With rising competition for medical seats in India and the high tuition fees charged by private colleges, many Indian students are exploring overseas options for quality and affordable medical education. Studying MBBS in Nepal has emerged as one of the most preferred choices, especially for Indian students, due to the country’s close proximity, cultural similarities, and medical curriculum aligned with Indian standards. For 2025, students are increasingly turning to NMC-approved colleges in Nepal that offer recognized MBBS programs at reasonable costs.

In this article, we will provide a complete overview of studying MBBS in Nepal, including a list of NMC-approved medical colleges and the fee structure for 2025.


Why Choose Nepal for MBBS?

Studying MBBS in Nepal offers several advantages for Indian students:

  • NMC-approved degrees: Eligible for FMGE/NExT to practice in India.

  • No language barrier: Courses are taught in English, and Hindi is widely understood.

  • Affordable fee structure: No donations or capitation fees.

  • No visa required: Indian students can travel freely with a passport or voter ID.

  • Cultural familiarity: Similar food, festivals, lifestyle, and climate.

All of these factors make Nepal a safe, reliable, and practical destination for Indian medical aspirants.


NMC Guidelines for MBBS Abroad

As per the latest regulations by the National Medical Commission (NMC), Indian students who study MBBS abroad must:

  • Qualify the NEET-UG exam.

  • Study in a university recognized by the local government and NMC.

  • Complete the full 54-month course + 12-month internship (5.5 years total).

  • Undergo an internship either in the same country or in India (depending on NMC rules).

  • Appear for FMGE/NExT to get a license to practice in India.

Nepal satisfies all of these conditions, provided the student selects an NMC-approved college.


NMC Approved Medical Colleges in Nepal (2025)

Below is a list of top NMC-approved colleges in Nepal that offer the MBBS program to Indian students:

College Name Affiliation Location Established NMC Approval
B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences (BPKIHS) Autonomous Dharan 1993 Yes
Institute of Medicine (IOM), Tribhuvan University Tribhuvan University Kathmandu 1972 Yes
Kathmandu Medical College Kathmandu University Kathmandu 1997 Yes
Nepal Medical College Kathmandu University Kathmandu 1997 Yes
KIST Medical College Tribhuvan University Lalitpur 2006 Yes
Nobel Medical College Kathmandu University Biratnagar 2004 Yes
National Medical College Tribhuvan University Birgunj 2001 Yes
Patan Academy of Health Sciences Independent Lalitpur 2008 Yes
Janaki Medical College Tribhuvan University Janakpur 2003 Yes

These colleges meet the academic and clinical standards required by the NMC and offer full-time MBBS programs for international students.


MBBS Course Structure in Nepal

The MBBS program in Nepal spans 5.5 years, including:

  • 4.5 years of academic training in basic and clinical sciences.

  • 1 year of compulsory internship in affiliated hospitals.

Subjects Covered:

  • Year 1–2: Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry

  • Year 3–4: Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology

  • Year 5: Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Psychiatry, Community Medicine

Clinical training is delivered in university hospitals, ensuring hands-on experience in real-life settings.


MBBS Fee Structure in Nepal (2025)

Tuition fees in Nepal are regulated and comparatively affordable. The total tuition fees for Indian students range from ₹35 lakhs to ₹55 lakhs, depending on the college.

Estimated Fee Structure of Top Colleges

Medical College Total Tuition Fee (INR) Payment Plan
B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences ₹50 – ₹55 lakhs Yearly/Installments
Institute of Medicine (IOM), TU ₹45 – ₹50 lakhs Yearly
Kathmandu Medical College ₹45 – ₹50 lakhs Installments
KIST Medical College ₹42 – ₹48 lakhs Installments
Nobel Medical College ₹45 – ₹50 lakhs Installments
Patan Academy of Health Sciences ₹40 – ₹45 lakhs Yearly

📌 Note: Hostel, food, exam, and miscellaneous charges are extra and vary by university.


Living Expenses in Nepal for Indian Students

In addition to tuition fees, students should also consider monthly living expenses, which are relatively affordable in Nepal.

Average Monthly Living Costs:

  • Hostel Accommodation: ₹6,000 – ₹10,000

  • Food & Mess: ₹4,000 – ₹6,000

  • Transport & Miscellaneous: ₹2,000 – ₹3,000

  • Total Estimated Monthly Cost: ₹12,000 – ₹15,000

For the full 5.5 years, the total living cost comes to approximately ₹7 lakhs – ₹9 lakhs, depending on the city and lifestyle.


Eligibility Criteria for MBBS in Nepal (2025)

To apply for an MBBS seat in Nepal, Indian students must meet the following criteria:

  • Must be 17 years old on or before 31st December of the admission year.

  • Must have passed 10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English.

  • Minimum 50% aggregate in PCB (40% for SC/ST/OBC).

  • Must have qualified NEET-UG (valid for 3 years for studying abroad).

  • Should have a valid passport or voter ID (no visa required for Indian students).


Admission Process for MBBS in Nepal

The admission process for MBBS in Nepal is simple, transparent, and merit-based. Here's how it works:

Step-by-Step Admission Process:

  1. Qualify NEET-UG and prepare necessary documents.

  2. Shortlist NMC-approved colleges based on budget and preference.

  3. Apply online or through an authorized admission partner.

  4. Submit documents: NEET scorecard, 10+2 mark sheets, ID proof.

  5. Receive admission letter and confirm your seat.

  6. Travel to Nepal with required documents and join the university.

Some autonomous universities like BPKIHS and Kathmandu University conduct entrance exams for final selection, while others accept direct admission based on NEET score.


Benefits of Studying MBBS in Nepal for Indian Students

  • No donation policy – admission strictly based on merit.

  • Recognized degree with eligibility to practice in India.

  • English-medium instruction and Indian-similar curriculum.

  • Peaceful and safe environment with affordable living.

  • Closer to home, reducing travel costs and family separation.

  • High FMGE pass rate, better than several other foreign countries.


Conclusion

Studying MBBS in Nepal is a smart, practical, and value-driven choice for Indian students who want a recognized medical degree without the stress of donations or exorbitant fees. The presence of NMC-approved colleges, combined with a curriculum similar to India’s and affordable living costs, makes Nepal one of the most student-friendly destinations for medical education abroad.

With admissions for 2025 now open, this is the ideal time to start planning your future in medicine. Make sure to choose the right NMC-approved college, qualify NEET, and prepare your documents to secure your seat early.