Ukraine has over 18,000 Indian students. Ever since the tensions between Russia and Ukraine have escalated, India has been making all efforts possible to evacuate its 18,000 plus students in Ukraine. The ban on civilian flights between New Delhi and Kyiv made efforts difficult.
As air travel becomes restricted, Indian students are stranded in various parts of Ukraine. The students have constantly been trying to contact the Indian embassy in Kyiv and other government officials for a quick evacuation. So far, over seven flights carrying Indian students have reached India from the neighbouring countries of Ukraine.
On the other hand, some people are curious why these students have chosen Ukraine for their higher studies. According to the Ukrainian Ministry of Education, 18,095 Indian students are enrolled in higher education. Most of the Indian students in Ukraine are pursuing medical studies.
Why do Indian students choose Ukraine for MBBS?
This is simple and clear – the tuition fees of private medical colleges in Ukraine are way cheaper than that of colleges in India. The World Health Council even recognises the Ukrainian colleges. The degrees are valid in India as Indian Medical Council recognises them.
It costs between Rs 50 lakh and Rs 1 crore to pursue MBBS privately in India. But in Ukraine, the cost of education can be as high as 20 to 25 lakhs. The cost of education in Ukraine is relatively low compared to India and other foreign countries.
Also, Indian colleges offer admission only if you have a high rank in the Entrance. The shortage of medical seats is the reason behind this. However, anyone who passes the NEET exam will have the opportunity to study in Ukraine since many universities exist.
Another reason is certification. Graduation certificates from all foreign universities will not be considered for employment in India. But the certificate from the Universities of Ukraine is approved by the Central Government.
MBBS graduates from other foreign universities must pass the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination for practice in India.
Apart from Ukraine, Indian students also go to the Philippines, Georgia and Kazakhstan to study medicine.
