MBBS in China for Pakistani Students: MOE Listed vs Non-Listed Universities
For Pakistani students looking to study MBBS, China presents an attractive destination due to its affordable tuition fees, high-standard medical education, internationalization, and globally recognized medical program. However, choosing the right university is crucial for ensuring a smooth and successful career in medicine. MOE-listed universities are recognized by the Chinese government and have better international recognition, making their degrees more widely accepted around the world. On the other hand, non-MOE-listed universities are usually more affordable but may not provide the same global opportunities. This guide will explain the differences between two types of universities for studying MBBS in China, helping you make the best choice for your education and future career.
Understanding MOE-Listed and Non-Listed Universities
If you’re a Pakistani student planning to study MBBS in China, you must know the common difference between MOE-listed and non-MOE-listed medical universities. This helps you choose a university whose degree is valid worldwide and gives better job chances.
MOE listed universities in China
English-Medium Programs
All medical subjects are taught in English. There’s no need to learn Chinese to study medicine. China’s Ministry of Education (MOE) has approved 46 top medical universities offering the MBBS program taught in English.
No-HSK required
You don’t need to pass the HSK( Chinese language test) for admission in the MBBS program, as the entire degree is taught in English.
Highly Qualified Teachers
The MOE-listed universities have expert teaching staff who often hold foreign medical degrees. They teach in English and have real experience working in the medical field. All communicate in english for better understanding for international students.
Expensive tustion fees
Usually, the MOE-listed medical universities in China offer the BBS program with high tustion fees compared to Non-MOE listed. These universities have qualified and experienced faculty. Studnets get high-quality hands-on clinical training and low top-tier affiliated hospitals.
Prime Location
Mainly, the MOE-listed universities are located in prime cities of China, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, Xi’an, and Jinan. To give better access to cutting-edge medical infrastructure, research opportunities, international collaboration, and part-time job facilities. Student get a chance to enjoy a vibrant lifestyle, cultural experiences, social events, and make connections that can benefit their careers.
World-Wide Accreditation
International accreditation bodies like WHO, PMDC, officially register the MOE-listed medical universities in China, ECFMG, NMC, WFME, and GMC. Support Pakistani students to pursue their goal of becoming practicing doctors abroad. Higher-education avalibility: MOE-listed universities offer high avalibility of scholarships, both chinese government and private, for Pakistani students with a minimum eligibility criterion. It helps studnets cover their financial expenses until their degree is completed.
Non-MOE-listed universities
Taught in Chinese
The admission to Chinese non-MOE-listed universities, which are taught in the Chinese language. All types of notes, exams, and lectures are primarily in Chinese to help students improve their Chinese skills and job or postgraduate opportunities within China.
HSK requirement
Students need to pass HSK 3 or 4 for admission to Chinese non-listed universities. By the end of the program, students must pass HSK level 5 to successfully graduate and receive the MBBS degree.
Low-tuition fees
The Non-MOE listed universities have low tustion fees for MBBS programs compared to MOE-listed universities. Offering Pakistani students charges less tustion fees, easy to afford. Fully-funded scholarships
Accreditions
The MBBS program from non-MOE listed medical universities in China is usually not accepted for licencing is other countries is sometimes not recognized by the PMDC. Graduates may have trouble applying for interships and licensing exams.
Scholerships opportunities
The Chinese government offers a scholarship council for MBBS program in the Chinese medium. taught these scholarships, students get full or partial funding for Pakistani students. It offers higher chances of acceptance.
Why Pakistani Students Choose Non-Listed Universities
Affortability
Around 70% of Pakistani students in China pick non-listed universities mainly to save money on fees, which is a big help for their families. Mostly Non-listed universities charge very low tustion fees compared to MOE-listed. The affordable tuition fees for the MBBS program attract Pakistani students because to cost less than private medical colleges in China and many other countries. The tustion fees generally range from 8 lakh to 16 lakh yearly, and any types of extra charges do not apply.
Accessibility and Seat Availability
Non-MOE listed universities have low academic requriements, so Pakistani students can easily get admission. They usually don’t ask for standardized tests like IELTS or MDCAT. Also, since there is less competition than in the MOE-listed universities, studnets have better chances of getting accepted.
Less-Expensive lifestyle
Many of the non-MOE listed universities are located in smaller cities such as Zhengzhou, Changsha, Nanchang, Wuhan, Xuzhou, and Guiyang. The expenses are lower: Accommodation rent is lower, food expenses from the local market cost less, public transport is affordable, and lifestyle is simple and relaxed.
High Visa ratio
Non-MOE-listed universities in China have a high visa approval rate, so Pakistani students face fewer visa problems. These universities are not closely monitored by the Chinese government for foreign students, so the process is easier.
Language and Religious support
Even many non-MOE listed universities in China use english as a medium of instruction, especially in the first year. There is basic Chinese language training to help foreign students communicate better during clinical practice and daily life. These universities have a high number of Muslim students with mosques nearby, and access to halal food,
PMDC recognition
Many major non-MoE listed universities are recognized by PMDC, allowing Pakistani students to pursue their career as doctors after passing the NLE. It is important for Pakistani students because without it, they cannot practice medicine in Pakistan or be eligible for an internship or medical licensing. So, makesure to verify university recognition with PMDC before applying.
Limited local options
Due to limited opportunities in the Pakistani higher education system, many studnets opt for non-licensed medical universities in China. As top MOE-listed universities, they make admission highly competitive. Some studnets want to study new subjects that are not available locally. Also, many universities In Pakistan, they have old teaching systems, poor facilities, and delays in classes or exams. Many studnets choose China non-MOE listed universities beacuse it’s more affordable, offers scholerships, has easier admission requriements, and provides MBBS education.
Higher avalibiltiy of scholarships
Pakistan studnets often choose non-listed universities in China as they offer scholarship availability with minimum academic requirements. Many universities offer full or half scholerships to Pakistani students, reducing their living expenses and tustion fees. In addition, students who apply early or perform exceptionally well may receive renewable scholerships. These scholarships are often Chinese government to strengthen its ties with Pakistan. Pakistani students particular, benefit from these initiatives, making it easier for them to access an affordable MBBS education.
List of Popular MOE-Listed Universities for Pakistani Students
MOE listed universities in China give the standard of medical education that is approved by the Chinese government. Pakistani students who study there can take the NLE exam in Pakistan and become doctors without facing any legal issues. These universities are connected to big hospitals in China, so students can pratice and learn valuable real-world experiences. Many Pakistani students choose these universities because the MBBS course is in English and the degree is accepted in many countries. Below are some of the best MoE-listed medical universities with higher enrollments of Pakistani students.
| MOE-Listed Institution | Top Recognitions | Language of Instruction | Tuition Fees Range (Yearly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nanjing Medical University | PMDC, PLAB, USMLE | English | $4,100 - $6,000 |
| Dalian Medical University | PMDC, FAIMER, IMED | English | $4,500 - $6,700 |
| Qingdao University | PMDC, PLAB, WHO | English | $4,000 - $6,500 |
| Shandong University | PMDC, AMC, WHO | English | $5,000 - $7,400 |
| Fudan University | PMDC, FAIMER, IMED | English | $5,900 - $6,200 |
| Tongji University | PMDC | English | $4,500 - $7,000 |
| Zhengzhou University | PMDC, PLAB, USMLE | English | $4,000 - $5,000 |
| Beihua University | PMDC, FAIMER, IMED | English | $3,500 - $4,000 |
| Sichuan University | PMDC, USMLE, WHO | English | $3,500 - $5,000 |
| Guangzhou Medical University | PMDC, IMED, ECFMG | English | $4,900 - $6,000 |
| Kunming Medical University | PMDC, AMC, WHO | English | $4,000 - $4,500 |
| Jilin University | PMDC, FAIMER, IMED | English | $4,000 - $5,000 |
| China Medical University | PMDC, PLAB, USMLE | English | $4,500 - $5,500 |
| Capital Medical University | PMDC, WHO, FAIMER | English | $4,500 - $6,000 |
| Xian Jiaotong University | PMDC, PLAB, USMLE | English | $4,200 - $5,500 |
| Wuhan University | PMDC, AMC, WHO | English | $5,500 - $5,600 |
| Zhejiang University | PMDC, FAIMER, IMED | English | $6,000 - $7,500 |
| Huazhong Univ. of Sci. & Tech. | PMDC, USMLE, AMC | English | $6,000 - $8,000 |
List of Popular Non-Listed (Bilingual) Universities
Many Pakistani students choose non-MOE-listed (bilingual) universities in China for MBBS because they are more affordable. These universities’ MBBS programs accept both Chinese and English students, learn basic Chinese to help during hospital training and daily life. Non-listed universities offer lower tustion fees, and higher acceptance chances because of low academic requirements.
It gives an average student a chance to study abroad in a recognized institution at a low cost. The visa process is smooth without any delays. Learning the Chinese language helps students in clinical practice and communicating with patients. Below are some of the popular Non-Listed (Bilingual) Universities with PMDC recognition and lower tustion cost.
| Non-MOE-listed Institutions | PMDC Recognition | Language of Instruction | MBBS Tuition Fees (Annual) |
|---|---|---|---|
| North China University of Science and Technology | Approved | English-Chinese | $2,400 to $3,000 |
| Shandong First Medical University | Approved | English-Chinese | $2,500 to $3,000 |
| Panzihua University | Approved | English-Chinese | $2,800 to $3,400 |
| Hubei University of Science and Technology | Approved | English-Chinese | $2,900 to $3,000 |
| Jining Medical University | Approved | English-Chinese | $2,400 to $3,200 |
| Hebei North University | Approved | English-Chinese | $2,500 to $3,100 |
| Xinxiang Medical University | Approved | English-Chinese | $2,600 to $3,300 |
| Changsha Medical University | Approved | English-Chinese | $2,600 to $3,300 |
| Gannan Medical University | Approved | English-Chinese | $2,500 to $3,000 |
| Hunan Normal University | Approved | English-Chinese | $2,900 to $3,000 |
| Hebei Polytechnic | Approved | English-Chinese | $2,400 to $3,000 |
| Chifeng University, Jiamusi University | Approved | English-Chinese | $2,400 to $3,200 |
Admission Process for MBBS in China
Eligibility Criteria for MBBS in China
- Academic requirements: The applicant must have a clear 12 years of academic qualification( Matric + Intermediate) with at least 60% marks overall as well as in each science subject.
- Age restrictions: The applicant’s age must be between 18 to 25 years at the time of application.
Language Proficiency:
- IELTS is required for MoE-listed universities offering English-medium MBBS programs.
- HSK (Chinese language proficiency) is required for admission in non-MOE-listed universities if the MBBS program is in Chinese.
- Some universities, both MOE-listed and Non-listed, don’t require a language proficiency certificate for admission to MBBS programs in China. However, it may be necessary for certain scholarship programs.
Entrance Exams and Interview Requirements
NO Entrance exams like the MCAT are not required for admission. However, some Universities conduct online interviews to ask basic personal and motivation questions.
Researching Institution
Check if the university is recognized by the PMDC and the WHO. Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for the medical institute, the university offers MBBS in English.
Submit your admission
You can submit your documents to the online websites of universities. The most preferred option is to check consultancy services in Pakistan, and they will directly apply for admission and do further processes.
Wait for admission approval
After the approval for admission, you will receive an invitation letter, which typically requires a time of 1-2 months.
Documentation for MBBS in China
- Matric and FSC certificates attested for IBC(International Baccalaureate Curriculum) Invitation letter
- Bank statements needed to apply for Mbbs in China typically range from $2,000 to $4,000 as proof to cover your expenses.
- Police Character certificate attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Student visa
Apply for a Student Visa:
In the last stage, you have to apply for a visa through any student consultancy services in Pakistan and process the documentation. Now your new study expedition to China starts.
Comparison Between MOE-Listed and Non-Listed Universities
| Criteria | MOE-Listed Universities | Non-MOE-listed Universities |
|---|---|---|
| Global Recognition | Recognized by the China Ministry of Education (MOE) and international medical bodies like WHO, PMDC, AMC, FAIMER, IMED, and USMLE. | Recognized in some countries including Pakistan, but must be verified before applying. |
| Academic Standards | Follows European education standards with a strong focus on clinical practice. | Lower academic standards with limited access to modern facilities. |
| Duration | 5 years academic + 1-year internship. | Same: 5 years academic + 1-year internship. |
| Faculty | Highly qualified faculty with international exposure. | Standard qualifications; may lack global exposure, affecting quality. |
| Language of Instruction | Primarily English for international students with proper training. | Mainly Chinese, limited English-medium options with emphasis on Chinese proficiency. |
| Language Requirements | IELTS or proof of previous English-medium education accepted. | HSK (Chinese proficiency test) level 3 or 4 is required. |
| Degree Value | Widely recognized with better job and licensing exam success globally. | Limited global recognition; may face issues in postgraduate or job applications abroad. |
| Tuition Fees | Higher tuition; usually in major cities with higher cost of living. | Lower tuition; generally located in smaller, less expensive cities. |
| Infrastructure | Modern facilities and international-standard student services. | Outdated infrastructure and limited support services. |
| Scholarships | High availability of scholarship programs. | Limited scholarships for Pakistani students. |
| Visa Ratio | Lower visa approval rate. | Higher visa approval rate. |
| Academic Criteria | Requires high academic scores. | Lower entry criteria; suitable for average students. |
Living Costs and Lifestyle in China
The financial expense depends on which university you prefer to study MBBS in China. The MOE-listed universities may cost you more as tustion fees are higher than those of non-MOE-listed universities and are located in large cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Jinan. The lifestyle in these cities may also be higher. Below are the top living costs while studying MBBS in China.
| City Name | Accommodation Cost (Monthly) | Monthly Food Expenses | Transportation Cost (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beijing | $350 - $800 | $190 - $300 | $32 - $70 |
| Shanghai | $300 - $750 | $200 - $360 | $35 - $80 |
| Guangzhou | $500 - $700 | $150 - $300 | $30 - $70 |
| Shenzhen | $300 - $650 | $140 - $230 | $20 - $40 |
| Wuhan | $400 - $900 | $200 - $350 | $30 - $45 |
| Hangzhou | $350 - $700 | $200 - $350 | $30 - $40 |
| Nanjing | $500 - $700 | $150 - $300 | $30 - $70 |
Success Stories and Testimonials
Thinking of studying MBBS in China? You’re not alone; more than 1,600 Pakistani students every year go to China to study MBBS. The combination of low tuition fees and globally accepted medical degrees. Whether from MOE-listed or non-MOE-listed universities, many students have built successful medical careers. Here are some of thier stories.
Dr. Sana Aftab completed her MBBS from China Medical University. She studied at Quingdao University, where he was part of the English-medium MBBS program. During 6 years in China, she completed one year of clinical training, case presentation, learning hospital information systems, and basic diagnostic tests. After graduation, she cleared PLAB and moved to the UK, where he now works as a junior doctor in Sheffield. "The hospital exposure in China helped me handle real patients early. That made all the difference when I moved to the NHS."
Dr. Sana Aftab's
Dr. Esha Rehman studied MBBS at a non-MoE listed university in Shandong and now he doing a house job at Services Hospital in lahore. His preparation included taking local NLE coaching classes after graduation. "The syllabus was similar to Pakistan. It just had to be revised according to PMC guidelines and cleared the exam."
Dr. Esha Rehman
Conclusion
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