MD vs MBBS – Key Differences

MBBS and MD are two different degrees which lead to making you a doctor. MBBS is an undergraduate degree, but MD has two different forms undergraduate and postgraduate. 

Here we will break down the key differences between MBBS vs MD and will also explain the two forms of MD degree. So let’s dive into it.

What Is MBBS?

MBBS stands for Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery. It is an undergraduate degree designed to prepare students to practice general medicine. Here’s what you need to know:

Countries Offering MBBS:

It is primarily offered in countries like the United Kingdom, Pakistan, India, Italy, and the Caribbean.

Requirements:

MBBS requires twelve years of education, which include two years of Pre Medical and entrance test which is different in different countries.

Program Duration:

The MBBS program typically lasts for six years, which includes one year of internship.

What Comes After MBBS?

After completing MBBS, many doctors choose to specialize in a specific field of medicine or surgery. This is where the postgraduate MD program comes in.

What is MD Program?

MD Stands for Doctor of Medicine. There’s often confusion about MD programs because they exist at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Undergraduate MD: 

An undergraduate MD program is a medical degree that allows students to begin their medical education directly after completing their four years of pre-med school. 

Countries Offering Undergraduate MD:

Offered in countries like the US, Canada and Belarus.

Requirements:

Undergraduate MD program require four years of bachelor studies which are also called Pre Med. Bachelor study can be in different subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Psychology etc.

Duration:

The undergraduate MD degree lasts for four years, which include theory and training years.

Postgraduate MD

The second form of MD is postgraduate MD program. Pursued after MBBS, often as a specialization in fields like surgery or dermatology.

Requirements:

Every country Postgraduate MD program has different requirements, but all of them have one thing in common: they all require an MBBS or medical school degree. 

Rest of the requirements are different i.e they all have specific entrance tests like USMLE, PLAB, AMC etc and language tests like OET, IELTS, or TOEFL.

Duration:

Usually lasts two to seven years depending on type of speciality.

Steps To Enter MBBS Program In UK/Other Countries

You need to go through the following steps to enter MBBS programs.

In UK

1. High School Completion:

Students need to complete twelve years of education.

2.UKCAT or BMAT

UK medical schools require entrance tests like UKCAT. Universities do not accepting BMAT any more. So focus on UKCAT.

3. IELTS or TOEFL 

These tests are for non-native English speakers. To check the require score, its best to search on the specific University website. 

4. Apply Through UCAS

UCAS ( Universities and Colleges Admission Service) is the application platform used for undergraduate courses in the UK including MBBS Program. 

Visit UCAS website and upload your personal details. Once done with personal details, choose the MBBS course. Keep in mind that you can apply to only four medical schools. So choose Wisely. 

Interview:

If you are shortlisted then they will invite you for an interview. To crack it, it’s best to practice very well before your interview day or you can consult an expert in medical school interviews.

Decision Day:

Here you will receive the final message whether you are accepted or rejected. 

In India and Pakistan

In India and Pakistan the MBBS program pathway is not that difficult like the UK, but the competition is so tough. Thousands of students in Pakistan to million of students in India appear for the entrance and the medical colleges seats are also limited. So it’s really difficult to get into medical college.

Following steps are needed for the MBBS program in these countries.

1.High School/Inter Degree 

Twelve years of education is required including two years of pre medical(intermediate).

2. Entrance Test

Both countries have different entrance tests. In India, it is called NEET UG and in Pakistan, it is called MDCAT. To get an admission, a very high score is needed in these tests.

Steps to Enter an MD Program in the US/Canada

1. Undergraduate Degree:

Students must first complete an undergraduate degree in any field (e.g., biology, chemistry, psychology). These years are often referred to as premed years.

2. MCAT Exam:

After their undergraduate degree, students take the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test). A high score on the MCAT is important to applying for medical school.

3. Application Process:

The MD application process has multiple steps:

• Primary Application: Submitted to a medical board or association.

• Secondary Application: Sent to individual medical schools of choice.

• Medical Interview: Schools invite shortlisted candidates for interviews.

• Decision Day: Students find out if they are accepted, rejected, or waitlisted.

Can MBBS Students Study in the US?

Yes, MBBS graduates can study in the US by entering the Postgraduate MD or residency program. Here are few additional steps they need to take,

1. USMLE Exams:

The United States Medical Licensing Exams (USMLE) are required to transition into the US medical system. These include:

Step 1: Basic medical knowledge.

Step 2 CK: Clinical knowledge.

Step 3: Assessing a doctor’s ability to practice independently.

2. Residency Applications:

After passing the USMLE exams, students can apply for residency in US hospitals.

These exams are challenging, time-consuming, and expensive, but they are necessary for MBBS graduates aiming to practice in the US.

Key Differences Between MBBS and MD

MD vs MBBS FAQs

How many years is MD in the USA?

MD in USA is about four to eleven years. Four years of Undergraduate MD and three to seven years of Postgraduate MD depends on speciality duration. 

Is MBBS accepted in the USA?

Yes, an MBBS degree is acceptable in the USA, but you need to go through the USMLE path before practicing in the USA.

Why Is the US MD Program So Rigorous?

US medical schools are regarded as the gold standard of medical education. The rigorous application process ensures that only the most qualified candidates make it into these programs.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose the MBBS or MD path depends on where you plan to study and practice medicine. Both lead to the ultimate goal of becoming a doctor, but the journey looks different depending on the country and system.