Pursue an MBBS in Iran to experience a blend of world-class medical education, cultural richness, and affordability. Iran has steadily gained popularity among Indian students for its high academic standards, advanced infrastructure, and globally recognized medical degrees. For aspiring doctors looking beyond the traditional destinations, Iran provides a compelling opportunity to study in government universities that are NMC-approved and offer English-medium MBBS programs without the burden of donations or entrance exams.
Why Choose Iran for MBBS in 2025?
Iran has transformed into a promising destination for MBBS abroad, especially for Indian students seeking affordable and high-quality medical education. Here’s why:
Affordable tuition fees – Government universities in Iran offer MBBS programs at a fraction of the cost compared to private colleges in India.
English-Medium Programs – Many medical universities offer English-medium MBBS courses specifically tailored for international students.
NMC WHO Recognition – Most Iranian medical universities are recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC), WHO, and other global bodies.
No Entrance Exams – Admissions are primarily merit-based, with no requirement for IELTS, TOEFL, or other entrance tests (NEET is mandatory for Indian students as per NMC norms).
Modern Infrastructure – Iranian universities are equipped with advanced labs, simulation centers, and affiliated teaching hospitals.
Top Medical Universities in Iran
Iran is home to more than 50 medical universities, many of which are globally ranked and recognized. Here are some of the best options for Indian students:
| University Name | Location | Tuition Fees (INR/year) | NMC Approved | Medium of Instruction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tehran University of Medical Sciences | Tehran | ₹3.5 – ₹4.5 lakhs | Yes | English |
| Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences | Tehran | ₹3.2 – ₹4.0 lakhs | Yes | English |
| Shiraz University of Medical Sciences | Shiraz | ₹3.0 – ₹3.8 lakhs | Yes | English |
| Isfahan University of Medical Sciences | Isfahan | ₹2.8 – ₹3.5 lakhs | Yes | English |
| Mashhad University of Medical Sciences | Mashhad | ₹3.0 – ₹4.0 lakhs | Yes | English |
| Tabriz University of Medical Sciences | Tabriz | ₹2.5 – ₹3.5 lakhs | Yes | English |
Eligibility Criteria to Study MBBS in Iran
To get admission in a medical university in Iran, Indian students need to meet the following eligibility conditions:
Must have completed 10+2 from a recognized board.
Minimum 50% aggregate marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
Must have qualified NEET in the year of admission.
Age must be 17 years or above at the time of admission.
Admission Process for MBBS in Iran
The admission process for MBBS in Iran is streamlined and student-friendly. Here’s a step-by-step overview:
Application Submission – Fill out the application form for your preferred university with academic documents.
Document Verification – Provide passport, 10th 12th marksheets, NEET scorecard, and passport-size photos.
Admission Letter – Upon verification, you receive a conditional admission letter from the university.
Visa Processing – Apply for a student visa at the Iranian Embassy with the help of your admission consultant.
Travel Enrollment – Fly to Iran and complete the enrollment at the university.
Duration and Curriculum of MBBS in Iran
Duration: The MBBS program in Iran spans 6 years, including 1 year of internship.
Structure:
Pre-clinical (Years 1–2): Subjects include Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, etc.
Para-clinical Clinical (Years 3–5): Pharmacology, Pathology, Community Medicine, Internal Medicine, Surgery, etc.
Internship (Year 6): Rotatory internship in affiliated hospitals under supervision.
The curriculum is aligned with international standards and helps students prepare for global licensure exams like FMGE/NExT (India), USMLE (USA), and PLAB (UK).
Cost of Living in Iran
Iran offers a low cost of living compared to other MBBS destinations:
| Expense Type | Average Monthly Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Hostel/Accommodation | ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 |
| Food and Meals | ₹5,000 – ₹7,000 |
| Transport | ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 |
| Internet Mobile | ₹500 – ₹1,000 |
| Personal Expenses | ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 |
| Total Monthly Estimate | ₹16,500 – ₹25,000 |
Iran uses the Iranian Rial (IRR), but for reference, conversions are shown in INR.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Many Iranian universities provide partial scholarships and fee waivers to meritorious international students. These are generally based on academic performance or recommendations. Although full scholarships are rare, some universities also reduce tuition fees for long-term international students.
FMGE/NExT Success Rate and Clinical Exposure
Iranian MBBS graduates have seen an increasing FMGE pass rate, thanks to their solid clinical training and English-based curriculum.
Universities like Tehran Medical University have affiliated hospitals where students get real-world clinical exposure under expert supervision.
Students are trained to face global exams like NExT (India’s upcoming licensure exam), helping them smoothly transition into practicing medicine back home.
Career Opportunities After MBBS in Iran
MBBS from Iran opens the doors to a wide range of career paths:
Appear for FMGE/NExT and practice in India.
Apply for PG exams like USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), AMC (Australia), etc.
Pursue postgraduate medical education in Iran or other countries.
Work in Middle Eastern countries like UAE, Oman, or Qatar after license equivalency.
Safety, Culture, and Student Support in Iran
Iran is generally considered safe for international students, especially in university towns. Indian students often live in student hostels or shared apartments near the campus. Iranians are known for their hospitality and warmth. English is widely spoken in academic environments, and many universities offer language support or Persian classes to help students integrate smoothly.
Universities also provide:
International student support offices
Indian mess or food options
Cultural exchange programs
On-campus medical facilities
Documents Required for MBBS Admission in Iran
Ensure the following documents are ready for a smooth application process:
Passport (valid for at least 1 year)
10th and 12th mark sheets
NEET scorecard
Passport-size photographs
Admission letter from the university
Visa application form
Health and police clearance certificate
Proof of financial capacity (bank statement)
Final Thoughts: Is MBBS in Iran the Right Choice?
For Indian students looking for a globally recognized MBBS degree without financial strain, Iran is an excellent choice in 2025. With modern teaching facilities, NMC-approved universities, English-medium instruction, and low tuition, students can expect a balanced academic and personal life during their medical journey.
Whether your goal is to practice in India, explore opportunities abroad, or go for postgraduate studies, MBBS in Iran prepares you for all future paths in medicine.
