Medicine is one of the most prestigious career paths chosen by students worldwide. For Indian and international aspirants, Nepal has become an increasingly popular destination for pursuing MBBS because of its proximity, affordable cost, and high-quality education. Among the medical universities in Nepal, B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences (BPKIHS) holds a unique position as one of the leading government medical universities with international recognition.
Established with the vision of delivering world-class medical education, healthcare services, and research, BPKIHS has evolved into a top medical institute not just in Nepal but also across South Asia. Students from India, Bhutan, Maldives, Sri Lanka, and other countries choose BPKIHS for MBBS because of its globally accepted curriculum, English-medium teaching, and well-structured admission system.
This detailed guide explores everything an aspiring student needs to know about B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences MBBS program, including admission process, eligibility, fees structure, hostel facilities, advantages, and future opportunities.
Founded in 1993, BPKIHS is an autonomous health sciences university located in Dharan, Sunsari District, Nepal. The institute was established in collaboration with India, named after the late Prime Minister Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala.
BPKIHS has grown into a multidisciplinary university offering education in medicine, dentistry, nursing, public health, and allied health sciences. It is recognized by global bodies such as:
World Health Organization (WHO)
National Medical Commission (NMC), India
Nepal Medical Council (NMC)
Medical Council of Sri Lanka
Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), USA
The MBBS program at BPKIHS is one of the most sought-after in Nepal, thanks to its structured academic framework, clinical exposure, and affordable cost.
Students consider multiple factors before choosing a medical college abroad. BPKIHS offers several advantages:
As a government-funded medical university, BPKIHS ensures transparency in admission and affordability in fees compared to private colleges.
The MBBS degree from BPKIHS is recognized by WHO, NMC, and several global organizations, allowing graduates to pursue careers worldwide.
The MBBS program is taught in English, which is a huge benefit for Indian and international students.
The cost of studying MBBS at BPKIHS is much lower compared to private institutions in India, while still offering top-quality education.
Students get hands-on training at the 1,200+ bedded teaching hospital of BPKIHS, which serves thousands of patients daily.
Located in Dharan, BPKIHS offers a safe campus life with all necessary amenities, including Indian food and cultural familiarity.
The MBBS program at BPKIHS is designed to train competent, compassionate, and ethical doctors.
The MBBS program at BPKIHS is 5.5 years long, including:
4.5 years of academic study covering pre-clinical, para-clinical, and clinical subjects.
1 year of compulsory internship at the university hospital or affiliated institutions.
The course is taught in English, making it accessible for international students.
The curriculum is modeled on international standards, focusing on problem-based learning, patient-centered education, and practical exposure. Key subjects include:
Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry
Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology
General Medicine, Pediatrics
Surgery, Orthopedics
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Community Medicine, Psychiatry
Emergency Medicine
During clinical years, students gain hands-on training in wards, outpatient departments, and operation theaters.
Admission to the MBBS program at BPKIHS is competitive and merit-based. Here is a step-by-step overview:
Students must apply through the official BPKIHS website during the admission period. Applications are usually open between July and August.
Applicants are required to appear for the BPKIHS Entrance Exam, conducted in Nepal and select international centers. The exam tests knowledge in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English.
Selection is based on the entrance exam scores. A merit list is published, and counseling sessions are held for seat allocation.
Selected students must submit their original academic documents, passport, photographs, and medical fitness certificate.
Once verification is complete, students pay the required fees and officially enroll in the MBBS program.
To apply for MBBS at BPKIHS, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Age Limit
Must be at least 17 years old on or before 31st December of the admission year.
Educational Qualification
Must have completed 10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English.
Minimum of 50% aggregate in PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology).
Entrance Exam
Candidates must qualify in the BPKIHS entrance exam.
NEET Requirement for Indian Students
As per Indian regulations, students must qualify NEET-UG to be eligible for MBBS admission abroad.
The MBBS program at BPKIHS is known for its affordability compared to private institutions in India and abroad.
Tuition Fee: USD 25,000 – 30,000 for the entire course (≈ 20–24 lakhs INR)
Hostel Fee: USD 600 – 800 per year
Other Charges: USD 300 – 500 annually (medical insurance, examination, registration, etc.)
Around USD 28,000 – 33,000 (≈ 22–27 lakhs INR)
This fee structure is highly economical compared to private MBBS colleges in India, where the total cost can exceed 60–80 lakhs INR.
BPKIHS provides excellent hostel and campus facilities to ensure a comfortable student life.
Separate hostels for boys and girls with 24/7 security.
Furnished rooms with study desks, wardrobes, and internet access.
Mess facilities with Indian and international cuisine.
Sports facilities, cultural clubs, and recreational activities.
Medical care and counseling services within the campus.
Living expenses in Dharan are affordable, with students spending around USD 100–150 per month on personal needs.
Government institution with international reputation.
Affordable tuition compared to Indian private colleges.
WHO and NMC recognized MBBS degree.
Strong clinical exposure at its teaching hospital.
English-medium instruction.
Safe environment with cultural similarities for Indian students.
Located close to India, making travel convenient.
Opportunities for higher education and global practice.
Graduates of MBBS from BPKIHS have multiple pathways available:
Practice in India
Graduates can appear for FMGE/NEXT to practice in India.
Postgraduate Studies Abroad
Eligible to pursue PG studies in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and other countries after clearing exams like USMLE, PLAB, AMC.
Practice in Nepal or Other Countries
Students can stay back and practice in Nepal or explore opportunities in Middle Eastern and European nations.
Research and Academics
BPKIHS encourages graduates to pursue research and teaching careers in medical universities.
The B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences stands out as one of the best destinations for pursuing MBBS in Nepal. With its international recognition, affordable fees, English-medium teaching, and strong clinical exposure, it offers an excellent balance of quality and cost. For Indian students, BPKIHS provides the added advantages of cultural familiarity, geographical proximity, and globally accepted medical education. Choosing MBBS at BPKIHS is a wise investment for students aiming to become successful doctors with international opportunities.
Q1. Is B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences recognized by the National Medical Commission of India?
Yes, BPKIHS is recognized by NMC, making its MBBS graduates eligible to practice in India after clearing FMGE or NEXT.
Q2. What is the duration of the MBBS program at BPKIHS?
The MBBS program lasts 5.5 years, including 4.5 years of academics and 1 year of compulsory internship.
Q3. What is the mode of instruction for MBBS at BPKIHS?
The program is taught in English, making it suitable for international students.
Q4. What is the approximate cost of studying MBBS at BPKIHS?
The total cost ranges between USD 28,000 – 33,000 (≈ 22–27 lakhs INR).
Q5. Do Indian students need NEET to study MBBS at BPKIHS?
Yes, NEET qualification is mandatory for Indian students as per NMC guidelines.
Q6. Does BPKIHS conduct its own entrance exam?
Yes, BPKIHS conducts a separate entrance exam, which students must qualify for admission.
Q7. What kind of clinical exposure do students get at BPKIHS?
Students train at the 1,200+ bedded teaching hospital, gaining extensive exposure to real patient care.
Q8. Does BPKIHS provide hostel accommodation?
Yes, separate and secure hostels are provided for boys and girls with Indian food options.
Q9. Can MBBS graduates from BPKIHS pursue higher education abroad?
Yes, graduates can appear for exams like USMLE, PLAB, AMC, and pursue PG programs abroad.
Q10. Is it safe for Indian students to study at BPKIHS?
Yes, Dharan is a student-friendly city, and the campus ensures a safe and supportive environment.