NEET UG 2025 Exam Difficulty Forces Students to Pursue MBBS Abroad

The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET UG) is the only gateway for students in India to pursue undergraduate medical courses, such as MBBS and BDS. However, the recent trend shows that many students are finding it extremely difficult to secure admission in government or private medical colleges due to this year’s toughness of the NEET UG exam. As a result, a growing number of Indian students are now choosing to study MBBS abroad.

Rising Competition and High Cut-Offs

Every year, more than 20 lakh students appear for the NEET UG exam, but the number of MBBS seats in India remains limited. In 2024, there were approximately 1.7 lakh MBBS seats available across government and private medical colleges. This means that only about 5% of NEET aspirants can secure a seat.

Moreover, government medical colleges, which are more affordable, offer only about 58,000 seats. To get admission into these colleges, students must score extremely high marks, often above 680 out of 720. The rising cut-offs and intense competition are making it nearly impossible for average students to secure a seat in India.

Pressure and Mental Stress on Students

The difficulty level of the NEET UG exam has increased over the years. Many students are now under constant pressure to perform well, as even a minor mistake can cost them a medical seat. This has led to increased stress, anxiety and even mental health issues among aspirants.

Coaching institutes across the country are booming, as parents are willing to spend lakhs of rupees to help their children crack NEET. However, not everyone can afford such coaching, which creates an unfair advantage for students from financially stronger backgrounds.

Students Turning to Foreign Countries

Due to these challenges, a large number of Indian students are now opting to study MBBS abroad. Countries like Russia, Georgia, Kazakhstan and Nepal have become popular destinations. These countries offer medical education at a lower cost compared to private colleges in India and have more relaxed admission criteria.

Parents find this option more practical as it saves them from paying high capitation fees and donation charges that private colleges in India often demand. Moreover, some foreign universities provide quality education and international exposure, which also attracts Indian students.

Recognition and Licensing Challenges

However, studying abroad comes with its challenges. Indian students who pursue MBBS in foreign universities must clear the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) after returning to India to practice medicine. The pass rate for FMGE is less than 25%, making it another hurdle for students.

In addition, students must ensure that the foreign university they choose is approved by the National Medical Commission (NMC). If not, their degree may not be recognised in India.

Read Also: NEET UG 2025 Answer Key Released: How to Download and Raise Objections

Read Also: How Many Students Actually Get an MBBS Seat? The Harsh Reality of NEET UG 2025

What Experts Say

Education experts believe that the Indian government should focus on increasing the number of MBBS seats and improving the quality of education across all states. Dr. Sanjay Tiwari, a senior education consultant from RM Group of Education, says, “We must reduce the pressure on students by offering more opportunities. Also, NEET should be made a fair and balanced exam that tests understanding rather than rote learning.”

Note: With the NEET UG exam becoming tougher each year and limited medical seats available in India, students are left with no option but to look for alternatives, like studying abroad. While foreign MBBS programs can be a good opportunity, students must research carefully before taking this path. Meanwhile, policymakers must work towards making medical education in India more accessible and less stressful for the future generation of doctors.