Sir Salimullah Medical College, located in Dhaka, Bangladesh, stands as one of the most prestigious medical institutions in South Asia. Established in 1875 as the Dhaka Medical School, it has a long history of producing world-class doctors who contribute to healthcare both in Bangladesh and globally. Over time, it has evolved into one of the leading government medical colleges under the University of Dhaka.
For international students, especially from India, Nepal, Bhutan, and other South Asian countries, Sir Salimullah Medical College (SSMC) is an attractive destination to pursue an MBBS degree. The quality of education, affordability, recognition by global medical councils, and cultural similarities make it a popular choice.
This detailed guide covers every aspect of MBBS at Sir Salimullah Medical College—from the admission process, eligibility criteria, fees, hostel facilities, and academic advantages, to career opportunities after graduation.
Location: Dhaka, Bangladesh
Established: 1875 (as Dhaka Medical School), became Sir Salimullah Medical College in 1962
Affiliation: University of Dhaka
Recognition: National Medical Commission (NMC), World Health Organization (WHO), Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council (BMDC), International Medical Education Directory (IMED)
Course offered: MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery)
Course duration: 5 years academic study + 1 year compulsory internship
Government Institution – Being a public medical college under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, tuition fees are highly affordable.
NMC & WHO Recognition – Indian and international students can appear for licensing exams like NEXT, USMLE, PLAB, etc.
Quality Education – The curriculum follows global medical standards and is taught in English for international students.
Affordable Living Costs – Dhaka offers cost-effective living, food, and accommodation compared to other countries.
Cultural Similarities – Bangladesh shares language, food habits, and culture with India and neighboring countries, making adaptation easy.
Clinical Exposure – Affiliated with Mitford Hospital, one of the oldest and busiest hospitals in Dhaka, providing excellent hands-on training.
The MBBS program follows the guidelines of the Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council (BMDC) and is structured into three phases:
Pre-clinical phase (1st and 2nd years)
Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry
Para-clinical phase (3rd year)
Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, Forensic Medicine, Community Medicine
Clinical phase (4th and 5th years)
Medicine, Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Pediatrics, Ophthalmology, Orthopedics, ENT, Dermatology, Psychiatry
Internship (1 year)
Compulsory rotating internship at affiliated hospitals.
To secure admission at Sir Salimullah Medical College, students must meet the following criteria:
Academic Requirements
Minimum aggregate GPA of 7.0 in SSC (10th) and HSC (12th) or equivalent.
Minimum GPA of 3.5 in Biology in 12th grade.
For Indian students: must have studied Physics, Chemistry, and Biology in Class 12 with at least 50% marks in each subject (40% for reserved categories).
Age Requirement
Minimum age: 17 years on or before 31st December of the year of admission.
No upper age limit officially, but applicants usually apply before 25 years of age.
Entrance Requirement
NEET qualification is mandatory for Indian students as per NMC guidelines.
Medical Fitness
Candidates must provide a medical fitness certificate.
Application Form Submission
Students must apply through the Bangladesh Embassy or authorized admission channels.
Verification of Documents
Class 10 and 12 mark sheets, transcripts, passport, photographs, and medical fitness certificates must be submitted.
Eligibility Certificate
For Indian students, the NMC eligibility certificate is required.
Offer Letter and Admission Confirmation
Once documents are verified, students receive an admission letter from Sir Salimullah Medical College.
Visa Processing
Apply for a student visa through the Bangladesh Embassy with all supporting documents.
Arrival and Enrollment
Students report to the college and complete registration under the University of Dhaka.
One of the biggest advantages of studying MBBS in Bangladesh is affordability. Being a government medical college, Sir Salimullah charges much lower tuition compared to private institutions.
Total tuition fees: Approx. USD 30,000 – 40,000 for the entire course
Hostel fees: Around USD 40 – 70 per month
Food expenses: Around USD 40 – 60 per month
Miscellaneous costs: Books, uniforms, transportation – approx. USD 500 – 700 annually
This makes the total cost of MBBS at Sir Salimullah Medical College significantly lower compared to studying in India or countries like the USA, UK, or Australia.
Separate hostels for male and female students.
Well-furnished rooms with study desks, beds, and cupboards.
Common facilities like internet, library, and recreational areas.
Indian and Bangladeshi food available in mess facilities.
Strict safety and security measures for international students.
Graduates of Sir Salimullah Medical College are eligible for:
NEXT Exam in India – for practicing as doctors in India.
USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Exam) – to pursue residency and practice in the USA.
PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) – for practicing in the UK.
Other exams – like AMC (Australia), DHA (Dubai), HAAD (Abu Dhabi).
Government institution with low fees.
International recognition ensures global career opportunities.
Excellent infrastructure with modern laboratories and libraries.
Clinical exposure at Mitford Hospital.
English-medium curriculum suitable for international students.
Safe environment for foreign students.
Proximity to India makes travel easier.
Limited seats for foreign students (high competition).
Strict admission process through government channels.
High demand from Indian and Nepalese students, making early application necessary.
After completing MBBS from Sir Salimullah Medical College, graduates can:
Practice in Bangladesh after BMDC registration.
Return to India and clear the NEXT Exam for medical practice.
Pursue higher studies such as MD/MS in Bangladesh, India, or abroad.
Appear for international licensing exams like USMLE, PLAB, or AMC.
Work as doctors in hospitals, healthcare organizations, or research institutes worldwide.
1. Is Sir Salimullah Medical College recognized by NMC and WHO?
Yes, it is recognized by both NMC and WHO, making its degree valid worldwide.
2. What is the duration of MBBS at Sir Salimullah Medical College?
The program duration is 5 years of academic study followed by 1 year of internship.
3. Do I need to clear NEET to study MBBS at SSMC?
Yes, Indian students must qualify for NEET as per NMC guidelines.
4. What is the total cost of MBBS at Sir Salimullah Medical College?
The total cost is approximately USD 30,000 – 40,000 for the entire course, excluding personal expenses.
5. Is the MBBS program taught in English?
Yes, the medium of instruction for international students is English.
6. How many seats are available for foreign students?
Seats are limited, usually around 30–50 per year for international applicants.
7. Does the college provide hostel accommodation?
Yes, hostels are available with separate facilities for male and female students.
8. Can I practice in India after completing MBBS from Sir Salimullah?
Yes, after clearing the NEXT Exam, graduates can practice in India.
9. Is Bangladesh safe for international students?
Yes, Bangladesh is safe, especially Dhaka, and the college ensures strict security for foreign students.
10. Can I pursue higher studies abroad after graduating from SSMC?
Yes, graduates can appear for exams like USMLE, PLAB, AMC, and pursue PG in different countries.