Study Medicine in China: Why International Students Are Choosing MBBS in China in 2025
Studying medicine abroad has become a popular choice for many international students, and China is now one of the leading destinations for MBBS. Every year, thousands of students from Pakistan, India, the Middle East, Africa, and other regions travel to China to pursue their dream of becoming doctors.
Why? Because medical universities in China offer modern, English-taught MBBS programs at affordable fees, with strong international recognition. Compared to other countries, China provides better facilities, safe campuses, and high-quality education while keeping costs low. This guide is specially created to help international students understand everything about studying medicine in China — from eligibility, language requirements, and campus life to internships, licensing exams, and post-MBBS career options.
Is MBBS in China Recognized Globally?
Yes, studying MBBS in China offers a globally accepted degree and is one of the most respected options among all study abroad destinations.
Thousands of graduates clear licensing exams and are successfully working in Pakistan, India, UK, UAE, USA, Germany, and many more countries. These nations trust Chinese MBBS degrees due to their high-quality education, WHO & WFME recognition, English-medium teaching, and practical clinical training.
MBBS Degree in China Recognized By:
- WHO – WDOMS-listed universities allow global licensing exam eligibility.
- PMDC (Pakistan) – Requires MOE-listed English-medium universities and China internship.
- NMC (India) – Minimum 5.5-year program required from WDOMS-listed institutions.
- GMC (UK) – Eligible for PLAB if internship is done in China.
- ECFMG (USA) – WFME-recognized universities can apply for USMLE.
- AMC (Australia) – Valid internship needed for AMC exams.
- UAE Authorities – DHA / HAAD / MOH eligibility requires internship in China.
- SCHS (Saudi Arabia) – Internship + WFME-recognized MBBS needed for SMLE.
- NZMC (New Zealand) – WDOMS MBBS accepted with AMC or NZREX Clinical.
- WFME – Globally required for ECFMG; accepted in Canada, UK, Australia.
Top Countries Choosing China for MBBS
| Country | Estimated Students | Licensing Exam After MBBS |
|---|---|---|
| Pakistan | 10,000+ | NLE |
| India | 8,000+ | NEXT |
| Saudi Arabia | 2,000+ | SMLE |
| UAE | 850+ | DHA / HAAD / MOH |
| Qatar | 300+ | Qatar Medical License Exam |
| Oman | 200+ | OMSB Licensing Exam |
| USA | 500+ | USMLE (Step 1, 2 CK, 3) |
| UK | 400+ | PLAB 1 & 2 |
| Canada | 300+ | MCCQE Part 1 & 2 |
| Australia | 350+ | AMC MCQ + Clinical Exam |
| New Zealand | 150+ | AMC or NZREX Clinical |
MBBS Curriculum in China (2025 Structure)
Study Medicine in China offers a competitive and structured medical curriculum for international students. The program spans six years and blends academic excellence with strong clinical training.
1st Year
Learn the Chinese language to communicate with patients in future hospital practice. You’ll also study basic biology, medical terminology, and the healthcare system in China.
2nd Year
Study anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and histology. You’ll perform lab work and dissections to explore how the body functions and understand its structures.
3rd Year
Learn disease causes and treatment. Subjects include pathology, pharmacology, microbiology, parasitology, and immunology — with practical lab work included.
4th Year
Start patient care training: medicine, surgery, pediatrics, gynecology, and diagnostics. Begin visiting hospitals and interact with patients under guidance.
5th Year – Full Hospital Practice
Work in ENT, emergency, psychiatry, and community health departments. Hands-on training continues under doctor supervision.
6th Year – Internship
A full-year internship in a university-affiliated hospital. Rotation in all major departments is mandatory for graduation and required for PMDC/NLE or global licensing.
Eligibility Criteria for International Students
Interested students from Pakistan, Africa, India, or the Gulf must meet the following requirements to apply for MBBS in China:
- Subjects: Biology, Physics, Chemistry
- Marks: Minimum 65%–70% in FSC or equivalent
- University Conditions: May vary depending on ranking
Age Limit
- Typical age: 17 to 20 years at admission
- Some universities allow up to 30 years
Language Requirements
- MBBS is taught in English at MOE-listed universities
- Proof needed: IELTS, TOEFL, or English proficiency certificate
- Pakistani students applying for Chinese-medium MBBS must pass HSK-4
Medical Fitness
- Physically and mentally fit
- Required tests: blood, chest X-ray, ECG, vision, full health exam
- Serious infections or drug history may lead to rejection
HSK Language Requirement for MBBS in China
Even if the MBBS program is in English, international students must learn Chinese. Patients in China communicate in Mandarin, especially during hospital rounds.
Before starting clinical rotations (4th or 5th year), passing HSK-3 or HSK-4 is required depending on your university. Without HSK, you cannot begin your internship or graduate.
Top Medical Universities in China for International Students
Choosing the best university is the initial step to successful career. Many international students prefers affordable, globally recognized, and English-taught MBBS program in China. Make sure your university is MOE-listed and accepted by PMDC, WHO, and WDOMS.
Not every university in China can teach MBBS to foreign students in English. So, it’s very important to choose the right medical university.
- Is MOE-listed (approved by China’s Ministry of Education)
- Is recognized by PMDC, WHO, and WDOMS
- Offers real hospital training during your MBBS degree
- Has a full English-taught MBBS program
These medical universities help you become a doctor who can later work in Pakistan, the Gulf countries, or even in Europe or the USA, after passing your country’s licensing exam.
Below is a list of the Top 10 MBBS Universities in China for 2025. These universities have: Low tuition fees, safe hostels for foreign students and many students from Pakistan, India, Africa, and Gulf countries are already studying there.
| University Name | City | International Students | MBBS Tuition (Per Year) | Teaching Language | Recognized By |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zhejiang Chinese Medical University | Hangzhou | 1,200 | 22,000 RMB | English | MOE, PMDC, WHO, WDOMS |
| Jiamusi University | Jiamusi | 2,000 | 20,000 RMB | English | MOE, PMDC, WHO, WDOMS |
| Guizhou Medical University | Guiyang | 2,504 | 15,000 RMB | English | MOE, PMDC, WHO, WDOMS |
| Jinggangshan University | Ji’an | 1,200 | 19,000 RMB | English | MOE, PMDC, WHO, WDOMS |
| Yangtze University | Jingzhou | 3,000 | 22,000 RMB | English | MOE, PMDC, WHO, WDOMS |
| Nanchang University | Nanchang | 3,500 | 22,000 RMB | English | MOE, PMDC, WHO, WDOMS |
| Qingdao University | Qingdao | 1,600 | 30,000 RMB | English | MOE, PMDC, WHO, WDOMS |
| Harbin Medical University | Harbin | 459 | 30,000 RMB | English | MOE, PMDC, WHO, WDOMS |
| China Medical University | Shenyang | 1,000+ | 40,000 RMB | English | MOE, PMDC, WHO, WDOMS |
| Dalian Medical University | Dalian | 1,200+ | 42,000 RMB | English | MOE, PMDC, WHO, WDOMS |
Study Medicine in China for International Students
Annual Tustion fees for MBBS in China
The tuition cost of studying MBBS in China for international students depends on the university. Some universities may also charge extra for lab materials, books, or insurance. The average tuition fees for studying MBBS in China typically cost around $28,000 to $5,000 per year.
Annual Accommodation Cost
Accommodation cost in China is generally considered affordable compared to Western countries. Most universities have dorms for international students.
- Shared Rooms: $600 to $11,00/annually
- Single Rooms: $15,00 to $2,000/ annually
Scholarships for MBBS Students
Many universities in China offer fully or partially funded scholarships, which can cover all or part of the tuition fees, free accommodation, and monthly living stipends
Several scholarship programs are available for international students pursuing MBBS in China:
- CSC (China Government Scholarship
- University Specific Scholership
- Provincial Scholarships
Estimated Living Cost Breakdown
| Living Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Food & Groceries | $150 – $300 |
| Hostel Rent | $60 – $180 |
| Transport (Bus/Metro/Taxi) | $20 – $50 |
| Mobile & Internet Package | $30 – $60 |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | $50 – $150 |
| Medical Insurance | $5 – $10 |
| Total (Approximate) | $315 – $750 per month |
Application Process MBBS in China– Step-by-Step Admission Timeline (2025)
Step 1: Choose the University
Start by selecting a suitable university. Check if the university is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS) and approved by your home country's medical council. Review the tuition fee structure, ranking, language of instruction, and whether the university provides Halal food, good accommodation, and hospital affiliations. Look for MBBS in China scholarships for international students and apply with help from a trusted study abroad consultant.
Step 2: Check Application Deadlines
China usually has two intakes for MBBS:
- Spring Intake: Apply between November to February
- Fall Intake: Apply between April to July
Step 3: Entrance Test (if required)
Most universities do not require an entrance exam for MBBS. However, a few top-ranked universities may ask for an online interview or basic science test.
Step 4: Prepare Your Documents
Make sure the following documents are ready:
- Passport (valid for at least 1 year)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Two recommendation letters
- Medical examination certificate
- Statement of purpose / Study plan
- 3–4 passport-size photos
- Bank statement (proof of funds)
Step 5: Apply for Your Student Visa
Once you receive your admission letter, the university will send you the JW202 form. You will need to apply for an X1 student visa at your nearest Chinese embassy using the following:
- Passport
- JW202 form
- Admission letter
- Medical certificate
- Police clearance (if required)
- Visa application form and photos
Step 6: Wait for Visa Approval & Get Ready
Once your visa is approved, book your flight and prepare for your studies in China. Since Chinese medical universities have high acceptance rates for international students, you can confidently plan your study journey abroad.
Do You Need to Learn Chinese for MBBS in China?
Even though most MBBS classes in China are taught in English, international students still need to learn basic Chinese. This is because during the final years of the MBBS program, you will do clinical rotations in Chinese hospitals. In order to communicate with patients and hospital staff, you must pass a language test called HSK (usually HSK-3 or HSK-4).
Why Learning Chinese Is Important
- Talk to patients clearly and respectfully
- Understand instructions from doctors and nurses
- Build confidence during your clinical training
You’ll Be Taught Chinese in University
Don’t worry if you don’t know any Chinese before arriving. Most medical universities in China include basic Chinese language classes during the first 2 to 3 years of study. These lessons are part of your curriculum and are designed to help you reach the required level before clinical practice begins.
Life as an International Student in China
Chinese universities have thousands of international students from many countries including Pakistan, India, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, and more. You’ll find a multicultural environment where students are encouraged to participate in campus life.
Campus Activities & Events
- Cultural clubs and language exchange events
- International student meetups and city tours
- Organized sports, festivals, and competitions
Food, Religion, and Cultural Comforts
- Halal food in the university cafeteria
- Prayer areas inside the campus or nearby mosques
- Respect for religious holidays and customs
What Can You Do After MBBS in China?
If you plan to return to your home country after MBBS, you will need to pass the medical licensing exam of that country. For example:
Returning to Home Country
- Pakistani students: NLE (National Licensing Exam)
- Indian students: FMGE or NEXT exam
- Nigerian students: MDCN exams
- Make sure your Chinese university is recognized by your country's medical council before you apply.
Want to Work or Study Abroad?
- USA: Take the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Exam)
- UK: PLAB test for GMC registration
- UAE/Saudi Arabia: MOH, DHA, or SCFHS exams
- Australia: AMC exam
Pursue Postgraduate Studies (MS/MD)
- Do MD/MS in China
- Apply for PG in your home country
- Study in countries like Germany, Turkey, or Australia
Why Choose China Over Other Countries?
Compared to other countries, China offers several advantages:
Part-Time Work
In China, students can work up to 20 hours per week. Working more than that can lead to visa problems or fines.
PMDC-Recognized Degree
An MBBS from China is approved by the PMDC. Students can return to Pakistan and work as doctors. Chinese universities offer quality medical education.
Easy Admission Process
No entrance exam or interview is needed to get admission in China. This makes it easier for international students to apply.
Cultural Diversity and Heritage
Studying in China gives students a chance to experience one of the world’s oldest and most interesting cultures.
100% Funded Scholarships
China offers fully funded government and university scholarships covering tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
MBBS Cost and Safety Comparison
| Country | Average Tuition (per year) | Language | Student Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| China | $3,000–$5,000 | English + Chinese | High (Very Safe) |
| Kyrgyzstan | $2,500–$4,000 | English | Moderate |
| Russia | $4,000–$7,000 | Russian/English | Moderate |
| Georgia | $5,000–$7,000 | English | High (Safe) |
| Turkey | $6,000–$9,000 | Turkish/English | High (Safe) |
How Soft Consultants Can Help You
Step-by-Step Guidance for MBBS in China
Soft Consultants is an experienced educational consultancy helping international students apply for MBBS in China.
We have already supported over 1,000 students from different countries to start their medical careers abroad.
- Choosing the best university for your goals
- Understanding eligibility and admission rules
- Completing the application and document submission
- Securing scholarships (if available)
- Getting your student visa
- Booking flights and arranging accommodation
- Pre-departure guidance
Real Student Feedback
Many students say that they were able to study in China easily thanks to the expert support and honest guidance provided by Soft Consultants.
FAQs
- Recognized by your country’s medical council
- Approved by China’s Ministry of Education (MOE)
- Offers English-medium MBBS programs
- Has safe hostels and good student support
Need Help with Your Admission, Visa or Documents?
From university admission to student visa assistance, Soft Consultants makes the entire process easy and stress-free.