All the medical colleges of India have been instructed by the National Medical Commission (NMC) to levy the MBBS fees for only 4.5 years. This is because some medical colleges were found charging fees for five years, which includes the year of internship. It must be noted here that internship year is not included in the fee structure of the academic session. Hence, the NMC has issued an ultimatum to the medical colleges that in case of any violation, strict action will be taken against them. The MBBS course in India consists of 4.5 years of academic study, after which there is a mandatory internship period lasting one year. Though the internship period is significant from a practical perspective, it does not constitute any part of the paid academic program. However, many institutions charge their students for the full duration of five years.
Consequences: Strict action will be taken against the institutions that do not comply with this instruction.
Objective: So that the principles of justice and equity may prevail.
Students: Exemption from unnecessary costs incurred during the internship period.
Colleges: Compulsion to review their fee structure to adhere to the instructions of NMC.
Medical Education: Helps in bringing accountability and uniformity among institutions.
This step taken by the NMC comes at an important time for cost regulation in medical education in India. The cap of 4.5 years on MBBS tuition prevents unfair exploitation of students during their intern year. It is hoped that such a decision will help maintain transparency in the process and settle any disputes that may arise.
Study MBBS abroad in an overseas country has become a preferable choice for Indian students because of the relatively low cost of studies, an internationally accepted degree and access to various kinds of medicine. Some examples of countries where Indian students can pursue MBBS are Russia, Ukraine, the Philippines, Bangladesh and Georgia.