Studying MBBS in Iran has emerged as a strong contender in the field of medical education for international students. With its modern infrastructure, world-class teaching hospitals, English-medium courses, and affordability, Iran presents a highly attractive destination for those aspiring to become doctors. Over the years, Indian students have shown increasing interest in studying MBBS in Iran due to its globally recognized universities, safety, and government-backed education system.
Unlike many Western countries, Iran offers a combination of quality education, lower tuition costs, and robust healthcare training, making it one of the most preferred choices for MBBS Abroad.
Why Choose Iran for Medical Studies?
For students exploring options outside India, Iran provides the perfect balance of academic rigor and affordability. MBBS in Iran for Indian Students is especially beneficial due to the following advantages:
Globally Recognized Degrees: Most medical universities in Iran are listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS), recognized by WHO, UNESCO, and accepted by the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India.
Affordable Tuition Fees: The tuition fees for MBBS programs in Iran are significantly lower than those in countries like the USA, UK, or Australia.
Cultural Proximity: Iran shares many cultural and dietary similarities with India, making it easier for Indian students to adapt.
English-Medium Programs: Several universities offer English-taught MBBS programs, especially for international students.
Safe and Welcoming Environment: Iran is among the safest countries in the region and is known for its hospitality toward foreign students.
Strong Practical Exposure: Medical training in Iran involves extensive clinical exposure, especially in public hospitals with large patient inflows.
MBBS Program in Iran: Course Structure
The MBBS or MD program in Iran typically spans 7 years, which includes the following phases:
Basic Sciences (Years 1–2): Includes Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, and introductory courses in Medicine.
Pathophysiology (Year 3): Covers advanced courses like Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, and begins clinical skills development.
Clinical Training (Years 4–5): Students attend rotations in hospitals under supervision, gaining hands-on experience in core departments.
Internship (Years 6–7): Full-time, paid clinical internship with rotations in surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics, and more.
While Iran follows its own medical education structure, the degree is globally accepted and eligible for licensing exams like FMGE (India), USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), etc.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply to medical universities in Iran, Indian students must meet the following basic requirements:
Completion of 10+2 education with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
Minimum of 50% marks in PCB (40% for reserved categories)
NEET qualification (mandatory for Indian students)
A valid passport
Medical fitness certificate
Statement of Purpose and academic transcripts
Top Medical Universities to Study MBBS in Iran
Below is a list of the top-ranked and most preferred universities offering MBBS programs in Iran. These universities are known for their academic excellence, research facilities, and affiliation with major hospitals.
1. Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS)
Location: Tehran
Establishment: 1851
Recognitions: WHO, NMC, ECFMG, FAIMER
Medium: English & Persian
Highlights: Iran’s oldest and most prestigious medical institution with advanced research facilities, global partnerships, and strong alumni network.
Tuition Fees: $5,000–$7,000 per year
2. Shiraz University of Medical Sciences
Location: Shiraz
Establishment: 1946
Recognitions: WHO, NMC, IMED, FAIMER
Medium: English (for international students)
Highlights: Strong emphasis on student research, modern hospitals, and highly qualified faculty members.
Tuition Fees: $4,500–$6,000 per year
3. Isfahan University of Medical Sciences
Location: Isfahan
Establishment: 1946
Recognitions: WHO, NMC, FAIMER
Medium: English/Persian
Highlights: Known for advanced medical equipment, international collaborations, and community-based training.
Tuition Fees: $4,000–$5,500 per year
4. Mashhad University of Medical Sciences
Location: Mashhad
Establishment: 1949
Recognitions: WHO, WDOMS, NMC, FAIMER
Medium: English (for MBBS)
Highlights: Large number of affiliated hospitals, excellent clinical exposure, and international ranking improvements.
Tuition Fees: $4,000–$5,500 per year
5. Golestan University of Medical Sciences
Location: Gorgan
Establishment: 1991
Recognitions: WHO, NMC (India), WDOMS
Medium: English
Highlights: Popular among Indian students for budget-friendly education, separate hostel facilities, and personalized attention in small class sizes.
Tuition Fees: $3,500–$4,500 per year
6. Tabriz University of Medical Sciences
Location: Tabriz
Establishment: 1946
Recognitions: WHO, NMC, IMED
Medium: English
Highlights: High research output, excellent medical labs, and strong faculty-to-student ratio.
Tuition Fees: $4,500–$6,000 per year
Cost of Living in Iran for Indian Students
Living in Iran is highly economical compared to other MBBS Abroad destinations. Here's an approximate monthly cost breakdown:
Accommodation (hostel/shared flat): ₹6,000 – ₹10,000
Food & groceries: ₹4,000 – ₹6,000
Transport & utilities: ₹1,000 – ₹2,000
Total Monthly Living Cost: ₹11,000 – ₹18,000 (approx.)
Final Thoughts
Iran offers a perfect blend of affordable education, global recognition, and safe living conditions, making it a reliable destination for medical education. The universities listed above are some of the best institutions to pursue a globally accepted MBBS degree with clinical excellence and research-based learning.
For Indian students evaluating overseas options, MBBS in Iran is not only financially viable but also educationally rewarding. From well-structured curriculum to English-medium instruction and NMC recognition, Iran ticks all the boxes.
Students seeking MBBS in Iran for Indian Students should begin their application process early, as most universities have limited international seats and competitive selection processes. Those comparing Bangladesh MBBS, Russia MBBS, or other MBBS Abroad programs should definitely include Iran in their top three considerations.
