The journey to becoming a doctor is never easy. Many students start their MBBS studies in one country or university but later feel the need to transfer to another institution for better opportunities, affordability, or recognition. Bangladesh has emerged as one of the most attractive destinations for such transfer students.
With affordable tuition fees, globally recognized medical colleges, and a curriculum similar to India and other South Asian countries, Bangladesh provides excellent opportunities for students who wish to continue their MBBS program after transferring from another medical school.
Many students prefer transferring their MBBS course to Bangladesh due to the following reasons:
Affordable Fees – Medical education in Bangladesh is comparatively cheaper than in countries like the USA, UK, or even Indian private colleges.
NMC & WHO Recognition – Most government and private medical colleges in Bangladesh are recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC), World Health Organization (WHO), and other international councils.
English-Medium Curriculum – MBBS in Bangladesh is taught in English, making it convenient for international students.
Cultural Similarity – Indian, Nepalese, and other South Asian students find Bangladesh culturally familiar and safe.
Proximity to Home – Students from India and nearby countries can easily travel to Bangladesh without long-distance hassle.
Strong Clinical Training – Bangladesh has hospitals with high patient flow, ensuring good practical exposure.
Transfer students are those who have already enrolled in an MBBS or equivalent medical program in another university (either within their own country or abroad) but wish to shift to a Bangladeshi medical college for reasons such as:
High tuition fees in their current university.
Poor quality of education or lack of recognition.
Preference for studying in a government-recognized medical college.
Desire to study closer to home.
Better infrastructure and clinical exposure.
To be eligible for transfer into an MBBS program in Bangladesh, students must meet the following conditions:
The student must have studied MBBS or equivalent medical courses in a recognized university.
The previous university must be listed and recognized by WHO or relevant medical council.
Most Bangladeshi medical colleges allow transfers only within the first 3 years of the MBBS course.
Transfers in the final years are generally not accepted.
The subjects completed by the student in the previous university must match the syllabus of Bangladeshi medical colleges.
Students may need to appear for an equivalence exam conducted by the Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council (BMDC).
Students must meet the admission requirements set by BMDC, including minimum GPA in high school (SSC & HSC or equivalent).
Generally, students must have minimum GPA 7 combined in SSC and HSC with Biology GPA 3.5.
Indian students must qualify NEET in the admission year to be eligible for transfer.
Since MBBS is taught in English, students should have studied in English medium previously.
The process of transferring to a Bangladeshi MBBS program is systematic and requires proper documentation.
Students must apply directly to the chosen medical college or through authorized representatives.
Applicants must submit transcripts, mark sheets, and a migration certificate from their current university.
BMDC or the university compares the student’s completed subjects with the Bangladeshi MBBS curriculum to ensure compatibility.
If eligible, the student receives an admission letter from the new university.
International students must apply for a student visa with all necessary documents.
After arriving in Bangladesh, students complete the enrollment process and resume their MBBS studies.
Transfer students must provide the following documents:
Valid passport.
Migration certificate from the previous university.
Academic transcripts of MBBS years already completed.
SSC/10th and HSC/12th certificates with GPA details.
NEET scorecard (for Indian students).
Birth certificate.
Passport-size photographs.
Medical fitness certificate.
No-objection certificate from the previous university (if required).
The fees for transfer students are almost the same as regular students, but exact amounts may vary depending on the year of transfer and college policies.
Tuition Fees: Around 35,000 – 45,000 USD for the full MBBS course.
If a student transfers in the 2nd or 3rd year, fees for remaining years must be paid.
Hostel Fees: 800 – 1,000 USD per year.
Living Expenses: 100 – 150 USD per month.
Although Bangladesh welcomes transfer students, there are some challenges:
Curriculum Differences – Some subjects may not match exactly, requiring students to repeat certain courses.
Limited Seats – Transfer seats are fewer compared to fresh admissions.
Documentation Issues – Incomplete transcripts or lack of recognition of the previous university can create hurdles.
Adjustment Period – Students may take time to adjust to the new environment.
Continuation of studies without starting over.
Affordable tuition and living costs.
Opportunity to graduate from an NMC/WHO-recognized medical college.
English-medium learning environment.
Strong clinical exposure with patient-based teaching.
Safer and culturally familiar environment compared to many foreign countries.
After completing MBBS in Bangladesh, transfer students enjoy the same opportunities as regular students:
Practice in India – By appearing for the NEXT exam.
International Exams – Eligibility for USMLE, PLAB, AMC, and others.
Postgraduate Studies – Options in Bangladesh, India, and abroad.
Clinical Practice – Job opportunities in government and private hospitals.
Research & Teaching – Career scope in academics and medical research.
1. Can I transfer from another country to Bangladesh for MBBS?
Yes, if your previous university is recognized and your academic records match the Bangladeshi curriculum.
2. Is NEET required for transfer students from India?
Yes, Indian students must qualify NEET in the admission year.
3. Up to which year can students transfer in Bangladesh MBBS?
Transfers are generally accepted up to the 3rd year.
4. Do I need to appear for an exam to transfer?
Some colleges or BMDC may require an equivalence test.
5. Are transfer seats limited in Bangladeshi medical colleges?
Yes, transfer seats are fewer compared to regular seats.
6. What documents are needed for transfer admission?
Migration certificate, transcripts, GPA certificates, NEET scorecard, passport, and medical fitness certificate.
7. Will I have to repeat any subjects after transfer?
If your previous subjects don’t match with Bangladesh’s curriculum, you may need to repeat them.
8. Can transfer students get hostel accommodation?
Yes, hostel facilities are available for transfer students as well.
9. What is the total cost for a transfer student in Bangladesh MBBS?
Around 35,000 – 45,000 USD depending on the year of transfer.
10. Is Bangladesh safe for international transfer students?
Yes, Bangladesh is safe and offers a student-friendly and culturally familiar environment.
WHO
Course Duration:
Average Fees:
Universities:
Medium:
6 years
$3,000 - $7,000 per year
2+
English