
MBBS in USA...
Studying medicine in the USA is a different and highly competitive path for Indian students. Unlike the direct MBBS program in India, the American system requires students to first complete a four-year undergraduate bachelor's degree before applying to a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) program. The M.D. program itself is another four years, followed by a residency of 3-7 years, making the entire process very long and expensive.
The Path to M.D. in the USA for Indian Students
The journey for an Indian student typically involves these key steps:
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Pre-Medical Education: Indian students must complete their high school education with a strong science background (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology). A valid NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) score is mandatory for Indian citizens, as per the National Medical Commission (NMC) rules for studying abroad. Some top-tier Caribbean schools may also require standardized tests like the MCAT, IELTS, or TOEFL.
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Caribbean Medical School (MD Program): The program is usually four years long, with the first two years (Basic Sciences) completed on the island campus. The curriculum is often aligned with U.S. medical standards and focuses heavily on preparing students for the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE).
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U.S. Clinical Rotations: During the final two years, many reputable Caribbean medical schools have affiliations with teaching hospitals in the U.S. and Canada where students complete their clinical rotations (clerkships). This hands-on experience is crucial for gaining exposure to the U.S. healthcare system and networking with American physicians.
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USMLE Exams: To be eligible for U.S. residency, all graduates, including those from Caribbean schools, must pass the USMLE. A high score is essential for a competitive application. The top Caribbean schools boast high first-time pass rates, often comparable to U.S. medical schools.
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Residency Match: After passing the USMLE exams and becoming certified by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), students can apply for residency positions through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). Securing a residency is a prerequisite to getting a license to practice medicine in the U.S
A number of Caribbean medical schools provide a structured pathway for Indian students to pursue an M.D. and ultimately practice in the USA. The most well-known and reputable schools are often referred to as "The Big Four" due to their strong accreditation, high USMLE pass rates, and history of placing graduates into U.S. residency programs.
Best Places to study Medical for USA
A career in medicine is known to be one of the noblest professions in the world. For students, looking to pursue a medical career abroad will find many good universities across countries offering an MBBS course. Pursuing an MBBS from these institutions will open doors for an excellent medical career. Let’s explore the best countries for MBBS 2023.
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St. George's University (SGU)
Located in Grenada, SGU is one of the most established and well-regarded Caribbean medical schools. It has a long track record of placing a large number of graduates into U.S. residency programs and has a massive alumni network.
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Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM)
​With its campus in Barbados, RUSM is another prominent institution with a curriculum designed to prepare students for the USMLE and U.S. clinical practice. It also boasts high residency attainment rates for its graduates.
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American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine (AUC)
Located in Sint Maarten, AUC is known for its partnerships with teaching hospitals in the U.S. for clinical rotations, a crucial part of the pathway to U.S. residency.

Saba University School of Medicine
Situated on the island of Saba, this school is recognized for its high USMLE pass rates and strong record of placing graduates in U.S. and Canadian residency programs.
