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Written by Mumtaj Khan
Nov 04, 2025

MBBS Abroad vs BAMS in India: Which is Better?

Choosing the right medical course after class 12th is one of the most important decisions in a student’s life. Every year, thousands of Indian students face a crucial question — should I pursue MBBS abroad or BAMS in India? Both paths lead to careers in medicine, but they differ in their systems, opportunities, and career growth.

This detailed comparison will help you understand the key differences between MBBS abroad and BAMS in India, including course structure, eligibility, fees, recognition, job opportunities, and long-term prospects. Let’s explore which option suits you better.

What is MBBS Abroad?

MBBS Abroad means pursuing the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degree from a foreign medical university. Many Indian students choose to study MBBS abroad because the number of MBBS seats in India is limited, and private colleges often charge very high fees.

Countries like Russia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Georgia, the Philippines, and Nepal offer affordable and globally recognized MBBS programs. The duration of the course is usually 5 to 6 years, including internship.

Students who study MBBS abroad learn modern allopathic medicine — including anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and clinical practice. After completion, students can either work abroad or return to India and appear for the National Exit Test (NExT) or FMGE to obtain a license to practice.

What is BAMS in India?

BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) is an undergraduate medical course based on the ancient Indian system of medicine — Ayurveda. The duration of the course is 5.5 years, which includes 4.5 years of academic study and 1 year of internship.

BAMS focuses on holistic healing using natural herbs, diet, lifestyle, and Ayurvedic therapies. The course also covers some aspects of modern medical science like anatomy and physiology, but the main focus remains on Ayurveda.

After completing BAMS, graduates can practice as Ayurvedic doctors in India, open their own clinics, work in Ayurvedic hospitals, join wellness centers, or pursue postgraduate studies in Ayurveda (MD Ayurveda).

Eligibility Criteria

Let’s compare the basic eligibility for both courses.

MBBS Abroad

  • The student must complete 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as main subjects.
  • Minimum 50% aggregate marks in PCB.
  • Must qualify NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) to be eligible to study MBBS abroad.
  • Minimum age: 17 years at the time of admission.
  • Must meet the admission criteria of the chosen foreign university.

BAMS in India

  • The student must complete 10+2 with PCB subjects.
  • Minimum 50% aggregate marks (varies by state).
  • NEET qualification is mandatory for admission to BAMS in India.
  • Minimum age: 17 years.

Duration and Course Structure

MBBS Abroad

  • Duration: 5 to 6 years depending on the country.
  • Includes one year of compulsory internship.
  • Curriculum: Basic sciences, clinical medicine, surgery, pharmacology, pathology, pediatrics, gynecology, and internal medicine.
  • Focus: Modern allopathic medical practice.

BAMS in India

  • Duration: 5.5 years (4.5 years study + 1 year internship).
  • Curriculum: Ayurvedic principles, herbal pharmacology, Panchakarma, anatomy, physiology, and preventive medicine.
  • Focus: Holistic healing, natural therapies, herbal treatment, and preventive healthcare.

Course Fees Comparison

MBBS Abroad

  • Tuition fees vary by country and university.
  • On average, total cost ranges between ₹25 to ₹60 lakhs including tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
  • Some countries offer affordable MBBS programs with high-quality education.
  • Still, overall expenses are higher than studying BAMS in India. 

BAMS in India

  • The total cost for BAMS in government colleges is around ₹2 to ₹5 lakhs.
  • In private Ayurvedic colleges, the fees may range between ₹8 to ₹15 lakhs for the full course.
  • Living expenses are lower as you study within India.

Recognition and Licensing

MBBS Abroad

  • Students must ensure the university they choose is recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC) and listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS).
  • After completing MBBS abroad, students who wish to practice in India must clear the FMGE/NExT examination.
  • Once licensed, they can practice as doctors in India or pursue higher education (MD/MS).

BAMS in India

  • BAMS is recognized by the Ministry of AYUSH and National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM).
  • Graduates can register under the State or Central Council of Indian Medicine to practice as Ayurvedic doctors.
  • Recognition outside India is limited to wellness and alternative therapy roles.

Career Opportunities After MBBS Abroad

Students completing MBBS abroad can choose multiple career paths:

  1. Practise in India – After clearing NExT or FMGE.
  2. Pursue MD/MS in India – Specialise in a medical field.
  3. Work Abroad – After clearing licensing exams of that country (like USMLE, PLAB, etc.).
  4. Research or Teaching – Join universities or research institutions.
  5. Hospital Administration or Public Health – Work in government or private sectors.

MBBS abroad graduates can expect high earning potential after specialization or international practice.

Career Opportunities After BAMS in India

BAMS graduates have diverse opportunities in the AYUSH sector:

  1. Private Practice – Open an Ayurvedic clinic or Panchakarma center.
  2. Ayurveda Hospitals – Work as Ayurvedic physicians.
  3. Research and Teaching – Pursue MD in Ayurveda or join teaching institutes.
  4. Wellness Industry – Join spas, resorts, and wellness centers in India or abroad.
  5. Government Jobs – Work under the Ministry of AYUSH or state-level health departments.
  6. Ayurvedic Product Industry – Join pharmaceutical or herbal medicine companies.

Although the average salary starts modestly, with experience and specialization, BAMS doctors can earn well, especially in the private wellness sector.

Salary Comparison

Career Stage

MBBS Abroad (After Licensing)

BAMS in India

Starting Salary₹50,000 – ₹1 lakh/month₹25,000 – ₹50,000/month
Mid-Level₹1.5 – ₹3 lakhs/month₹60,000 – ₹1 lakh/month
Senior / Specialist₹5 – ₹10 lakhs/month or more₹1.5 – ₹3 lakhs/month (private practice)

Pros and Cons of MBBS Abroad

Pros

  • International exposure and advanced medical infrastructure.
  • Recognized degree (if from approved universities).
  • Opportunity to specialize abroad.
  • Global career opportunities.
  • High earning potential after licensing.

Cons

  • High cost of education and living.
  • Licensing exams required to practice in India.
  • Adapting to a new language and culture.
  • Distance from family and home country.

Pros and Cons of BAMS in India

Pros

  • Affordable fees compared to MBBS abroad.
  • Recognized and respected within India.
  • Growing demand for Ayurvedic treatments globally.
  • Can start private practice early.
  • Government support through AYUSH programs.

Cons

  • Limited global recognition.
  • Lower initial salary compared to MBBS doctors.
  • Career growth depends on experience and reputation.
  • Focus restricted to Ayurvedic system only.

MBBS Abroad vs BAMS in India: A Quick Comparison Table

Factor

MBBS Abroad

BAMS in India

Course Duration5–6 Years5.5 Years
System of MedicineModern AllopathicTraditional Ayurvedic
Eligibility10+2 PCB + NEET10+2 PCB + NEET
Total Cost₹25–₹60 Lakhs₹2–₹15 Lakhs
Global RecognitionHigh (if NMC approved)Limited
Practise in IndiaAfter FMGE/NExTDirect under AYUSH
Career ScopeBroad (Clinical, Research, Global)Ayurveda, Wellness, Herbal Industry
Salary PotentialHigher after specializationModerate to good
Best forStudents aiming for modern medicineStudents passionate about Ayurveda

Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between MBBS abroad and BAMS in India depends on your goals and mindset.

  • If you dream of becoming a modern doctor, working in hospitals, performing surgeries, and practicing globally — MBBS abroad is the better choice.
  • If you believe in natural medicine, holistic healing, and want to promote traditional Indian medicine — BAMS in India is a meaningful career path.
  • Students with a strong financial background and readiness for global exposure should consider MBBS abroad.
  • Students who prefer affordable education with good stability in India can choose BAMS.

Remember — both paths can lead to successful medical careers if pursued with dedication.

Expert Opinion

Career counselors often advise that there is no universal “better” option; it depends on your interest, budget, and long-term goals.
If your aim is to practice allopathic medicine and specialize, MBBS abroad offers more global flexibility.
If your passion lies in Ayurveda, wellness, and preventive care, BAMS offers growing opportunities in India’s AYUSH sector.

Conclusion

Both MBBS abroad and BAMS in India are respected medical career options.

  • MBBS abroad gives you international exposure, modern medical training, and high earning potential but comes with higher costs and licensing challenges.
  • BAMS in India offers affordable education, government recognition, and growing demand in Ayurvedic and wellness industries.

Frequently Asked Questions

👉 If you dream of becoming a doctor with global recognition and better infrastructure, MBBS Abroad is the best choice. But if you’re interested in Ayurveda, traditional healing, and want to settle in India, BAMS can be more suitable.
👉 MBBS Abroad usually takes 5 to 6 years, depending on the country, while BAMS in India takes 5.5 years including internship.
👉 The total cost of MBBS Abroad ranges from ₹20–45 lakhs, whereas BAMS in India costs around ₹2–10 lakhs (depending on college type).
MBBS graduates (after clearing NExT/FMGE) can work as doctors in India or abroad. BAMS graduates can work as Ayurvedic doctors, researchers, or open their own clinics. MBBS, however, offers a wider global scope.