Vietnam has steadily emerged as a promising destination for Indian students aspiring to pursue a career in medicine. Known for its robust healthcare system, growing international collaboration in education, and affordable Vietnam MBBS fees for Indian students, Vietnam offers a unique blend of quality education and cultural familiarity. The country hosts several government-recognized medical universities that offer globally accepted MBBS programs, some of which are taught entirely in English to cater to international students.
These universities are recognized by major global health organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), and several are also approved by the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India. This enables Indian students to return and practice medicine in India after clearing the Foreign Medical Graduates Examination (FMGE) or the National Exit Test (NExT).
This guide explores everything you need to know about studying MBBS in Vietnam for Indian students in 2025 — from top universities and fees to eligibility, scholarships, and career scope.
What makes MBBS in Vietnam particularly attractive is the value-for-money education it offers. With tuition fees ranging between ₹2–4 lakhs per year and a cost of living significantly lower than many other countries, Vietnam provides high-quality education without the financial burden associated with Western nations. The MBBS curriculum in Vietnam is comprehensive, practice-oriented, aligned with international medical standards, and with ample clinical exposure in well-equipped hospitals. With increasing Indian student enrollment, a safe environment, and the availability of Indian food and accommodation, Vietnam is now on the radar for many Indian parents and students seeking an alternative to the expensive medical education in India or other international destinations, such as the USA, UK, or Australia.
Why Study MBBS in Vietnam? Key Highlights
What makes MBBS in Vietnam particularly attractive is the value-for-money education it offers. With tuition fees ranging between ₹2–4 lakhs per year and a cost of living significantly lower than many other countries, Vietnam provides high-quality MBBS education without the financial burden associated with Western nations. The MBBS curriculum in Vietnam is comprehensive, practice-oriented, and aligned with international medical standards, with ample clinical exposure in well-equipped hospitals.
➡️ Vietnam’s MBBS programs are increasingly becoming popular due to their balanced curriculum, which integrates theoretical training with hands-on practical experience in urban and rural healthcare settings.
With increasing Indian student enrollment, a safe environment, and the availability of Indian food and accommodation, Vietnam is now on the radar for many Indian parents and students seeking an alternative to the expensive medical education in India or other international destinations, such as the USA, UK, or Australia.
Why Vietnam Suits Indian Students for MBBS – Key Reasons
- Affordable Tuition Fees: The Vietnam MBBS fees are significantly lower compared to countries like the USA, UK, and even private colleges in India. Most medical college fees in Vietnam range between ₹2 lakhs to ₹4 lakhs per year.
- NMC-Recognized Medical Universities: Many Vietnamese medical universities are recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC), allowing Indian students to appear for the FMGE/NExT examination in India.
- No Donation or Capitation Fees: Unlike many private institutions in India, Vietnam MBBS colleges do not charge any donation or hidden admission costs.
- English-Medium Programs: Top medical colleges in Vietnam offer MBBS programs in English, making it easy for Indian students to follow the curriculum without any language barrier.
- Globally Accepted Degrees: The WHO, FAIMER, and other international bodies recognize the MBBS degree from a Vietnamese medical university.
- Low Cost of Living: The overall cost of MBBS in Vietnam for Indian students, including accommodation, food, and transportation, is very economical, typically ranging from ₹60,000 to ₹1.5 lakhs per year.
- Safe and Student-Friendly Country: Vietnam is politically stable and culturally welcoming, making it a safe destination for Indian students, especially for girls.
- Good Connectivity to India: With short travel times and affordable airfares, students can easily travel to and from India during holidays.
- Growing Indian Community: An increasing number of Indian students are choosing MBBS in Vietnam, creating a familiar environment and support network.
- Cultural Similarities: Shared Asian values, the availability of vegetarian and Indian food, and festivals help Indian students feel at home.
Advantages of Studying MBBS in Vietnam
- Affordable MBBS Education: One of the most significant advantages is the low cost. The Vietnam MBBS fees for Indian students range between ₹2 to ₹4 lakhs per year, making it a cost-effective alternative to private medical colleges in India and other foreign destinations.
- Globally Recognized Universities: Most medical colleges in Vietnam are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India, FAIMER, and other medical councils. This ensures the degree is recognized in multiple countries, allowing students to pursue postgraduate education or practice medicine internationally.
- English-Medium MBBS Programs: Leading Vietnam MBBS colleges offer MBBS courses in English, specifically designed for international students, removing language barriers in academics.
- Modern Infrastructure and Teaching Facilities: Vietnam medical colleges are equipped with advanced laboratories, digital libraries, simulation centers, and affiliated teaching hospitals, offering rich clinical exposure.
- No Entrance or Donation Fee:Admission is based on merit and NEET qualification. Unlike Indian private medical colleges, there are no capitation fees, which significantly reduces the financial burden on students.
- Low Cost of Living: The overall cost of MBBS in Vietnam for Indian students, including tuition, accommodation, food, and personal expenses, is affordable, typically ranging from ₹3.5 to ₹6.5 lakhs per year.
- Safe and Culturally Friendly Environment: Vietnam offers a peaceful and student-friendly atmosphere. The country’s cultural similarities and acceptance of Indian customs make the transition easy for Indian students.
- Increasing Popularity Among Indian Students: With growing awareness and the proven success of alumni, more Indian students are choosing to study MBBS in Vietnam, creating a supportive Indian student community across universities.
- Comprehensive Curriculum with Clinical Exposure: The MBBS curriculum is designed according to international standards, with early exposure to clinical training in government hospitals, enhancing hands-on learning.
➡️Vietnam’s government has been investing heavily in its education infrastructure under its “National Strategy for Education Development 2021–2030,” further enhancing its credibility for foreign students.
Eligibility Criteria for MBBS in Vietnam
Indian students who wish to apply for MBBS in Vietnam must meet the following eligibility requirements:
|
Criteria |
Requirement |
|
Academic Qualification |
10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology |
|
Minimum Marks (General) |
50% aggregate in PCB subjects |
|
Minimum Marks (SC/ST/OBC) |
40% aggregate in PCB subjects |
|
NEET Requirement |
Mandatory NEET-UG qualification (as per NMC guidelines) (Mandatory for Indian Students) |
|
Age Requirement |
Minimum 17 years of age by 31st December of the admission year |
|
English Proficiency |
Basic English knowledge or internal university-level test (IELTS/TOEFL not needed) |
|
Medical Fitness |
Must be medically fit; a fitness certificate may be required |
Top Vietnam Medical Colleges for Indian Students
|
University Name |
Location |
Vietnam MBBS Fees (INR/year) |
Vietnamese National Rank (2024) |
Total Duration |
Recognitions |
|
Hanoi Medical University |
Hanoi |
₹3.5 – ₹4.5 lakhs |
#1 for Medicine |
6 years |
WHO, NMC, MoET |
|
University of Medicine and Pharmacy at HCMC |
Ho Chi Minh City |
₹3 – ₹4 lakhs |
#2 |
6 years |
WHO, NMC, FAIMER, MoET |
|
Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy |
Hue |
₹2.5 – ₹3.5 lakhs |
Top 5 |
6 years |
WHO, NMC, MoET |
|
Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy |
Can Tho |
₹2.5 – ₹3 lakhs |
Top 10 |
6 years |
WHO, NMC |
|
Thai Binh University of Medicine and Pharmacy |
Thai Binh |
₹2 – ₹2.5 lakhs |
Top 15 |
6 years |
WHO, MoET |
|
Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine |
Ho Chi Minh City |
₹3 – ₹3.5 lakhs |
Top 10 |
6 years |
WHO, MoET |
|
Vietnam Military Medical University |
Hanoi |
₹3 – ₹4 lakhs |
Top 3 (Government) |
6 years |
WHO, NMC, MoET |
Notes:
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Fees mentioned are approximate yearly tuition costs in Indian Rupees and may vary depending on the exchange rate and specific university updates.
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All the universities listed above are government-affiliated and fall under the jurisdiction of the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training (MoET).
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These universities offer internationally valid MBBS degrees and provide good clinical training facilities.
➡️ Many of these universities are participating in global student exchange and medical research collaborations with institutions from Japan, Korea, Germany, and Australia.
While global QS rankings may not yet cover most Vietnamese universities, their clinical reputation, affordable tuition, and high FMGE pass rates make them a valuable choice for Indian medical aspirants.
Recognition and Accreditation of Vietnam Medical Universities
Vietnam’s medical universities have gained considerable recognition both regionally and globally, making them a reliable option for Indian students seeking quality medical education abroad. Here's an overview of the key recognitions and accreditations held by top Vietnam medical colleges:
1. National Medical Commission (NMC) – India
Many medical universities in Vietnam are listed in the NMC's approved list, which is essential for Indian students. Graduates from NMC-recognized medical universities in Vietnam are eligible to appear for the FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) or the upcoming NExT exam to practice medicine in India.
2. World Health Organization (WHO)
Top Vietnam MBBS colleges are listed in the WHO’s World Directory of Medical Schools. This global recognition allows graduates to pursue higher education, licensing exams, and practice opportunities in various countries, including the USA, UK, Australia, and Canada.
3. Ministry of Education and Training (MoET), Vietnam
All reputed medical colleges in Vietnam are officially recognized by the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training, ensuring academic credibility, regulatory oversight, and government support.
4. Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER)
Many Vietnamese medical universities are registered with FAIMER, enhancing their global legitimacy and enabling students to appear for USMLE (USA) and other international licensure exams.
5. International Collaboration and Exchange Programs
Leading universities, such as Hanoi Medical University and Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy, often engage in academic exchange programs and collaborative research with global institutions, further enhancing their reputation.
Why Recognition Matters for Indian Students:
Ensures degree validity in India and abroad.
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Enables eligibility for FMGE/NExT, USMLE, PLAB, AMC, etc.
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Builds confidence in the academic and clinical quality of education.
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Enhances career prospects globally.
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Before applying, students should verify that the selected Vietnam medical college is NMC-approved and listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS).
MBBS in Vietnam fees
The cost of pursuing an MBBS in Vietnam is notably affordable compared to many other countries. Tuition fees range from ₹3,00,000 to ₹4,00,000 per year, depending on the university and program. Over the 6-year course duration, the total tuition cost amounts to approximately ₹20 to ₹47 lakhs. Most public universities in Vietnam offer medical courses with relatively low tuition fees for international students, ranging between ₹3 to ₹5 lakhs.
Hostel and Living Expenses
Vietnam offers a cost-effective lifestyle, making it an affordable destination for international students. Monthly living expenses, including accommodation, food, and transport, typically range from $300 to $600 (approximately ₹24,000 to ₹48,000).
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Accommodation: University dormitories cost between $100 to $250 (₹7,500 to ₹18,500) per month. Renting a private apartment ranges from $200 to $500 (₹16,000 to ₹40,000) per month.
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Food and Transport: Monthly food expenses are around $150 to $300 (₹12,000 to ₹24,000), and transport costs around $15 to $25 (₹1,200 to ₹2,000) per month.
Cost of Studying MBBS: Vietnam vs. Other Countries
Studying MBBS in Vietnam is highly cost-effective, especially when compared to the tuition fees in other popular medical study destinations. Below is a comparison of estimated annual tuition fees for MBBS programs in these countries for the 2025–2026 academic intake.
| Country | Annual Tuition Fees (INR) | Average Living Expenses (INR/Month) |
|---|---|---|
| Vietnam | ₹2.4 lakh – ₹5.6 lakh | ₹24,000 – ₹48,000 |
| India | ₹9.6 lakh – ₹32 lakh | ₹32,000 – ₹64,000 |
| China | ₹4 lakh – ₹8 lakh | ₹32,000 – ₹56,000 |
| Philippines | ₹3.2 lakh – ₹6.4 lakh | ₹28,000 – ₹56,000 |
| Russia | ₹3.2 lakh – ₹6.4 lakh | ₹32,000 – ₹64,000 |
Below is the detailed cost for studying MBBS in Vietnam that includes tuition fees, living expenses, accommodation, transportation, and health insurance.
| Category | Details | Approximate Cost in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees (Public Universities) | USD 4,000 - USD 7,000 per year | ₹3 lakh - ₹5 lakh |
| Tuition Fees (Private Universities) | USD 7,000 - USD 12,000 per year | ₹5 lakh - ₹9 lakh |
| Additional Academic Fees | USD 100 - USD 300 per year | ₹7,500 - ₹22,000 |
| Living Expenses | USD 300 - USD 600 per month | ₹22,000 - ₹44,000 |
| Accommodation | USD 100 - USD 250 per month | ₹7,500 - ₹18,500 |
| Food and Groceries | USD 150 - USD 300 per month | ₹11,000 - ₹22,000 |
| Transportation | USD 15 - USD 25 per month | ₹1,000 - ₹2,000 |
| Books and Study Materials | USD 100 - USD 300 per year | ₹7,500 - ₹22,000 |
| Health Insurance | USD 100 - USD 150 per year | ₹7,500 - ₹11,000 |
Even after accounting for inflation and currency fluctuations, the total cost of an MBBS in Vietnam remains 3X more affordable than that of private Indian medical colleges.
Admission Process for MBBS in Vietnam
The admission process for Indian students is straightforward and typically involves the following steps:
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Application Submission: Submit academic documents, including 10th and 12th grade mark sheets, NEET scorecard, and a valid passport.
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University Selection: Choose a recognized medical university in Vietnam that aligns with your preferences and budget.
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Admission Letter: Upon acceptance, the university issues an official admission letter.
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Visa Application: Apply for a student visa by submitting the required documents to the Vietnamese embassy or consulate.
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Travel Arrangements: Once the visa is approved, plan your travel to Vietnam and coordinate with the university for accommodation and orientation.
MBBS Course Duration in Vietnam
The MBBS program in Vietnam spans 6 years, comprising:
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5 Years of Academic Study: Focused on theoretical knowledge and practical skills in medical sciences.
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1 Year of Clinical Internship: Hands-on training in affiliated hospitals, providing real-world medical experience
MBBS Curriculum in Vietnam
The curriculum is designed to meet international standards and includes:
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Pre-Clinical Subjects: Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, and Medical Ethics.
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Clinical Subjects: Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, and Community Medicine.
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Electives and Research: Opportunities to engage in specialized fields and research projects.
How to Apply for MBBS in Vietnam – Step-by-Step Process
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Research and Shortlist Universities: Identify NMC-approved universities that offer MBBS programs in English.
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Prepare Documents: Gather necessary documents, including academic transcripts, NEET scorecard, passport, and passport-sized photographs.
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Submit Application: Apply directly to the chosen university or through authorized representatives.
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Receive Admission Letter: Upon acceptance, obtain the official admission letter from the university.
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Apply for a Visa: Submit the required documents to the Vietnamese embassy or consulate to obtain a student visa.
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Arrange Travel and Accommodation:Plan your journey to Vietnam and coordinate with the university for housing and orientation programs.
Life in Vietnam for Indian Students
Vietnam offers a welcoming environment for Indian students:
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Cultural Affinity: Shared cultural values and festivals facilitate smoother adaptation.
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Cuisine: Availability of Indian restaurants and grocery stores in major cities.
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Community: Growing Indian student communities provide support and camaraderie.
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Safety: Vietnam is generally considered a safe destination, with low crime rates and hospitable locals.
Visa Process to Study MBBS in Vietnam
To obtain a student visa:
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Admission Confirmation: Secure an admission letter from a recognized Vietnamese medical university.
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Document Preparation: Compile necessary documents, including passport, photographs, financial statements, and medical certificates.
-
Visa Application: Submit the visa application to the Vietnamese embassy or consulate.
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Approval and Travel: Upon visa approval, arrange travel to Vietnam and inform the university of your arrival details
Career Opportunities After MBBS in Vietnam
Graduates have multiple career pathways:
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Practice in India: After clearing the FMGE/NExT exam, graduates can practice medicine in India.
-
Postgraduate Studies: Pursue MD/MS programs in India or abroad.
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Global Opportunities: Appear for exams like USMLE or PLAB to practice in the USA or UK.
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Alternative Careers: Roles in medical research, healthcare administration, or medical writing
Comparison of MBBS in Vietnam vs. Other Countries
When considering pursuing an MBBS abroad, Indian students often evaluate various factors such as tuition fees, living costs, recognition of degrees, clinical exposure, and cultural adaptability. Vietnam has emerged as a prominent destination for medical education, thanks to its affordability, high-quality education, and supportive environment for international students. Below is a detailed comparison of MBBS in Vietnam with other popular countries:
|
Aspect |
Vietnam |
India (Private) |
Russia/Ukraine |
|
Tuition Fees |
₹18–24 Lakhs total |
₹50–80 Lakhs total |
₹20–30 Lakhs total |
|
Course Duration |
6 years |
5.5 years |
6 years |
|
Language of Instruction |
English |
English |
English/Russian |
|
Living Expenses |
₹1.2–1.8 Lakhs/year |
₹2–3 Lakhs/year |
₹1.5–2.5 Lakhs/year |
|
Recognition |
NMC, WHO |
NMC, WHO |
NMC, WHO |
Scholarships to study MBBS in Vietnam for Indian students
Indian students are eligible for scholarships to study MBBS in Vietnam. Several Vietnamese universities, such as Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy (CTUMP), offer merit-based scholarships to international students, including those from India. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition fees and living expenses.
|
Scholarship Name |
Coverage |
University |
|
Cherry Blossom Scholarship Fund |
100% Tuition (15 awards) and 50% Tuition (25 awards) |
Dong A University |
|
Vietnam-Japan Bridge Scholarship |
Varies (for Japanese Language Program students) |
Dong A University |
|
Talent Scholarship |
100% Tuition (1 award), 50% Tuition (2 awards), 30% Tuition (5 awards) |
Phan Chau Trinh University |
|
DUACT Scholarship |
8 million VND (approx. ₹24,000) per student |
Phan Chau Trinh University |
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
Varies (based on academic performance) |
Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is NEET mandatory for MBBS in Vietnam?
Yes, Indian students must qualify for the NEET exam to be eligible for MBBS programs in Vietnam.
Q2: Are Vietnamese medical degrees recognized in India?
Yes, degrees from NMC-approved Vietnamese universities are recognized in India, allowing graduates to appear for the FMGE/NExT exam.
Q3: What is the medium of instruction?
Many universities offer MBBS programs in English, especially tailored for international students.
Q4: Can I practice medicine in India after completing MBBS in Vietnam?
Yes, after clearing the FMGE/NExT exam, you can register with the Medical Council of India and practice medicine.
Q5: What are the living expenses in Vietnam?
Monthly living expenses, including accommodation, food, and transportation, range between ₹10,000 to ₹15,000.
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