The Total Cost of Studying MBBS at Dhaka Medical College

Overall many Bangladeshi candidates will put Dhaka Medical College at the top of their wishlists due to the low cost of studying compared to private colleges. However, despite the low costs of studying there are still costs involved including books, accommodation and exams that can catch people out. This article will outline how much will be spent. If you’re looking into different MBBS options in Bangladesh, this is a good place to start. All prices are approximate so always double check the latest notice from the college and health directorate. 

Why is DMC so cheap?

Since it is a public institution the government will carry most of the real cost of training doctors. Students will pay nominal fees to the institution. However, there will be high competition due to the low prices. Candidates will apply to enter through the centralised medical entrance exam run by the Directorate General of Health Services. Seats will be awarded solely based on merit.

Fees at Government Medical College

The following fees will be paid to the institution. These include:

Honestly most people won’t really talk about these. The official fees are a small part of the overall 5 year fees. The big costs are the accommodation.

Accommodation Costs in Dhaka

Hostel fees at DMC are very cheap, however there are a limited number of seats so many will opt to rent nearby. A realistic amount to spend on food, transport, mobile data and miscellaneous items will be between 8,000-15,000 BDT per month. Usually students who share a room will be at the lower end.

Total Estimated Cost

It can be helpful to consider this in sections. As you progress through your course you’ll be focusing more on clinical subjects.

Overall you’ll pay around 40,000-80,000 for textbooks, Atlases and equipment. This will be much lower than private colleges. Most of the cost will come from accommodation.

Government vs Private

Many will opt for private medical colleges if they don’t get a place at DMC.

Whilst it may surprise you, many students who attend DMC will say they learned more due to the high patient volumes. There is no conflict between the cost and quality of clinical.

Eligibility and Application Process

Locals will need science in both SSC and HSC. Minimum GPA will be determined by the health directorate each session. Always check the latest rules for eligibility for MBBS in the official NMC guidelines where applicable and the relevant official circular. The general process will involve applying online, sitting a written MCQ exam. You will then be placed on a merit list and have your documents verified. A good rank will determine which college you get into so try to get a top rank. The course will last 5 years academically and 1 year internship. The syllabus will follow the professional exams. Once you graduate you will need to register with the Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council so a small amount will need to be budgeted.

Unexpected Costs

• Coaching can be costly with some costing more than a year of fees.
• Repeat fees if you fail your professional exam.
• Clinical books such as bedside notes, guides and printed books.
• Conference/Electives – Not required but tempting.

You should budget for an emergency fund of around an additional semester.

International Candidates

Indian and other international candidates will follow a different process. If you are looking into studying MBBS in Bangladesh as an international candidate you will be charged in USD. This means the overall cost of MBBS will be very different. Indian students should also check the NMC guidelines and NEET requirements. You can seek counselling using sites like MBBS Advisor. Locals can ignore this section but it shows why the fees published online may look very different.

Verify Accreditation

Before paying any institution make sure they are listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS). Also check the WHO guidelines for education of the health workforce. Checking medical colleges that are accredited will help avoid any dodgy agents promising you a spot. In the capital the fees can vary greatly between Dhaka medical colleges so shop around. The latest notices can be found on the official DMC website.

Conclusion

As long as you can get a place, DMC is one of the cheapest ways to gain a medical degree in South Asia. The fees are low, hostel fees are low and the main costs will be accommodation and books. Budget per year and have some extra money. Be wary of anyone promising guaranteed admission. A guide to MBBS admission in Bangladesh will help with overall planning.

FAQs

1. Is MBBS at DMC cheap?

Yes! The institution fees are nominal and most of the cost will come from accommodation.

2. How much should a local expect to pay per year?

Around 1,00,000-2,00,000. Mostly coming from accommodation and books.

3. Are there any hidden costs?

Exam fees, repeat fees, equipment and registration fees.

4. Will I get a hostel?

No! There are limited spots so have a rental in mind.

5. Do interns get paid?

They will receive a small monthly stipend.

6. Can I transfer from a private college to DMC?

Generally not. Spots are given based on the central merit.

7. Do I need coaching?

Not required but most candidates will do it due to high competition.

8. Are there any scholarships?

There are some scholarships available for MBBS. Check the college notices.

9. How long until I can practice?

6 years including internship. You will need to register with the BMDC.

10. Can international students apply?

Yes! They will follow a different quota. The fees will be different.