Pursue an MBBS in Iran if you're an Indian student looking for affordable, donation-free, and hassle-free medical education abroad. Iran has emerged as a promising destination for aspiring doctors, thanks to its world-class universities, advanced healthcare system, and NMC-recognized degrees—all offered without the pressure of capitation fees or donations. This article provides a complete 1000-word guide to help you understand the process, benefits, and opportunities of studying MBBS in Iran in 2025.
Why Choose MBBS in Iran?
Iran has quietly become a top choice for MBBS abroad due to the following key reasons:
No Donation or Capitation Fee: Unlike many private medical colleges in India, Iran’s universities offer direct admissions without any form of donation or hidden charges.
Affordable Tuition Fees: MBBS programs in Iran are priced reasonably, with total costs significantly lower than Indian private medical colleges.
Globally Recognized Degrees: Medical universities in Iran are recognized by NMC (India), WHO, and other international bodies.
Quality Education: Iran boasts a strong academic tradition in medicine, with advanced hospitals and research facilities.
Cultural and Religious Comfort: Iran’s Islamic culture aligns closely with Indian traditions, offering comfort and familiarity, especially for Indian Muslim students.
Safe Environment for Students: Iran has a high safety index and low crime rate, particularly in university towns.
MBBS Course Duration and Medium of Instruction
Course Duration: 6 years (5 years of academic study + 1 year of clinical internship)
Medium of Instruction: Primarily English for international students, with Persian language support during clinical rotations
Top Medical Universities in Iran (Recognized by NMC)
| University Name | Location | NMC & WHO Approved | Language | Tuition Fees (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tehran University of Medical Sciences | Tehran | Yes | English | ₹3.5 - ₹4.5 Lakh/year |
| Iran University of Medical Sciences | Tehran | Yes | English | ₹3.2 - ₹4 Lakh/year |
| Shiraz University of Medical Sciences | Shiraz | Yes | English | ₹3.2 - ₹4.2 Lakh/year |
| Isfahan University of Medical Sciences | Isfahan | Yes | English | ₹3 - ₹4 Lakh/year |
| Mashhad University of Medical Sciences | Mashhad | Yes | English | ₹2.8 - ₹4 Lakh/year |
Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students
To study MBBS in Iran, Indian students must meet the following requirements:
Must have completed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
Minimum 50% marks for General Category and 40% for Reserved Category.
NEET qualification is mandatory as per NMC guidelines (valid for 3 years).
Age must be 17 years or above by 31st December of the admission year.
Step-by-Step MBBS Admission Process in Iran – 2025
Step 1: Research and Select University
Choose an NMC-approved Iranian medical university based on location, fees, and facilities.
Step 2: Application Form Submission
Fill out the application form for your chosen university. Required documents typically include:
10th and 12th Marksheet & Certificates
NEET Scorecard
Passport (front and back)
Passport-size Photos
Birth Certificate
Medical Fitness Certificate
Step 3: Admission Letter Issued
Once documents are verified, you'll receive a provisional admission letter from the university.
Step 4: Pay the Initial Fees
Secure your seat by paying the first-year tuition fee directly to the university.
Step 5: Visa Processing
Apply for a student visa with the help of the university's invitation letter. Visa approval usually takes 3–4 weeks.
Step 6: Fly to Iran
Book your travel and attend the orientation at your university.
MBBS Fees in Iran – Affordable and Transparent
| Cost Category | Approximate Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (Per Year) | ₹3 – ₹4.5 Lakhs |
| Hostel & Accommodation | ₹50,000 – ₹80,000 |
| Food & Living Expenses | ₹6,000 – ₹10,000/month |
| Visa & Insurance | ₹15,000 – ₹20,000/year |
| Total Yearly Cost | ₹4.5 – ₹6 Lakhs |
Hostel and Student Facilities
Hostel Options: On-campus and off-campus hostels available with shared or single occupancy.
Food: Indian mess facilities available in popular cities like Tehran and Shiraz.
Medical Insurance: Mandatory for international students, provided at nominal cost.
Travel: Direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad to Tehran or Shiraz.
Clinical Exposure and Internship in Iran
5th & 6th Year Internship: Students gain clinical exposure in affiliated teaching hospitals under licensed professionals.
Modern Infrastructure: Iranian hospitals are equipped with the latest medical technology and patient handling systems.
Interaction with Persian-speaking Patients: Persian language training is offered during early years to prepare for internship.
MBBS in Iran vs. MBBS in India
| Feature | Iran | India (Private Colleges) |
|---|---|---|
| Donation | ❌ No | ✅ Often Required |
| Tuition Fees (Total) | ₹20 – ₹25 Lakhs | ₹50 – ₹80 Lakhs |
| NEET Requirement | ✅ Mandatory | ✅ Mandatory |
| NMC Recognition | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Medium | English | English |
| FMGE Success Rate | High (with coaching) | Moderate |
FMGE & Further Opportunities
FMGE Coaching: Many Iranian universities offer FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) guidance.
Post-MBBS Options: After MBBS, students can return to India, clear FMGE/NExT, or apply for PG in Iran, Europe, or Gulf countries.
MCI/NMC Screening Test: Mandatory for license to practice in India unless the student clears the upcoming NExT (National Exit Test).
Benefits of Studying MBBS in Iran
✔ No donation or entrance exam
✔ Safe and welcoming atmosphere for Indian students
✔ Globally recognized MBBS degree
✔ High-quality education with strong clinical exposure
✔ Affordable tuition and living costs
✔ Easy visa process and direct flights from India
Tips for Students Applying in 2025
Apply early as limited seats are available in top Iranian universities.
Choose NMC-approved universities only.
Ensure NEET scorecard is available and valid.
Learn basic Persian to ease clinical training during the internship.
Connect with student consultants like University Insights for guidance, documentation, and admission assistance.
Final Thoughts
For Indian students looking to pursue MBBS without paying hefty donations, Iran offers a smart and cost-effective solution. With globally accepted degrees, English-medium instruction, and strong academic support, Iran stands out as a reliable destination for future doctors. If you aim to become a doctor in 2025, pursue an MBBS in Iran and secure your future with peace of mind and zero hidden costs.
