MBBS in France: Eligibility, Intakes, Scholarships & Jobs

Per Statista's projections, France's healthcare industry is estimated to expand by 9.96% between 2023 and 2027, reaching a market size of €1403 million. With a strong emphasis on research, innovation, and high-quality healthcare, studying MBBS in France offers a promising future for aspiring medical students. This is a comprehensive guide to MBBS in France for Indian students.  

Why Study MBBS in France

France has a vital role to play in global health as one of the major economies in the world, and the new Global Health Strategy will strengthen that responsibility. 

Here are the top reasons that make France one of the best destinations for acquiring an MBBS degree. 

1.Reputation and Recognition: French medical degrees are highly respected worldwide, offering prestige and recognition to graduates. 

2.Low or No Tuition Fees: Most French public universities do not charge tuition fees; nonetheless, there are nominal registration fees. Private universities do charge tuition fees, but it's low compared to other universities across the world. 

3.Excellence in Medical Research: French universities strongly focus on research, with numerous breakthroughs. Students benefit from learning from renowned professionals and being part of cutting-edge research projects.

4.Universal Healthcare System: France boasts one of the best healthcare systems globally, providing universal coverage to all citizens. This ensures access to high-quality healthcare services and a comprehensive understanding of healthcare management.

5.Competitive Remuneration: Doctors in France receive competitive salaries, with the potential for growth based on specialization, experience, and location. Per Glassdoor (2023), the average annual salary for a doctor in France ranges from €45,000 to €200,000.

Did You know: France has been a steadfast ally of WHO for the past 75 years. The country joined the organization as a founding member in 1948.

Specializations After MBBS 

Medicine has various specializations, allowing students to focus on their specific areas of interest. Here are some of the top specializations available for MBBS graduates in France:

Aerospace Medicine: (5.5+1 Year Internship)

The study of the physiological and psychological effects of space travel on humans is known as aerospace medicine. Considering these two factors, it develops therapeutic and preventive strategies to help decrease the negative effects of flying on the human body. 

Physiotherapy (3-4 years)

Physiotherapy programs equip students with the knowledge and skills to assess, diagnose, and treat physical impairments and disabilities. Graduates can work as physiotherapists in various healthcare settings.

Emergency Medicine: (3-6 years)

Emergency medicine offers immediate medical care to patients with acute illnesses or injuries. Graduates can work in emergency departments or trauma centers.

Top Five Universities in France For MBBS

Here are the top five universities offering MBBS programs in France:

Credits: Official Sources

Note: The goal of French public universities is to provide access to higher education for everyone. For foreign students, the annual tuition rates seldom go over €600.

MBBS in France: Eligibility Criteria

International candidates seeking admission to Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery programs in France must meet the following crucial qualifying criteria.

• Motivation letter
• CV (in French or English)
• Copy of passport
• NEET Exam
• Language proficiency certificates - For English/TOEFL/TOEIC/university certificate equivalent to B2 level
• Academic transcript of records of undergraduate and graduate studies
• Learning Agreement
• One letter of recommendation 

MBBS in France: Intakes

There are generally two intakes for MBBS in France for Indian students:

1.Fall Intake: 

This intake usually starts in September/October and is the most common intake for MBBS programs.

2.Spring Intake: 

A few universities may have a spring intake starting in March/April.

It is important to note the availability of intakes may vary for different universities and specialization programs. Students should check the official websites of the universities for the specific intake periods.

MBBS in France: Scholarships

Many scholarships exist for international students who wish to study MBBS in France. Some of the top scholarships for international students are:

Source: Official Website

Read More: MBBS Abroad Without NEET

MBBS in France: Jobs

After completing an MBBS in France, a learner can pursue a career as a general practitioner with an average annual salary of €89,000. To take their professional careers to the next level, professionals can pursue a specialization degree. This can lead professionals to work in biomedical businesses, medical centers, healthcare institutes, labs, emergency departments, community health centers, and private practice. With the high growth and commercialization in the healthcare industry, healthcare professionals have several opportunities:

Source: Salary Explorer

MCI-Approved Top Medical Colleges in France

The MCI, ever since being taken over by the  National Medical Commission (NMC), does not endorse any of the best medical colleges in France. However, the colleges are still domestically and internationally accredited, ensuring genuine course curriculums and degrees for international students. 

Read more about study in France:

Reasons to study in France

Study in France from India

Masters in France

FMGE Guidelines: How Overseas Medical Graduates Can Pursue MBBS in India

The Foreign Medical Graduates Examination (FMGE) is a licensure examination conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) in India. The primary objective of the FMGE is to ensure that foreign medical graduates possess the necessary knowledge and skills to provide quality healthcare services in India.

Eligibility Criteria for FMGE

To be eligible to appear for the FMGE, Indian students pursuing MBBS in France must fulfill the following criteria:

1. The candidate must be an Indian citizen or an overseas citizen of India. 
2. Graduation from a recognized medical institution abroad. The qualification should be listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools.
3. Indian medical graduates must obtain an eligibility certificate from the State Medical Council (SMC) before applying for the FMGE.
4. Must have completed a compulsory rotation internship of at least 12 months in a recognized institution in the country where they obtained their primary medical qualification.
5. Obtaining the necessary documents, such as the primary medical qualification certificate, internship completion certificate, and other relevant documents specified.

Upon successfully passing the FMGE, candidates are eligible for provisional or permanent registration with the concerned state medical council in India. The registration process varies on the state's regulations and requirements. It is advisable to consult the respective state medical council for detailed information regarding the registration process.

Conclusion

The number of MBBS in France for international students has grown. With top-ranked university scholarships for international students, France provides a conducive environment for students to achieve their dreams of becoming successful doctors. An MBBS in France degree will equip students for a fruitful career ahead internationally. 

Disclaimer: All course fees/salaries/expenses are indicative.

To know more about MBBS Abroad:

• MBBS in Italy
• MBBS in Bulgaria
• MBBS in Japan
• MBBS in Belgium
• MBBS in Spain
• MBBS in Sweden
• MBBS at Harvard
• MBBS in New Zealand