Why Choose the Philippines for MBBS: Pros and Cons

Studying MBBS in the Philippines means having choices to choose your preferred university from the list of 38 MCI-approved medical universities, INR 15 lakh of affordable fees, and a high-quality education system with 6 6-year programme structure. 

Statistics show that in the year 2022, over 50 thousand students appeared in the FMGE exam, and out of these, over 8 thousand students chose the Philippines to complete their studies in MBBS from India. Over 10000 medical students of India are ranked third in the list of English-speaking countries. The Philippines is one of the great choices for students who want to build a career in the medical industry. 

You could be the one from this community, all you need is to gain knowledge about the top university of the Philippines for MBBS, courses offered, fee structure, cost of living and eligibility criteria. We are here to help you with this, and we are sharing all the relevant information you need in one place to make your dream of learning MBBS in the Philippines true. So, let’s get started!

Quick Recap: Pros & Cons Highlights

Here is a quick recap of the pros and cons to study MBBS in Philippines:

MBBS in the Philippines Studying of Pros

The following are the benefits of choosing the MBBS in Philippines:

English-Medium Education: 

• The Philippines is the third-largest English-speaking country in the world. All medical courses, including MBBS, are taught in English. 

• English-medium instruction helps Indian students break language barriers. It makes it easier for them to understand lectures and interact with patients during clinical rotations.

Affordable Tuition Fees and Cost of Living:

• The tuition fees in Philippine medical universities are lower than those in private medical colleges in India and many Western countries like the UK and the USA.

• The total cost for the entire MBBS program typically ranges from INR 10 to 30 lakhs. Additionally, the cost of living is relatively low. 

No Donation or Capitation Fees: 

• Candidates interested in securing admission in medical universities in the Philippines do not have to pay hefty donations or capitation fees for admission, unlike many private colleges in India.  

Globally Recognized Degrees: 

• Many medical universities in the Philippines are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India, and other international medical bodies. 

• This recognition allows graduates to pursue further studies or practice medicine in various countries after they clear the local licensing exams.

US-Based Curriculum: 

• The medical curriculum in the Philippines follows the US pattern to focus more on problem-based learning, clinical exposure, and prepares students for international exams like the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination). 

• Also, graduates from Philippine medical schools have a good track record of clearing the USMLE and pursuing postgraduate studies or medical practice in the United States.

High Literacy Rate and Safe Environment: 

• The Philippines has a high literacy rate of around 94%, which ensures a generally educated and welcoming population. 

• The country is considered safe for international students, with a friendly and hospitable culture. 

Cultural Similarity and Food Availability: 

• The culture of the Philippines is very similar to India, including family values and festival celebrations. 

• Some universities also provide their students with Indian mess food, making it easier for Indian students to adapt.

Good Clinical Exposure in Some Universities: 

• Some medical colleges in the Philippines are attached to large hospitals, offering students opportunities for hands-on clinical training and interaction with patients.

MBBS in the Philippines Studying of Cons 

Below are the disadvantages of studying MBBS in Philippines:

Admission Process: Pre-Medical (BS) Requirement and NMAT: 

• Indian students cannot directly enroll in the MD (equivalent to MBBS) program after the 12th class in the Philippines. 
• Instead, they are required first to complete a pre-medical course (BS) of 1.5 to 2 years, followed by the National Medical Admission Test (NMAT). Students can enter the MD program only after clearing the NMAT.. Not only this, but if a student fails to clear the NMAT, they may not be able to proceed to the medical course, resulting in a loss of time and money.

Longer Duration: 

• The total duration to complete an MBBS (MD) course in the Philippines is around 6.5 to 7.5 years, which includes the BS course and the MD program.
• In other words, the MBBS duration in the Philippines is longer compared to many other countries, where MBBS takes 5 to 6 years.

Recognition Issues in India: 

• Currently, most medical degrees from the Philippines are not recognized for practice in India, as per recent guidelines by the National Medical Commission of India.

• Graduates may not be eligible to appear for the FMGE Exam, which is compulsory for practicing medicine in India. 

Limited Clinical Exposure in Starting Years: 

• Students in many Philippine medical schools gain limited clinical exposure in their first 3 years of study.

• Students get hands-on clinical training only in the fourth year. Hence, they may not provide sufficient real-life experience with patients and diseases.

Quality of Degree Differ Across Universities: 

• The quality of education, infrastructure, and clinical training can differ between different universities. 

• Not all medical colleges in the Philippines offer the same standard of teaching or hospital attachments. Hence, students should carefully research and choose reputed, accredited institutions.

Climatic and Cultural Adjustments: 

• The Philippines has a tropical climate, which may be challenging for some students to adapt to.  

Accommodation and Food Challenges:

• All colleges in the Philippines don't provide hostel facilities.
• Students may have to arrange private accommodation, which can be inconvenient or expensive in some cities.

Visa and Documentation Issues: 

• The visa process for studying in the Philippines is lengthy and involves additional fees. Students also need to have all the required documents, including eligibility certificates from the MCI, etc.

Important Considerations Before Choosing the Philippines for MBBS

Here are some key factors to consider for selecting the best medical university in the Philippines:

• Check if the university is recognized by international bodies and has a good track record for clinical training and graduate success.

• If you plan to return to India, verify the current status of degree recognition and eligibility for FMGE.

• Understand the time and expenses for the pre-medical course, NMAT, and the MD program.

• Choose universities with strong hospital attachments and robust clinical exposure.

• Prepare yourself to adapt to a new environment, lifestyle, and weather.

• Check if the university provides hostels and if Indian food is accessible nearby.

In conclusion, the MBBS in Philippines for Indian students offers several advantages for those seeking an affordable, English-medium medical education with a US-based curriculum. It is best for those aiming to pursue further studies or practice medicine in countries like the US. However, recent changes in Indian regulations and the need for a pre-medical course, along with variable clinical exposure and university standards, are not favorable for Indian students.

Hence, before making any decision, candidates should research their chosen university, stay updated on recognition and licensing requirements in India. They also need to be prepared for the challenges of living and studying abroad.