Iran has become an increasingly popular destination among international students who seek medical education abroad. MBBS in Iran is a better option for those who want an affordable alternative to studying medicine in countries with higher tuition fees and living costs. The country has a well-established medical education system, numerous medical universities, and a long tradition of deep and scientific research facilities. For international students, universities offer opportunities to study medicine in diverse academic environments while gaining clinical exposure through affiliated hospitals. The programme lasts 6 to 7 years, depending on the specific university.
Why consider Medical Universities in Iran?
Considering medical universities to study medicine in Iran depends on many reasons. A few are mentioned below:
Most of the universities in the country are affiliated with the country's healthcare system.
Iranian universities combine academic education with clinical training through teaching hospitals and clinics.
The country has a comparatively developed healthcare infrastructure in major cities.
Medical students may encounter various clinical cases during the MBBS programme, which provides valuable exposure to different medical conditions,
An affordable tuition fee and living cost is one of the primary reasons to choose medical universities in Iran.
Top Medical Universities in Iran
MBBS in Iran for Indian students is one of the smartest choices to have a bright career ahead. Since Iranian universities are known globally for their academic excellence, choosing to study in the country will be the greatest investment for medical students. The list below represents top Iranian medical universities:
Tehran University of Medical Science
Shiraz University of Medical Science
Mashhad University of Medical Science
Iran University of Medical Sciences
Arak University of Medical Sciences
Islamic Azad University
Academic opportunities
MBBS in Iran is a combination of a 5-year extensive classroom learning followed by 12-24 months of clinical training. From foundational subjects to specialised subjects, students learn in-depth clinical knowledge to be able to treat patients in real-life. The duration is divided into pre-clinical years, para-clinical years, and clinical years. Students in the early years gain knowledge of foundational subjects that act as a base for in-depth understanding.
Subjects in the pre-clinical phase include Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology, Genetics, Immunology, and Microbiology.
In the para-clinical phase, students gain an understanding of General Pathology, Pharmacology, Semiology, Respiratory, Gastrointestinal, and Physiopathology of Organ systems.
In clinical years, students move from classroom learning to practical clinical sessions. While getting real-life exposure through hands-on experience, students also learn about specialised subjects. These subjects include Internal Medicine, General Surgery, Paediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Infectious Diseases, and Psychiatry & Mental Health.
Career opportunities after MBBS in Iran
A medical degree from Iran provides a good academic foundation for international and domestic students interested in pursuing careers in the healthcare sector. However, graduation from a foreign university does not automatically provide a license to practice medicine in other countries. Students planning to return to their home country or settle in a respective country must pass a licensing test.
Returning to India: For practising medicine in India, graduates need to pass the FMGE/NeXT licensing test.
Settle in any country: Graduates who want to settle in another country can pass the required licensing exam for that particular country. For example, for the U, they need to pass the PLAB exam.
Planning a career in a non-medical field: Beyond the medical career, students can also pursue post-graduation, research, or healthcare management courses.
MBBS fee structure in Iran
MBBS in Iran is very reasonable. Furthermore, in the country, the cost of living is also economical. Let’s break down the overall budget to study medicine:
Type of expenses | Approx. Cost per year |
Tuition fees | $3000 to $8000 USD |
Hostel/Accommodation | $700 to $1500 USD |
Food expenses | $900 to $1800 USD |
Visa extension and health insurance | $300 to $800 USD |
Final Words
MBBS in Iran can offer international students a combination of medical education, clinical exposure, research opportunities, clinical training, and affordable cost. For Indian students, checking the latest NMC rules and FMGE passing rate of the universities is essential. Top universities in the country offer great academic excellence to international students while offering a medical programme for 6 to 7 years. With proper planning and the right information, students can choose to study in the country.
