Many students dream of becoming doctors, but the journey is not always simple. In India, one of the biggest hurdles for medical students is the NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test). Not every student is able to score well in this competitive exam. So, many students
start looking for other options. One of the most popular choices today is studying MBBS in China.

But here’s the big question: Can you study MBBS in China without NEET? In this blog,
we will answer this question and also give you all the important details you need to know if you want to
pursue your MBBS from China.

What Is NEET and Why Is It Important?

NEET is the entrance exam for medical colleges in India. If you want to study MBBS or BDS
in India, you must qualify for NEET. The exam is quite tough because of the large number of
students applying and the limited number of seats in government colleges.

Many students who do not qualify in NEET or get low scores start looking for MBBS options
abroad. This is where countries like China come into the picture.

Can You Study MBBS in China Without NEET?

The short answer is Yes, but with conditions.

If you are an Indian student, NEET is mandatory even if you are applying to study MBBS
abroad, including China. The Medical Council of India (MCI)—now replaced by the
National Medical Commission (NMC)—has made it clear that students must qualify NEET
to get admission to foreign medical universities.

So, if you plan to come back to India and practice as a doctor, you must have cleared NEET,
even if you are studying in China.

If you are a non-Indian student, then NEET is not required for studying in China. Each
country has its own rules.

What Happens If You Don’t Qualify for NEET?

If you are an Indian student and haven’t cleared NEET, you cannot get an eligibility
certificate from NMC. Without this certificate:

● You will not be allowed to take the FMGE exam (Foreign Medical Graduate
Examination) after finishing your MBBS.
● You will not be allowed to practice medicine in India.
● You may face problems with internship and licensing.

So, it’s better to qualify NEET before applying for MBBS in China. Even a minimum passing
score is enough to become eligible.

Why Is China a Popular Choice for MBBS?

Here are some reasons why many students choose China for medical studies:

1. Affordable Tuition Fees

Medical education in China is cheaper than in private medical colleges in India. Most
universities offer MBBS courses at very reasonable rates.

2. Globally Recognized Degrees

Many medical universities in China are approved by the WHO, listed in the WDOMS, and
recognized by the NMC. This means students can appear for medical licensing exams in
countries like India, the US, the UK, and others.

3. Modern Infrastructure

Chinese universities have advanced labs, modern classrooms, and well-equipped hospitals for
clinical training.

4. English-Medium Programs

Many universities offer MBBS courses in English, so students do not face a language barrier.

5. Cultural Diversity

China welcomes thousands of international students every year. The environment is safe and
culturally rich.

Eligibility to Study MBBS in China

Even though you cannot skip NEET, here are the general requirements:

● Must be 17 years old or above.
● Must have passed 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
● Must have scored at least 50% marks (40% for reserved categories).
● Must have a valid NEET scorecard.
● Should be medically fit and have all documents ready (passport, academic certificates,
etc.)

Top Medical Universities in China

If you qualify NEET and want to study in China, here are some top universities you
can consider:

● Jilin University
● China Medical University
● Nanjing Medical University
● Zhejiang University
● Fudan University
● Shandong University
● Huazhong University of Science and Technology

These universities are NMC approved and offer English-medium MBBS programs.

How to Apply for MBBS in China

The admission process is simple and mostly done online. Here’s how it usually works:

1. Choose the university and check its requirements.

2. Submit the online application form.

3. Attach required documents like:
● Passport copy
● Academic certificates
● NEET scorecard
● Medical report
● Passport-sized photos

4. Wait for the offer letter from the university.
5. Once accepted, pay the tuition fee (partial or full).
6. Apply for a student visa (X1 Visa) from the Chinese Embassy.
7. Pack your bags and get ready to fly to China!

Benefits of Studying MBBS in China

Let’s look at some major advantages:

● Lower competition compared to Indian colleges.
● Global exposure and experience in international hospitals.
● High FMGE pass rate from top Chinese universities.
● Internship opportunities in reputed hospitals.
● International standard of education at a lower cost.

Challenges You Might Face

While there are many benefits, there are also a few challenges:
● Cultural difference and language barrier (outside class).
● Weather conditions may be different.
● Some universities may lack practical training quality.

Tips for Students

● Always check if the university is NMC-approved.
● Prepare for the FMGE exam during your course.
● Try to learn basic Chinese to make daily life easier.
● Stay in touch with the Indian Embassy in China for updates.
● Choose a trusted consultant or official university portal to apply.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is NEET required to study MBBS in China?

Yes, for Indian students, NEET is mandatory.

2. Can I practice in India after MBBS in China?

Yes, if you clear NEET before admission and pass the FMGE/NExT after graduation.

3. What is the average cost of MBBS in China?

It can range from INR 2.5 to 5 lakhs per year, depending on the university.

4. Is the MBBS degree from China valid in India?

Yes, if the university is NMC-approved and you clear FMGE/NExT.