Studying MBBS in Iran is becoming an increasingly popular choice for Indian students who are looking for affordable medical education abroad without compromising on quality. With top-tier universities recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC) and World Health Organization (WHO), Iran offers English-medium MBBS programs with modern infrastructure and clinical exposure. This guide explores the best medical colleges in Iran, their fee structure, eligibility criteria, and what makes Iran an excellent choice for MBBS in 2025.
Why Consider Iran for MBBS?
Iran stands out as a destination that balances affordability, academic excellence, and cultural hospitality. Unlike private medical colleges in India that charge hefty fees and donations, medical universities in Iran follow transparent fee structures and offer world-class education.
Benefits of Studying MBBS in Iran:
NMC-approved universities
WHO-recognized degrees
No donation or capitation fee
English-medium instruction
Affordable tuition and living expenses
Strong clinical exposure from early years
Safe and culturally friendly environment
Options for USMLE, PLAB, FMGE, and PG abroad
Top Medical Colleges to Study MBBS in Iran (2025)
Here are the top-ranked medical universities in Iran that are suitable for Indian students:
1. Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS)
Location: Tehran
Establishment: 1851
Medium: English
Recognition: NMC, WHO, UNESCO
Highlights:
Iran’s oldest and most prestigious medical university
Affiliated with more than 15 teaching hospitals
Strong research and international collaborations
2. Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences
Location: Tehran
Establishment: 1961
Medium: English
Recognition: NMC, WHO
Highlights:
Excellent clinical exposure and practical-based curriculum
Recognized for academic research and innovation
Affordable fee structure for international students
3. Iran University of Medical Sciences
Location: Tehran
Establishment: 1974
Medium: English
Recognition: NMC, WHO
Highlights:
Modern hospital networks and simulation labs
Offers strong postgraduate and internship programs
Diverse student base including many Indians
4. Mashhad University of Medical Sciences
Location: Mashhad
Establishment: 1949
Medium: English
Recognition: NMC, WHO
Highlights:
Focus on hands-on clinical learning
Comfortable hostel facilities for international students
Well-equipped libraries and anatomy labs
5. Isfahan University of Medical Sciences
Location: Isfahan
Establishment: 1946
Medium: English
Recognition: NMC, WHO
Highlights:
Strong academic performance history
Highly regarded faculty and infrastructure
Scholarships for international students
6. Tabriz University of Medical Sciences
Location: Tabriz
Establishment: 1946
Medium: English
Recognition: NMC, WHO
Highlights:
Offers MBBS, Dentistry, and Allied Health Programs
Recognized for medical research and exchange programs
Safe and welcoming environment for foreign students
MBBS in Iran – Fees Structure (2025)
| University | Tuition Fees (Per Year USD) | Fees in INR (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Tehran University of Medical Sciences | $5,000 – $6,000 | ₹4.2 – ₹5 lakh |
| Shahid Beheshti University | $4,500 – $5,500 | ₹3.8 – ₹4.6 lakh |
| Iran University of Medical Sciences | $5,000 – $6,000 | ₹4.2 – ₹5 lakh |
| Mashhad University of Medical Sciences | $4,500 – $5,000 | ₹3.8 – ₹4.2 lakh |
| Isfahan University of Medical Sciences | $4,000 – $5,000 | ₹3.4 – ₹4.2 lakh |
| Tabriz University of Medical Sciences | $4,000 – $5,000 | ₹3.4 – ₹4.2 lakh |
Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students
To apply for MBBS in Iran, Indian students must fulfill the following:
Age: Minimum 17 years by 31st December 2025
Qualification: Minimum 50% marks in PCB in 12th (40% for SC/ST/OBC)
NEET Requirement: Mandatory for all Indian applicants
Passport: Valid passport required
Language: English-medium course, but some universities may ask for a basic language assessment or IELTS (not mandatory in most cases)
Admission Process – Step-by-Step Guide
The MBBS admission process in Iran is straightforward, especially with expert help from University Insights.
Step 1: Apply Online
Fill out the university’s application form and submit academic documents.
Step 2: Receive Offer Letter
Once your profile is shortlisted, the university issues a provisional offer letter.
Step 3: Document Submission
Submit the required notarized and attested documents, including NEET scorecard, passport, 12th-grade mark sheets, etc.
Step 4: Visa Processing
University will issue an invitation letter for visa application. Apply for the student visa at the Iranian Embassy.
Step 5: Travel to Iran
Once the visa is approved, book your travel and reach the university campus before the intake date.
Living Expenses in Iran for Indian Students
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Hostel Room (Shared) | ₹10,000 – ₹15,000 |
| Food & Mess Charges | ₹6,000 – ₹8,000 |
| Local Transportation | ₹2,000 – ₹3,000 |
| Other Utilities & Internet | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 |
| Personal Expenses | ₹2,000 – ₹3,000 |
| Total | ₹21,500 – ₹31,500 |
MBBS Curriculum in Iran
The MBBS course in Iran follows a 6-year structure:
Years 1–2: Pre-clinical subjects (Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology)
Years 3–5: Clinical rotation and practicals in hospitals
Year 6: Internship with real-time patient handling and case diagnosis
Iranian medical education emphasizes clinical exposure from the early years.
Career Opportunities After MBBS in Iran
Graduates from Iranian universities are eligible for:
FMGE/NExT Exam in India
USMLE for the USA
PLAB for the UK
Pursue PG in Iran with stipend
Practice in Middle East, Europe, or Southeast Asia
Iran’s MBBS degree is globally accepted and gives students flexibility in their career path.
Final Words
Choosing to study at one of the top medical colleges to study MBBS in Iran can be a life-changing decision for Indian students aiming for quality education at an affordable price. Iran provides a rich blend of academic excellence, cultural hospitality, and safety. With globally recognized degrees, students can practice or pursue further education in India or abroad.
