Pursuing MBBS abroad is a dream for many students who wish to become doctors. Countries like Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Nepal, and Bangladesh have become popular destinations due to affordable fees, quality education, and globally recognized degrees.
One common concern among students is about eligibility, particularly for those who have studied PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) instead of PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) in 12th grade. Many students wonder whether having PCM affects their chances of getting admission to MBBS programs abroad. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the eligibility criteria for PCM students, the options available, and tips for securing admission in medical universities abroad.
MBBS eligibility requirements may vary slightly from country to country, but most universities follow similar standards:
Academic Qualification:
Completion of 10+2 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology is typically required.
For Indian students, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology are mandatory subjects in 12th grade to meet NEET eligibility.
Minimum Marks:
Most universities require at least 50% aggregate marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology for general category students.
Reserved category students may have a lower threshold.
NEET Qualification:
Indian students must qualify NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) to pursue MBBS abroad as per NMC guidelines.
Age Requirement:
Students must be at least 17 years old by December 31 of the admission year.
English Proficiency:
Since MBBS abroad is often taught in English, proficiency in English is essential. Universities may require IELTS or TOEFL scores, though many accept 10+2 English marks.
Students with PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) instead of PCB often face challenges because:
Biology is a Mandatory Subject for MBBS:
Most countries explicitly require PCB. NEET also requires PCB for Indian students.
NEET Eligibility Requirement:
NEET mandates Biology in 12th grade. Without PCB, Indian students are technically ineligible to appear for NEET, which is compulsory for MBBS abroad.
Country-Specific Regulations:
Some countries, like Russia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan, may accept PCM students for preparatory courses (Pre-Medical or Foundation programs), but direct MBBS admission usually requires PCB.
Even if a student has PCM in 12th grade, there are ways to pursue MBBS abroad:
Many universities offer a 1-year preparatory course for students who do not have Biology in their 12th standard.
Subjects covered: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and sometimes English.
After successful completion, students can join the main MBBS program.
Countries offering this option: Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Ukraine, Georgia, and China.
Some universities provide bridge programs for PCM students.
Students complete Biology and related subjects in 1–2 semesters before entering the MBBS course.
In some cases, students may choose to switch streams in 11th or 12th grade if MBBS is their goal.
Another option is to pursue B.Sc. in Life Sciences abroad, then apply for MBBS or equivalent medical programs.
PCM students are eligible for Pre-Medical/Preparatory programs.
After completing Pre-Medical, students can join MBBS in English or Russian medium.
PCM students can enroll in a 1-year foundation course in Biology and Chemistry.
Direct MBBS admission requires PCB.
PCM students may require foundation courses.
Universities like Bukovinian State Medical University offer preparatory programs for non-PCB students.
PCM students are usually not eligible for direct MBBS admission.
Some universities may offer biology preparatory courses.
PCM students are not eligible because universities strictly require PCB.
NEET is mandatory, and Biology is a compulsory subject.
Some universities offer medical preparatory programs for PCM students.
After the foundation year, students can enter the MBBS program.
For Indian students:
NEET Qualification is Mandatory
Without Biology in 12th, PCM students cannot qualify NEET.
Universities abroad may accept students without NEET for admission, but Indian students must clear NEET to practice in India.
PCB Requirement
NEET strictly requires Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. PCM students must either complete a foundation course with Biology or switch streams.
Research Universities Offering Pre-Medical Courses – Check for universities in Russia, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, or China.
Check Eligibility Requirements – Confirm if PCM students are allowed in foundation programs.
Apply Online or Through Authorized Representatives – Submit academic documents, passport, photos, and NEET scores (if applicable).
Complete Foundation Course – Typically 1 year, covering Biology and other subjects.
Start MBBS Program – Once the preparatory course is complete, students transition to the 5–6-year MBBS program.
Pre-Medical/Foundation Course – 2,000–4,000 USD per year.
MBBS Tuition Fees – 3,500–6,000 USD per year.
Hostel & Living Expenses – 600–1,200 USD per year.
Medical Insurance & Miscellaneous – 200–400 USD per year.
Opportunity to pursue a career in medicine despite lacking Biology in 12th grade.
Affordable fees compared to private Indian medical colleges.
Globally recognized degrees.
English-medium education reduces language barriers.
Access to modern infrastructure and international exposure.
Additional foundation course duration increases total study time.
Extra cost for foundation/preparatory program.
NEET preparation may require additional effort for Indian students.
Some universities may have stricter eligibility checks.
Check University Recognition – Verify NMC, WHO, or UNESCO listing.
Choose Reputed Universities – Avoid unrecognized colleges promising direct admission.
Plan for Foundation Courses – Understand the duration, fees, and subjects.
Prepare for NEET – If planning to return to India, NEET qualification is mandatory.
Consult Authorized Representatives – Ensure guidance comes from genuine sources.
Focus on Language Preparation – English or Russian, depending on the medium of instruction.
Q1. Can PCM students directly join MBBS abroad?
No, direct admission is generally not possible. Students need a foundation or preparatory course to cover Biology.
Q2. Are PCM students eligible for NEET in India?
No, NEET requires Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. PCM students cannot appear for NEET without completing Biology.
Q3. Which countries offer foundation courses for PCM students?
Russia, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, and China offer preparatory courses for PCM students.
Q4. How long is the foundation/pre-medical course?
Typically 1 year, depending on the university and country.
Q5. Can PCM students practice medicine in India after MBBS abroad?
Yes, if they complete MBBS abroad and clear the FMGE/NExT exam in India.
Q6. Is the MBBS fee higher for PCM students?
Fees are generally the same; only the foundation course adds an extra cost.
Q7. Can PCM students switch to PCB in 12th grade?
Yes, if still in 11th or early 12th, switching to PCB makes direct MBBS admission possible.
Q8. Are there universities in Nepal or Bangladesh for PCM students?
No, Nepal and Bangladesh strictly require PCB for MBBS admission.
Q9. Can PCM students take preparatory courses in English?
Yes, many universities offer foundation courses in English.
Q10. Do foundation courses affect total duration of MBBS?
Yes, foundation courses add approximately 1 year, making the total duration 6–7 years.
WHO
Course Duration:
Average Fees:
Universities:
Medium:
6 years
$3,000 - $7,000 per year
2+
English