There are innumerable professions, but a career in MBBS is respected and admired more than any other line of work. Many of us harbor a dream of becoming a doctor at some point in our life until we realize our true ambition. MBBS is one of the most popular Medical Science courses globally and demands thorough learning and attentive training.

Several students aim to crack an entrance exam for the degree; however, only a handful are selected. When it comes to studying MBBS abroad, the USA is perhaps the first name that clicks the mind. The USA is listed on the top among the countries with the best education system. The country has great potential for research as well as development in almost every field.

This blog will try to cover all the essential information related to pursuing an MBBS in the USA. MBBS in the USA is a postgraduate program, whereas, in various countries, it is pursued as a bachelor's degree. It is equivalent to an MD (Doctor of Medicine) and takes around 4 years to complete.

Nonetheless, international students must complete a pre-medical course (BS degree) from a USA university to apply for this course. Plus, after completing an MD, you are required to apply for 3-5 years of a residency program to practise as a doctor in the USA. Therefore, the total duration required to study MBBS abroad in the USA ranges between 7 to 9 years.

Why Pursue MBBS in the USA

The USA has made its name very popular in researching Medicine and technology. Also, the country is home to some of the world's leading institutions for research. One of the many benefits of pursuing a career in MBBS in the USA is that the degree is globally recognized and is given preference.

Since the MBBS degree needs a high level of dedication and hard work, the country fulfils the requirements needed for a degree like MBBS. Hosting international students more than any other country globally, the USA offers a multicultural study environment and welcomes students with an open heart.

Course Structure & Duration

MBBS duration in USA is of 4-years medical degree which is equivalent to MBBS in India and other countries and is globally accredited worldwide. The medical schools in the USA provide a residency program for MBBS/MD graduates, which is more like a postgraduate course, and its duration depends on the specialization.

Both MBBS/MD and residency programs are integrated by universities in America and span approximately 7-9 years. During the MBBS course in the USA, students are also required to take the USMLE exam I, II, III, and after successfully passing the third exam, you will be provided with the MBBS degree. Furthermore, MBBS course in the USA is internationally accepted and accredited, and here are the many medical councils around the world accepting this degree:

• Medical Council of India (MCI)
• Ministry of Education, USA
• World Health Organization (WHO)
• The Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER)
• World Federation for Medical Education (WFME)
• Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG)

Admission Process

To apply for a Doctor of Medicine, a pre-medical course and an MCAT score (MD) is mandatory. MBBS applications are accepted at American universities for the autumn as well as spring semesters. International students are free to apply to universities in the USA through American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). Some of them accept applications through their websites. 

Eligibility Criteria

The basic requirement for medical schools in the USA is to have a four-year bachelor's degree from a recognized university with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as majors. Other requirements in the medical schools in the USA include:

• Language Test: To Study in the USA, you need to take a proficiency test for the English language. You may need any of the three language tests, which include IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL. All three tests follow different scoring schemes and patterns. Before applying, you should be thorough with the website of the medical school for the accepted language test and the minimum percentile.

• MCAT: Medical College Admission Test aims to test the candidate's aptitude on various parameters and is the mandatory eligibility criteria to pursue MBBS in the USA. The computer-based test comprises multiple-choice questions to examine prospective medical candidates' reasoning, aptitude, and comprehension skills. The test is 7.5 hours long and is conducted 15 times annually. The maximum score for the total of six sections is 528, with 500 being the median score.

• NEET: Clearing the National Eligibility exam (NEET) with qualifying marks is mandatory for Indian students to pursue MBBS abroad.

Documents Required for MBBS in the USA

• Transcripts of previous academic study
• Foreign transcripts evaluation by an accredited agency
• Relevant test scores (as asked by the university)
• English Proficiency Test Certificate
• Valid passport copy
• Statement of Purpose
• Letter of recommendation
• Resume
• Criminal background check of the applicant
• Passport size copies of photographs
• Student visa

The USA has always been looked at as the prime location to study overseas. With many options to choose from, we, at Canam, can help decide the best MBBS college in the USA for you. It may seem difficult to decide the right medical field and that is where our experts can help you out. Contact team Canam now and get all your questions answered.