Studying MBBS in Iran has become a popular choice for Indian students seeking affordable, high-quality medical education abroad. With NMC-approved universities, modern infrastructure, English-medium courses, and globally recognized degrees, Iran offers a strong alternative to traditional MBBS destinations like Russia, Georgia, or the Philippines. The year 2025 brings even more structured admission processes and improved student support services, making Iran a destination worth serious consideration.
Iran’s medical education system is one of the most advanced in the Middle East. Iranian universities are known for their emphasis on research, practical training, and comprehensive medical curricula. Moreover, the medical degrees offered are recognized by global institutions including the World Health Organization (WHO), Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), and Medical Council of India (MCI/NMC).
In this article, we will explore the top medical universities where you can study MBBS in Iran in 2025, their eligibility criteria, tuition fees, and unique features that make them stand out.
1. Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS)
Location: Tehran
Type: Government
Language of Instruction: English & Persian
Eligibility: 10+2 with PCB, NEET qualified
Tuition Fees: Approx. USD 5,000 – 6,000 per year
Recognition: NMC, WHO, ECFMG, WFME
Tehran University of Medical Sciences is Iran’s oldest and most prestigious medical university. It consistently ranks among the top in Iran and the Middle East. With world-class research centers and modern hospitals, TUMS offers unmatched clinical exposure to MBBS students. The university has strong global collaborations, providing exchange and research opportunities for international students.
2. Shiraz University of Medical Sciences
Location: Shiraz
Type: Government
Language of Instruction: English
Eligibility: NEET + 50% marks in PCB
Tuition Fees: USD 4,500 – 5,500 per year
Recognition: NMC, WHO, IMED, FAIMER
Shiraz is known as the city of education in Iran. Shiraz University of Medical Sciences offers a well-balanced MBBS program that emphasizes clinical skills, anatomy, biochemistry, and professional ethics. The university operates multiple hospitals, including Namazi Hospital, where students get their internship training. It is ideal for Indian students looking for affordability and practical learning.
3. Isfahan University of Medical Sciences
Location: Isfahan
Type: Government
Language of Instruction: English
Eligibility: NEET qualified + min 50% in PCB
Tuition Fees: USD 4,000 – 5,000 annually
Recognition: NMC, WHO, WDOMS
Isfahan University of Medical Sciences is another top-tier institute in Iran. Known for its peaceful campus, high-quality education, and research programs, it provides strong clinical exposure through its teaching hospitals. Students can benefit from advanced medical labs, simulation centers, and English-speaking faculty in MBBS programs.
4. Guilan University of Medical Sciences
Location: Rasht
Type: Government
Language: English and Persian
Eligibility: NEET qualified + 50% in 12th PCB
Tuition Fees: USD 3,800 – 4,500 per year
Recognition: NMC, WHO
Located in the scenic city of Rasht, Guilan University of Medical Sciences is gaining popularity among international students. The university has well-developed hospital affiliations like Poursina Hospital, offering practical, real-time patient handling experience during clinical rotations. It also conducts several public health and epidemiology research projects, ideal for students interested in those fields.
5. Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences
Location: Sari
Type: Public
Medium: English
Eligibility: NEET and 50% PCB
Tuition Fees: USD 4,000 – 5,200
Recognition: NMC, WHO, WDOMS
This university offers great student-to-patient ratios in teaching hospitals, ensuring quality clinical exposure. With modern teaching facilities and a dedicated international student office, it’s becoming one of the preferred institutions in northern Iran.
6. Tabriz University of Medical Sciences
Location: Tabriz
Type: Government
Language of Instruction: English
Eligibility: NEET + 50% PCB
Tuition Fees: USD 5,000 – 6,000 per year
Recognition: NMC, WHO
Located in northwest Iran, Tabriz University is known for its rigorous academic structure and hospital-based training. It has one of the highest standards of surgical training in the country, with over 10 affiliated hospitals and specialist clinics.
Benefits of Choosing to Study MBBS in Iran in 2025
Affordable Tuition Fees: Fees range from INR 3.5 to 5 lakhs per year – significantly lower than Indian private colleges.
Globally Recognized Degrees: All major Iranian medical universities are listed with NMC, WHO, and WDOMS.
No Donation or Capitation Fees: Transparent admission processes without hidden costs.
English Medium Programs: Specially designed MBBS programs for international students.
FMGE/NExT Preparation: Several universities offer special training for NMC screening tests and USMLE.
Safety and Quality of Life: Iran is culturally close to India, with a safe environment and low cost of living.
General Admission Process to Study MBBS in Iran
Step 1: Apply online or through a registered consultant.
Step 2: Submit required documents – 10th, 12th mark sheets, NEET scorecard, passport copy.
Step 3: Receive the offer letter and proceed with tuition fee payment.
Step 4: Apply for a student visa through the Iranian Embassy.
Step 5: Fly to Iran and join the MBBS program in September or February intake.
Documents Required
Valid Passport (min. 2 years validity)
10th and 12th Mark Sheets
NEET Scorecard (mandatory for Indian students)
Passport-size Photos
Medical Certificate
Birth Certificate
Admission Letter from University
Visa and Travel Documents
Final Thoughts
Choosing to study MBBS in Iran in 2025 can be a transformative decision for Indian medical aspirants. With its low tuition fees, English-medium instruction, and globally recognized degrees, Iran has created a strong reputation as a quality medical education hub. Universities like TUMS, Shiraz, Isfahan, and Guilan offer not just academic excellence but also cultural warmth and safety—key concerns for Indian parents and students alike.
With the rising costs and competition in Indian private medical colleges, studying MBBS in Iran provides an affordable, secure, and internationally valid alternative for students who dream of becoming doctors without the burden of massive debt or donation fees.
