MBBS in Vietnam

Studying MBBS in Vietnam takes 6 years in total, 5 years of classes plus 1 year of internship. Most universities charge annual tuition between ₹3 lakh and ₹4.5 lakh, so the full course usually costs around ₹25 lakh to ₹35 lakh including your living expenses. Hanoi Medical University and Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy are two of the most trusted names Indian students pick for this.

Every year, thousands of Indian students look outside the country simply because NEET counselling ends and the seat they hoped for never comes through. Vietnam has slowly turned into a real answer for a lot of these students, offering a proper medical degree at a fraction of what private colleges in India charge. The course is solid, the hospitals are active, and you start learning on real patients much earlier than you would back home.

So let's get into it properly. Universities, fees, eligibility, visa steps, student life, career options after graduation, we are covering all of it here in plain simple language, the way you would want a friend to explain it to you.

Top Medical Universities in Vietnam

Vietnam has a good mix of government and private medical universities that welcome international students. Not every one of them works well for Indian students though, so picking the right one matters a lot.

If you like checking global rankings before picking a college, here is how some of these universities stand in the QS World University Rankings. Keep in mind this is a general university ranking, not a medicine specific one, so treat it as a side reference and not your main deciding factor.

University Name	QS World Ranking 2027
Duy Tan University	Rank 504
Vietnam National University, Hanoi	Rank 751-760
Ton Duc Thang University	Rank 801-850
Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City	Rank 801-850
Can Tho University	Rank 1401+

Duy Tan University comes out with the strongest overall global ranking here, and it also carries a solid reputation for its medical program among Indian students.

Best Medical Universities in Vietnam for Indian Students

A handful of universities have built a real track record with Indian students and offer English medium teaching along with proper clinical training. These are the names that keep coming up again and again when people talk about MBBS in Vietnam for Indian students.

• Hanoi Medical University
• Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy
• Hong Bang International University
• Dai Nam University
• Duy Tan University

These universities are known for stable faculty, decent hospital tie ups and a working system for international admissions. 

Top Universities, Fees and Course Duration

Here is a quick look at tuition across some of the well known names, so you get a sense of what studying MBBS in Vietnam actually costs at each place.

University Name	Annual Tuition (approximate)	Course Duration
Nam Can Tho University	₹1.87 lakh (first year)	6 years
Dai Nam University	Around ₹5.5 lakh per year	6 years
Hanoi Medical University	₹3 lakh to ₹4.5 lakh	6 years
Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy	₹3 lakh to ₹4 lakh	6 years
Hong Bang International University	₹3 lakh to ₹4.5 lakh	6 years

Fees change from year to year and depend on the exchange rate too, so always confirm current numbers directly with the university before you pay anything.

Suggested Read: Medical Colleges in Vietnam

MBBS in Vietnam Course Structure and Duration

The MBBS course in Vietnam runs for 6 years in total. That includes your classroom learning, hospital training and a full year of internship at the end.

MBBS Duration in Vietnam

Most programs are built as 5 years of academic study followed by 1 year of internship. Here is how that breaks down.

• Academic study: 5 years
• Internship: 1 year
• Total course length: 6 years
• Minimum teaching required for India recognition: 54 months

This 54 month rule matters more than people realize. Some programs look like 5 years on the brochure but actually run shorter once you count the real teaching months, so always ask the university for the exact break up before you commit.

Pre-Clinical and Clinical Training

Your subjects change as you move through the years. Here is what each stage looks like.

Stage	Years	Subjects Covered
Pre-clinical	Year 1-2	Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry
Para-clinical	Year 3-4	Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology
Clinical	Year 5	Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics

This step by step build up helps you understand the human body first, then apply that knowledge to real patients later. By year 5, most students are already spending a good chunk of their week inside hospitals.

Internship and Practical Training

The final year is a compulsory hospital internship. During this year, you rotate across departments like these.

• General medicine
• Surgery
• Gynecology
• Pediatrics

This internship has to be completed at the same university hospital where you studied. That is a strict rule for Indian students, since a broken or split internship can cause trouble later when you try to register as a doctor back home.

Medium of Instruction

Language often worries students the most, so here is the simple version.

• Classes, textbooks and exams: fully in English
• Vietnamese needed for coursework: none
• Vietnamese helpful for: talking to patients during clinical years

Most universities that accept international students teach MBBS fully in English, so you do not need to learn Vietnamese just to pass your classes. That said, picking up basic Vietnamese phrases helps a lot once you start your hospital rounds, since many local patients are more comfortable in their own language.

Eligibility for MBBS in Vietnam for Indian Students

Getting into MBBS in Vietnam is fairly simple compared to Indian colleges. There are still a few boxes you absolutely need to tick though, especially if you plan to practice in India one day.

Academic Requirements

Universities mainly look at your 12th grade marks before anything else. Here is what most of them expect.

• Class: Completed 12th grade
• Subjects: Physics, Chemistry and Biology
• Minimum marks: Around 50 percent in these subjects

This can vary slightly from one university to another, so it is always worth checking the exact cutoff before you apply.

NEET Requirements

NEET UG plays a bigger role here than most students expect. Qualifying it is not optional if you want your degree to count in India later.

Vietnamese universities do not always ask for a NEET score during admission, but Indian law still requires it. Skipping this step can cost you your entire career later, so never treat it as something you can sort out afterward.

Age Requirements

Age rarely causes any real trouble in this process. Most universities want students to be at least 17 years old at the time of admission, which most students already meet right after finishing school.

NMC and Other Recognition Requirements

This is the part students skip and regret later. Your degree only counts in India if the university and course meet a specific set of rules laid out by the National Medical Commission.

• Course listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools
• At least 54 months of academic teaching
• English as the full medium of instruction
• 12 month internship completed at the same institution

Skipping even one of these means you cannot sit for the licensing exam back in India, so always verify this before signing up anywhere.

Required Documents

Getting your paperwork sorted early saves you a lot of stress later. Keep these documents ready well in advance so your application does not get stuck at the last minute.

• 10th and 12th mark sheets and certificates
• NEET UG scorecard
• Valid passport
• Passport size photographs
• Medical fitness certificate
• Statement of purpose, if the program asks for one (suggested read: statement of purpose format) 

Cost of MBBS in Vietnam

Money is usually the biggest reason students look at MBBS in Vietnam in the first place. Compared to private colleges in India, the cost of MBBS in Vietnam is genuinely lower across the board.

MBBS in Vietnam Fees for Indian Students

Here is the simple breakdown of what you can expect to pay.

• Tuition per year: ₹2 lakh to ₹4.5 lakh
• Full 6 year course: ₹25 lakh to ₹35 lakh
• Includes: tuition, hostel and basic charges

The exact amount depends on which university you pick, so treat this as a starting range and confirm the final numbers directly with the university.

Tuition Fees at Vietnamese Medical Universities

Tuition varies quite a bit between government and private universities. Government universities tend to sit on the lower end, while some private ones charge more but offer newer facilities.

University Type	Annual Tuition Range (INR)
Government universities	₹2 lakh to ₹4 lakh
Private universities	₹3.5 lakh to ₹5.5 lakh

Cost of Living in Vietnam

Your monthly spending depends a lot on the city you live in and how you choose to eat and travel. Here is a simple city wise split first.

• Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City: ₹18,000 to ₹28,000 per month
• Can Tho and Da Nang: ₹15,000 to ₹20,000 per month

And here is roughly where that money goes each month, based on real cost of living data from Vietnam.

• Rent (1 bedroom, outside city centre): around ₹22,000 to ₹35,000
• Groceries and food at home: around ₹8,000 to ₹12,000
• Eating out occasionally: around ₹3,000 to ₹5,000
• Local transport and taxis: around ₹2,500 to ₹4,000
• Mobile and internet combined: around ₹1,200 to ₹1,800

Small student cities work out cheaper than big metros here too, the same way Pune costs less than Mumbai back home.

Other Expenses for MBBS Students

Apart from tuition and rent, there are a few one time costs you should plan for before you fly out.

• Visa processing fees
• Health checkups and insurance
• Books and study material
• Flight tickets

Total Cost of Studying MBBS in Vietnam

Adding tuition, living costs and other expenses together, here is what the full picture looks like.

• Total 6 year cost: ₹25 lakh to ₹35 lakh
• Covers: tuition, hostel, food and basic living expenses
• Compared to India: still cheaper than a single year at most private medical colleges

That gap alone is why so many families end up choosing MBBS in Vietnam over a management quota seat back home.

Scholarships for MBBS in Vietnam

Scholarships can bring your total cost down quite a bit if you plan ahead and apply on time. Vietnam offers a decent mix of university level and government level support for international students.

University Scholarships

Universities reward strong academic records with real discounts on tuition. Here is how that usually works.

• Coverage: 10 percent to full tuition waiver
• Duration: Mostly for the first year, some renew yearly based on performance
• Basis: 12th grade marks and entrance interview performance

Scholarships for International Students

Beyond individual universities, there are broader scholarship options open to international students too.

Scholarship Name	Eligibility	Coverage
Vietnam Ministry of Education and Training Scholarship	Strong academic record, government application process	Partial to full tuition
ASEAN Scholarship Program	Students from ASEAN partner countries and select international applicants	Tuition plus living allowance
Vietnam Embassy Scholarships	Applied through Vietnamese embassy in India	Varies by year and quota

How to Apply for MBBS Scholarships in Vietnam

Applying is fairly straightforward if you follow these steps in order.

1. Check scholarship eligibility on the university website
2. Prepare academic transcripts and recommendation letters
3. Submit the scholarship form along with your admission application
4. Wait for confirmation before making tuition payments

Suggested Read: Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students 

MBBS Intakes and Admission Deadlines in Vietnam

Timing your application right can save you a lot of last minute stress. Vietnam mostly follows a fixed intake calendar every year, so knowing these dates helps you plan everything else around them.

Main MBBS Intake in Vietnam

Vietnam runs its academic calendar around one main intake, with a smaller one for students who miss it. Here is how that looks.

• Main intake: September
• Secondary intake: February, offered by select universities only
• Seats in February intake: Limited compared to September

Admission Deadlines

Universities do not wait for one fixed deadline, they fill seats as applications come in. Keep these timelines in mind.

• Applications open: 6 to 8 months before classes start
• Applications close: 2 to 3 months before the semester begins
• Processing style: Rolling basis, seats can fill before the official deadline

When Should Indian Students Apply?

The earlier you start, the smoother the whole process feels. Aim for this timeline.

• Ideal start: At least 6 months before intake
• Reason: Enough time for documents, NEET requirement and visa processing

How to Apply for MBBS in Vietnam?

The application process is simple once you know the steps. Here is exactly what it looks like from start to finish.

Choose a Medical University

This is where your research really matters. Shortlist universities based on fees, location and how well they support Indian students, and talk to current students if you can, since their experience tells you more than any brochure.

Check Eligibility and Recognition

Before applying anywhere, confirm the course meets NMC requirements around duration, language and internship. This one step protects your entire future career, so never skip it.

Prepare Required Documents

Getting your paperwork ready early avoids last minute stress. Gather these well ahead of time.

• Mark sheets
• Passport
• NEET scorecard
• Photographs

Missing documents are one of the most common reasons applications get delayed.

Submit Your Application

Once your documents are ready, submit the university's application form along with them. Most universities let you apply online directly through their admission portal.

Receive the Admission Letter

Once your application is reviewed and accepted, the university sends you an official admission letter. You will need this letter for your visa application, so keep both digital and printed copies safe.

Complete Visa Formalities

With your admission letter in hand, you can now move ahead with your Vietnam student visa application. We cover this in full detail in the next section.

H2: Student Visa for MBBS in Vietnam

Getting a Vietnam student visa is a fairly smooth process as long as your documents are in order. Here is what you need to know.

Vietnam Student Visa Requirements

The visa checks a few basic things about you and your admission. Here is what it looks at.

• Proof of admission
• Valid passport
• Financial documents
• Medical fitness certificate

The visa is usually issued to match your course duration and can be renewed each year.

Documents Required for a Student Visa

Keep these ready before you start your visa application.

• Admission letter from the university
• Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
• Bank statements or financial proof
• Medical fitness certificate
• Passport size photographs

Vietnam Student Visa Application Process

Once your admission is confirmed, follow these steps in order.

1. Collect all required documents
2. Fill out the visa application form
3. Submit it to the Vietnamese embassy or consulate
4. Pay the visa processing fee
5. Attend an interview if asked
6. Receive your visa and plan your travel

Visa Validity and Renewal

Your visa does not last the whole course in one go. Here is how renewal works.

• Validity: Usually 1 year at a time
• Renewal: Required annually while your course is ongoing
• Support: Universities usually help international students with this

Career Opportunities After MBBS in Vietnam

Once you graduate, you have a few different paths open to you depending on where you want to practice medicine.

Medical Practice in India After MBBS in Vietnam

Coming back to practice in India is possible, but only under one condition. Your Vietnam MBBS degree needs to meet every NMC condition we covered earlier, and if it does, you can appear for the licensing exam and register as a doctor back home.

Licensing Exams for Indian Students

Getting your Indian license takes a couple more steps after you land back home. Here is the order.

• Clear FMGE or NExT exam
• Complete mandatory internship in India
• Receive full registration

Postgraduate Medical Studies Abroad

Your MBBS degree from Vietnam does not limit you to India alone. Many graduates go on to prepare for these exams for further specialization.

• USMLE for practicing in US
• PLAB for practicing in UK

Career Options After MBBS

Once you are a licensed doctor, several career paths open up for you.

• General physician
• Specialist doctor after further studies
• Medical researcher
• Public health officer
• Hospital administrator

Is MBBS in Vietnam Worth It for Indian Students?

For students looking for a real medical degree without a huge price tag, MBBS in Vietnam genuinely makes sense. Low tuition, English medium teaching and strong clinical exposure make it one of the more practical study abroad options for medicine right now.

The one thing you must never skip is checking NMC compliance before you pick a university. Get that right, and MBBS in Vietnam for Indian students can be a smart, affordable path to becoming a doctor.

Have more questions? Book a Free 1:1 Live Session with upGrad Experts Today. We are here to help!

MBBS Intakes & Admission Deadlines in Vietnam

Medical universities in Vietnam generally admit students twice a year. The primary intake is in September, which aligns with the start of the academic calendar. A secondary intake is sometimes available in February, depending on the university. Applications usually open 6–8 months before the semester begins, and students are encouraged to apply early to secure admission, prepare documents, and complete visa formalities.

Key Points:

• Primary Intake: September (major intake across most universities)
• Secondary Intake: February (limited universities)
• Application Window: Opens 6–8 months before semester start
• Deadline: Usually closes 2–3 months before classes begin
• Recommendation: Apply early to allow time for exams, document verification, and visa processing

How to Apply for MBBS in Vietnam

Applying for MBBS in Vietnam involves a structured process that ensures students meet eligibility, submit documents, and secure a visa on time.

1. Research Universities – Explore top medical universities in Vietnam, compare tuition fees, language of instruction, and recognition.
2. Check Eligibility – Ensure you meet academic requirements (Physics, Chemistry, Biology with 50–60% marks, age 17+).
3. Prepare for Entrance Exams – Sit for university-specific entrance tests if required, or rely on high school grades for direct admission.
4. Gather Documents – Collect academic transcripts, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), passport, health certificate, English proficiency scores (IELTS/TOEFL).
5. Submit Application – Apply online or offline through the university portal, paying the application fee.
6. Attend Interview (if applicable) – Some universities conduct interviews to assess motivation and communication skills.
7. Apply for Student Visa – Once admission is confirmed, submit visa application with admission letter, financial proof, and passport.

Student Visa Requirements for MBBS Students in Vietnam

International students admitted to MBBS programs in Vietnam must obtain a student visa to legally study and reside in the country. The visa process requires proof of admission, financial stability, and valid travel documents. The visa is typically issued for the duration of the course and can be extended annually.

Category	Requirement
Admission Proof	Official admission letter from a recognized Vietnamese medical university
Passport	Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
Financial Documents	Bank statements or sponsorship proof showing ability to cover tuition + living expenses
Health Certificate	Medical fitness certificate from a recognized hospital
Visa Application Form	Completed and signed form submitted to Vietnamese embassy/consulate
Photos	Passport-sized photographs (as per specifications)

Steps to Apply for Student Visa:

1. Receive admission letter from the university.
2. Collect required documents (passport, financial proof, health certificate, photos).
3. Fill out the visa application form.
4. Submit application to the Vietnamese embassy/consulate in your country.
5. Pay the visa processing fee.
6. Attend interview (if required).
7. Receive visa approval and travel to Vietnam.

Top Cities for MBBS Students in Vietnam

Vietnam offers diverse cities where MBBS students can thrive academically and socially. Each city provides unique advantages, from top-ranked universities and modern hospitals to affordable living and cultural exposure.

City	Highlights
Hanoi	Capital city, home to Hanoi Medical University, rich cultural heritage, affordable living
Ho Chi Minh City	Modern infrastructure, international collaborations, vibrant student life
Hue	Historic city, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, strong focus on research
Can Tho	Regional hub for healthcare education, emphasis on rural and community medicine
Da Nang	Coastal city, growing medical institutions, modern lifestyle with lower living costs

Top Job Opportunities After MBBS in Vietnam 

The average doctor salary in Vietnam ranges between ₹6.2 lakh and ₹10.3 lakh per year depending on experience, with senior specialists earning more. This makes MBBS in Vietnam a cost-effective option, as graduates can recover their investment relatively quickly.

Job Role	Scope	Average Annual Salary (INR)
General Physician	Work in hospitals, clinics, or private practice providing primary healthcare	₹6,20,000 – ₹8,00,000
Specialist Doctor (Cardiology, Pediatrics, Surgery, etc.)	Advanced medical practice in specialized fields	₹8,50,000 – ₹10,30,000
Medical Researcher	Join institutes focusing on drug development, public health, or clinical trials	₹5,50,000 – ₹7,50,000
Lecturer/Professor	Teach medical students in universities, contribute to academics	₹6,00,000 – ₹9,00,000
Public Health Officer	Work with government/NGOs on preventive medicine and health policy	₹5,00,000 – ₹7,00,000
Hospital Administrator	Manage healthcare facilities, operations, and patient services	₹7,00,000 – ₹9,50,000
International Practice (USMLE, PLAB, FMGE)	Eligible to practice abroad after clearing licensing exams	₹20,00,000+ (varies by country)

Check out: How to Get a Job Abroad in 2026

Conclusion

Studying MBBS in Vietnam is an excellent choice for international students, especially from India, due to its affordable tuition, moderate living costs, and globally recognized universities. With strong clinical exposure, English-medium options, and opportunities for scholarships, Vietnam offers a balanced mix of quality education and financial accessibility. Graduates can pursue rewarding careers locally or internationally, making Vietnam a practical and promising destination for medical education. Overall, it combines academic excellence with cultural richness at a reasonable cost.

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.