Pursuing an MBBS in Iran is becoming an increasingly popular choice for Indian students who seek high-quality medical education at a comparatively affordable cost. Known for its strong academic infrastructure, experienced faculty, and advanced healthcare facilities, Iran has carved a place for itself among the top destinations for MBBS abroad. This guide covers everything Indian aspirants need to know—right from eligibility, fee structure, course details, and career opportunities after graduation.
Why Choose Iran for MBBS?
Iran has emerged as a strong competitor in global medical education for several reasons. The country’s focus on education, especially in science and medicine, is backed by well-established medical universities and teaching hospitals. Many universities in Iran are recognized by international medical bodies, including the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS) and the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India.
The advantages of studying MBBS in Iran include:
Affordable tuition fees and low cost of living
NMC-approved medical universities
English-medium instruction available in many universities
Strong clinical exposure through government-affiliated hospitals
High standard of medical education and research
Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students
To apply for an MBBS program in Iran, Indian students must meet certain eligibility requirements. While individual universities may have slightly different criteria, the general requirements are as follows:
The student must have completed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as core subjects.
A minimum of 50% marks in PCB (40% for reserved categories) is usually required.
NEET qualification is mandatory as per NMC guidelines.
The student should be at least 17 years of age at the time of admission.
A valid passport is required for visa processing.
Some universities may also conduct interviews or basic screening tests to assess a candidate’s aptitude and communication skills.
Duration of the MBBS Course in Iran
The MBBS program in Iran generally lasts 6 years, which includes:
5 years of academic study covering pre-clinical, para-clinical, and clinical subjects
1 year of compulsory clinical internship or practical training in university-affiliated hospitals
The curriculum is structured in a way that ensures strong theoretical foundation and extensive clinical exposure. This makes Iranian medical graduates well-prepared for further licensing exams such as FMGE (India), USMLE (USA), or PLAB (UK).
Medium of Instruction
While Persian (Farsi) is the national language of Iran, many top medical universities offer MBBS programs in English to accommodate international students. In the first year, students may also be taught basic Persian for easier communication during clinical training and daily life.
Indian students who are more comfortable studying in English should verify the medium of instruction with the university before applying.
Fee Structure and Cost of Living
One of the primary reasons students opt for Iran over other destinations is the affordable tuition fees. The average cost of studying MBBS in Iran ranges from ₹3.5 lakh to ₹6.5 lakh per year, depending on the university and city. This includes tuition, registration, and other academic charges.
In addition to tuition fees, students should also consider living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and personal needs. On average, the cost of living in Iran for international students is around ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 per month. This makes Iran one of the most budget-friendly destinations for Indian students planning to study MBBS abroad.
Top Medical Universities in Iran
Several reputed medical universities in Iran attract students from India, the Middle East, and even Africa. Some of the popular choices include:
Tehran University of Medical Sciences
Shiraz University of Medical Sciences
Iran University of Medical Sciences
Isfahan University of Medical Sciences
Mashhad University of Medical Sciences
These universities have modern campuses, well-equipped labs, and partnerships with government hospitals that offer students hands-on experience in patient care and diagnostics.
Recognition and Accreditation
Most Iranian medical universities are:
Approved by the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India
Listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS)
Recognized by the Ministry of Health and Medical Education of Iran
Eligible for licensing exams such as FMGE, USMLE, and PLAB
This international recognition ensures that graduates can pursue medical careers or post-graduate studies in countries such as India, the UK, USA, Canada, or Australia after completing the necessary licensing requirements.
Admission Process for Indian Students
The admission process for MBBS in Iran is simple and transparent. Here's a step-by-step overview for Indian aspirants:
Research and shortlisting: Choose a recognized Iranian medical university that suits your academic goals and budget.
Application submission: Fill out the application form, attach academic transcripts, passport copy, and NEET scorecard.
University review: The university evaluates your application and may schedule an online interview.
Offer letter: Once accepted, you will receive an official admission letter from the university.
Visa processing: Apply for a student visa with the help of the admission letter and other supporting documents.
Travel and enrollment: After visa approval, travel to Iran and complete the enrollment process at the university.
Most universities accept applications from May to October for the September intake.
Student Life and Cultural Experience
Iran offers a safe and culturally rich environment for Indian students. The country has a long history of academic excellence and is known for its hospitality and safety. Cities like Tehran, Shiraz, and Isfahan are well-developed and offer comfortable living standards for international students.
Indian food is available in many areas, and some universities even have Indian mess facilities. The shared culture of respect, family values, and traditional roots makes it easier for Indian students to adapt.
Career Opportunities After MBBS in Iran
After completing their MBBS in Iran, Indian students have multiple career paths:
Return to India and appear for the FMGE/NExT exam to practice medicine.
Pursue PG medical education in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, or Australia by appearing for USMLE, PLAB, etc.
Work in Iran (with additional licensing) or other Middle Eastern countries where Iranian degrees are recognized.
Go into research or public health services through globally recognized programs.
The comprehensive training and clinical exposure offered during MBBS in Iran ensure that students are competitive on international platforms.
Final Thoughts
For Indian students looking to balance affordability, quality education, and global recognition, MBBS in Iran is a strong option. The combination of low fees, NMC recognition, clinical exposure, and a safe learning environment makes it a smart choice for those who want to become successful doctors without the burden of high costs or donation demands.
Whether you're from a metro city or a small town in India, Iran’s medical universities open the door to a promising and respected medical career—globally and in India.
