Hidden Costs of Study MBBS Abroad & How to Save Money 

Taking the first step towards becoming a doctor is a great ambition, and for aspiring Indian students being able to pursue an MBBS abroad is an exciting prospect. The lure of reputable universities, diverse learning experiences, and potentially lower tuition fees can be tempting. Yet, beyond the stated tuition fee and accommodation fees you will pay to a university, is a network of hidden costs of studying MBBS abroad which could impact your planned budget. At Medical Admission Hub, we’re conscious of the financial implications to pursue medical education overseas, and we want to highlight these often hidden costs of studying MBBS abroad, and how to save on one of the most expensive journeys of your life – to study MBBS abroad.

When selecting the best country to study MBBS for Indian students, hierarchy of thoughts must include consideration of not only the curriculum of studies and recognition of your application, but the overall cost of living and studying abroad. Although some countries may have lower tuition costs, the hidden costs of studying MBBS abroad can wipe out these savings. Additionally, when you find the best country to study MBBS for Indian students it is also key to understanding the visa processes, language considerations, and the related support for international students that could indirectly lead to vertical increase expenses.

Many students will look only at tuition fees when exploring study MBBS abroad options. However, that is only the tip of the iceberg. Let’s explore some of the biggest hidden costs associated with studying MBBS abroad that you need to consider:

Pre-Departure Expenses:

• Application Fees: It is usually advised to apply to multiple universities to increase your chances of acceptance, and each application comes with a non-refundable fee, and it can add up quickly.
• Entrance Exam Fee: Depending on the country and university you are applying to, you might need to sit for entrance exams such as NEET-UG (if applicable for eligibility), university-specific entrance exams, or language exams (such as IELTS or TOEFL). These entrance exams can come with registration costs and preparation costs.
• Visa Fees: For the student visa, you will need to apply and pay application fees. You may also have to pay for transportation to any visa interview or, in some cases, pay for a translation of official documents and then notarizing those documents.
• Travel Costs: The greatest expense will be the cost of your first flight ticket to study destination. You would need to incorporate this in your budget.
• Medical Check and Vaccinations: Many countries will require that you receive specific medical check-ups and vaccines before they issue you a student visa or allow you to attend university. This will add costs to your expenses before departing.
• Education Consultants Fees: Overseas MBBS Education Consultants like Medical Admission Hub, do provide a very useful service; however, the consultant fees are often a pre-departure cost to think about. Though the expertise offered by education consultants can save you time and money by helping you come to conclusions informed by data/research/experienced professionals.

On-Arrival and Living Expenses:

• Accommodation Deposits: In order to secure accommodation, many landlords may ask for a security deposit. Security deposits may be in the order of one month and two months rent.
• Essential Start-up Costs: Once you arrive you will want to purchase essential items for living, such as bedding, kitchen items, and other basic necessities. 
• Living Expenses: This is an extensive category which includes rent, utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet), grocery, transportation costs, and personal expenses. The cost of living of your chosen country and city can vary immensely.
• Health Insurance: Health insurance may be mandatory for international students who want to study MBBS abroad in most countries, and it is likely that there are recurring monthly premiums.
• Textbooks and Study Materials: Medical textbooks can be very expensive. Some universities may grant access to universities’ libraries where you may be able to use books for free, but you may still need to purchase books or online study resources.
• Transportation: Your transportation costs will depend on the location of your university and the location of your accommodation. Commuting costs can quickly add up.
• Visa Renewal: The student visa is valid for a period and students can expect to incur renewal expenses on an ongoing basis if they want to stay abroad.

Post-Graduation Expenses:

• Return travel costs: Once you have completed your MBBS abroad, you will have to consider the budget for your return trip.
• Degree attestation and verification: Depending on what you plan to do in the future, you might want to get your degree attested or verified. This usually has a fee taken into consideration.  
• Now that we have identified the various hidden costs of studying MBBS abroad, let’s take a look at some practical ways to save money.
  
  

Smart says to save money while studying MBBS abroad:

• Do your research: Spend some time researching the best country for MBBS for Indian students and the best country to study MBBS for Indian students based on your learning requirements and budget. You can compare not only the overall cost to study MBBS abroad, but also the living expenses of those countries.
• Scholarships and Financial Aid: Make sure you are looking for scholarships and financial aid for international medical students. There are some scholarships for international students that are given out on the basis of merit, and some scholarships are based on financial need. Medical Admission Hub can provide useful information on funding sources.
• Early Application: Sometimes applying early instead can save you money if the application fee is lower or give you a better chance of receiving some scholarships. 
• Consider Affordable Housing: There are different affordable housing options to consider, like university dormitories, shared accommodations, or homestays (which are also typically more affordable than private accommodation).
• Open a Local Bank Account: A local bank account may help you avoid paying transaction fees each time you make an international transfer or withdrawal.
• Seek Guidance from Experienced Consultants: Overseas MBBS Education Consultants will be able to show you MBBS study costs in various countries if through Medical Admission Hub. They can assist you with the financial work of studying MBBS abroad; and suggest ways to save money while studying.

To study MBBS abroad is a major commitment academically and financially. Knowing the potential extra costs of studying MBBS abroad and implementing smart saving measures will help to make your path towards becoming a doctor a reality that is financially feasible. Medical Admission Hub aims to support aspiring Medical students and give you help in every step of your journey, from which is the best country to study MBBS for Indian students to understanding the money aspect of overseas MBBS education. Contact Infos Connect Study Abroad, the best overseas MBBS education consultants to discover more about how we can help you in your journey to get the best possible medical education abroad.