Ultimate MBBS Admission Guide: 6 Must-Know Facts Before Studying MBBS—Don’t Start Without Reading This!

MBBS isn’t just about white coats and stethoscopes—read this MBBS admission guide first!

For a long time, being a doctor and helping people has been a popular career. They wait to pour their heart and soul into the biggest respectable career they can possibly choose. 

The one who goes after a medical destination is always curious about the medical college, course study, and examinations. Let’s learn more about the MBBS admission guide.

6 Things to Know Before MBBS

In India, the MBBS course is for 5.5 years. Often a few important details are overlooked. To lead a smooth MBBS student life in India, keep scrolling below to understand the MBBS Admission Guide and get a heads-up on things to know before MBBS.

1. Eligibility

It’s mandatory for the aspirants to meet the basic NEET 2025 eligibility criteria. They are mentioned below:

• Candidates must have (PCB), i.e., Physics, Chemistry, and Biology in their Higher Secondary or equivalent, keeping in mind that Biology is a compulsory subject for MBBS candidates.
• 50% marks is a must for the candidates in Class 12 or equivalent.
• The medical student should be 18 years old before the date of application. There is no upper age limit. 
• The candidate should be an Indian citizen. However, OCI and PIO are also eligible for the NEET UG examination. 

2. Exam Qualification

The question before ‘How to prepare for MBBS’ comes later. First, one should be aware of the cutoffs and eligibility criteria. 

The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts NEET UG, the only MBBS entrance examination. This is conducted across all medical colleges and universities in India. Candidates have to score above the qualifying NEET cutoff to secure admission in medical/dental colleges. Aiming for a reputable medical college requires a high NEET rank since the seats are limited. 

3. Domicile

Candidates aiming for government colleges in their home state are qualified for this quota if they can prove that they have been residents of their state for a specific timeline. Before applying for MBBS in India, candidates must note that state government quota seats are only available to those who fulfill the specific residency or domicile requirements of the respective state, even if they are Indian citizens.

4. Nationality

Primary preferences for MBBS seats in India are acquired by Indian nationals. Although the private colleges hold a designated quota for the NRI students. 

5. Reservations

NEET UG MBBS seat reservations include General (Open Merit) + Reserved Categories. 15% All India Quota (AIQ) seats are divided as General (Unreserved), SC (15%), ST (7.5%), OBC-NCL (27%), EWS (10%), and PwD (5% horizontal across all categories). 85% of state quota seats follow state-specific reservation policies. General (unreserved) seats exist both in AIQ and state quota based on merit.

6. Fees

Institution Type	Approx. Fees in India	Approx. Fees Abroad
Government Medical College	₹50,000 – ₹2,00,000	₹20 lakh – ₹46 lakh
Private Medical College	₹50 lakh – ₹1 crore	₹14 lakh – ₹40 lakh

The estimated budget for studying MBBS in government and private medical colleges in India and abroad is as follows: This comparison highlights the significant cost difference between government and private institutions, both in India and overseas.

Final Thoughts

This MBBS admission guide will help you pursuing an MBBS degree is a significant commitment that requires careful planning and awareness of essential factors like eligibility, entrance exams, reservations, fees, and domicile requirements. From meeting NEET UG qualifications to understanding state and national quota policies, aspiring medical students must be well-prepared for every step of the journey. Therefore it’s important to be aware of the MBBS course details and challenges.

While the cost of studying MBBS varies significantly between government and private institutions—both in India and abroad—students should explore scholarships, financial aid, and budget-friendly alternatives to make their dream of becoming a doctor a reality.

With the right determination, preparation, and knowledge, navigating the MBBS admission guide and process becomes more manageable, paving the way for a rewarding and noble medical career.

Also Read: Investing in Your White Coat: A Guide to MBBS Fees at Top Private Medical Colleges in India