Bangladesh has emerged as one of the most sought-after destinations for Indian and international students aspiring to pursue MBBS. The country offers quality education, affordable tuition fees, cultural similarities, and globally recognized medical universities.
However, one question that arises frequently is whether non-NEET students can apply for MBBS in Bangladesh. NEET, or the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test, is a mandatory examination for Indian students who wish to pursue MBBS in India or abroad as per the guidelines of the National Medical Commission (NMC). Still, there are certain nuances and scenarios where non-NEET students can explore admission opportunities in Bangladesh.
This article provides a comprehensive guide on how non-NEET students can apply for MBBS in Bangladesh, the eligibility conditions, admission processes, challenges, opportunities, and important things to remember before starting their journey.
Before exploring the admission process for non-NEET students, let’s understand why Bangladesh has become one of the top destinations for MBBS.
Affordable Tuition Fees – Compared to India, USA, or European countries, MBBS in Bangladesh is cost-effective. The average tuition fee ranges between USD 30,000 to 50,000 for the entire course.
High-Quality Education – The curriculum is similar to the Indian MBBS system and is taught in English. Universities follow international teaching standards.
NMC & WHO Recognition – Most medical colleges in Bangladesh are recognized by the National Medical Commission (India), World Health Organization, UNESCO, and other global bodies.
Cultural Similarities – Food habits, climate, and language make it comfortable for Indian students.
Good FMGE Passing Percentage – Students from Bangladesh have one of the highest FMGE/NEXT exam pass percentages compared to other foreign MBBS destinations.
According to the National Medical Commission (NMC), Indian students who want to study MBBS abroad must qualify NEET to be eligible for practicing medicine in India after completing their degree.
NEET score validity remains for three years for admissions abroad.
However, some private consultancies and universities in Bangladesh allow non-NEET students to apply for MBBS, though these students may face limitations when returning to India to practice.
Yes, non-NEET students can apply for MBBS in Bangladesh, but there are certain conditions and consequences:
Admission Without NEET for Foreign Nationals (Non-Indians) – If you are from a country where NEET is not mandatory, you can directly apply to Bangladeshi medical colleges.
Indian Students Without NEET – They can also secure admission in Bangladesh under certain categories, but:
They will not be eligible to appear for FMGE/NEXT exam in India after graduation.
They may have to pursue a medical career abroad in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, or Middle East instead of India.
Special Cases – Sometimes students who missed NEET due to technical reasons or failed to qualify by a small margin still seek admission abroad. Bangladesh offers them opportunities, but such students must carefully evaluate their long-term career goals.
Look for medical universities in Bangladesh recognized by WHO, UNESCO, and MCI/NMC.
General requirements include:
10+2 qualification with minimum 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (40% for reserved categories).
Age: Minimum 17 years at the time of admission.
Valid passport.
Most Bangladeshi medical universities accept applications through their authorized representatives or official portals.
Students need to provide:
10th and 12th mark sheets.
Passport copy.
Passport-size photographs.
Birth certificate.
Police clearance certificate.
Medical fitness certificate.
Once the application is accepted, the university issues an admission letter.
Students need to apply for a Bangladesh student visa with the help of admission documents.
Complete fee payment as per the university guidelines and proceed to Bangladesh to begin classes.
No Practice in India – Without NEET, Indian students cannot appear for FMGE/NEXT exams after MBBS, making them ineligible to practice in India.
Limited Recognition – Some countries may not accept MBBS degrees of non-NEET students.
Future Uncertainty – Students may need to appear for other exams like USMLE, PLAB, or AMC to practice abroad.
Consultancy Misguidance – Many agents mislead students about eligibility; hence, students should always verify with official authorities.
Opportunity to Study Medicine Despite NEET Failure – Students not qualifying NEET still get a chance to fulfill their dream of becoming doctors.
Global Career Options – They can appear for international licensing exams (USMLE, PLAB, AMC, DHA, HAAD).
Affordable Medical Education – Tuition fees and living costs are economical compared to other countries.
High-Quality Training – Focus on practical learning and clinical exposure.
Cultural Compatibility – Easy adaptability for Indian students due to cultural and linguistic similarities.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Course Name | Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) |
| Course Duration | 5 years + 1 year internship |
| Medium of Instruction | English (Bengali also used locally) |
| Eligibility | 50% in PCB (10+2), 40% for reserved categories |
| NEET Requirement | Mandatory for Indian students (Non-NEET students can apply but cannot practice in India) |
| Tuition Fees | 30,000–50,000 USD for entire course |
| Hostel & Living Costs | 100–150 USD per month |
| Recognition | NMC (India), WHO, UNESCO, FAIMER |
| Top Universities | Dhaka Medical College, Rajshahi Medical University, Chittagong Medical College, Bangladesh Medical College |
| Career Opportunities | Practice in India (with NEET), USA, UK, Canada, Gulf countries after licensing exams |
Q1. Can non-NEET students take admission in MBBS in Bangladesh?
Yes, they can, but they won’t be eligible to practice in India after graduation.
Q2. Is NEET mandatory for MBBS in Bangladesh?
For Indian students, yes. For non-Indian students, it depends on their home country’s regulations.
Q3. What is the minimum eligibility for non-NEET students?
50% marks in PCB in 12th grade and 17 years of age at admission.
Q4. Can I practice in India after MBBS in Bangladesh without NEET?
No, NEET qualification is mandatory to practice in India.
Q5. Do Bangladeshi universities accept international students?
Yes, many Bangladeshi universities accept students from India, Nepal, Bhutan, and other countries.
Q6. What is the tuition fee for MBBS in Bangladesh?
It ranges between USD 30,000 to 50,000 for the complete course.
Q7. Is hostel accommodation available for Indian students?
Yes, most universities provide affordable hostel facilities.
Q8. What is the living cost in Bangladesh for MBBS students?
On average, USD 100–150 per month.
Q9. Which are the top medical universities in Bangladesh?
Dhaka Medical College, Rajshahi Medical University, and Bangladesh Medical College.
Q10. Can non-NEET students appear for NEXT after MBBS in Bangladesh?
No, they cannot. NEET is compulsory to be eligible.
Q11. Do Bangladeshi universities teach in English?
Yes, the medium of instruction is English for international students.
Q12. Can I apply directly to Bangladeshi universities without an agent?
Yes, you can apply directly through the official university portal.
Q13. What are the alternatives for non-NEET students after MBBS in Bangladesh?
They can appear for USMLE, PLAB, AMC, DHA, and HAAD exams to practice abroad.
Q14. Is FMGE required after MBBS in Bangladesh?
Yes, Indian students must qualify FMGE/NEXT to practice in India.
Q15. Do I need a student visa for MBBS in Bangladesh?
Yes, international students require a student visa.
Q16. Is internship included in MBBS in Bangladesh?
Yes, a one-year internship is compulsory.
Q17. Can I get scholarships for MBBS in Bangladesh?
Some universities provide scholarships based on merit.
Q18. Is MBBS in Bangladesh valid globally?
Yes, degrees are recognized by WHO, UNESCO, NMC, and FAIMER.
Q19. Is the admission process difficult for non-NEET students?
No, it is straightforward, but future limitations exist for India.
Q20. What is the age limit for MBBS in Bangladesh?
The student must be at least 17 years old at the time of admission.
WHO
Course Duration:
Average Fees:
Universities:
Medium:
6 years
$3,000 - $7,000 per year
2+
English