7 Cheapest Countries in Europe to Study MBBS in 2025
Dreaming of becoming a doctor but worried about the sky-high costs of medical education?
Europe might be your answer!
With globally recognized universities, affordable tuition fees, and vibrant cultures, Europe offers a perfect blend of quality and affordability for MBBS aspirants. In this guide, we’ll explore the 7 cheapest countries in Europe to study MBBS, along with key details like tuition fees, living costs, and admission requirements.
Let’s dive in:
Why Study MBBS in Europe?
Before we jump into the list, let’s understand why Europe is a hotspot for medical studies:
- Affordable Tuition: Many European universities offer lower fees than the US, UK, or Australia.
- Globally Recognized Degrees: Degrees from European medical schools are accredited by WHO, UNESCO, and medical councils like the NMC (India) and ECFMG (USA).
- Cultural Diversity: Experience life in historic cities while interacting with students from around the world.
- English-Taught Programs: Most universities offer MBBS courses in English, removing language barriers.
Factors to Consider
When picking a country, keep these in mind:
- Tuition Fees: Annual costs for the MBBS program.
- Cost of Living: Rent, food, and transportation expenses.
- Language: While courses are in English, learning the local language helps during internships.
- Accreditation: Ensure the degree is recognized in your home country (India).
7 Cheapest Countries in Europe to Study MBBS
Russia combines ultra-low tuition fees with high-quality education. Over 10,000 international students enroll here yearly.
Tuition Fees: 3,000–6,000 per year.
Living Costs: 1,500–3,000 annually (affordable housing in cities like Moscow or Kazan).
Duration: 6 years (including internship).
Top Universities: Crimea Federal University, Kazan State Medical University.
Advantages:
- No entrance exams for most universities.
- Degrees recognized by WHO, NMC, and UK’s GMC.
Did You Know?
Russian medical degrees are valid in over 50 countries, including India and the USA.
2. MBBS in Ukraine
Ukraine has been a favorite for Indian students, offering low costs and English-medium programs.
Tuition Fees: 3,500–5,500 per year.
Living Costs: 2,000–3,500 annually (cheaper than Western Europe).
Duration: 6 years.
Top Universities: Bogomolets National Medical University, Lviv National Medical University.
Note: Due to the ongoing conflict, check safety advisories and online/hybrid learning options.
Fact: Ukraine’s medical schools have a 90%+ student satisfaction rate, as per UNESCO reports.
3. MBBS in Germany
Germany is known for tuition-free education at public universities, making it a steal for budget-savvy students.
Tuition Fees: €300 – €500 per semester (administrative fees only!).
Living Costs: €8,000 – €10,000 annually (higher but offset by no tuition).
Duration: 6 years.
Top Universities: Heidelberg University, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin.
Catch: Most programs are in German. You’ll need B2/C1 proficiency for clinical practice.
Pro Tip: Learn basic German during your studies to ace internships and connect with patients.
4. MBBS in Poland
Poland offers a mix of modern infrastructure, English programs, and EU-recognized degrees.
Tuition Fees: €7,000 – €12,000 per year.
Living Costs: €3,000 – €5,000 annually (student-friendly cities like Kraków).
Duration: 6 years.
Top Universities: University of Warsaw, Jagiellonian University.
Bonus: Polish degrees allow you to work across the EU without additional exams.
Research Insight: Poland ranks in the top 20 countries globally for medical education (QS World Rankings 2023).
5. MBBS in Romania
Romania is a hidden gem with low fees and a straightforward admission process.
Tuition Fees: €5,000 – €7,000 per year.
Living Costs: €3,000 – €4,500 annually.
Duration: 6 years.
Top Universities: Carol Davila University, Iuliu Hațieganu University.
Advantage: No donation or capitation fees (unlike some Asian countries).
6. MBBS in Bulgaria
Bulgaria offers the cheapest MBBS in the EU, with degrees valid across Europe.
Tuition Fees: €6,000 – €8,000 per year.
Living Costs: €2,500 – €4,000 annually.
Duration: 6 years.
Top Universities: Medical University of Sofia, Plovdiv Medical University.
Advantages:
- Easy admission (no entrance exams, just high school marks).
- Low student-to-teacher ratio.
Confused between Europe and Asia, Georgia is emerging as a top destination for MBBS students with its affordable fees, English-taught programs, and globally accredited degrees.
Tuition Fees: 3,500–8,000 per year.
Living Costs: 2,000–4,000 annually (budget-friendly cities like Tbilisi and Batumi).
Duration: 6 years.
Top Universities: Tbilisi State Medical University, Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University.
Advantages:
- No entrance exams or donations required.
- Degrees recognized by WHO, NMC, and the USMLE (USA).
- Safe, student-friendly environment with a low cost of living.
Important FAQs
Q1. Is NEET required to study MBBS in Europe?
Yes, Indian students must qualify for NEET to enroll in any European medical university.
Q2. Can I work part-time while studying?
Most countries allow students to work 20 hours/week. Check local visa rules.
Q3. Are scholarships available?
Yes! Countries like Germany and Russia offer merit-based scholarships.
Q4. How long is the MBBS course in Europe?
Typically 6 years, including 1 year of internship.
Q5. Is the degree valid in the USA/India?
Yes, if the university is recognized by WHO and your home country’s medical council.
