Study MD in the Philippines: a guide for Indian students
The Philippines follows an American-style medical education system and teaches entirely in English. Its tropical climate and familiar disease patterns make it a popular choice for Indian students, and many Filipino doctors work internationally.
XEAL Education Works currently helps students with admission to AMA School of Medicine in Manila. Its fee is shown in the table above.
Course duration and structure
| Structure | BS (pre-medical) followed by a 4-year MD with clinical training |
|---|---|
| Medium of instruction | English |
| Intake | Usually June–August; some universities have other intakes |
| Licensing in India | FMGE (until NExT is introduced), then a 12-month internship in India |
How the Philippine system works
Students first complete a pre-medical Bachelor of Science (BS) course, usually about 1–2 years for Indian students, followed by the 4-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) programme, which includes clinical training and an internship. The MD degree is the qualification Indian students use to apply for the licensing exam in India.
Latest regulatory position
In 2025–26, the Philippine regulator (CHED) and the Indian Embassy in Manila issued guidance on how Philippine MD programmes meet the NMC's FMGL Regulations 2021. One related point, reciprocity for the Philippine licence exam, was still awaiting guidance from Indian authorities as of mid-2026. Rules here have changed several times, so ask us for the latest position before you apply.
Why Indian students choose the Philippines
- Fully English-medium country, with English widely spoken by patients.
- American-style curriculum and teaching methods.
- Tropical climate and disease patterns similar to India.
Eligibility
- Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry and Biology: usually at least 50% in PCB (40% for reserved categories).
- NEET-UG qualified, with a result from within the last three years.
- At least 17 years old by 31 December of the admission year.
- A valid passport.
Admission process with XEAL Education Works
- Free counselling and an eligibility check against your NEET and Class 12 marks.
- Documents: Class 10 and 12 mark sheets, NEET scorecard, passport and photographs.
- Admission letter from the university.
- Visa processing and pre-departure guidance.
- Travel and arrival support.
NMC rules every Indian student must check
To practise in India after studying abroad, your degree must meet the National Medical Commission's Foreign Medical Graduate Licentiate (FMGL) Regulations, 2021. Before you pay any fees, make sure the university and programme meet all of these:
- NEET-UG qualified: you must qualify NEET-UG to study MBBS abroad. The NEET result is accepted for foreign admission for three years.
- At least 54 months of study at one university, followed by a 12-month internship at the same university.
- English medium for the whole course.
- The degree must let you register as a doctor in that country, on the same terms as local graduates.
- The course must be completed within 10 years of joining.
- Back in India, you must pass the licensing exam (currently FMGE, until NExT is introduced) and complete a 12-month supervised internship in India.
XEAL Education Works checks these points for every university before we recommend it to you.
Frequently asked questions
Is NEET required for MBBS in the Philippines?
Yes. Indian students must qualify NEET-UG to study MBBS abroad and later practise in India. The NEET result is accepted for foreign admission for three years.
Is MD in the Philippines valid in India?
Philippine MD programmes have been assessed against NMC rules, but the regulatory position has changed several times. Contact us for the latest guidance before applying.
How long is the medical course in the Philippines?
A pre-medical BS course followed by a 4-year MD programme, which includes clinical training.
Talk to an admission counsellor
Call +91-9697360000 or +91-9906514555, email info@xeal.in, or visit our contact page. XEAL Education Works, Srinagar.