Introduction
For lakhs of Indian students, becoming a doctor is a dream nurtured from childhood. However, this dream often hits a roadblock in the form of limited government medical seats and the high cost of private medical education in India. With over 20 lakh students appearing for NEET every year and less than 1 lakh government MBBS seats available, the competition is fierce, and the reality of securing a seat becomes challenging for most aspirants.
As a result, more students and parents are exploring MBBS options abroad—and Vietnam has emerged as a rising star. Offering affordable, high-quality, English-medium medical education in line with NMC guidelines, Vietnam presents a compelling alternative to studying in India, especially in 2025.
In this comprehensive blog, we will compare MBBS in Vietnam vs MBBS in India across various critical factors—fees, practical training, recognition, admission process, lifestyle, and long-term career prospects. Whether you’re evaluating options or planning to apply this year, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Disclaimer: This comparison is based on verified data and applies especially to students choosing NMC-approved universities in Vietnam through Aieraa Overseas Studies, the only authorised company in India
MBBS in India – An Overview
India has a well-established medical education system with a vast network of government and private medical colleges. Every year, lakhs of students aim to get into an MBBS course, hoping to secure one of the limited government seats or manage a seat in the private sector, which often comes at a steep cost.
Types of Medical Colleges in India
- Government Medical Colleges: Highly subsidised fees, tough competition. Only around 55,000–60,000 seats are available.
- Private Medical Colleges: Much higher tuition fees, often ₹15–₹25 lakhs per year, with limited scholarships.
- Deemed Universities: Function like private institutions with fees often on par or higher than private colleges.
NEET – The Only Gateway
In India, admission to all MBBS seats is strictly through the NEET UG examination. With over 20 lakh aspirants and less than 1 lakh total MBBS seats (govt + private), NEET ranks decide everything.
For students with lower NEET scores, options become limited to either:
- Waiting a year to reappear for NEET
- Paying high capitation/donation in private colleges
- Looking abroad for quality and affordable MBBS options
Cost of MBBS in India
- Government College: ₹50,000 to ₹1,50,000 per year
- Private College: ₹15,00,000 to ₹25,00,000 per year
- Total cost in private college: ₹80 lakhs to ₹1.2 crores over 5.5 years
Challenges Faced by Indian MBBS Aspirants
- Extremely high cut-offs for government colleges
- Expensive private seats with minimal practical exposure
- Overburdened academic schedules and large class sizes
While MBBS in India remains the first choice, the cost and limited availability of seats push many students to explore international options like Vietnam that offer similar quality education at a fraction of the price.
MBBS in Vietnam – An Overview
Vietnam has emerged as a trusted destination for Indian students seeking a cost-effective, NMC-approved, and high-quality medical education abroad. With a growing number of Indian students enrolling each year, Vietnam’s medical universities have developed English-medium MBBS programmes specifically designed to meet international standards and Indian regulatory requirements.
English-Medium MBBS Curriculum
All universities partnered with Aieraa Overseas Studies offer fully English-medium MBBS programmes. There is no need to learn Vietnamese to attend lectures, although basic local language training is included to help students during clinical interactions from the third year onwards.
Universities Partnered with Aieraa Overseas Studies
- Can Tho University of Medicine & Pharmacy
- Phan Chau Trinh University
- Dai Nam Medical University
- Buon Ma Thuot Medical University (BMU)
Note: Dong A University and Nam Can Tho University are not authorised under Aieraa’s partnership for the 2025 intake.
Duration and Structure
- Total Duration: 5.5 years (including 1-year clinical internship)
- Curriculum: Aligned with NMC guidelines and designed to prepare students for NEXT and USMLE
- Practical Training: Starts from the first year, including real cadaver dissection
Why Indian Students Are Choosing Vietnam
- Affordable tuition fees – Around ₹6 lakhs per year
- Low living costs, similar to India
- Early and strong clinical exposure
- English instruction and Indian food availability
- Simple visa process and short travel time (4 hours)
MBBS in Vietnam offers Indian students a balanced approach to medical education—combining affordability, quality, cultural comfort, and future readiness—all under the guidance of Aieraa Overseas Studies, India’s only authorised partner for MBBS admissions in Vietnam.
Cost Comparison – MBBS in Vietnam vs India
Cost is one of the biggest deciding factors for students and parents when choosing a medical education path. Let’s break down and compare the overall expenses of pursuing MBBS in Vietnam vs India over the full 5.5 years.
💰 Tuition Fees
- India (Private Colleges): ₹15 – ₹25 lakhs per year
- Vietnam (Aieraa Partnered Universities): ₹6 lakhs per year
🏠 Hostel & Food Expenses
- India: ₹1.5 – ₹2 lakhs per year (depending on city)
- Vietnam: ₹1 – ₹1.2 lakhs per year (includes Indian food in many hostels)
📈 Total 5.5-Year Estimated Cost Comparison
| Parameter | MBBS in Vietnam | MBBS in India (Private College) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (Total) | ₹33,00,000 | ₹80,00,000 – ₹1,20,00,000 |
| Hostel + Food | ₹5,50,000 – ₹6,00,000 | ₹8,00,000 – ₹10,00,000 |
| Visa, Travel, Insurance | ₹1,00,000 – ₹1,20,000 (one-time & yearly) | Not Applicable |
| Total Cost (Approx.) | ₹40,00,000 – ₹42,00,000 | ₹90,00,000 – ₹1.3 Crores |
Conclusion: Studying MBBS in Vietnam can save Indian students over ₹50–₹80 lakhs compared to private colleges in India, while still ensuring quality education and NMC recognition.
Admission Process – MBBS in Vietnam vs India
The admission process for MBBS in India is highly competitive and entirely based on NEET scores. In contrast, MBBS admission in Vietnam—especially through Aieraa Overseas Studies—is streamlined and stress-free, with a focus on eligibility rather than competition.
Admission Process in India
- Appear for NEET UG (mandatory)
- Score within the top ranks to secure a government seat
- If NEET-qualified but rank is lower, only private or management quota seats are available
- Attend centralised counselling (MCC or state-level) and wait for multiple rounds
- Capitation fees may apply in private colleges
Admission Process in Vietnam (via Aieraa Overseas Studies)
- Appear for NEET UG (required as per NMC for foreign MBBS)
- No minimum cut-off rank beyond NEET qualification
- Submit required documents (10+2 marksheet, NEET scorecard, passport)
- Receive university offer letter within days
- Visa and travel arrangements handled by Aieraa
- No donation or capitation fees
Key Differences
| Criteria | India | Vietnam |
|---|---|---|
| NEET Requirement | Mandatory + High Cut-off | Mandatory (no cut-off rank) |
| Admission Timeline | Long (multiple counselling rounds) | Quick (1–2 weeks) |
| Donation/Capitation | Common in private colleges | Zero |
| Seat Security | Uncertain till final counselling | Guaranteed with NEET + documents |
With a simpler, faster, and donation-free process, MBBS in Vietnam provides an easier route for NEET-qualified students who don’t want to wait another year or spend excessively on private colleges.
Curriculum & Teaching Method – Vietnam vs India
When choosing where to study MBBS, the curriculum design and teaching methodology play a crucial role. Students need a learning environment that prepares them for real-world clinical practice, national licensing exams (like NEXT), and international opportunities.
MBBS Curriculum in India
- Structured by the National Medical Commission (NMC)
- Divided into Pre-clinical (1st year), Para-clinical (2nd year), and Clinical phases (from 3rd year)
- Heavy theoretical workload; practical exposure often begins in the 3rd year
- Focus is mainly on clearing university exams and NEET PG/NEXT
- Large class sizes may limit student-teacher interaction
MBBS Curriculum in Vietnam (Aieraa Partnered Universities)
- Based on a US-modeled integrated curriculum aligned with NMC and WHO standards
- Early clinical exposure begins from the 1st year, including anatomy labs with real cadavers
- Modern teaching tools: 3D simulations, clinical skill labs, live patient interaction
- Compact batch sizes allow for more personalised mentoring
- Curriculum is designed to prepare students for both NEXT (India) and USMLE (USA)
Comparison Table – Teaching Style
| Aspect | India | Vietnam |
|---|---|---|
| Curriculum Model | NMC Structured | US-Based, NMC Compliant |
| Clinical Exposure Begins | 3rd Year | 1st Year |
| Teaching Tools | Textbooks, occasional labs | Cadaver labs, clinical skill rooms, digital models |
| Batch Size | Often 150–250 students | Smaller batches (40–60) |
| Focus | Theory + Final Exam | Clinical Skills + NEXT/USMLE Prep |
Vietnam’s curriculum focuses on and ensures that students not only pass exams but also develop confidence in patient handling, diagnosis, and emergency care. With smaller batch sizes and early clinical involvement, the overall learning experience is often more practical and personalised than in India.
Practical Exposure & Clinical Training – Vietnam vs India
In medical education, practical experience is just as important as theoretical knowledge. The confidence to diagnose, treat, and interact with patients develops through hands-on exposure in real hospital settings. Here’s how Vietnam compares to India when it comes to clinical training during MBBS.
Practical Training in Indian Medical Colleges
- Clinical exposure typically begins in the third year
- Overcrowded hospitals in government colleges may limit hands-on opportunities
- Private colleges may lack sufficient patient flow in their attached hospitals
- Simulation-based training is still being adopted gradually
Clinical Training in Vietnam
- Hands-on exposure starts in the first year, including cadaver dissection and anatomy labs
- Students participate in bedside learning and hospital rounds from early semesters
- Partner hospitals have active patient inflow covering a variety of cases similar to India
- Use of real cadavers instead of silicon models improves anatomy understanding
- Training modules are integrated with NEXT-focused clinical scenarios
Comparison Table – Clinical Training
| Aspect | India | Vietnam |
|---|---|---|
| When Clinical Training Starts | 3rd Year | 1st Year |
| Cadaver Access | Depends on college infrastructure | Guaranteed in partner universities |
| Patient Interaction | Limited in private colleges; better in government | Ongoing from early years |
| Use of Simulation Labs | Limited in most colleges | Widely used alongside real-life cases |
| Preparedness for NEXT | Theoretical focus; clinical training late | Integrated clinical + theoretical learning from Year 1 |
Vietnamese universities, especially those supported by Aieraa Overseas Studies, offer a strong early foundation in practical skills. This not only boosts student confidence but also improves their readiness for NEXT and real-world medical practice back in India.
Language of Instruction & Communication – Vietnam vs India
The medium of instruction plays a vital role in a medical student’s understanding, especially in a complex field like medicine. Language barriers can negatively affect learning outcomes, clinical interactions, and exam preparedness. Let’s examine how Vietnam and India compare in this regard.
MBBS in India – Language Scenario
- Medium of instruction is English in most medical colleges
- However, regional language barriers often exist during clinical postings (e.g., Tamil in Tamil Nadu, Marathi in Maharashtra, etc.)
- Many patients in government hospitals communicate only in local dialects, making doctor-patient communication difficult for out-of-state students
MBBS in Vietnam – Language Scenario
- All Aieraa-partnered universities offer MBBS courses in full English medium
- No need to learn Vietnamese for academics; lectures, notes, and exams are in English
- Basic Vietnamese is taught for clinical use starting from the 2nd or 3rd year to help in patient communication
- International batches are taught separately, ensuring no language mixing with local students
Comparison Table – Language
| Aspect | India | Vietnam |
|---|---|---|
| Medium of Instruction | English (with regional language interference) | 100% English |
| Language in Clinical Practice | Often local language (Tamil, Bengali, Marathi, etc.) | Basic Vietnamese taught for patient interaction |
| Difficulty for Non-Local Students | High in many states | Minimal – training provided |
| International Classrooms | No separate setup | Dedicated English-medium batches |
Vietnamese universities, especially through Aieraa, ensure a smooth academic journey by eliminating language-related stress. Students study and interact in English throughout the course, making it ideal for Indian students from all states.
Recognition & Career Scope – Vietnam vs India
When choosing an MBBS destination, recognition by medical councils and global career opportunities are non-negotiable. Students must ensure their degree is accepted in India and other countries like the USA, UK, or Australia. Let’s compare the recognition status and future career scope of MBBS from Vietnam vs India.
Recognition of MBBS Degree in India
- Indian Medical Colleges: Recognised by NMC; students eligible for NEXT and direct medical registration in India
- Vietnam Medical Universities (Aieraa partners): All are NMC-approved, and students are eligible for NEXT after returning
Eligibility for NEXT (National Exit Test)
- Mandatory for all medical graduates (India or abroad) to practise medicine in India from 2024 onwards
- Vietnamese MBBS programmes are structured to prepare students for NEXT from early years with clinical exposure
Global Recognition & Exams
- Vietnamese MBBS degrees (from recognised universities) are eligible for:
- Medium of instruction certificate in English is provided by all Aieraa partner universities for global exam eligibility
Post-MBBS Career Scope
| Parameter | India | Vietnam |
|---|---|---|
| NMC Recognition | Yes | Yes (for Aieraa partnered universities) |
| Eligibility for NEXT | Yes | Yes |
| Global Exams (USMLE/PLAB) | Yes | Yes |
| Clinical Readiness | Varies by college | High – practical training from 1st year |
| Pathway to Post-Graduation (India & Abroad) | YES – NEXT or NEET PG | YES – NEXT, USMLE, PLAB, AMC |
MBBS in Vietnam offers equal recognition and better clinical preparation for future doctors intending to practise in India or explore postgraduate opportunities globally. With Aieraa’s guidance, students ensure admissions only into verified NMC-listed universities.
Lifestyle, Culture & Environment – Vietnam vs India
When studying MBBS for 5.5 years, students need more than just academics—they need comfort, safety, and a welcoming environment. Let’s compare how Vietnam and India differ in terms of lifestyle, student culture, and overall living experience.
Living Conditions in Vietnam
- Affordable accommodation options including hostels, shared apartments, and PGs
- Hostels arranged through Aieraa come with Indian food, Wi-Fi, laundry, and 24/7 security
- Clean, safe, and pollution-free cities with modern infrastructure
- Friendly locals and growing Indian communities near universities
Living Conditions in India (for Out-of-State Students)
- Accommodation varies widely—government hostels may be outdated, private PGs expensive
- Food habits, weather, and local language can cause cultural discomfort for students from other states
- Major metro cities suffer from high pollution, traffic congestion, and cost of living
Student Lifestyle & Recreation
- Vietnam offers students a balance between study and leisure
- Coastal cities, clean streets, and access to gyms, cafes, and cultural events enhance quality of life
- Low crime rate and political stability ensure student safety
Cultural Comfort for Indian Students
- Vietnamese culture is respectful and family-oriented, similar to Indian values
- Vegetarian and non-vegetarian Indian food is widely available in Aieraa-managed hostels
- Festivals like Diwali and Holi are celebrated by Indian student groups
Comparison Table – Lifestyle & Environment
| Aspect | Vietnam | India (Other-State Student) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living | ₹10,000 – ₹15,000/month | ₹12,000 – ₹20,000/month |
| Accommodation Quality | Modern, student-focused hostels | Depends on state/college |
| Pollution & Traffic | Low | High in most metro cities |
| Food Availability | Indian food easily available | Regional food; Indian-style mess varies |
| Safety & Stability | Very Safe, Friendly Locals | Safe but varies by city/state |
Vietnam offers a student-friendly, safe, and peaceful lifestyle, making it easier for Indian students to focus on academics without major adjustments. Aieraa ensures that students feel at home away from home.
Safety & Support – Vietnam vs India
For parents and students alike, safety and emotional support are as important as academics—especially when studying away from home. Whether it’s within India or abroad, the environment must ensure peace of mind, reliable supervision, and quick assistance when needed.
Safety in Vietnam
- Vietnam is considered one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia for international students
- Low crime rates, respectful culture, and friendly, welcoming local population
- Political and social stability ensures peace year-round
- Dedicated Indian student communities at every major university location
Aieraa’s Student Support System in Vietnam
- 24×7 on-ground support team in Vietnam for emergencies, logistics, and counselling
- Hostel assistance, food management, and medical insurance provided
- Pre-departure and post-arrival orientation for both students and parents
- Student coordinators regularly monitor health, academics, and safety concerns
Safety for Out-of-State Students in India
- Generally safe, but language, location, and campus crowding can cause challenges
- Incidents of ragging, poor hostel hygiene, or lack of immediate help are not uncommon
- Parents often face delays or confusion in reaching college authorities for updates
Comparison Table – Safety & Support
| Aspect | Vietnam (via Aieraa) | India (Other-State Student) |
|---|---|---|
| On-Ground Support Team | Yes (Aieraa managed) | Not available in most colleges |
| Emergency Handling | 24×7 student support helpline | Depends on college admin |
| Safety Rating | High (low crime, safe cities) | Moderate (varies by region) |
| Student Well-being Monitoring | Regular academic & emotional support | Rare or informal systems |
| Parental Communication | Direct link via Aieraa coordinators | Often limited to student-initiated updates |
With Aieraa’s structured support in Vietnam, Indian students and parents experience seamless safety, comfort, and transparency—something often missing even in domestic out-of-state college placements.
Pros & Cons – MBBS in Vietnam vs India
Still unsure which path to choose? Here’s a side-by-side breakdown of the major advantages and disadvantages of pursuing MBBS in Vietnam versus India:
| Factor | MBBS in Vietnam | MBBS in India |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | ₹6 lakhs/year (no donation) | ₹15–₹25 lakhs/year (private); low in govt. but limited seats |
| NEET Requirement | Yes, but no rank-based cut-off | Yes, with high cut-offs for government seats |
| Clinical Exposure | From 1st year (cadavers + hospital rounds) | Starts mostly in 3rd year |
| Recognition by NMC | Yes (Aieraa partner universities) | Yes |
| Medium of Instruction | 100% English | English + regional language issues during hospital work |
| Cost of Living | ₹10,000–₹15,000/month (similar to India) | ₹12,000–₹20,000/month (varies by state) |
| Post-MBBS Career Scope | Eligible for NEXT, USMLE, PLAB, etc. | Eligible for NEXT, NEET PG |
| Admission Process | Simple, fast, and donation-free | Lengthy counselling; donation possible in private colleges |
| Safety & Student Support | High – Aieraa provides 24×7 guidance in Vietnam | Varies by college; no centralised support |
| Language Barriers | Minimal – English for academics; basic Vietnamese taught | High in non-native states during clinicals |
This comparison clearly shows that Vietnam is not only more affordable but also academically and logistically smoother for Indian students who want to pursue MBBS abroad without compromising on quality or future career prospects.
Testimonials from Indian Students in Vietnam
Thousands of Indian students have already taken the leap to pursue MBBS in Vietnam through Aieraa Overseas Studies. Their experiences speak volumes about the quality, comfort, and career value of studying medicine in Vietnam.
“Coming from Kerala, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But studying at Can Tho University has been amazing. The classes are in English, we get to work with real patients, and the campus is safe and well-organised. Thanks to Aieraa for guiding me every step of the way!”– Aditi Menon, 2nd Year MBBS, Can Tho University
“I was anxious about going abroad, but Vietnam feels like home. The food, support system, and hostel are all student-friendly. Most importantly, we’re getting exposure to cadavers and real cases from the first year itself.”– Rahul Mishra, 1st Year MBBS, Phan Chau Trinh University
“Vietnam was never on my radar until I heard about it from Aieraa. The process was so smooth. I didn’t have to worry about admission, visa, or even the hostel. Everything was taken care of. I highly recommend this to anyone struggling with NEET counselling stress.”– Sneha Reddy, 3rd Year MBBS, BMU Vietnam
These real experiences show that studying MBBS in Vietnam isn’t just a smart academic move—it’s a life-changing opportunity that brings together quality education, cultural comfort, and future career readiness.
Want to hear directly from our students? Reach out to Aieraa Overseas Studies, and we’ll connect you with Indian students currently studying in Vietnam.
Conclusion – Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between MBBS in Vietnam vs India is a big decision, but it ultimately depends on your academic goals, financial situation, NEET score, and readiness to explore global opportunities.
Here’s the bottom line:
- If you have a top NEET rank and can secure a government seat in India – go for it. The cost is minimal and the education is recognised.
- If you’re NEET-qualified but don’t get a government seat, Vietnam is clearly the smarter, safer, and more affordable option compared to spending ₹1 crore+ in a private Indian college.
- Vietnam offers English-medium education, early clinical exposure, NMC recognition, low cost of living, and international exam readiness – all with full support from Aieraa Overseas Studies.
Why spend lakhs on donation-based admissions when you can study at a world-class institution in Vietnam with 24×7 support, Indian food, and a NEXT-aligned curriculum?
📢 Take the Next Step with Aieraa
As the only authorised company in India for MBBS admissions in Vietnam, Aieraa Overseas Studies provides:
- Guaranteed seat in NMC-approved universities
- Transparent fee structure (no hidden charges or donations)
- Visa, travel, and hostel arrangements
- Local student support team in Vietnam
Contact Aieraa Today:
- Phone/WhatsApp: +91 9344141424
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: https://aieraa.com
Don’t let cut-offs or costs stop your dream. Study MBBS in Vietnam – the practical, affordable, and trusted choice for Indian students in 2025.
FAQs – MBBS in Vietnam vs India
1. Is MBBS in Vietnam valid in India?
Yes, MBBS from NMC-approved Vietnamese universities is valid in India. After completing the course, students must appear for the NEXT exam to get a medical license in India, just like Indian medical graduates.
2. Do I need to qualify NEET for MBBS in Vietnam?
Yes. As per NMC rules, NEET qualification is mandatory for Indian students who wish to pursue MBBS abroad and come back to India for practice, including Vietnam.
3. What is the total cost of MBBS in Vietnam?
The total cost for the full 5.5-year MBBS programme in Vietnam (including tuition, hostel, food, visa, and travel) ranges from ₹40 to ₹45 lakhs, which is far lower than most Indian private colleges.
4. Is the medium of instruction in Vietnam English?
Yes. All Aieraa-partnered universities offer 100% English-medium instruction. Basic Vietnamese is taught for clinical communication starting from the 2nd or 3rd year.
5. Can I appear for NEXT or USMLE after MBBS in Vietnam?
Absolutely. MBBS graduates from Vietnam are eligible for both the NEXT exam (India) and international licensing exams like USMLE, PLAB, and AMC, provided they meet standard exam requirements.
6. How do I apply for MBBS in Vietnam?
Contact Aieraa Overseas Studies, the official and only authorised company in India for MBBS in Vietnam. Aieraa handles your entire admission, visa, and travel process.
- 📞 Phone/WhatsApp: +91 9344141424
- 📧 Email: [email protected]
- 🌐 Website: https://aieraa.com
7. Is the living environment safe in Vietnam for Indian students?
Yes, Vietnam is extremely safe and student-friendly. With 24×7 Aieraa support teams, Indian food, Indian student communities, and low crime rates, students can live comfortably and securely.
