Home to the Ivy League and some of the top universities in the world, the United States is a prestigious destination for many international students. It is a place of honour and privilege, often the first choice for those seeking education in a foreign country. Renowned for its exceptional educational curricula, the United States of America also excels in medicine. 

The medical education system in the USA stands out for several unique features. The country is home to six of the world's top 10 medical universities. 

The MBBS program in the US is a comprehensive postgraduate degree that spans 4 to 7 years. The initial four years are dedicated to building a strong theoretical foundation, while the subsequent years focus on providing extensive clinical training and rigorous research. This blog covers every aspect of the medical degrees in the United States of America in great detail, providing you with all the information you need to feel reassured about your decision.

Why Study MBBS in the US?

MBBS in the United States is considered to be one of the best choices for students pursuing a medical degree. One of the busiest nations in the world, the United States has always kept its residents on their toes. 

With global recognition and popularity comes high prices and higher competition, which may trouble some students. However, the wealth of possibilities and opportunities, high-earning prospects, and research make it all worthwhile.

Here are some more reasons why you should choose the United States as your destination for studying abroad:

1. Premium quality education
2. Medical Degrees from the USA are recognised worldwide without having to ask for additional exams.
3. All governing medical bodies recognise the country's medical universities.
4. A Plethora of scholarships are available in the country for international students to benefit from
5. Job prospects in the USA are increasing daily. The Association for American Medical Colleges predicted a shortage of surgeons, physicians, and other medical specialities in the coming years.
6. Well-connected transportation systems (subways)
7. The United States has many immigrants; according to a survey by CMS New York, there are around 18 million immigrants in the states.
8. These numbers give students a chance to engage with diverse cultures.
9. There are many hospitals where students can work in
10. All of the universities use English as their medium of teaching
11. You get to live closer to Hollywood or the film city.

The Built Course Structure:

To secure a seat in the MD program in the United States, students must meet specific eligibility criteria. They must hold a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or physics from an accredited university. Admissions in the United States follow a strict credibility policy, and students need to demonstrate high academic performance to secure admission to any university in the United States.

The Course structure for MBBS in states is as follows:

The BCS to MD Program

Students who do not have a bachelor's degree and are applying for an MBBS in the States must enrol in the pre-medical training project. This medicine course teaches students the basics of science and medicine. Students living in the States start their medical training after their 10th year in school, which makes the duration of their pre-med course 4 years. 

However, many international students apply for the MD degree after their 12th year (equivalent to high school), shortening the duration of their pre-med course to 1 to 2 years. The main eligibility requirement is that students have biology, chemistry, and physics as their core subjects. After completing the pre-clinical course, students meeting the eligibility criteria can enrol in the MD program.

The MD Program

After completing the pre-med course, all the eligible students can enrol in the MD program. This program is considered equivalent to the MBBS program in many countries. This program covers both the theoretical and practical aspects of MBBS. The first stage covers in-depth theoretical understanding. The stage covers core subjects like:

• Anatomy 
• Biochemistry
• Microbiology 
• Medical ethics, etc.

After four semesters, students have to take an additional semester, which is known as the Basic Science Integration course. All students must clear this additional semester to take the UCSMLE exams. The Qualified Students of the BSIC course move to the UCSMLE 1 exam. The successful completion of the exam allows students to move to clinical rotations. 

The clinical rotations are divided into core and elective rotations, during which qualified physicians and specialists train students to treat, diagnose, and interact with patients. At the end of the 84 weeks of clinical rotations, students appear in the UCSMLE 2 exam. Overall, the MD degree in the USA takes around six and a half years to complete.

The Residency Match Program

After the students have cleared both exams, they can apply to any residency program in the USA. Clearing both exams is essential for students to get practising licenses.

The Eligibility Criteria:

Although different universities have different eligibility requirements for MBBS, here are some general guidelines for the eligibility criteria in the US

1. Bachelor's Degree: All applicants for MD in the USA must hold a bachelor's degree in a science-related field.
2. Sciences as core subjects: Applicants who apply after the 12th must have biology, chemistry and physics as their core subjects.
3. MCAT: A good score on the MCAT is required to be eligible for MD in the United States. Usually, a score above 510 is required.
4. English Language Proficiency: All international applicants must present proof of proficiency.
5. A good GPA: A CGPA of 3.5 or higher is required to study in MBBS in the USA.
6. Extracurricular activities: Universities in the states often prefer students who are engaged in extracurricular activities.
7. For International Students:

• Financial Statement
• Visa
• University acceptance letter
• Equilancy certificates

Documents Required for MBBS in USA:

To apply in the USA, you must have these documents.

• A certified copy of a high school diploma or equivalent is required for students from the states.
• Completed Application form.
• Transcripts of all educational degrees.
• Since all the programs are taught in English, you must present a proven record of English Proficiency, such as test results for IELTS or TOEFL.
• For medical universities, all students must present the test results for medical entrance exams.
• Passport or National ID.
• 2 Passport-sized pictures.
• Two letters of recommendation, preferably from your mentors or professors.
• A personal statement about your passion for medicine, your goals, and how you can be a medical professional who can bring positive change to society.

For International students

• A legitimate financial statement.
• A medical Certificate.

• An acceptance letter from the University is crucial for a student visa.
• Proof of bachelor's Degree.
• Travel Insurance.

How Many Medical Schools are there in the USA?

According to research by the Association of American Medical Colleges, there are 170 medical colleges in the United States, 10 of which are considered among the world's top 100 universities.

Along the list, the Harvard School of Medicine is regarded as the best medical school in the US and one of the best medical schools worldwide. Due to its popularity, the acceptance rate in HMS is very strict, with a minimum CGPA requirement of 3.9. 

Top Medical Universities

The Harvard Medical School

Known worldwide for medical teaching, training, and research, the Harvard Medical School has been consistently ranked as the best medical school in the world. Established in 1782, the Harvard Medical School is a part of Harvard University. 

This gives students access to the country's top research centres and hospitals. While studying at the HMS, students can work in top medical research centres like the Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Woman’s Hospital. Students also get to work alongside renowned personnel in the field of medicine.  

The University charges an estimated fee of $64,000 for the MBBS program. This may vary for international Students.

Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine is second to the Harvard School of Medicine and is headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland. The University has been focusing on medicinal research, education, and innovation.

Over 125 years after their establishment, the medical school and Johns Hopkins Hospital have set standards for medical universities and institutions. The University proudly maintains three motives: patient-centric medicine to prevent, diagnose, and treat illness, conducting biomedical research, and educating the public through its Gene to Society curriculum. 

Due to its popularity, admissions at Johns Hopkins University are highly competitive. The University is also affiliated with The Johns Hopkins Hospital, where students can practice their theoretical knowledge. On average, the university charges around 59,000 to 60,000 USD annually.

The Stanford University School of Medicine

Standing tall in California, near Silicon Valley, Stanford has always been famous among students. The university has built an educational curriculum that is focused on technology-based learning. The SUSM offers students the liberty to choose their courses throughout their degree. The University provides students with a choice of required or elective courses. 

Another benefit of studying at Stanford University School of Medicine is that students can participate in bioinformatics Research and health science innovation activities that fill the halls of Silicon Valley. The university charges an annual fee of 60,000 USD to 65,000 USD for an MD.

The University of California, San Francisco

The University of California is popularly known for its contributions to public health and medicinal excellence. Located in the city's heart, the university has built the bridges curriculum that combines clinical training with theoretical knowledge. The University also offers healthcare, oncology, and more research opportunities.

In collaboration with the Zuckerberg San Fransico General Hospital and the UCSF Medical Center, the university has helped many underprivileged people access healthcare. Hospitals also offer great opportunities for students to do clinical rotations. UCSF charges an annual fee of 50,000- 55,000 USD.

The Dukes University

Located in Durham, the Dukes University School of Medicine is another renowned medical school in the United States. The institute is famous for its top-tier education, research and clinical practices. 

The Dukes University Medical School is known for its accelerated medical curriculum, which allows students to complete their medical degrees in shorter periods. The third year of the Dukes University Medical School is dedicated to research. After the third year is complete, the students move to clinical rotations.  The research year helps students strengthen their basis in specialisation. The Dukes University takes an annual fee of 61,000 USD for the MD program.

The Admissions Process for International Students

The application process for MBBS in universities in the USA requires careful planning. Many international students in the country apply through the American School Medical Application Service. Here are the critical steps for the application process:

Completing the bachelor's degree: One of the most important things to get admission to the MD program is to complete the pre-med courses by obtaining an undergraduate degree.

Pass the MCAT: The MCAT is an essential requirement for aspirants of MD degrees in the USA. Once a student has cleared the test, they can get admission to any university they wish.

Apply with the Help of AMCAS: Submit all your transcripts, official documents, personal statements and letters of recommendation to the AMCAS.

Interview Process: Once you have submitted your application and received your offer letter, you will be asked to give an interview. You will either be asked to give the interview virtually or visit the campus.

Apply for a Visa: After everything has been cleared, you must present your university offer letter to the embassy. 

Acceptance Rates of Universities in the USA

Medical Colleges in the USA are highly competitive. Medical colleges in the United States have strict admission requirements. Harvard, for instance, has set a minimum requirement of a 3.9 CGPA for its aspirants. But this isn’t it; a high GPA isn’t enough; universities in the states also require students to have a good portfolio, extracurricular activities, and a robust resume to be eligible for MBBS in the states. 

Despite all these, a few students get admission to these prestigious institutions. In Fall 2022, for instance, the average acceptance rate for the top 16 medical colleges was 6.2%. In more selective medical schools, the acceptance rate dropped 2.7%.

What is the Cost of Studying MBBS in the USA?

The cost of studying for an MBBS degree in the USA ranges from 11,000 to 84,000 USD. Different universities have different fees; Harvard, for example, charges an estimated fee of around 65,000 USD. The estimated fees for top universities in the country are as follows:

Why Choose USA for MBBS?

The United States stands out as the top destination for MBBS aspirants. Here are some of the reasons why anyone should choose the United States as their destination for study abroad.

World-class medical schools: The United States is home to some of the world’s top-class medical universities, such as Harvard, Johns Hopkins, and Stanford. These universities are not just known for their educational curriculum but also for their modern medical technology and the research prospects that their research centres offer. 

The graduates of their universities are highly preferred by employers anywhere in the world.

High Earning Potential: Doctors in the USA are the highest-paid professionals in the country. After getting their MD from a university in the USA, students can earn a handsome salary even at the beginning of their careers.

Opportunities for specialisation: After completing their MD, students can complete their specialisation from any medical university in the country.

Global Recognition: Most degrees from American medical universities are recognised globally.

What are the Cons of Studying MBBS in USA?

High costs of living: Tuition and living costs in the USA are high for many students, especially those from countries with low currency rates. 

Intense competition: Due to their popularity and excellence, medical universities in the USA face high competition.

Lengthy pathway: Studying in the USA can be lengthy at times. Some students may take up to 10 years to complete their MBBS in the country.

Visa and Immigration: International students may face difficulties while navigating visa and immigration in the country.

Conclusion

Studying MBBS in the country is prestigious, but it also comes with its challenges. The biggest one is the time and money required to obtain an MBBS degree there. With a comprehensive educational curriculum and numerous top universities, the USA consistently ranks as one of the most preferred countries in the world for higher education. However, every decision has its pros and cons, so make sure you analyse them before making a decision. If you’re looking for admissions counselling in any of the universities of the USA, give counsellingX a call.

We have over 500 expert counsellors, willing to provide personalised guidance for step of the admissions process.