Dreaming of an MBBS in the USA? Let’s Talk Costs

If you’ve ever thought about studying medicine in the USA, you’ve probably wondered, “Can I afford it?” The USA is home to some of the best medical schools in the world, but the costs can seem a lot, especially for international students. These costs reflect the high standard of education and resources offered by US medical schools.

Yes, it’s expensive, but with scholarships, financial aid, and smart planning, it’s possible to manage these costs. Here’s what we’ll cover in this blog:

• Tuition fees at top US medical schools
• Living and additional expenses for MBBS students
• Scholarships and financial aid options to ease the financial load
• Budgeting tips to manage your MBBS journey

How Much Does MBBS Cost in the USA in 2025 for International Students? 

For international students in 2025, the total cost of completing an MBBS degree, including pre-medical education and medical school, ranges between $200,000 (₹1.64 crore) and $300,000 (₹2.46 crore). This includes tuition, living expenses, and other associated costs over the course of 7–9 years.

Factors Influencing Costs:

• Pre-medical education: The foundation stage that adds 3–4 years to the timeline.
• Medical school tuition: Varies widely between private and public schools.
• Living expenses: Accommodation, food, transportation, and healthcare add to the overall cost.

Breakdown of MBBS Costs in the USA

Pre-Medical Education Costs

Before entering medical school, students must complete a 3–4 year undergraduate pre-medical degree.

• Cost: Pre-med courses can cost between $15,000 (₹12.3 lakh) to $40,000 (₹32.8 lakh) per year, depending on the institution and location.
• Duration: Typically 4 years, covering subjects like biology, chemistry, and physics required for medical school admission.

Application Fees and Entrance Exam Costs (MCAT)

Applying to medical schools in the USA involves additional costs, including the MCAT exam and application fees.

• MCAT Fee: $330 (₹27,000) (includes test registration and score report to one medical school).
• Application Fees: Through the AMCAS system, application fees are $175 (₹14,350) for the first school and $45 for each additional school.

Living Expenses for MBBS Students in the USA

Living expenses vary depending on the city or state. Urban areas like New York or California tend to be more expensive.

• Accommodation: $10,000 (₹8.2 lakh) to $20,000 (₹16.4 lakh) annually (on-campus housing may be cheaper).
• Food: $3,000 (₹2.46 lakh) to $6,000 (₹4.92 lakh) annually.
• Transportation: $1,000 (₹82,000) to $3,000 (₹2.46 lakh) annually (depending on location).

Average living expenses range from $15,000 (₹12.3 lakh) to $25,000 (₹20.5 lakh) per year.

Health Insurance and Medical Costs

Health insurance is mandatory for international students and can be a significant expense.

• Health Insurance: $1,200 (₹98,400) to $3,000 (₹2.46 lakh) annually, depending on the coverage plan.
• Medical Costs: Co-pays and out-of-pocket expenses can range from $500 (₹41,000) to $2,000 (₹1.64 lakh) per year, depending on individual needs.

Books, Lab Materials, and Other Academic Expenses

Medical education involves specialized books, lab materials, and equipment.

• Books: $1,500 (₹1.23 lakh) to $3,000 (₹2.46 lakh) per year.
• Lab Fees: $500 (₹41,000) to $1,000 (₹82,000) annually.
• Miscellaneous Supplies: $500 (₹41,000) annually for items like scrubs, stethoscopes, and other tools.

Tuition Fees Breakdown for Top Medical Schools in the USA

Thinking about pursuing medicine in the USA? It’s an exciting path, but it’s also important to plan for the costs. 

Here’s a look at the tuition fees of some of the best medical schools in the USA, along with additional expenses to consider:

Medical School	Annual Tuition Fees (USD) (INR Approx.)	Additional Costs
Harvard Medical School	$67,610 (₹56.2 lakh)	Living expenses, lab fees, and insurance (~$25,000 or ₹20.8 lakh/year)
Johns Hopkins University	$58,000 (₹48.2 lakh)	Housing, health insurance, and materials (~$21,000 or ₹17.6 lakh/year)
Stanford University School of Medicine	$63,747 (₹53 lakh)	Technology fees, living costs (~$23,000 or ₹19.2 lakh/year)
University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)	$52,920 (₹44 lakh)	Housing, books, and other expenses (~$20,000 or ₹16.7 lakh/year)
University of Pennsylvania (Perelman)	$65,497 (₹54.4 lakh)	Health insurance, equipment, and living costs (~$24,000 or ₹20 lakh/year)
Columbia University Vagelos College	$66,816 (₹55.5 lakh)	Living expenses and additional fees (~$26,000 or ₹21.6 lakh/year)
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine	$60,700 (₹50.4 lakh)	Travel, housing, and materials (~$19,000 or ₹15.8 lakh/year)
University of Chicago (Pritzker)	$64,000 (₹53.1 lakh)	Lab fees, books, and living costs (~$22,000 or ₹18.3 lakh/year)

Note: The amount mentioned above may vary according to the fluctuating exchange rates. 

How to Budget for Your MBBS Education in the USA 

Planning your finances is just as important as preparing for your medical studies. A proper budget can help you manage expenses and focus on your education. Here’s how to create a financial plan:

• Include tuition fees, living expenses, books, health insurance, and travel. This gives you a clear picture of what you need.
• Check for government and university scholarships or apply for education loans to ease the financial burden.
• Use budgeting apps or a simple spreadsheet to monitor expenses like rent, food, and utilities.
• Focus on essentials like tuition and living expenses. Limit discretionary spending on entertainment or luxury items.
• Consider shared housing, cooking your meals, and using public transport to cut costs.
• Budget for unforeseen expenses like licensing exams, lab fees, or emergencies.

Is the Investment Worth It? ROI of an MBBS Degree in the USA 

Earning an MBBS degree in the USA is expensive, but the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial costs. Let’s break it down:

Career Prospects

• US medical graduates are highly valued worldwide. Completing your MBBS in the USA opens doors to opportunities in top hospitals, research institutions, and private practices.
• After completing residency, you can specialize in lucrative fields like cardiology, neurology, or surgery.

Average Salaries

• Newly qualified doctors in the USA earn an average annual salary of $200,000–$300,000 (₹1.64 crore–₹2.46 crore, depending on the specialization.
• Salaries grow significantly with experience, especially for specialists.

Global Recognition

• A degree from a US medical school is recognized globally, giving you the flexibility to work in different countries.
• US-trained doctors are often preferred due to the rigorous education and clinical training they undergo.

Is It Worth It?

Yes, if you’re committed to a career in medicine, the investment pays off in terms of financial rewards, global recognition, and personal satisfaction. However, careful planning and exploring funding options are crucial to make it manageable.

Impact of Inflation on MBBS Fees in 2025 

Inflation makes everything more expensive, including MBBS education. In 2025, students can expect higher tuition, living costs, and other expenses. 

How Inflation Affects MBBS Costs

• Tuition Fees: Schools increase fees every year to match rising costs.
• Living Expenses: Rent, food, and transportation get more expensive, especially in big cities.
• Books and Supplies: Textbooks and lab materials cost more due to production expenses.
• Healthcare Costs: Health insurance and medical bills are higher.

How to Handle Rising Costs

• Apply for Scholarships: Many schools and organizations offer funding to help.
• Save on Living Expenses: Share housing, cook your meals, and use public transport.
• Plan a Budget: Track what you spend and find ways to save.
• Get a Fixed-Rate Loan: Lock in education loans now to avoid paying more later.
• Part-Time Jobs: Work on campus if your visa allows.
• Emergency Fund: Keep extra money for unexpected expenses.

How upGrad Abroad Helps with MBBS Preparation and Applications

If you’re planning to study MBBS abroad, upGrad Abroad is here to make things simple and easy for you. From entrance exams to finding the right university, we guide you every step of the way.

Entrance Exam Preparation

Getting ready for exams like the MCAT is easier with upGrad. We provide resources to help you understand the syllabus, exam structure, and how to prepare effectively.

• MCAT Overview
• MCAT Eligibility Details

Scholarships and Financial Guidance

Studying medicine can be expensive, but there are many scholarships available. upGrad helps you find and apply for scholarships that fit your needs. We also share practical tips on budgeting.

• Scholarship Options
• How to Get Scholarships for MBBS

University Shortlisting

Choosing the right university is important. upGrad helps you find programs that match your interests, career goals, and budget.

With upGrad Abroad, your MBBS preparation and application process becomes simple and stress-free. We’re here to support you every step of the way!

Scholarships and Financial Aid Options for MBBS in the USA

Worried about the high cost of MBBS in the USA? Thankfully, there are scholarships and financial aid options that can make your dream of studying medicine more affordable.

Government-Funded Scholarships

Government scholarships are a great way to get financial support for your MBBS in the USA. These programs often focus on students with excellent academic records or those from specific backgrounds.

• Fulbright Foreign Student Program
• National Overseas Scholarship (India)
• Chevening Scholarship

University-Specific Scholarships

Many US medical schools offer scholarships based on merit or financial need. These can significantly reduce your tuition costs.

• Dean’s Scholarship – Stanford University
• Financial Aid Program – Harvard Medical School
• International Health Scholarship – Johns Hopkins University
• Diversity Scholarship – Yale School of Medicine

Private Funding Opportunities

Private organizations and foundations also offer grants and sponsorships to international students.

• Aga Khan Foundation Scholarships
• Rotary Foundation Global Grants
• Tata Scholarship for Indian Students
• Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarship

Quick Tip: Apply early and check each scholarship’s eligibility requirements to maximize your chances of funding. 

Source: https://www.auamed.org/admissions/international-applicants/indian-applicants/mbbs-in-usa/ https://meded.hms.harvard.edu/md-cost-attendance https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/som/offices/finaid/cost https://med.stanford.edu/md/mdhandbook/section-7-tuition-and-financial-aid/tuition---fees.html https://registrar.ucsf.edu/registration/fees/medicine2024 https://www.med.upenn.edu/admissions/tuition-fees.html https://www.vagelos.columbia.edu/education/academic-programs/programs-physical-therapy/doctor-physical-therapy/admissions/tuition-fees-financial-assistance-and-housing https://college.mayo.edu/academics/mayo-clinic-alix-school-of-medicine/md-program/tuition-and-aid/ https://bursar.uchicago.edu/tuition-and-fees/tuition-and-fees-2023-24/tuition-and-fees-2023-24-pritzker-school-of-medicine