Studying medicine in the United States is a dream for many aspiring doctors around the world. The U.S. is home to some of the most prestigious and advanced medical colleges in the world, offering top-quality education, global recognition, and outstanding research opportunities. However, unlike many other countries, the U.S. does not offer a direct MBBS degree — instead, students pursue an MD (Doctor of Medicine) program, which is equivalent to MBBS.
This article explains in detail how to get admission in MBBS in USA, including eligibility criteria, admission process, fees, entrance exams, and visa guidelines for international students.
Understanding MBBS vs MD in USA
In the USA, there is no undergraduate MBBS degree. Instead, students complete:
- A 4-year bachelor’s degree (pre-medical course) in biology, chemistry, or a related field.
- Followed by a 4-year MD (Doctor of Medicine) program.
So, to become a doctor in the U.S., you typically study for 8 years (4 years undergraduate + 4 years MD).
Why Study MBBS (MD) in USA
- Globally Recognized Degree: U.S. medical degrees are accepted worldwide.
- Advanced Curriculum: Focus on research, clinical exposure, and technology-based learning.
- High Earning Potential: Doctors in the U.S. are among the highest-paid professionals.
- Post-Graduation Opportunities: Access to global job markets and U.S. residency programs.
- No Donation System: Admission is purely merit-based.
Top Medical Universities in USA for MBBS (MD)
| University Name | Location | World Ranking 2025 | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard Medical School | Massachusetts | #1 | Private |
| Johns Hopkins University | Maryland | #2 | Private |
| Stanford University School of Medicine | California | #3 | Private |
| University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) | California | #4 | Public |
| Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine | Minnesota | #5 | Private |
| Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians | New York | #6 | Private |
| Yale School of Medicine | Connecticut | #7 | Private |
| University of Chicago (Pritzker) | Illinois | #8 | Private |
| Duke University School of Medicine | North Carolina | #9 | Private |
| University of Pennsylvania (Perelman) | Pennsylvania | #10 | Private |
Eligibility Criteria for MBBS (MD) in USA
International students must meet the following requirements to apply for medical school in the United States:
- Academic Qualification:
- 10+2 or equivalent with Biology, Chemistry, Physics.
- Bachelor’s degree in pre-medical or life sciences (4 years).
- Entrance Exam:
- MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) – mandatory for all medical schools.
- English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS (7.0+) or TOEFL (90+) for non-native English speakers.
- Documents Required:
- Academic transcripts (high school + bachelor’s degree).
- Statement of Purpose (SOP).
- Letters of Recommendation (LOR).
- Valid Passport and Resume.
- Proof of Funds (Bank Statement).
Admission Process for MBBS (MD) in USA
Here is the step-by-step process to get admission to medical schools in the USA:
Step 1: Choose a Pre-Medical Program
Before applying for MD, students must complete a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in biology, chemistry, or pre-medical sciences.
Step 2: Take the MCAT Exam
Register for the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) and score well — most top universities require 510+ out of 528.
Step 3: Apply Through AMCAS
Apply online via the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS), which is a centralized portal for most U.S. medical schools.
Step 4: Submit Documents
Upload your SOP, LORs, transcripts, MCAT scores, and English proficiency results.
Step 5: Attend Interview
Shortlisted candidates are invited for online or in-person interviews.
Step 6: Receive Offer Letter
If selected, you’ll receive an admission offer from the university.
Step 7: Apply for Student Visa
Apply for a U.S. F-1 Student Visa with your offer letter and financial documents.
Duration of MBBS (MD) Course in USA
- Pre-Medical (Bachelor’s degree): 4 years
- MD Program: 4 years
- Residency/Internship: 3–7 years (depending on specialization)
Total duration: 11–12 years (including residency training)
Fee Structure for MBBS in USA
| Course | Annual Tuition Fee (USD) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Medical (Undergraduate) | $25,000 – $45,000 | 4 years |
| MD (Doctor of Medicine) | $35,000 – $70,000 | 4 years |
Total Estimated Cost: $200,000 – $350,000 (₹1.6 – ₹2.8 crore approximately)
Note: Living expenses ($10,000–$20,000 per year) are separate.
Scholarships for International Students
Many U.S. universities and organizations offer scholarships for international medical students:
| Scholarship Name | Provided By | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Fulbright Foreign Student Program | U.S. Government | Full/Partial Tuition + Living Cost |
| AAUW International Fellowships | American Association of University Women | $18,000–$30,000 |
| Harvard Medical Scholarships | Harvard University | Up to 100% Tuition |
| Stanford Medical Scholarship | Stanford University | Partial Tuition Waiver |
| Global Health Fellowship | Various NGOs | Research & Internship Funding |
Visa Process for MBBS Students
Step 1: Get I-20 Form
After admission, the university sends the I-20 form (Certificate of Eligibility for Student Visa).
Step 2: Pay SEVIS Fee
Pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee online.
Step 3: Apply for F-1 Visa
Fill out the DS-160 visa form and schedule an interview at the U.S. Embassy.
Step 4: Visa Interview
Carry your I-20 form, passport, offer letter, financial proof, and SEVIS receipt.
Once approved, you will get your F-1 Student Visa to study in the USA.
Top Medical Specializations in USA
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Surgery (General & Robotic)
- Pediatrics
- Psychiatry
- Dermatology
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Orthopedics
- Internal Medicine
Career Opportunities After MBBS (MD) in USA
After completing the MD program and residency, you can work in:
- Hospitals and Clinics
- Research Laboratories
- Medical Colleges
- Pharmaceutical Companies
- Public Health Organizations
Average Salary:
- General Physician: $200,000 – $250,000 per year
- Surgeon: $300,000 – $500,000 per year
- Specialist Doctors: $400,000+ per year
Conclusion
Pursuing MBBS in USA (MD program) is a rewarding but challenging journey. With world-class education, modern research facilities, and global recognition, U.S. medical schools are the best choice for students aspiring to become successful doctors.
Although the process involves years of study and significant financial investment, the outcome is worth it — a medical degree from the USA is respected across the globe and opens opportunities in top healthcare systems worldwide.
If you are determined, academically strong, and ready for hard work, studying MBBS in the USA in 2025 could be the best decision for your medical career.