MBBS in USA 2025: Top Medical Colleges, Fees, Eligibility & Admission Guide
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If you’ve always wanted to become a doctor and are thinking about studying in the USA, you’re on the right path! But here’s something important to know —the USA doesn’t offer MBBS straight after high school like some other countries. It may sound like a long journey, but the rewards are big. You’ll get to study at top universities like Harvard, Stanford, and Johns Hopkins, train in some of the best hospitals in the world and earn a great salary—$150,000 or more per year.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about MBBS in the USA in 2025—from how the system works and which colleges to apply to, to the costs, admission steps, and how to find safe and budget-friendly housing. Let’s get started!
MBBS in USA: Quick Overview
The U.S. is one of the best places in the world to become a doctor. But unlike countries like India or the UK, you can’t start MBBS right after high school here. Studying MBBS in the USA is slightly different from countries like India or the UK. In the U.S., there is no direct undergraduate MBBS program. Instead, students must first complete a 4-year bachelor’s degree (pre-med), followed by a 4-year MD (Doctor of Medicine) program. This makes the total duration of MBBS in the USA around 8 years, but the benefits are worth it: strong academic and clinical training, advanced research opportunities, and high-paying jobs post-graduation. Below is a quick overview of MBBS in the USA:
| Category | Details (2025) |
| Program Name | Doctor of Medicine (MD), equivalent to MBBS |
| Total Duration | 8 years (4 years pre-med + 4 years MD) |
| Average Tuition Fees | $25,000 – $70,000 per year |
| Total Cost (Including Living) | $200,000 – $300,000 for full 8-year program |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree in science (Pre-Med), MCAT score, English proficiency |
| Popular Exams | MCAT, IELTS/TOEFL |
| Top Colleges | Harvard, Stanford, Johns Hopkins, Yale, Mayo Clinic, Columbia |
| Residency Period | 3–7 years (Post-MD, required for licensing) |
| Average Salary Post-MD | $150,000 – $250,000 per year (based on specialty) |
What Is the Structure of MBBS in the USA?
In the USA, you can’t start MBBS right after high school like in India or some other countries. Instead, students follow a two-step process to become a doctor:
- First, they complete a 4-year bachelor’s degree in science (called Pre-Med).
- Then, they apply to a 4-year medical school to earn their MD (Doctor of Medicine) degree, which is the U.S. version of MBBS.
This system helps students build a strong base in science, communication, and problem-solving before they study medicine. After the MD degree, all students must complete a residency program in a hospital. This is where they train in real medical settings under supervision. Residency can last between 3 to 7 years, depending on the specialty (e.g., pediatrics takes 3 years, while neurosurgery takes 7). Following is the step-by-step structure of doing MBA in the USA:
| Stage | Duration & What You’ll Learn |
| Pre-Med (Bachelor’s Degree) | 4 years – You choose a science major like Biology, Health Sciences, or Chemistry. You also study subjects like physics, math, and English, and prepare for the MCAT exam. A GPA of 3.5 or higher is usually expected. |
| MD Program (Medical School) | 4 years – First 2 years: Learn theory in subjects like anatomy, pathology, pharmacology, and microbiology in classrooms and labs. Next 2 years: Do clinical rotations in hospitals where you practice in areas like surgery, pediatrics, and internal medicine. |
| Residency Training | 3 to 7 years – After your MD, you start working as a resident doctor in a hospital. This is full-time training and is required to become a licensed physician. |
| Total Duration | 8 to 11 years – That includes Pre-Med + MD + Residency. Some students also do an extra year of research or fellowship if they want to specialize further. |
What Is the Eligibility to Study MBBS in the USA for International Students?
If you’re an international student and want to study MBBS in the USA (called the MD – Doctor of Medicine degree), there are a few important steps you need to follow. To qualify for admission, you’ll need to:
- Score well in your undergraduate studies
- Take and pass the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)
- Show proof of English proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL)
- Submit strong recommendation letters and a Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Ideally, have some volunteering or clinical experience in healthcare
Following is the eligibility criteria for MBBS in the USA:
| Requirement | Details |
| Educational Background | Must have completed 10+2 with Science (Biology stream), and then a 4-year bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Health Sciences from a recognized university |
| Minimum GPA Requirement | At least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale (roughly 85% or above). Top medical schools prefer 3.7+ |
| MCAT Exam | Mandatory. A good score is 510 or higher out of 528 (national average is ~502) |
| English Proficiency Tests | IELTS: 6.5–7.0 band overall TOEFL iBT: 90–100+ Required if your undergrad was not in English |
| Statement of Purpose (SOP) | Write a strong personal statement (500–800 words) explaining your passion for medicine, academic journey, and career goals |
| Letters of Recommendation | Submit 2–3 letters from university professors or employers who can vouch for your academic and professional potential |
| Experience (Recommended) | Not compulsory, but having clinical shadowing, volunteering at hospitals, or research experience significantly boosts your chances |
| Transcripts & Academic Records | Must be submitted in English and verified by WES (World Education Services) or other credential evaluation agencies |
What Are the Top Medical Colleges for MBBS in the USA?
If you want to study MBBS in the USA (known as MD – Doctor of Medicine), you’ll be happy to know that the country is home to some of the best medical schools in the world. These universities are famous for their advanced hospitals, top research labs, expert professors, and strong links to global healthcare systems. In 2025, top names like Harvard, Stanford, and Johns Hopkins continue to lead global rankings.
According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, 5 out of the world’s top 10 medical schools are in the USA. But keep in mind: These schools are very competitive. The acceptance rate is usually just 2–5%, so strong academics, high MCAT scores, and good experience matter a lot. Following are the top medical colleges in the USA for MBBS:
| Medical School | Rankings & Tuition |
| Harvard Medical School | QS Rank: #1 globally U.S. News Rank: #1 in the U.S. Tuition: ~$69,300/year |
| Johns Hopkins University | QS Rank: #4 globally U.S. News Rank: #2 Tuition: ~$61,000/year |
| Stanford University School of Medicine | QS Rank: #3 globally U.S. News Rank: #4 Tuition: ~$66,300/year |
| University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) | QS Rank: #6 globally U.S. News Rank: #3 Tuition: ~$57,500/year |
| Yale School of Medicine | QS Rank: #10 globally U.S. News Rank: #8 Tuition: ~$66,180/year |
| University of Pennsylvania (Perelman School of Medicine) | QS Rank: #5 globally U.S. News Rank: #9 Tuition: ~$65,940/year |
| University of Michigan Medical School | QS Rank: Top 20 globally U.S. News Rank: #10 Tuition: ~$61,000/year |
What Is the Total Cost of Studying MBBS in the USA in 2025?
Studying MBBS (MD) in the USA can be costly, but it also offers a high return on investment. International students typically spend between $200,000 to $300,000 USD for the full 8-year path (4 years undergrad + 4 years MD). This includes tuition fees, housing, living expenses, health insurance, and additional costs like visa, exams, and personal expenses. The cost is higher in private universities and major cities like New York, Boston, and San Francisco. However, many students choose more affordable public universities or apply for financial aid and scholarships to manage the cost. Following is the estimated total cost breakdown:
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost (USD) |
| Pre-Med (4 years) | $20,000 – $50,000/year → $80,000 – $200,000 total |
| MD Program (4 years) | $25,000 – $70,000/year → $100,000 – $280,000 total |
| Student Accommodation | $10,000 – $15,000/year |
| Living Expenses (Food, Transport) | $8,000 – $12,000/year |
| Health Insurance | $1,000 – $2,000/year |
| Books & Supplies | $1,000 – $2,000/year |
| Visa, SEVIS & Other Fees | ~$1,000 (one-time) |
| Total Cost (8 years) | $200,000 – $300,000+ |
What Is the Admission Process for MBBS in the USA?
The process to get into a medical school in the USA is more structured and longer than in many other countries. You cannot go directly from high school to medical school like you can in India or the UK. Because the USA has limited spots for international medical students, you’ll need a very strong application—with high grades, a good MCAT score, and evidence of your passion for medicine.
In 2024, there were over 55,000 applicants to U.S. MD programs—only around 22,000 were accepted (AAMC data). Of these, less than 3% were international students. Following are the step-by step admission process for MBBS in the USA:
- Complete 10+2 with Science: You should study Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Math, and English in high school (12th grade) to qualify for a science-based bachelor’s degree.
- Enroll in a Pre-Med Program: Complete a 4-year bachelor’s degree in subjects like Biology, Chemistry, or Health Sciences. Pre-Med is often done at U.S. universities, but international degrees are accepted if verified.
- Prepare & Take the MCAT: The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) checks your science knowledge, reasoning, and problem-solving. A score of 510+ out of 528 is considered competitive. It’s valid for 2–3 years.
- Apply via AMCAS: Use the American Medical College Application Service to apply to most U.S. medical schools. You’ll fill out one central application and choose which schools to send it to.
- Submit Supporting Documents: These include Academic transcripts (WES evaluated), MCAT score report, English proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL), Letters of recommendation (2–3), Statement of Purpose (SOP), and CV or resume.
- Attend Interviews: Shortlisted candidates are invited to the interview. Many schools use MMI (Multiple Mini Interviews) or traditional one-on-one formats. Some interviews may be held virtually.
How Can International Students Find Safe and Affordable Accommodation During MBBS in the USA?
Finding the right place to live during your MBBS journey in the USA is important—not just for comfort, but also for budgeting and safety. International students have a variety of accommodation options during both pre-med and medical school years. You can choose from on-campus housing, off-campus student apartments, or private rented spaces.
Costs vary depending on the city, room type, and whether you share with other students. Many international students use platforms like University Living to book verified, student-safe housing close to campus—even before arriving in the U.S. Following are various accommodation options for MBBS Students in the USA:
| Type of Housing | Details |
| On-Campus Dormitories | Provided by most universities during undergrad (pre-med); shared or single rooms; includes security, internet, and meal plans |
| Off-Campus Student Apartments | Shared or studio flats rented near campus; more privacy and flexibility; students split bills and rent |
| Homestay with Local Families | Live with a local U.S. family; includes meals and a supportive environment; great for cultural immersion |
| Private Rentals | Rent your own apartment; more expensive and less common for first-year students; usually chosen during MD years in larger cities |
Conclusion
Studying MBBS in the USA is a big commitment—but it opens big doors. From top medical colleges and high-end clinical training to global research opportunities and well-paid jobs, the U.S. gives you everything you need to become a skilled, confident doctor. But if you are truly passionate about medicine, the journey is worth every step.
And when it comes to finding safe, affordable student housing? Platforms like University Living make it easy to book verified accommodation near your university—before you even land in the U.S. So, ready to take the first step toward your dream of studying medicine in the USA? Let’s make it happen—your future in healthcare starts here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do MBBS in the USA right after high school?
No. In the USA, you cannot directly enroll in MBBS after high school. You must first complete a 4-year pre-medical bachelor’s degree, followed by a 4-year MD (Doctor of Medicine) program.
What is the total duration of MBBS in the USA?
The total duration of MBBS in the USA is 8 years:
1. 4 years of a bachelor’s (pre-med)
2. 4 years of an MD program You’ll also need to complete 3–7 years of residency training after MD.
Is an MD in the USA equivalent to MBBS?
Yes. The MD (Doctor of Medicine) degree awarded by U.S. medical schools is equivalent to the MBBS degree in countries like India or the UK.
What is the cost of studying MBBS in the USA for international students?
The estimated cost of studying MBBS in the USA is $200,000 to $300,000 for the full 8-year program, including tuition, accommodation, living expenses, insurance, books, and other fees.
What are the eligibility requirements for MBBS in the USA?
In order to do MBBS in the USA, you will need:
1. A 4-year bachelor’s degree in science (biology, chemistry, or related field)
2. Minimum GPA of 3.5 (preferred)
3. MCAT score (510+ is competitive)
4. IELTS (6.5–7.0) or TOEFL (90–100+)
5. Letters of recommendation
6. SOP
7. WES-evaluated transcripts
What is the MCAT and is it mandatory in the USA?
Yes, MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is mandatory for all U.S. medical schools. It tests your understanding of biology, chemistry, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Which are the top universities for MBBS (MD) in the USA?
Top universities for MBBS (MD) in the USA include:
1. Harvard Medical School
2. Stanford University
3. Johns Hopkins University
4. Yale University
5. University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)
6. University of Pennsylvania (Perelman)
7. University of Michigan
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