Studying MBBS in Bangladesh has gained immense popularity among students from South Asian countries. One of the biggest reasons is the SAARC quota benefit offered by the Government of Bangladesh, which provides students from member countries with opportunities to study medicine at subsidized costs. This initiative is designed to promote cultural and educational cooperation among the SAARC nations, making quality medical education accessible to international students.
In this blog, we will explore what the SAARC quota is, its benefits, eligibility requirements, application process, required documents, and how international students can avail themselves of it for MBBS admission in Bangladesh.
The SAARC quota is a special allocation of MBBS seats reserved for students from the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries. These countries include:
India
Nepal
Bhutan
Sri Lanka
Maldives
Afghanistan
Pakistan
Under this quota, eligible students are given the opportunity to pursue MBBS in recognized medical colleges of Bangladesh at subsidized tuition fees, often much lower than the standard international fee structure.
Affordable Education – Students can study MBBS at a reduced fee structure, which is often subsidized or partially waived under the quota.
Globally Recognized Degree – The MBBS degree from Bangladesh medical colleges is recognized by NMC (India), WHO, and other global bodies.
Cultural Similarity – Students from SAARC nations find it easier to adjust due to cultural, linguistic, and food similarities.
Quality Medical Education – Bangladesh follows a strong medical curriculum aligned with global standards.
Opportunities for International Career – Graduates can appear for licensing exams in India, USA, UK, Canada, and other countries.
To apply under the SAARC quota, students must fulfill certain criteria:
Citizenship – Must be a citizen of a SAARC member country.
Educational Qualification – Minimum 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) in Class 12 or equivalent.
Age Limit – Applicant must be at least 17 years old at the time of admission.
NEET Requirement – Indian students must qualify NEET (as per NMC guidelines).
Gap Policy – Some colleges accept gap years if valid reasons and documents are provided.
Language Proficiency – English proficiency is preferred as the medium of instruction is English.
Check Notification – The Bangladesh High Commission/Embassy of respective SAARC countries publishes the admission circular every year.
Fill Application Form – Students must fill out the SAARC quota application form available through the Embassy or official websites.
Submit Documents – Provide academic certificates, passport, and other required documents.
Verification Process – The Embassy verifies the documents and eligibility of applicants.
Seat Allocation – Seats are allocated based on merit (PCB percentage or NEET score in case of Indian students).
Offer Letter – Selected candidates receive an admission offer letter.
Visa and Travel – Apply for a student visa and complete the admission process in Bangladesh.
Valid Passport
Recent Passport-size Photographs
Birth Certificate / Age Proof
Class 10 and Class 12 Mark Sheets and Certificates
NEET Scorecard (for Indian students)
Medical Fitness Certificate
Migration/Transfer Certificate
Nationality Proof/ Citizenship Certificate
Embassy Verification Documents
The tuition fee for MBBS under the SAARC quota is much lower compared to the regular international student fee.
Tuition Fees (Approx.) – 20,000 to 30,000 USD for the entire 5-year course.
Hostel and Living Costs – 800 to 1,200 USD per year.
This makes it an extremely affordable option for students from SAARC nations compared to studying MBBS in Western countries.
Dhaka Medical College
Sir Salimullah Medical College
Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College
Rajshahi Medical College
Chittagong Medical College
Mymensingh Medical College
Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College
Khulna Medical College
All these institutions are recognized by international medical councils and are known for their high-quality education and infrastructure.
Lower financial burden for international students.
Chance to study in government medical colleges.
High acceptance rate of MBBS graduates worldwide.
Curriculum aligned with India and other South Asian countries.
Clinical exposure in large government hospitals.
Limited Seats – Seats are very few and highly competitive.
Strict Selection – Admission depends purely on merit.
Timely Application – Missing deadlines may lead to rejection.
Documentation Process – Requires proper verification from the respective country’s authorities.
Prepare all documents in advance.
Keep track of Embassy announcements.
Score well in PCB and NEET (for Indian students).
Apply early to maximize chances.
Take guidance from authorized consultants.
Q1. What is the SAARC quota for MBBS in Bangladesh?
The SAARC quota is a reserved set of seats for students from SAARC nations to study MBBS in Bangladesh at subsidized costs.
Q2. Who is eligible for the SAARC quota?
Students from SAARC countries with minimum 50% marks in PCB and other eligibility requirements.
Q3. Do Indian students need NEET for SAARC quota?
Yes, NEET qualification is mandatory as per NMC guidelines.
Q4. How many SAARC quota seats are available?
The number varies each year, depending on government allocation and participating colleges.
Q5. Is the SAARC quota only for government colleges?
Mostly government colleges, though some private colleges may also have allocations.
Q6. Is the tuition fee really lower under SAARC quota?
Yes, tuition fees are significantly subsidized compared to regular international student fees.
Q7. How can I apply for SAARC quota admission?
Applications are submitted through the Embassy/High Commission of Bangladesh in your country.
Q8. What documents are required?
Academic certificates, passport, photographs, NEET scorecard (for Indian students), medical certificate, and citizenship proof.
Q9. Can students with a gap year apply?
Yes, if valid documents are provided to justify the gap.
Q10. Is there an age limit for SAARC quota admission?
Yes, the student must be at least 17 years old at admission.
Q11. Is English the medium of instruction?
Yes, most medical colleges offer MBBS in English for international students.
Q12. Are hostel facilities available?
Yes, affordable hostels with basic amenities are available.
Q13. Are SAARC quota students treated differently?
No, all students receive equal academic and clinical opportunities.
Q14. Do SAARC quota students get scholarships?
Yes, some institutions and governments provide scholarships in addition to subsidized fees.
Q15. Can SAARC quota students practice in India after MBBS?
Yes, they can, provided they clear the NEXT exam.
Q16. Is the degree recognized worldwide?
Yes, MBBS degrees from Bangladesh are recognized by WHO, NMC, and other global medical councils.
Q17. Can Pakistani students apply for SAARC quota?
Yes, all SAARC country students are eligible.
Q18. What is the living cost in Bangladesh?
Around 800–1,200 USD per year for food and accommodation.
Q19. How is the clinical exposure in Bangladesh?
Very strong, as students get hands-on training in large government hospitals.
Q20. Is applying under the SAARC quota worth it?
Absolutely. It is one of the most cost-effective and beneficial ways to pursue MBBS abroad.
WHO
Course Duration:
Average Fees:
Universities:
Medium:
6 years
$3,000 - $7,000 per year
2+
English