MBBS in Iran is gaining popularity among Indian students due to its affordable fees, globally recognized medical degrees, English-medium instruction, and high-quality education standards. With the increasing demand for medical seats and rising costs in private colleges across India, many NEET-qualified students are turning toward international destinations like Iran. This country offers a perfect blend of academic rigor, cultural familiarity, and budget-friendly education, making it one of the most promising destinations for MBBS abroad in 2025.
This article serves as a comprehensive guide for Indian students planning to pursue MBBS in Iran. From eligibility and admission process to top universities, fees, and visa requirements, every critical detail is covered here to help you secure your seat now for the upcoming intake.
Why Pursue MBBS in Iran?
Iran has become an emerging hub for international medical education, especially for South Asian students. Here are the reasons why thousands of Indian students are opting for Iran as their MBBS destination:
Affordable Tuition Fees: Iran offers one of the most cost-effective MBBS programs, significantly lower than Indian private medical colleges.
NMC and WHO Recognized Universities: Most Iranian medical universities are recognized by the National Medical Commission (India) and listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS).
English-Medium Programs: Many top universities offer English-medium MBBS programs tailored for foreign students.
Global Recognition: Degrees from Iranian universities are accepted in Europe, USA, UK, and Middle East countries.
Safe and Student-Friendly Environment: Iran has a welcoming environment for Indian students, particularly in cities like Tehran, Shiraz, and Isfahan.
High FMGE Success Rate: Many graduates from Iran perform well in India’s FMGE/NEXT exams due to strong foundational training.
MBBS Course Structure in Iran
Duration: 6 years (5 years academic + 1 year clinical internship)
Language of Instruction: English (for international programs)
Curriculum: The curriculum is designed to integrate theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical training.
Internship: Mandatory 1-year clinical internship at university-affiliated hospitals.
Academic Approach: Focuses on evidence-based medicine, diagnostics, and patient care through continuous assessments and practical exposure.
Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students
To pursue MBBS in Iran, Indian applicants must meet the following criteria:
Academic Qualification: Minimum 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, Biology (PCB) in Class 12 (40% for SC/ST/OBC)
NEET Qualification: Mandatory for Indian students as per NMC guidelines
Age Requirement: 17 years by December 31 of the admission year
Other Requirements: A valid passport and medically fit certificate are necessary for visa and enrollment
Top Medical Universities in Iran
Iran is home to several globally reputed medical universities. Here are some of the best options for Indian students:
| University Name | City | Recognition |
|---|---|---|
| Tehran University of Medical Sciences | Tehran | NMC, WHO, WDOMS |
| Shiraz University of Medical Sciences | Shiraz | NMC, WHO |
| Tabriz University of Medical Sciences | Tabriz | NMC, WHO |
| Isfahan University of Medical Sciences | Isfahan | NMC, WHO |
| Mashhad University of Medical Sciences | Mashhad | NMC, WHO |
These universities offer English-medium MBBS programs, world-class clinical infrastructure, and well-trained faculty.
Fee Structure for MBBS in Iran (2025)
| University | Annual Tuition Fees (USD) | Annual Tuition Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Tehran University of Medical Sciences | $4,500 | ₹3,78,000 |
| Shiraz University of Medical Sciences | $4,000 | ₹3,36,000 |
| Tabriz University of Medical Sciences | $3,500 | ₹2,94,000 |
| Isfahan University of Medical Sciences | $4,200 | ₹3,52,800 |
| Mashhad University of Medical Sciences | $3,800 | ₹3,18,000 |
Cost of Living in Iran
Apart from tuition, Iran offers a very economical lifestyle for international students:
Accommodation: ₹6,000 – ₹10,000/month (University hostels or nearby flats)
Food: ₹4,000 – ₹6,000/month
Transport & Miscellaneous: ₹2,000 – ₹4,000/month
Total Monthly Living Cost: ₹12,000 – ₹20,000/month
Thus, a student can comfortably complete MBBS in Iran with an annual budget of ₹4.5 to ₹6 lakhs (including tuition + living expenses).
Admission Process – Step-by-Step Guide
Choose the University: Shortlist NMC-approved universities offering English-medium MBBS programs.
Submit Application: Apply online via university portal or through authorized consultancy.
Upload Documents:
10th and 12th Mark Sheets
NEET Scorecard
Passport
Passport-sized Photos
Medical Fitness Certificate
Receive Admission Letter: After verification, the university will issue a provisional admission letter.
Pay the Initial Fees: Secure your seat by paying the initial tuition deposit.
Apply for Visa: Submit documents to the Iranian Embassy for a student visa.
Travel & Join: Fly to Iran, complete registration, and begin your MBBS journey.
Visa Requirements
Iran provides a straightforward visa process for Indian students. Required documents include:
Admission Letter from the university
Valid Passport
Visa Application Form
Medical Certificate
Passport-size Photos
Financial Proof (Bank Statement or Sponsor Letter)
Visa processing time usually takes 2–4 weeks.
Internship & Licensing After MBBS
The final year includes a compulsory rotating internship in university-affiliated hospitals.
After completion, Indian students must pass FMGE or NEXT to practice in India.
Iranian MBBS degree holders can also appear for USMLE (USA) or PLAB (UK) if they wish to practice abroad.
Students may pursue post-graduation in Iran or other international universities.
Tips to Secure Your MBBS Seat in Iran
Apply Early: Start your application by March-April for the September intake.
Verify University Approvals: Ensure the university is NMC-listed and offers English-medium instruction.
Consult with Experts: Work with a trusted consultancy like University Insights for accurate guidance.
Prepare Documents in Advance: Keep scanned and notarized copies of all academic and personal documents.
Plan Finances: Understand total costs and arrange for timely fee payments and travel bookings.
Final Words
Iran is not only an affordable destination for MBBS studies but also a country rich in history, culture, and academic brilliance. For Indian students who aspire to become doctors without the burden of excessive fees or donation, pursuing MBBS in Iran offers an ideal balance of quality, cost, and global recognition. With a structured admission process, English-medium teaching, and recognized universities, securing your MBBS seat in Iran is a wise decision for 2025.
