MBBS in Vietnam: Top Universities, Admission, Fees, and More

Pursuing an MBBS in Vietnam in 2025 has become an increasingly attractive option for Indian students and international aspirants seeking affordable medical education abroad. With tuition fees nearly 60–70% lower than Indian private colleges, globally recognized degrees (NMC, WHO, WDOMS, FAIMER), and English-medium MBBS programs, Vietnam is quickly emerging as a leading destination for medical studies. 

The latest update highlights that Hanoi Medical University has officially opened its online application portal for the 2025–26 MBBS intake, with a priority deadline of June 30, 2025. To meet the growing demand from international students, the university has also expanded its English-medium MBBS seats, ensuring wider access to quality education. 

With over 20 accredited medical universities in Vietnam, including Hanoi Medical University, Can Tho University, and Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy, students gain world-class academic training, early clinical exposure, and excellent career pathways for FMGE/NEXT, USMLE, PLAB, and postgraduate specializations abroad. 

MBBS in Vietnam: Overview

The MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) in Vietnam is a 6-year program (5 years of academic training + 1 year of internship) offering globally recognized medical education with English-medium instruction and hands-on clinical exposure.

For International students, studying MBBS in Vietnam has increased in popularity due to affordable fees (60–70% lower than Indian private colleges), no donation requirements, and NMC/WHO-recognized degrees that qualify graduates for FMGE/NEXT exams.

Here are some of the key highlights about studying MBBS in Vietnam: 

Criteria	Details
Course Duration	6 years (5 academic + 1 internship)
Intake	August (primary), April (limited seats)
Medium of Instruction	English
Avg. Tuition Fees	VND 7.5–15.8 million/year (INR 2.3–4.8 lakhs)
Living Costs	VND 1.5–3 million/month (INR 5 K- 10 K) Hostel: VND 6.5 million/year (INR 1.9L)
Eligibility	60% in PCB (12th grade) qualified
Recognition	WHO, NMC, WDOMS, FAIMER
Top Universities	Hanoi Medical University Can Tho University Phan Chau Trinh University
Job Prospects	FMGE clearance for India USMLE/PLAB for global practice PG specializations

Now that you know the essential reasons why Vietnam is a top destination for MBBS for Indian students, let's take a closer look at the best universities in the country where you can take admission to pursue your medical education.

Top Universities to Study MBBS in Vietnam

Vietnam is home to 20-29 esteemed medical universities that offer quality MBBS programs at competitive tuition rates. These institutions are recognized by the Medical Council of India (MCI/NMC), WHO, and FAIMER, making them a popular choice for international students, particularly from India.

Here's a detailed overview of the top 8 medical universities in Vietnam, including their program duration, tuition fees, and where applicable.

University Name	Location	Annual Tuition Fees	QS World University Ranking 2025
Hanoi Medical University	Hanoi	91.2–106.4 thousand VND  (INR 3–3.5 lakhs)	#123
Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy	Ho Chi Minh City	106.4–127.6 thousand VND (INR 3.5–4.2 lakhs)	#123
Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy	Can Tho	106.4–121.6 thousand VND (INR 3.5–4 lakhs)	#351-400
Duy Tan University	Da Nang	95-115 thousand VND (INR 3.2-3.8 lakhs)	#495
Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy	Hue	91.2–106.4 thousand VND  (INR 3–3.5 lakhs)	#1201-1400
Phan Chau Trinh University	Da Nang	97.2–115.5 thousand VND (INR 3.2-3.8 lakhs)	NA
Hong Bang International University	Ho Chi Minh City	91.2–109.4 thousand VND (INR 3–3.6 lakhs)	NA
Vietnam Military Medical University	Hanoi	NA	NA
Hai Phong University	Hai Phong	85.1–97.2 thousand VND  (INR 2.8–3.2 lakhs)	NA
Tan Tao University	Ho Chi Minh City	90-110 thousand VND (INR 3-4 lakhs)	NA

With affordable tuition fees, global recognition, and high-quality education, these institutions are among the in Vietnam for aspiring doctors. If you're considering studying MBBS abroad, the upGrad Accelerated Program can help guide your journey.

Now, let's understand the admission requirements for MBBS in Vietnam, covering everything from academic qualifications to necessary documents and exams.

Eligibility Criteria for MBBS in Vietnam

Vietnam's MBBS eligibility focuses on academic performance, age, and NEET qualification (for Indian students) with no additional entrance exam. Universities require a score of 50–60% in PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) at the 10+2 level, with no mandatory requirement for IELTS/TOEFL. 

Below is a detailed breakdown:

Academic Criteria

To apply for MBBS in Vietnam, international students, including those from India, must meet certain academic, language, and documentation requirements.

Here are the key academic criteria: 

Requirement	Details
Minimum Age	17+ years by admission year
10+2 Qualification	Science stream with Physics, Chemistry, Biology
Minimum Marks	50–60% aggregate in PCB (varies by university)
Exam	Mandatory NEET qualification for Indian students
Visa	DH Student Visa requiring an admission letter
Proof of Funds	Bank statements (6 months) demonstrating INR 8–10 lakh/year capacity
SOPs/LORs	Optional (required by Hanoi Medical and Phan Chau Trinh University)

Also Read: MBBS Abroad Without NEET

English Language Proficiency 

Vietnam's MBBS programs are primarily taught in English, so admission does not require a mandatory IELTS or TOEFL score. 

An exception is Vietnam National University in Hanoi, which requires a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 for admission to certain English-language programs.

While basic proficiency is assumed, some universities may conduct internal language assessments or recommend Vietnamese language courses for clinical interactions. 

Next, let's explore the admission process for pursuing MBBS in Vietnam

Application Process for MBBS in Vietnam

Vietnam's MBBS admission process is transparent and streamlined, requiring NEET qualification, academic transcripts, and a valid passport. 

Most universities, such as Hanoi Medical University, offer online applications with guided support, and the visa process takes 7–10 days. Indian students benefit from no entrance exams and merit-based admissions.

However, it's important to follow the admission steps methodically to ensure your application is successful. 

Here's a step-by-step application process; 

Step 1. Submit University Admission Application

• Apply online through the university portal with your 10th/12th mark sheets, and a copy of your passport.
• The majority of the universities have online portals. However, Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy accepts applications through their admissions office. 
• After submitting your application, you will receive a provisional admission letter upon approval.

Step 2. Upload Financial Documents

• Vietnamese universities require proof of financial capacity, such as bank statements or income proof, demonstrating the ability to cover tuition and living expenses (approximately INR 8–10 lakh per year).
• Universities may request tax returns or sponsorship letters to verify funding.

Step 3. Submit Additional Documents

• Submit a medical fitness certificate and Covid-19 vaccination proof are mandatory for all universities.
• Some institutions, such as Vietnam National University in Hanoi, may request police clearance certificates. 

Step 4. Attend Interview (If Applicable)

• Most universities in Vietnam, including Duy Tan University and Thai Nguyen University of Medicine, do not require interviews for admission to programs like Pharmacy & Pharmacology and other related fields.
• If requested, interviews are generally conducted online or via authorised education consultants.

Step 5. Check Application Status

• Track your admission status through online portals. Universities like Can Tho University and Hanoi Medical University also provide email updates.
• Admission decisions typically take 1– 2 weeks after you submit your documents.

Step 6: Apply for a Student Visa

• After receiving the official Admission/Invitation Letter from the university, apply for a Vietnamese Student Visa (DH visa) at the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in India.
• Visa processing usually takes 7–10 working days.

By following these steps carefully, you can ensure a smooth admission journey to study MBBS in Vietnam. 

Also Read: 105 Bachelor's Programs in Medicine - Universities, Deadlines, Eligibility & Fees

Next, let's explore the details of the MBBS course in Vietnam, including the specializations and what you can expect during your studies.

MBBS in Vietnam: Course Details & Specialization

Vietnam's MBBS program combines pre-clinical studies (2 years) and clinical training (4 years) with a curriculum aligned with WHO and NMC standards. You can specialize in fields like General Medicine & Surgery, and Paediatrics, gaining hands-on experience through 18-month internships at affiliated hospitals. 

The English-medium curriculum and globally recognized degrees (WDOMS, FAIMER) allow students to pursue PG specializations or practice internationally.

Here's a look at some of the popular specializations for MBBS in Vietnam:

Specialization	Overview
General Medicine	Diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of adult diseases Rotations in internal medicine, emergency care, and community health
Orthopedics	Management of bone and joint disorders Training in fracture treatment and joint replacement surgeries
Obstetrics & Gynaecology	Prenatal care and childbirth management Surgical training, including cesarean sections and gynaecological procedures
Dermatology	Diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases Exposure to cosmetic dermatology and dermatopathology
Pediatrics	Child healthcare and neonatal care Rotations in pediatric ICU and vaccination programs
Cardiology	Heart disease diagnosis and treatment Training in ECG interpretation and angioplasty procedures
Neurology	Management of neurological disorders such as stroke and epilepsy Training in EEG and neuroimaging analysis
Surgery	General and specialized surgical procedures Hands-on experience in operating theatres and trauma care

The MBBS program in Vietnam is well known for both its high-quality education and affordability. Along with low tuition fees, the cost of essential resources such as General Medicine books is also relatively affordable. 

Next, let's understand the financial aspects of pursuing MBBS in Vietnam, helping you plan and budget for your MBBS study abroad effectively.

Cost of Studying MBBS in Vietnam

Vietnam offers affordable medical education, with total costs of 6 years ranging from INR 25 to INR 35 lakhs (tuition + living expenses). Understanding the cost of living variations across cities (e.g., Hanoi vs. Nha Trang) and university-specific fee structures is important for financial planning and avoiding unexpected expenses.

So, let's understand the cost of living in Vietnam with concrete figures:

Cost Category	Details	Estimated Cost
Tuition Fees	Annual fees for NMC-recognized universities (e.g., Can Tho, Phan Chau Trinh)	VND 180–400 thousand/year (INR 3–4 lakhs/year)
Accommodation	University hostels or shared apartments (monthly)	VND 4–8 thousand/month (INR 8k–16k/month)
Living Cost	Food, transport, utilities (monthly)	VND 7–15 thousand/month (INR 15k–30k/month)
Miscellaneous	Health insurance, study materials, and visa extensions	VND 2–5 thousand/year (INR 40k–1 lakh/year)
Pre-Arrival Costs	Student Visa, flight tickets, documentation	VND 12–25 thousand (INR 50k–1 lakh)

Want to estimate the total cost of your MBBS journey in Vietnam? Use upGrad's Cost Calculator to get an accurate breakdown of your tuition, living expenses, and other costs.

Now, let's explore some of the financial aid options available, including scholarships and other funding opportunities to make your education more affordable.

MBBS in Vietnam: Financial Aid and Scholarships

Vietnam offers limited but targeted financial aid for international MBBS students, including merit-based scholarships, government grants, and university-specific discounts. 

While full-ride scholarships are rare, partial tuition waivers (10–50%) and need-based aid can help significantly reduce the total cost. 

Below is a detailed overview of the scholarship opportunities available:

Scholarship Type	Name	Benefits	Eligibility
Indian Government Scholarships	Vietnamese Government Scholarships	Covers 10–30% of tuition fees (varies by university)	Academic excellence (minimum 70% in PCB), NEET qualification
University-Specific Scholarships	Can Tho University	10–25% tuition waiver	Top 10% academic performers
	Phan Chau Trinh University	Up to 50% tuition waiver	85 %+ in PCB, NEET score 550+

Also Read: Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students

Now, let's take a closer look at the potential job opportunities after completing your MBBS in Vietnam.

Potential Job Opportunities after MBBS in Vietnam

In Vietnam public hospitals offer lower salaries (VND 3.4–9.2 million/month for entry-level to senior roles), private/international hospitals like Vinmec or Tam Tri hospitals pay INR 60,000–INR 80,000/month (VND 20–40 million) for junior doctors, rising to INR 2–3 lakhs/month post-PG specialization. Graduates can also pursue USMLE or PLAB pathways or roles in healthcare consulting.

Here's a detailed look at some potential job roles for MBBS graduates from Vietnam, along with average annual salaries:

Job Role	Avg. Annual Salary	Job Description
General Practitioner	VND 240–480 million (INR 8.4–16.8 lakhs)	Primary care in clinics or hospitals, diagnosing common ailments and prescribing treatments.
Hospital Resident (PGY-1)	VND 180–300 million (INR 6.3–10.5 lakhs)	Rotational training in specialities like surgery, paediatrics, or internal medicine.
Private Hospital Doctor	VND 240–600 million (INR 8.4–21 lakhs)	Specialized care in international hospitals (e.g., Vinmec), focusing on cardiology, neurology, or oncology.
Telemedicine Consultant	VND 120–300 million (INR 4.2–10.5 lakhs)	Remote diagnosis and treatment via digital platforms for global/domestic patients.
Healthcare Administrator	VND 180–420 million (INR 6.3–14.7 lakhs)	Manage hospital operations, budgets, and staff in public or private healthcare systems.

Source: Reddit

Also Read: Top 22 Highest Paying Medical Jobs in India in 2025

Let's take a look at some of the top recruiters for MBBS graduates in Vietnam, ensuring you're well-equipped to begin your medical career.

Top Recruiters for MBBS Graduates in Vietnam

Vietnam's healthcare sector offers diverse opportunities across private providers, international organizations, public institutions, and pharmaceutical/biotech firms. With 974 hospitals (public and private) and 10,917 commune-level medical centers, graduates can access roles in urban hubs or rural development programs

Here are the top recruiters and industries hiring MBBS graduates from Vietnamese universities: 

1. Private Healthcare Providers

• Hoan My Medical Group: Operates 15+ hospitals, hiring for general practitioners, surgeons, and specialists (e.g., cardiology, orthopedics).
• Vinmec International Hospitals: Part of Vingroup's $35B portfolio, offering roles in AI-driven diagnostics, oncology, and pediatric care.
• Tam Tri Hospitals: Specializes in neurology and cancer care, with partnerships across Central and Southern Vietnam.
• FV Hospital (French-Vietnamese): Provides international-standard care, recruiting bilingual doctors for expat communities.

2. International Organizations

• WHO Vietnam: Offers public health consultancy roles (e.g., TB/HIV program management, policy drafting).
• PATH: Recruits for epidemic preparedness, HIV/TB program coordination, and non-communicable disease (NCD) research.
• UNICEF: Collaborates on child-health initiatives (e.g., malnutrition reduction, immunization drives).

3. Public Healthcare System

• Bach Mai Hospital (Hanoi): Vietnam's largest public hospital, offering residencies and specialist training in trauma, infectious diseases, and cardiology.
• Cho Ray Hospital (Ho Chi Minh City): National referral center for complex surgeries and organ transplants.
• Provincial Hospitals: District/commune clinics in rural areas (e.g., Dien Bien, Lao Cai) provide government-sponsored roles with housing allowances.

4. Pharmaceutical & Biotech Companies

• Sanofi: Recruits Medical Representatives for Central Vietnam (e.g., Da Nang, Hue), focusing on diabetes and vaccine portfolios.
• Johnson & Johnson: Expands medical device divisions (e.g., orthopaedic implants) in Ho Chi Minh City.
• AstraZeneca: Partners with local biotech firms on vaccine production, requiring quality control specialists.
• GE HealthCare: Hires Application Specialists for imaging-guided therapy (IGT) systems.

These diverse opportunities provide MBBS graduates with both local and international career options across multiple sectors.

No doubt, pursuing an MBBS in Vietnam is an excellent choice. However, comparing it with other popular countries like Russia and China will help you make an informed decision.

Comparison of MBBS in Vietnam vs. Other Countries

Vietnam, Russia, and China are top choices for Indian students seeking affordable MBBS programs abroad. Vietnam, with 20+ medical colleges, produces 400–600 graduates per year, including many Indian students, thanks to NEET-only admission and FMGE pass rates of around 20–25%.

Russia is home to over 50 medical universities, but its FMGE pass rate is around 16%. China boasts over 45 NMC-recognised universities, attracting more than 10,000 international students each year. However, language barriers and post-COVID online study restrictions pose challenges.

Here's a detailed comparison of MBBS in Vietnam and other countries.

Criteria	MBBS in Vietnam	MBBS in Russia	MBBS in China
Avg. Tuition Fees	INR 2.3–4.8 lakhs/year (70–146M VND/year)	INR 3–6.5 lakhs/year (3,500–7,600 USD/year)AQ	INR 4–8.3 lakhs/year (4,700–9,800 USD/year)
Avg. Living Cost	INR 5K–10K/month (1.5–3M VND/month)	INR 15K–30K/month (175–350 USD/month)	INR 20K–40K/month (235–470 USD/month)
Language	English (primary), optional Vietnamese	English (theory), Russian (clinicals)	English (theory), Chinese (clinicals)
Recognition	WHO, NMC, WDOMS	WHO, NMC	WHO, NMC
Scholarships	Vietnam Government Scholarships (limited)	Federal Scholarship Program	Zhengzhou University President Scholarship

Why Choose Vietnam for MBBS?

Vietnam has become a top choice for Indian medical aspirants due to its affordable tuition, 6-year MBBS programs aligned with NEXT, and globally recognised degrees that are eligible for FMGE and USMLE licensing exams.

Besides affordability, here are some more reasons to choose Vietnam for MBBS: 

1. Globally Recognized Degrees

• Accredited by WHO, NMC, and FAIMER, enabling practice in India and abroad.
• Degrees accepted for USMLE, PLAB, and NEXT exams. 

2. Early Clinical Exposure:

• Hands-on training from the first year in modern hospitals like Vinmec and Tam Tri.
• 18-month internships in affiliated hospitals for real-world experience.

3. NEXT-Aligned Curriculum:

• The course structure prepares students for India's NEXT exam, with a focus on clinical skills.
• English-medium instruction with optional Vietnamese language courses.

4. Cultural and Climatic Similarities:

• A tropical climate and disease patterns comparable to those in India, ensuring relevant clinical training.
• Indian student communities and vegetarian-friendly food options.

5. No Entrance Exam, Only NEET Requirement

• A NEET qualification is mandatory for Indian students to practice in India after graduation, but Vietnam's simplified admission process, with no entrance exams, eases entry. 

With all these insights on MBBS in Vietnam, you might be wondering how to best prepare for this academic journey in Vietnam. Let's see how upGrad can support you in this journey.

Conclusion

Choosing to pursue an MBBS in Vietnam in 2025 is a smart decision for Indian students and other international aspirants seeking a balance of affordable tuition fees, globally recognized medical degrees, and English-medium programs.  

With universities like Hanoi Medical University opening the 2025–26 MBBS intake and expanding English seats, Vietnam is positioning itself as a reliable hub for medical education abroad.  

Graduates can pursue careers in India after clearing FMGE/NEXT or explore global opportunities with USMLE and PLAB pathways. For students who want quality education, cultural exposure, and career readiness, Vietnam offers one of the best options among Asian countries for MBBS studies.

Book a free 1:1 counselling session with upGrad’s experienced advisors today. Get personalized advice on university selection, specializations, and everything you need to confidently start your MBBS journey in Vietnam.