a skilled doctor.
Questions to ask:
- How many hospitals are affiliated with the university?
- Are they Class A Grade III hospitals (the highest level in China)?
- What is the patient flow (more patients mean more learning opportunities)?
6. Student Support and International Office
As an international student, you may need help with visas, accommodation, or adjusting to life in China.
Choose a university that has:
- A dedicated International Students Office
- Orientation programs for new students
- Support for cultural adaptation and language learning
Good student services make your study experience smoother and more enjoyable.
7. Location and City Life
China is a large country, and the city you choose will affect your lifestyle.
Consider:
- Climate (Do you prefer cold winters or mild weather?)
- Cost of living (Big cities are more expensive)
- Safety and transportation
- Availability of halal/vegetarian food if required
For example:
- Harbin has colder winters but lower living costs.
- Guangzhou is warmer and has a big international community.
8. Alumni Feedback and Reviews
The best way to know about a university is to talk to current students or alumni. They can share real experiences about:
- Quality of teaching
- Hostel facilities
- Internship opportunities
- Overall student life
You can find student reviews on forums, social media groups, and education consultant websites.
9. Check Admission Requirements
Different universities have different entry requirements. Most Chinese medical universities ask for:
- High school marks (especially in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics)
- English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL may be required for some)
- Age limits (usually 17–25 years)
Applying without meeting requirements may lead to rejection, so check carefully before you apply.
10. Scholarship Opportunities
Some universities and the Chinese Government offer scholarships for international medical students. These can help reduce tuition and living costs.
Popular scholarships include:
- Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
- University scholarships
- Belt and Road Scholarship
Always check deadlines and required documents for these opportunities.
11. Internship and Licensing Opportunities
An important part of MBBS in China is the 1-year internship (usually in the final year). Some universities allow you to do this internship in your home country, while others require it to be done in China.
If you plan to return to your country after graduation, check:
- Whether your university’s degree allows you to take local licensing exams.
- If the university provides FMGE/USMLE preparation support.
12. Facilities and Campus Life
The university should offer comfortable facilities such as:
- Modern classrooms and labs
- Well-stocked libraries
- Student hostels with internet access
- Sports and recreation areas
A good campus environment can make your study years more enjoyable
Study MBBS in China: How to Choose the Right Medical University
Studying MBBS in China is becoming more popular every year. Thousands of students from Asia, Africa, and other parts of the world choose China for their medical education. The reason is simple high-quality education, affordable fees, and a chance to study in a safe and modern country.
But with more than 45 medical universities in China approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), it can be difficult to choose the right one. In this blog, we will guide you step-by-step on how to select the best medical university in China for your MBBS degree.
1. Check MCI/NMC and WHO Approval
Before applying, make sure the university is approved by the WHO and the National Medical Commission (NMC) of your country (in India, NMC was earlier called MCI).
Why this matters:
- A degree from a recognized university is valid in your home country.
- You can sit for licensing exams like FMGE, USMLE, or PLAB after graduation.
Most top medical universities in China are listed on the WHO World Directory of Medical Schools, so always check this before applying.
2. Understand the Medium of Instruction
Many Chinese universities offer MBBS in English for international students. This is very important if you are not fluent in Chinese.
When choosing a university, confirm:
- Is the MBBS program fully taught in English?
- Will you need to learn Mandarin for clinical practice?
3. Compare Tuition Fees and Living Costs
One of the biggest advantages of studying MBBS in China is affordability. But fees can vary between universities.
Example fee range:
- Low-cost universities: $3,000 – $4,000 per year
- Top-tier universities: $5,000 – $7,000 per year
Also, consider living costs in the city. Smaller cities are cheaper, while big cities like Beijing or Shanghai are more expensive.
4. Look at University Rankings and Reputation
University rankings give you an idea of academic quality. While rankings should not be the only factor, they help in understanding the university’s global standing.
Check:
- QS World University Rankings
- Times Higher Education Rankings
- Alumni success stories
Top medical universities in China like Peking University, Fudan University, and Zhejiang University are well respected worldwide.
5. Check Hospital Affiliations
A good MBBS program should include clinical training in well-equipped hospitals. This hands-on experience is essential for becoming a skilled doctor.
Questions to ask:
- How many hospitals are affiliated with the university?
- Are they Class A Grade III hospitals (the highest level in China)?
- What is the patient flow (more patients mean more learning opportunities)?
6. Student Support and International Office
As an international student, you may need help with visas, accommodation, or adjusting to life in China.
Choose a university that has:
- A dedicated International Students Office
- Orientation programs for new students
- Support for cultural adaptation and language learning
Good student services make your study experience smoother and more enjoyable.
7. Location and City Life
China is a large country, and the city you choose will affect your lifestyle.
Consider:
- Climate (Do you prefer cold winters or mild weather?)
- Cost of living (Big cities are more expensive)
- Safety and transportation
- Availability of halal/vegetarian food if required
For example:
- Harbin has colder winters but lower living costs.
- Guangzhou is warmer and has a big international community.
8. Alumni Feedback and Reviews
The best way to know about a university is to talk to current students or alumni. They can share real experiences about:
- Quality of teaching
- Hostel facilities
- Internship opportunities
- Overall student life
You can find student reviews on forums, social media groups, and education consultant websites.
9. Check Admission Requirements
Different universities have different entry requirements. Most Chinese medical universities ask for:
- High school marks (especially in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics)
- English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL may be required for some)
- Age limits (usually 17–25 years)
Applying without meeting requirements may lead to rejection, so check carefully before you apply.
10. Scholarship Opportunities
Some universities and the Chinese Government offer scholarships for international medical students. These can help reduce tuition and living costs.
Popular scholarships include:
- Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
- University scholarships
- Belt and Road Scholarship
Always check deadlines and required documents for these opportunities.
11. Internship and Licensing Opportunities
An important part of MBBS in China is the 1-year internship (usually in the final year). Some universities allow you to do this internship in your home country, while others require it to be done in China.
If you plan to return to your country after graduation, check:
- Whether your university’s degree allows you to take local licensing exams.
- If the university provides FMGE/USMLE preparation support.
12. Facilities and Campus Life
The university should offer comfortable facilities such as:
- Modern classrooms and labs
- Well-stocked libraries
- Student hostels with internet access
- Sports and recreation areas
A good campus environment can make your study years more enjoyable
