Today, we unravel the essentials you need to know on how to study medicine in China. China has been steadily progressing in the economy, as well as an education system that ranks within the Global Top 10, amazing infrastructure, scientific and technological advancements.
It isn’t surprising that the country is one of the top destinations for international students who wish to either start their medical journeys or advance in level.
Are you an international student who is looking to study Medicine in China but you have no idea where to start from?
Look no further, everything you need and more is covered in this article.
Before we dive into the ‘how’, let’s highlight some things you need to know first.
Things to consider while considering how to study medicine in China
- LANGUAGE
When most people hear about studying in China, the first thing that comes to mind is the language. “How would I cope? What if I can’t understand a thing? What if I don’t learn the language quickly?” they usually ask.
Fear not, medical courses in quite a number of Chinese Universities are taught in the English Language.
You would still need to learn the local language, which should be fun and interesting. Especially as it would be useful during your internship (you can choose to do this though, in any other country of your choice) at the local hospitals!
- COST
The next thing people usually consider is the cost of schooling, accommodation, etc. Surprisingly, it costs way less to study medicine in China than in the UK or the US – as much as 70% less.
The Chinese Government annually provides a generous education budget to medical universities for research and development.
So, that in some ways makes the medical courses to be offered at affordable rates. Overall fees tend to be between an average of $3000 and $8000, although this depends on the particular degree you want within the medical field.
- DURATION
Studying medicine in China is usually a five-year Bachelor’s degree – a year of pre-med education, two years of pre-clinic education, and another two years of clinic education – in addition to a one-year internship before the final degree is awarded.
The degree awarded is known as, Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). A Master’s degree/Ph.D. takes an additional 2-3 years to complete.
- GLOBAL RECOGNITION
Some people worry that studying in China would limit them, or that an MBBS from China would not be accepted internationally.
This fear is unfounded, however, as an MBBS from a Chinese medical school is recognized in most countries of the world.
Though, if you wish to work in another country of your choosing, you would need to take that country’s national screening test. Like the United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE), for the US.
- EXCELLENT HEALTHCARE SYSTEM AND FACILITIES
Due to China prioritizing health and health education, they pour in a lot of money to help with medical research and the development of outstanding infrastructure like Hospitals, Technology, etc. This is all to ensure they remain at the very top as a world leader in medical innovation.
So, these are just some of the things to know before considering studying medicine in China. But before you pack up your bags in a hurry, let’s dive into the process of “How” from start to finish.
- ELIGIBILITY
Before you can dream about studying Medicine in China, you have to be eligible. By that, I mean;
- Must be of a reasonable age of about 18 and above
- Must have an average grade of 65% in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Maths in high school
- Must be solid financially
- APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Even after meeting the eligibility criteria, there are requirements to be met before/while applying. They do include the following and more;
- International student application bearing the signature of the medical school you’re applying to.
- High school diploma.
- Personal statement of at least 200 words, which includes a brief self-introduction, your motivations/goals, and plans after graduation.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV), which includes education and/or work experience among other things.
- A physical examination record with blood test results bearing stamps from a certified hospital.
- Recommendation letter, which includes recommender’s name, phone number, email, affiliation, position, and signature.
- A valid passport for identification.
- Proof of financial support. Preferably a deposit account statement of your sponsor for the last 3/4 months, issued by the bank, with a minimum closing of $7000 or equivalent. If the account isn’t yours, you would then need to provide your sponsor’s proof of identity.
- Depending on the country, you might be required to provide a certificate of no criminal record
NB: All documents must be in English or Chinese.
Be aware though, that the application process can be the most stressful part of choosing which medical school to attend in China.
While it is mostly straightforward, the requirements for each school can differ. Some ask for in-person interviews or online interviews via Zoom or Skype.
Peking University for one requires you to take a general knowledge test and score at least 180.
So, keep that in mind.
Panic not though, various companies/organizations like Yes Atlas or MBBS Application Service exist to help students through their application processes.
- THE APPLICATION PROCESS
The application process itself is no hassle if you’ve got all you need ready. All you need to do next is to either search for MBBS programs or the school you might have already decided on and click the apply button.
After that, upload all the required documents and wait for confirmation. If accepted, you will be sent an admission/invitation letter.
The next and probable final step would be to pay your required fees, process your Visa and get prepared to study your MBBS in China.
- GRADUATING AND GETTING A JOB
When all is said and done, it is relatively easy to find a job after being awarded your MBBS, especially in China itself, and with the country prioritizing its health sector as a result of the ever-increasing population, doctors are always in demand.
Aside from maybe a few added steps from your school of choice, this is basically all you need to know about the “How”.
In the end, studying medicine in China should be a goal for international students, especially when you consider the perks and advantages. While the application process can be stressful, it is worth it.
I wish you success on your new adventure!
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Chibueze Uchegbu is a certified medical physiologist with a great passion for healthy living.