Studying to be a doctor is one of the most enviable professions in India, however, the aspirations of joining the field usually run into the dynamics of high prices of joining the medical colleges privately in India. Every year thousands of candidates sit for NEET, and there is a mere 80K MBBS places offered to 20+ lakh candidates. It does not matter whether you manage to get a seat in a privately owned medical college in India, the fee may be as high as 70Lacs-Over 1cr depending upon the college, an amount that is beyond the reaches of most families.
Here is where Europe comes in as a game-changer. Studying MBBS in Europe among the Indian students is a trend on the rise due to low tuition fees, excellent education and global career prospects. Some of the most popular destinations include countries such as Serbia, Romania, Georgia, Bulgaria and Bosnia.
In this blog, you will get everything under the nose-MBBS in Europe fees, admission process, eligibility, top universities, cost of living, and MBBS in Serbia for Indian students fees in detail.
Why Choose Europe for MBBS?
Why do thousands of Indian students go to Europe every year to pursue their medical education? Now, since we are into the numbers, here is the answer to the question:
1. Affordable MBBS Fees
The costs Private medical colleges in India usually charge to acquire an MBBS degree are between 70 lakhs and 1.5 crores. This is in contrast to MBBS in Europe fees start as low as €3,000 per year and rarely exceed €8,000 per year depending on the country and university. That is between 2.7 lakh and 7.2 lakh per year, meaning the whole course would cost 20 lakh to 50 lakhs on an average.
2. Globally Recognized Degrees
The European universities are accepted by NMC (National Medical Commission, India), WHO, ECFMG (USA), GMC (UK), and WFME which means that you will be qualified to practice medicine in any country in the world, as long as you have completed the respective licensing examination: FMGE/NExT (India), USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK and Canada), AMC (Australia).
3. English-Medium Education
In Europe, most of the universities with MBBS programs are entirely in English, so there is no need to learn a second language to gain access to your course work. Nevertheless, it is recommended to learn the local language in order to have a better interaction upon the clinical experience.
4. Safe, Student-Friendly Countries
Such countries as Serbia or Bosnia, Romania or Bulgaria, and Georgia are not only relatively safe and peaceful and welcoming to the foreigner. Most of them have a higher position in the Global Peace Index as compared to India.
5. No Donation or Capitation Fee
European universities do not receive donation or capitation fees as it is the case with Indian private colleges. The admission process is purely merit based.
6. Opportunity to Settle in Europe
By graduating in an EU country, such as Romania or Bulgaria, the graduates will have an access to the European job opportunities. Serbia and Bosnia, though not a member of the EU, have good prospects although Serbia is currently on a path to join the EU in future.
MBBS in Europe Fees – Country-Wise Breakdown
The fee structure of studying MBBS in Europe will be different according to the country however here is a detailed fee structure of MBBS in Europe by Indian students:
| Country | Tuition Fees/Year | Living Cost/Month | Total Cost for 6 Years |
| Serbia | €5,000 – €8,000 | €200 – €400 | €40,000 – €48,000 |
| Romania | €4,000 – €7,500 | €300 – €500 | €30,000 – €45,000 |
| Bulgaria | €7,000 – €8,000 | €350 – €500 | €42,000 – €48,000 |
| Georgia | €4,000 – €8,000 | €280 – €460 | €30,000 – €42,000 |
| Bosnia & Herzegovina | €3,000 – €6,000 | €200 – €400 | €25,000 – €35,000 |
Quick Comparison:
- Indian Private College MBBS Cost = ₹80 lakh – ₹1 crore
- Europe MBBS Cost = ₹20 lakh – ₹45 lakh
This will save you at least 50% by going to Europe.
MBBS in Serbia for Indian Students – Complete Details
Compared with any European country, Serbia offers one of the cheapest yet high-quality education to the Indian students. Here’s why:
1. Tuition Fees in Serbia
- Tuition: €5,000 – €8,000 per year (₹4.5 lakh – ₹7.2 lakh)
- Total for 6 years: €40,000 – €48,000 (₹36 lakh – ₹43 lakh)
For example:
- University of Belgrade: €5,500/year
- University of Novi Sad: €6,000/year
- University of Kragujevac: €5,500/year
2. Living Costs
- Accommodation: €100 – €200/month (Hostel), €250 – €400/month (Apartment)
- Food: €100 – €150/month
- Transport: €20 – €30/month
- Total: Around €250 – €400/month (₹22,000 – ₹35,000)
3. Course Duration
- 6 years (5 years of academics + 1 year internship)
4. Eligibility Criteria
- 10+2 with 50% in Physics, Chemistry, Biology.
- It is compulsory to Indian Students to be qualified in NEET.
- Most Universities do not have major entrance test; some can be having a minor test in Biology/Chemistry.
5. Recognitions
- NMC Approved
- WHO Listed
- ECFMG, GMC, WFME Accredited
6. Admission Process
- Apply online to the chosen university
- Submit documents: 10+2 marksheet, NEET score, passport, photographs, medical fitness certificate
- Receive admission letter
- Pay initial tuition fees
- Apply for D-Type student visa
7. Why Serbia is Popular
- Reasonable prices in comparison to western Europe
- Safe and friendly environment
- The Indian community presence
- Prospects to establish in Europe
Top Universities for MBBS in Serbia
- University of Belgrade – Faculty of Medicine
- University of Novi Sad – Faculty of Medicine
- University of Kragujevac – Faculty of Medical Sciences
- University of Niš – Faculty of Medicine
Other Popular Countries for MBBS in Europe
1. MBBS in Romania
- Fees: €4,000 – €7,500/year
- Duration: 6 years
- Highlights:
EU-recognized degrees
Graduate Entry Medicine course (4 years medical course in science graduates)
Top universities: Carol Davila University, University of Craiova, Ovidius University
2. MBBS in Bulgaria
- Fees: €7,000 – €8,000/year
- EU Member Country – Degrees recognized across Europe
- Top universities: Medical University of Sofia, Medical University of Plovdiv, Medical University of Varna
3. MBBS in Georgia
- Fees: €4,000 – €8,000/year
- Popular among Indian students for easy admission and affordable living
- Top universities: Tbilisi State Medical University, University of Georgia
4. MBBS in Bosnia & Herzegovina
- Fees: €3,000 – €6,000/year
- One of the cheapest options in Europe
- Growing Indian student community
Additional Costs to Consider
- Visa Processing: €100 – €150
- Travel Expenses: ₹40,000 – ₹60,000 (one-way ticket)
- Medical Insurance: €100 – €200/year
- Books & Materials: €200 – €300/year
Career Opportunities After MBBS in Europe
- Practice in India after clearing FMGE/NExT
- USMLE for USA
- PLAB for UK
- Residency in Europe (especially if studying in an EU country)
- High global demand for doctors ensures multiple opportunities
Why Europe is a Smart Choice
Getting a MBBS in Europe is one of the smartest, globally accepted and most affordable option which admits Indian students today. The low fee rate in Europe as low as 20-40 lakh and the best of the schools available like in Serbia, it is no wonder why thousands of students each year take the option.
In case you are interested in getting a safe environment, a globally accepted degree, and reasonable fees, Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, Georgia, and Bosnia offer the most preferable destinations.
FAQs on MBBS in Europe for Indian Students
Q1. Is MBBS in Europe valid in India?
It does have to be approved by the NMC. Please always verify the updated NMC list before applying
Q2: MBBS abroad requires NEET?
It is true that Indian students must obtain NEET qualification to practice medicine in India after getting their MBBS degrees.
Q3 What is the mode of instruction?
The vast majority of medical universities in the European region provide the opportunity to study in English (MBBS).
Q4. Is it possible to study and go to work at the same time in a European MBBS?
Yes, the student is allowed to work up to 10 hours to 20 hours per week in most countries and this is provided they have their student Visa.
