Study MBBS in Iran has become a popular choice for Indian students seeking high-quality medical education at an affordable cost. Iran’s government invests heavily in its healthcare and education sectors, making its medical universities globally competitive. For Indian students, Iran provides a strong blend of affordable tuition fees, internationally recognized degrees, and well-equipped clinical training facilities. With most universities being listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS) and meeting the criteria of India’s National Medical Commission (NMC), graduates from Iran are eligible to appear for FMGE or the upcoming NExT exam to practice in India.

Why Choose Iran for MBBS?

Iran is one of the oldest centers of medicine in the world and has built a strong reputation in the field of medical research, pharmaceutical sciences, and hospital infrastructure. Its universities combine traditional education systems with modern, technology-driven medical training.

• Affordable Education: Public medical universities in Iran have low tuition fees compared to popular destinations like the USA, UK, and even some Asian countries.

• NMC & WHO Recognition: Iranian medical universities are WDOMS-listed, fulfilling eligibility requirements for FMGE/NExT in India and global licensing exams like USMLE or PLAB.

• Strong Clinical Exposure: Iran’s healthcare system is advanced, providing students with training in large, well-established teaching hospitals with a high patient load.

• Scholarship Opportunities: Top universities such as Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS) and Shiraz University of Medical Sciences offer merit-based scholarships, reducing tuition costs further.

• Cultural Affinity: Iran’s culture shares similarities with Indian traditions, making adaptation easier for Indian students.

Recognition and Global Value of Iranian MBBS Degrees

Iranian MBBS programs are widely recognized due to their strong academic curriculum and regulatory approvals. All major public medical universities are listed in WDOMS, allowing students to apply for licensing exams globally. The National Medical Commission (NMC) in India accepts these degrees, provided students meet its FMGL Regulations 2021:

1. The degree should be obtained from a recognized medical university.

2. The course duration must be at least 54 months with an additional 12 months of internship.

3. The student should be eligible to practice medicine in the awarding country (Iran).

4. Students must qualify NEET-UG before joining.

Iran’s curriculum and program structure meet these requirements, making it a reliable choice for Indian students who plan to return to India for medical practice.

Course Structure and Medium of Instruction

Medical education in Iran is designed as a 7-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, equivalent to MBBS in India:

1. Pre-Medical Phase (1 year): Basic science courses, introductory medicine, and language training.

2. Pre-Clinical Phase (2 years): Intensive study of anatomy, physiology, pathology, microbiology, and pharmacology.

3. Clinical Phase (3 years): Hands-on rotations in medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics-gynecology, psychiatry, and community medicine.

4. Internship (1 year): Mandatory supervised training in affiliated hospitals.

While many universities offer English-medium instruction in the initial years, students are expected to learn Persian for clinical interactions starting from the third year. Persian language classes are often included in the curriculum to ensure effective communication with patients.

Top Medical Universities in Iran for International Students

Most of these universities are government-run, ensuring excellent infrastructure, advanced laboratories, and a strong research ecosystem.

Tuition Fees, Scholarships, and Living Costs

Iran is one of the most affordable destinations for studying MBBS abroad.

Tuition Fees

• Average tuition fees range between USD 5,000 – 8,000 per year, depending on the university and scholarships.

• Merit-based tuition discounts are available for high-performing students.

• Overall cost of completing MBBS in Iran ranges from USD 35,000 – 50,000 (₹29 – ₹42 lakhs).

Scholarships

• TUMS Scholarship: Covers partial tuition or dormitory fees based on academic performance.

• SUMS Merit Awards: Discounts for high-achieving students.

• Government scholarships are also available for students from certain countries.

Living Expenses

• Accommodation: Dormitory facilities cost USD 600 – 1,200/year, while private apartments range from USD 100 – 200/month.

• Food: Around USD 100/month for self-cooking or mess facilities.

• Transport & Miscellaneous: USD 30–50 per month.
  Iran’s currency exchange rate is favorable for Indian students, further reducing living expenses.

Eligibility Criteria and Admission Process

Indian students applying for MBBS in Iran must meet the following requirements:

1. Academic Qualifications: Minimum 50% marks in PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) in 10+2 (40% for SC/ST/OBC).

2. NEET Qualification: Mandatory for all Indian students planning to study medicine abroad.

3. Age Requirement: Minimum age is 17 years at the time of admission.

4. Language Proficiency: No mandatory IELTS/TOEFL for undergraduate medical programs; however, students must learn Persian for clinical training.

Admission Process:

• Step 1: Choose a WDOMS-listed Iranian university.

• Step 2: Submit application with passport, academic transcripts, and NEET scorecard.

• Step 3: Receive admission confirmation and pay the first-year tuition fee.

• Step 4: Apply for a student visa with the acceptance letter.

• Step 5: Travel to Iran and begin orientation classes, including Persian language training.

Career Prospects After MBBS in Iran

Graduates of Iranian medical universities have multiple career options:

• Practice in India: Pass FMGE/NExT and complete internship to obtain a medical license in India.

• Postgraduate Specialization: Eligible to pursue PG medical education in India (NEET-PG) or abroad (USMLE, PLAB, AMC, etc.).

• Global Opportunities: Iranian degrees open doors to clinical practice in several countries, provided you meet local licensing requirements.

• Research and Academia: Iran is known for medical research; students interested in this field have access to advanced labs and opportunities.

Student Life in Iran

Iran provides a safe and welcoming environment for international students. Universities offer well-furnished dormitories, affordable meals, cultural clubs, and regular guidance sessions for foreign students. With its rich culture, historic cities, and friendly locals, Iran ensures a smooth transition for Indian students.

Conclusion

Pursuing MBBS in Iran is an excellent opportunity for Indian students looking for affordable, globally recognized medical education. With low tuition fees, advanced teaching hospitals, scholarships, and WDOMS recognition, Iran’s universities are becoming increasingly popular among Indian aspirants. Students gain exposure to high-quality academics and clinical training while keeping costs manageable. By ensuring NEET qualification and following NMC guidelines, graduates from Iran can successfully return to India, clear FMGE/NExT, and build rewarding careers in medicine.