Many Indian students dream of studying MBBS in another country. But when they start searching, one common question always comes up —
“Do I need IELTS to study MBBS abroad?”
Good news! 🎉
In many countries, you don’t need to write IELTS at all. You can still join a good medical university that teaches completely in English.
This guide will help you understand:
- What is IELTS?
- When it is needed
- Countries where you can study MBBS without IELTS
- Best universities and tips for Indian students
What Is IELTS and Why Some Colleges Ask for It?
IELTS means International English Language Testing System.
It checks your English skills — reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Some foreign universities ask for IELTS to make sure students can understand classes that are in English.
But for MBBS, many universities already know that Indian students study in English from school.
So, they don’t make IELTS compulsory.
Simply put:
If your school medium was English, or you can speak basic English, most universities are happy to admit you without IELTS.
Do You Really Need IELTS for MBBS Abroad?
The answer is No — IELTS is not compulsory for studying MBBS in many countries.
Many Indian students think they must clear IELTS before applying abroad, but that’s not true.
Most medical universities in countries like Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Georgia, and the Philippines accept Indian students without IELTS.
These universities understand that students from India already study in English from school.
So instead of asking for IELTS, they check your English in simpler ways, like:
- Asking for your English-medium school certificate (called MOI – Medium of Instruction).
- Conducting a short interview during admission to test your basic communication skills.
The main goal of these universities is to see if you can understand classes taught in English — not to test your grammar or accent like IELTS does.
So, if you can speak and understand basic English, you can easily get admission in many top-ranked, NMC-approved universities abroad without writing IELTS.
Countries Where You Can Study MBBS Without IELTS
Many good countries allow Indian students to study MBBS without writing IELTS.
These countries have English-medium medical universities, and every year thousands of Indian students study there successfully.
Here’s a quick look 👇
| Country | IELTS Needed? | Why IELTS Is Not Required | Teaching Language |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uzbekistan | ❌ No | Universities teach MBBS fully in English; Indian students only need school English certificate | English |
| Kazakhstan | ❌ No | Students from English-medium schools are directly accepted; simple interview instead of IELTS | English |
| Kyrgyzstan | ❌ No | Small English interview during admission; no extra exam needed | English |
| Russia | ❌ No | Many top universities offer complete English-medium MBBS programs | English |
| Georgia | Optional | Some universities take a short English test; most accept MOI certificate | English |
| Philippines | ❌ No | English is the national language; MBBS (BS+MD) taught in English | English |
Why These Countries Don’t Need IELTS
- Their medical universities are already English-medium, so students don’t face language problems.
- Indian students make up a large number of international admissions, so universities trust India’s English-based schooling.
- Instead of IELTS, they prefer a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate or a basic communication test.
Best Choice for Indian Students
- Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan are the most popular right now — low fees, good quality education, and no IELTS.
- Russia and Georgia are great for students who want better global exposure.
- Kyrgyzstan is perfect for those who want budget-friendly MBBS with easy visa process.
In short: You don’t need IELTS to start your MBBS dream.
Choose a country where teaching is in English, university is NMC-approved, and the admission process is smooth.
Top MBBS Universities Without IELTS
If you don’t want to write IELTS, don’t worry — there are many top medical universities abroad that welcome Indian students without this exam.
These universities teach MBBS fully in English, have Indian student communities, and are approved by the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India.
Let’s look at the best options country by country
1. Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan is now one of the most preferred MBBS destinations for Indian students.
The main reason — no IELTS, low fees, and English-medium education.
Top Universities:
- Samarkand State Medical University – One of the oldest and most reputed universities.
- Tashkent Medical Academy – High-quality teaching, good hostel facilities, and Indian mess.
- Bukhara State Medical Institute – Affordable and safe for Indian students.
Why Choose Uzbekistan?
✅ English-taught MBBS
✅ Affordable fees (₹2–3 lakhs per year)
✅ Similar climate and food
✅ Easy visa and admission process
2. Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is known for its modern infrastructure and globally recognized medical colleges.
IELTS is not required — universities only ask for proof that your schooling was in English.
Top Universities:
- Al-Farabi Kazakh National University – Ranked among top universities in Asia.
- South Kazakhstan Medical Academy – Known for practical-based teaching.
- Kazakh National Medical University (KazNMU) – NMC-approved and popular among Indian students.
Why Choose Kazakhstan?
✅ English-medium MBBS
✅ Affordable hostel & living cost
✅ Indian food and cultural comfort
✅ Safe and friendly environment
3. Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan offers one of the cheapest MBBS programs in the world — without IELTS or TOEFL.
Top Universities:
- Osh State University – Top choice for Indian students; modern campus, English teaching.
- Jalal-Abad State University – Affordable fees and hostel facilities.
- Kyrgyz State Medical Academy – Government-run university with global recognition.
Why Choose Kyrgyzstan?
✅ Very low fees (₹2–2.5 lakhs per year)
✅ Classes in English
✅ Simple admission process
✅ Good FMGE/NEXT passing rate
4. Georgia
Georgia is a beautiful European country that offers world-class MBBS education without IELTS.
Some universities conduct a small English test instead of IELTS.
Top Universities:
- Caucasus International University – Fully English MBBS program with good results.
- Tbilisi State Medical University – One of the oldest and most trusted medical schools in Georgia.
- East European University – Known for its digital learning facilities.
Why Choose Georgia?
✅ European-style education
✅ Globally recognized degree
✅ Safe and modern lifestyle
✅ Visa approval is easy
5. Russia
Russia has a long history of medical education and attracts thousands of Indian students every year.
Almost all top universities here offer English-medium MBBS programs, and IELTS is not needed.
Top Universities:
- Kazan Federal University – High global ranking; advanced labs.
- Crimea Federal University – Great choice for Indian students, strong medical faculty.
- People’s Friendship University (RUDN) – One of Russia’s most international campuses.
Why Choose Russia?
✅ Globally recognized degree
✅ English-medium classes
✅ Low tuition fees
✅ Good safety and hostel facilities
6. Philippines
The Philippines is another top choice for Indian students because the entire MBBS course is taught in English, and IELTS is not required.
Top Universities:
- University of Perpetual Help System DALTA (UPHSD)
- AMA School of Medicine
- UV Gullas College of Medicine
Why Choose Philippines?
✅ English-speaking country
✅ Similar climate and food habits
✅ US-based education system
✅ Easy for NEXT/USMLE preparation
Summary Table
| Country | Top Universities | IELTS Needed? | Medium | Avg. Fees/Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uzbekistan | Samarkand SMU, Tashkent MA | ❌ No | English | ₹2–3 L |
| Kazakhstan | Al-Farabi KazNU, SKMA | ❌ No | English | ₹3–4 L |
| Kyrgyzstan | Osh SU, Jalal-Abad SU | ❌ No | English | ₹2–2.5 L |
| Georgia | CIU, TSMU | Optional | English | ₹5–6 L |
| Russia | Kazan FU, Crimea FU | ❌ No | English | ₹4–6 L |
| Philippines | UV Gullas, UPHSD | ❌ No | English | ₹3–5 L |
Tip: Always confirm that the university is NMC-approved before applying.
This ensures your MBBS degree is valid in India after you clear the NEXT exam.
Why Students Prefer Countries Without IELTS
Studying MBBS without IELTS saves you a lot of time and stress. Here’s why many Indian students choose it 👇
- No need to prepare for an extra English exam
- Save money (IELTS exam costs ₹16,000+)
- Faster admission and visa process
- Easy communication — classes in English
- Friendly environment for Indian students
Small Things to Check Before You Apply
Before choosing any university, always double-check these points ✅
- The university is approved by NMC (India)
- The course is taught fully in English
- The university has Indian students already studying there
- The total fees and living cost fit your budget
- The university provides help for FMGE / NEXT exam after MBBS
Conclusion — No IELTS, No Problem!
IELTS should never stop your dream of becoming a doctor.
If you truly wish to study MBBS abroad, there are many good countries that welcome Indian students without any IELTS exam — with English-medium education and world-class universities.
Instead of worrying about English tests, your focus should be on choosing the right university that is:
- ✅ NMC-approved (so your degree is valid in India),
- 🎓 Offers English-medium classes, and
- 🌍 Provides safe and affordable living for Indian students.
That’s where Noha Overseas comes in.
Why Choose Noha Overseas?
Noha Overseas is a trusted MBBS Abroad Consultancy helping Indian students start their medical career in top international universities.
We don’t just guide — we support you at every step of the journey:
🧾 Personal Counselling:
Our expert team helps you select the best country and university based on your NEET score, budget, and preference.
📄 Admission & Documentation:
We handle your application, offer letter, and visa process — so you don’t need to worry about complex paperwork.
✈️ Pre-Departure & Travel Support:
From flight tickets to hostel arrangements, we make sure you’re fully ready before you fly abroad.
👨🎓 Indian Student Support Abroad:
We stay in touch even after you reach the university — for safety, guidance, and academic help.
✨ Thousands of students have already trusted Noha Overseas to fulfill their dream of studying MBBS abroad — safely, affordably, and without IELTS.
So don’t let IELTS stop you.
Your dream of becoming a doctor is much closer than you think.
💬 Need help finding the best MBBS destination for you?
👉 Talk to Noha Overseas experts today — we’ll guide you step-by-step!
🌐 Visit: nohaoverseas.in | 📞 Call: +91 7200040145
FAQ
Is IELTS compulsory for MBBS abroad?
No. Most MBBS universities in countries like Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Kyrgyzstan don’t require IELTS.
Which country is best for MBBS without IELTS?
Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan are top choices for Indian students — good quality, affordable, and no IELTS needed.
Can I get visa without IELTS?
Yes. If your university accepts you without IELTS, you can still get a student visa easily.
Is MBBS abroad without IELTS valid in India?
Yes. It’s valid if your university is NMC approved and you clear NEXT exam after returning.
What if my school was not English medium?
Some universities may take a short online interview to check your English. That’s enough — no IELTS needed.