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Written by Mumtaj Khan
Sep 15, 2025

MBChB vs MBBS: Key Differences, Similarities & Which Medical Degree is Better?

When students think about becoming doctors, one common confusion is the difference between MBChB and MBBS degrees. Both are undergraduate medical degrees awarded in different countries, but the goal, eligibility, and recognition are largely the same. If you’re planning to study medicine abroad or in India, understanding the difference between MBChB and MBBS is very important.

✅ What is MBBS?

  • MBBS stands for Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery.
  • It is the most common undergraduate medical degree in countries like India, UK, Pakistan, China, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, and many Commonwealth nations.
  • Duration: Usually 5.5 to 6 years, including a 1-year internship/clinical rotation.
  • After MBBS, graduates can pursue postgraduate specialization (MD/MS) or practice medicine after passing licensing exams like NExT (India), PLAB (UK), USMLE (USA), etc.

✅ What is MBChB?

  • MBChB stands for Medicinae Baccalaureus, Baccalaureus Chirurgiae (Latin), which translates to Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery.
  • It is essentially the same as MBBS, but the term MBChB is commonly used in countries like South Africa, New Zealand, Scotland, and some UK universities.
  • Duration: Around 5 to 6 years, including clinical rotations.
  • MBChB graduates also need to clear licensing exams (e.g., PLAB, USMLE, AMC, HPCSA) depending on where they want to practice.

🔑 Key Differences Between MBChB and MBBS

Feature

MBBS

MBChB

Full FormBachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of SurgeryMedicinae Baccalaureus, Baccalaureus Chirurgiae
Common CountriesIndia, China, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, UK (some unis)South Africa, New Zealand, Scotland, some UK universities
Duration5.5 – 6 years (with internship)5 – 6 years (with clinical rotations)
CurriculumBasic medical sciences + clinical trainingSame structure, just different terminology
RecognitionWidely recognized globallyWidely recognized globally
Licensing ExamsNExT, PLAB, USMLE, FMGE, etc.PLAB, USMLE, HPCSA, AMC, etc.

✅ Similarities Between MBChB and MBBS

  1. Same Degree Value – Both are undergraduate medical degrees.
  2. Course Duration – Typically 5 to 6 years.
  3. Curriculum – Covers anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, medicine, surgery, pediatrics, gynecology, psychiatry, etc.
  4. Career Path – Graduates can practice medicine or pursue postgraduate studies.
  5. Global Recognition – Both are accepted worldwide after clearing local licensing exams.

⚖️ Which is Better: MBChB or MBBS?

  • There is no real difference in academic value — both degrees are equivalent.
  • The choice depends on:
    • Country preference (India & Asia: MBBS | South Africa/Scotland: MBChB).
    • Licensing path (choose a country where you plan to practice).
  • If you want to work in India, MBBS (from India or abroad with NMC approval) is more straightforward.
  • If you’re studying in South Africa or New Zealand, you will earn an MBChB — equally valid globally.

🌍 Global Acceptance of MBBS & MBChB

Both MBBS and MBChB graduates can appear for:

  • USMLE (USA)
  • PLAB (UK)
  • AMC (Australia)
  • NExT (India)
  • FMGE (for foreign graduates in India)

Hence, the degree title doesn’t matter, but the country of study, accreditation, and university recognition do.

🎯 Conclusion

  • MBBS and MBChB are the same degree with different names.
  • Both prepare students to become qualified doctors.
  • The best choice depends on the country you wish to study in and the licensing exam you plan to take.
  • For Indian students, MBBS (India or NMC-approved abroad) is ideal. For international exposure, MBChB is equally respected.

🌟 About Ensure Education Consultancy

Ensure Education Consultancy is one of the best MBBS abroad consultancies in India, trusted by thousands of students and parents for transparent and reliable guidance. With years of expertise, we specialize in helping students secure admissions to top medical universities abroad in countries like Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Armenia, and Georgia.

We provide end-to-end support for:

  • MBBS Abroad Admission Guidance 2025–26
  • University Selection (NMC approved, WHO listed, globally recognized)
  • Application & Documentation Support
  • Visa Assistance
  • Travel & Accommodation Support
  • Post-admission Services (till graduation)

✅ Why Choose Ensure Education?

  • 100% transparent process, no hidden charges
  • Direct tie-ups with top universities
  • Personalized counselling for every student
  • Expert guidance for NEET-UG qualified students
  • Complete support till you become a doctor

📞 Contact Ensure Education: +91-6367176770
🎥 Watch student reviews & guidance videos on our official YouTube Channel: Ensure Medical Education

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Frequently Asked Questions

👉 MBBS means Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, while MBChB means Medicinae Baccalaureus, Baccalaureus Chirurgiae (Latin for the same degree).
👉 Yes, both are undergraduate medical degrees with different names used in different countries.
👉 MBChB is commonly awarded in South Africa, Scotland, and New Zealand, while MBBS is common in India, Asia, and other Commonwealth countries.
👉 Both are equivalent and globally recognized. The choice depends on the country you wish to study and practice medicine in.
👉 Yes, both degrees are accepted worldwide, provided graduates clear licensing exams like USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), AMC (Australia), NExT/FMGE (India).
👉 Both MBChB and MBBS take around 5–6 years, including clinical rotations or internship.
👉 Ensure Education provides MBBS abroad guidance, admission support, university selection, visa assistance, and complete counselling for students.
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