In a surprising twist in India’s medical admission trends, some of the NEET-UG toppers are opting not to attend AIIMS Delhi, the most prestigious medical college in India. While this might seem unthinkable to many aspirants, a closer look reveals the practical, academic and career-based reasons behind this shift.
Let’s explore why some NEET toppers are choosing other Indian colleges like AFMC Pune or JIPMER Puducherry, and even foreign universities in countries like the USA, UK, over AIIMS.
What’s Happening?
AIIMS Delhi has been the default dream college for NEET toppers. But in recent years:
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- The NEET toppers sometimes skip AIIMS Delhi to join AFMC or JIPMER for their own reasons.
- Some toppers even choose MBBS abroad, especially in top universities in the USA, the UK and Eastern Europe.
- A few NEET toppers opted for state medical colleges close to home for personal or family reasons.
Note: This shift is not about AIIMS losing its value, but about changing goals, global exposure, and better long-term planning.
Why NEET Toppers Sometimes Skip AIIMS Delhi?
1. Military Career & Discipline (AFMC Pune)
Some toppers are drawn to AFMC Pune because it offers:
- Military lifestyle and discipline
- Commission as a doctor in the Indian Army
- No tuition fee and complete sponsorship
- A guaranteed government job after MBBS
This appeals to students who want to serve the nation with stability and respect.
Join NEET News 2025 2. Student-Friendly Life & Research Opportunities (JIPMER Puducherry)
JIPMER, a central institute like AIIMS, offers:
- A more balanced academic life
- Flexible campus culture with less stress
- Early exposure to research programs
- Good patient inflow and clinical exposure
Some students prefer mental health and growth balance over AIIMS’ high pressure.
Read Also: NEET UG 2025 Cutoff May Change After MP High Court Re-Exam Announcement
Why Some NEET Top Rankers Choose MBBS Abroad Over AIIMS?
This is the most sensational shift, and here’s why it’s happening.
1. Global Degree, Global Career
Studying MBBS abroad, especially in countries like the USA and the UK, helps students:
- Get trained in international clinical settings
- Prepare for exams like USMLE, PLAB, or AMC early
- Build a direct path to medical residency abroad
- Access globally recognised degrees (often WHO/NMC approved)
Example: In the USA, students start clinical rotations from the third year itself, giving more hands-on experience earlier than Indian colleges.
2. No PG Entrance Struggle
In India, clearing NEET-PG or INICET after MBBS is extremely tough and competitive. But in countries like the USA or Germany:
- PG is integrated with the MBBS pathway
- Students don’t compete with lakhs of candidates
- Top students can directly apply for residency after clearing the national boards
This appeals to students who want a smoother transition to specialisation.
3. Modern Infrastructure and Early Exposure
Top universities abroad (especially in the USA, the UK, and the Caribbean Islands) offer:
- Fully digital campuses
- 3D virtual cadavers, AI-assisted simulations
- Early patient interaction and practical training
- Low student-faculty ratio
Compared to many Indian colleges (except AIIMS), these offer more personalised learning and modern medical education.
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4. No Donation or Capitation Fees
Even private Indian colleges charge ₹70 Lakh to ₹1.25 Crore for MBBS with poor infrastructure.
In contrast, MBBS abroad is available at:
- ₹25–50 Lakh (total package) in countries like Russia, Georgia, Uzbekistan, or Kazakhstan
- No hidden charges or donations
- Option to pay in easy installments
For example: Grigol Robakidze University, Georgia, offers MBBS at ₹4.5–₹5 Lakh per year with NMC approval.
5. Global Recognition & Career Options
MBBS from a top foreign university opens doors to:
- Residency in the USA/UK/Canada
- Higher salary packages abroad
- Work and settle abroad with international licenses
- Multiple career paths in clinical research, pharma, and public health
Strict Academics, Location Concerns & Lifestyle Choices
AIIMS Delhi is known for its rigorous academic environment, which, while prestigious, can also be extremely demanding. The tight schedule, frequent exams, and competitive pressure often leave students with little personal time or flexibility. Some NEET toppers prefer colleges with a more balanced lifestyle.
Additionally, location preference plays a big role; not all students want to move to Delhi, which is often criticised for its overcrowding, pollution, traffic, and high living expenses. Many students from South India or smaller towns choose institutes closer to home for comfort, safety, or family support.
But AIIMS Delhi Is Still India’s Best
Despite the shift, let’s be clear: AIIMS Delhi is still India’s No. 1 medical college, with:
- Top-tier faculty and cutting-edge research
- Very Low education and hostel budget
- Highest patient inflow in India
- Strong alumni and global reputation
But students today are becoming smarter, more informed, and globally oriented. They choose what fits their individual goals and career vision, not just brand names.
Note: NEET toppers skipping AIIMS Delhi is not about rejecting excellence; it’s about diversifying opportunities. Whether it’s the military discipline of AFMC, flexibility at JIPMER, or global pathways via MBBS abroad, today’s students are looking at the bigger picture.
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