MBBS in West Bengal 2026

The MBBS course in West Bengal typically spans 5.5 years, which includes 4.5 years of academic study and a mandatory 1-year rotating internship. Students receive comprehensive training in medical sciences, practical skills, and clinical exposure. During the internship, they rotate across departments like medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and obstetrics, gaining hands-on experience. This duration ensures that graduates are well-prepared to practice medicine safely, meet regulatory standards, and pursue higher studies or specializations in the medical field.

West Bengal has 36 medical colleges, including government, private, and central institutions. There is 1 AIIMS, 9 private colleges, and several government colleges affiliated with West Bengal University of Health Sciences (WBUHS). These institutions provide excellent faculty, infrastructure, and hospital exposure for clinical training. Students can choose colleges based on NEET ranks, budget, location, and facilities. This wide variety of institutions ensures ample opportunities for aspiring medical professionals to pursue quality education in a structured and supportive environment.

Candidates must have completed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as core subjects. A minimum of 50% aggregate marks is required for general category students, while reserved categories enjoy relaxation as per government norms. Additionally, candidates must qualify in the NEET-UG examination, which is mandatory for all MBBS admissions in India. Age criteria require students to be at least 17 years old by December 31 of the admission year. Meeting these requirements ensures eligibility for both government and private medical colleges in West Bengal.

Admission to MBBS in West Bengal is based on NEET-UG scores. Candidates participate in counseling organized by the Directorate of Medical Education & Training (DMET) for government colleges or respective authorities for private colleges. Seats are allotted based on NEET rank, reservation quotas, and merit. Document verification, fee submission, and medical fitness certification complete the process. Private colleges may also have management or NRI quotas. Timely application, proper documentation, and counseling participation are essential to secure a seat in the desired medical institution.

Fees vary between government and private medical colleges. Government colleges charge between ₹10,000 and ₹1,50,000 per year, while private colleges may cost ₹15–30 lakh for the full course. Fees include tuition, labs, and clinical training. Some colleges provide scholarships, financial aid, or installment options. Prospective students should check the official college websites for accurate and updated fee structures. Proper financial planning is important, especially for private institutions, due to their higher costs compared to government colleges.

No, NEET-UG is the sole and mandatory entrance examination for MBBS admissions in West Bengal. Both government and private colleges require a valid NEET score. International students must also qualify NEET or equivalent recognized exams. NEET ensures a standardized assessment of students’ knowledge in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Merit ranking from NEET is used for counseling and seat allocation. Without NEET qualification, candidates are not eligible to apply for any MBBS program in West Bengal.

MBBS graduates in West Bengal have diverse career options. They can practice as general physicians, pursue postgraduate studies (MD/MS), work in government or private hospitals, or join research institutions. Opportunities also exist in public health, telemedicine, hospital administration, and medical teaching. With growing healthcare demands, graduates can establish private clinics or consultancies. Advanced studies and specialization enhance career growth, making MBBS a versatile degree that opens doors to clinical, academic, and administrative roles in the medical field.

Yes, international students can pursue MBBS in West Bengal. They must meet eligibility criteria including completion of higher secondary education with science subjects and qualifying NEET-UG. Admission may involve applying through designated portals or directly to colleges. Students must also comply with visa, language proficiency, and financial requirements. Colleges provide support for foreign students including accommodation, guidance, and integration into clinical training. This ensures international students can smoothly adapt to academic and practical requirements of medical education in West Bengal.

Reputed MBBS colleges in West Bengal include Medical College Kolkata, R.G. Kar Medical College, IPGMER & SSKM Hospital, Calcutta National Medical College, and Burdwan Medical College. Private colleges such as IQ City Medical College and KPC Medical College are also noteworthy. All are recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC) and offer excellent faculty, hospital exposure, and research facilities. These colleges maintain high academic standards, providing students with a strong foundation in medical education, clinical training, and opportunities for postgraduate studies.

MBBS graduates in West Bengal can pursue postgraduate courses such as MD, MS, or diplomas in specialized medical fields. Super-specialty programs like DM or MCh are available after postgraduation. Graduates can also explore international opportunities by meeting foreign licensing exam requirements. Advanced studies enhance career prospects in clinical practice, medical research, teaching, and healthcare management. Pursuing higher education ensures professional growth, deeper expertise, and access to leadership roles within hospitals, medical institutions, and public health organizations.