Limited Seats and Rising Competition
India’s medical colleges are facing a severe shortage of seats, despite the government’s plan to create 10,000 additional seats next fiscal year. Currently, the country has 100,000 medical seats, but the growing number of aspirants has intensified competition. As a result, many students are preparing backup plans to achieve their medical aspirations.
Growing Interest in Studying Abroad
With limited government seats, many students are looking at overseas medical colleges as a viable alternative. According to test prep and study abroad consultants, the number of students opting for foreign institutions is expected to rise this year. Countries such as Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, and Bangladesh remain popular choices. Additionally, students are considering China, Italy, Germany, Poland, and Romania for affordable medical education with modern infrastructure.
Alternative Medical Courses in India
Some students are also exploring alternative courses within India, such as homeopathy, Ayurveda, physiotherapy, and dentistry. However, an MBBS degree from a government college in India remains the most coveted option due to its affordability and credibility.
Cost Factor in Choosing Medical Education
As reported by economictimes, government medical colleges in India charge as little as ₹10,000 annually, with AIIMS offering even lower fees. In contrast, private medical education can cost over ₹1 crore for the entire course. This stark difference in cost is a major factor driving students to explore international options.
NEET UG Registrations on the Rise
In 2024, approximately 2.5 million students registered for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) for undergraduate medical admissions, and experts predict an increase in 2025. The National Testing Agency (NTA) will soon open the registration process for NEET UG 2025, further highlighting the intense demand for medical seats.
Increasing Overseas Enrollments
Every year, around 30,000 to 40,000 Indian students enroll in foreign medical colleges due to the limited number of available seats in India. Countries like the US, UK, and Germany are also becoming attractive options due to their quality education and affordability.
Exploring Other Health Science Courses
With fierce competition and limited availability, students are increasingly considering alternative health science courses to pursue careers in the medical field, according to Parijat Mishra, head of career counseling at Allen.
The demand for medical education continues to rise, making it crucial for students to explore multiple pathways to achieve their dreams.