SARS or COVID-19, yet as scary as these names sound, there’s one man who led the charge to control them: Dr. Zhong Nanshan. A Chinese doctor and public health expert, his leadership during these crises showcased the importance of a strong medical education and the ability of doctors to respond swiftly and effectively.
Recognizing this importance, if you find yourself uncertain about your next steps, consider following in Dr. Zhong’s footsteps by exploring China’s vast opportunities. Known for its modern medical education system, China presents a unique chance to pursue your MBBS in a world-class environment, rich in innovation and cultural diversity.
However, if you plan to travel for MBBS in China, you might want to learn more. This article covers everything about China’s top universities, about the MBBS degree they offer, and how to apply to become a visionary medical professional!
Types of Medical Degrees
Medicine is a vast field that encompasses a wide range of specialties and career paths. Understanding the different types of medical degrees at different levels can help prospective international students determine which route aligns best with their interests and prior education.
| MEDICAL DEGREE |
DESCRIPTION |
| Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Science (MBBS) |
The most common 5-year undergraduate degree for aspiring doctors, focusing on fundamental medical knowledge, clinical skills, and practical training. |
| Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) |
Lasting 3-7 years, this degree focuses on treating the whole person, with special training in the musculoskeletal system and hands-on techniques. |
| Doctor of Medicine (MD) |
After earning an MBBS, students can pursue this 4-year postgraduate degree, which offers advanced training in various medical specialties. |
| Master of Public Health (MPH) |
Taking about 1-2 years to complete, this degree prepares students for work in public health by focusing on disease prevention, health policies, and community well-being. |
| Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) |
A research-focused degree that typically requires 3-5 years to complete, allowing students to explore advanced topics in medicine and contribute to scientific knowledge. |
Moving forward, this article will concentrate solely on the MBBS degree, emphasizing its importance in building a solid foundation for a successful medical career!
How to Apply for an MBBS in China
Select Schools/Universities that Offer MBBS Program
China is huge—not just in size but also in the number of high-quality medical schools it offers. As you start your journey toward an MBBS or MD degree in this vast country, there are many options available. So, as your first step, start looking out for medical schools that match your career goals and educational needs.
These medical schools and universities can be mostly searched for their modern facilities, experienced faculty, or strong emphasis on both theoretical and practical training. Many institutions also offer programs in English, making it easier for international students to choose from. To help you start your search, you can look at these top five Chinese universities known for their MBBS programs.
Check the Admission Requirements
With your favorite MBBS school selected, your next step is to be informed of all the admission requirements. However, the requirements vary among universities, below is a list of general admission requirements Chinese medical schools ask for.
| GENERAL DOCUMENTS |
DOCUMENT DETAIL |
| Highest Academic Degree Certificate |
An official certificate or diploma from your most recently completed academic level, typically high school or equivalent for undergraduate applicants. |
| Valid Passport Photocopy |
A clear, valid copy of your foreign passport, usually including the photo, personal details, and expiry date pages. This also serves as your identification document. |
| Academic Transcripts |
Official records of your academic performance, including a list of the subjects you studied, the grades you received, and evidence of your academic excellence. |
| English Language Proficiency Scores |
Proof of your ability to communicate in English, with minimum required scores being: TOEFL score of 85 or above, IELTS score of 6.0 or higher, PTE score of 60 or above, or Duolingo English Test score of 100 or more. |
| Letters of Recommendation |
Typically two letters from teachers, professors, or professional mentors who can confirm your academic capabilities and personal qualities. |
| Financial/Guarantee Statement |
A statement showing that you or your financial sponsor have enough funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses in China for the duration of your studies. |
| Physical Examination Form |
A health check form, often required for obtaining a student visa, confirming that you meet the necessary health standards for studying in China. |
Application Process and Admission Timeline
Next, familiarize yourself with the university’s application process, which includes key steps and deadlines. By following each step, from document submission to visa application, you’ll ensure a smooth process. Here’s a general guide to help you stay on track as you apply for an MBBS program in China.
- Gather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, English proficiency test scores, a passport copy, letters of recommendation, and financial statements. Aim to complete this step by early November of the year prior to admission to stay on track, especially if you have chosen Fudan University.
- Register through the university’s portal and complete the application form with your details and program choice. Admission cycles vary, but most universities accept applications between December and March for spring intake, and April to October for fall intake.
- Once your application form is complete, you’ll be prompted to pay a non-refundable application fee, which is generally required alongside the submission. Fees vary by university; for instance, Nanjing University charges around 500 RMB, while Fudan University’s fee is 800 RMB.
- Some universities may conduct an interview as part of the admission process, which is typically held online. This interview assesses your motivation, background, and readiness for the program.
- After receiving your offer letter, the next step is to apply for a Chinese student visa. For more details on the visa process, check out our article dedicated to Chinese student visas.
Academic Finances (Tuition and Other Costs)
While education is no doubt one of the best, it’s important to consider the associated costs. Tuition fees for MBBS programs in China vary by university, and additional expenses such as application fees, or any laboratory fees should also be accounted for when planning your budget.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
If, after seeing the costs, you feel studying in China might not be within reach, think again. There are various scholarships available for international students that can help offset these expenses. The Chinese Government, many universities, and some external organizations offer good scholarship options that can cover full or partial tuition, some of your living costs, and even health insurance, making it more feasible to pursue your MBBS dreams in China.
Living Expenses in China
Living expenses in China are generally affordable compared to many Western countries, especially European nations. Costs can vary by city, so be sure to check the table below for a detailed breakdown of average living expenses in the country.
| EXPENSES |
MONTHLY AVERAGE COST |
EXPENSE DETAILS |
| Rent/Accommodation |
420-500 RMB |
University dormitories are the most affordable option, with shared rooms costing around 420 RMB, while single rooms in university housing or private rooms can be slightly higher. |
| Transportation |
100-120 RMB |
Public transport is economical; a monthly subway or bus pass in cities like Beijing or Shanghai falls in this range. |
| Food |
400 – 800 RMB |
Students cooking at home or using local markets typically manage within this budget. |
| Utilities |
100 – 250 RMB |
For those renting off-campus, utilities, including electricity, water, and internet, can average around this range, though university housing covers some utility costs. |
| Miscellaneous |
150 – 300 RMB |
Covers personal items, entertainment, study materials, and occasional travel. Costs vary widely based on lifestyle. |
Applying for a Chinese Student Visa
With living and studying in China covered, let us guide you through the four simple steps to secure your travel plans with a valid X1 student visa.
- Start by collecting essential documents, including your passport, admission letter, completed visa application form, and JW202/JW201 form from your university.
- Coordinate with your university’s enrollment office to confirm timelines, as you’ll need to align your application with their start dates.
- Make an appointment with your nearest Chinese embassy or consulate to submit your documents and discuss any additional requirements.
- Lastly, pay the application fees, keeping in mind that fees can vary based on location and type of visa.
Tips for Your Arrival in China
To make sure you land in China and are able to relax, make sure to check off some important tasks. First, organize your accommodation, pack your essentials, and figure out how you’ll get around once you arrive. As you prepare, remember that Chinese culture can be quite different, from food and festivals to customs and traditions. Although it may take a little time to adjust, especially if you’re coming from a European background, embracing the local culture, and connecting with fellow international students will make settling in much easier.
With almost all the information on how to study MBBS in China now covered, the decision is yours to make. Just as Dr. Zhong’s remarkable journey in the medical field reflects, you too can take part in this rewarding opportunity by joining one of China’s top medical universities!
Hopefully, this article will be especially useful for MBBS degree-seeking students planning to study in China. For more valuable tips and scholarship opportunities, check out the Study in China and Available Programs sections!
