MBBS Abroad: What is Academic Mobility Programme?

The Academic Mobility Programme plays a crucial role in smooth the path of international education for MBBS students seeking to broaden their academic horizons and gain valuable experiences abroad. By participating in such programs, students not only enhance their medical knowledge but also develop essential life skills that prepare them for successful careers.

The Union Health Ministry, Government of India along with the National Medical Commission (NMC) have agreed to recognize the Academic Mobility Programme. In a recent circular, the National Medical Commission (NMC) in close consultation with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has notified that it has no objection to the ‘academic mobility programme’ being offered by the Ukrainian government for Indian medical students. Read: 2000 Medical Seats offered to Ukraine-returned Indian students by Uzbekistan

What is the Academic Mobility Programme?

The Academic Mobility Programme refers to a structured initiative that enables students to study at partner institutions in different countries for a certain period. This can include studying for a semester or an entire academic year. The program aims to promote international collaboration and exchange among universities, allowing students to gain exposure to diverse educational systems and cultural experiences.

Academic mobility can take various forms, including:

• Student Exchange Programs: Students can attend classes at a partner university while earning credits towards their home degree.
• Short-Term Study Abroad: These programs allow students to engage in intensive courses or research projects for a shorter duration.
• Internships and Traineeships: Students can gain practical experience by working in healthcare settings abroad, which is particularly beneficial for MBBS students.

Related Reads

NMC introduces dual internships and NExT to replace FMGE for Indian medical returnees	Top Healthcare Courses in the UK
Ukraine Crisis: Future of Indian Students studying MBBS in Ukraine - On Hold	Study MBBS Abroad: Eligibility, Colleges, Fees, Exams and Jobs
Scholarships for Indian students studying MBBS abroad	Best Country to Study MBBS Abroad

Benefits of the Academic Mobility Programme

1. The Academic Mobility Programme provides access to unique courses and specialized training that may not be available at the home institution. This is especially valuable for medical students who wish to explore different healthcare practices and methodologies.
2. Studying abroad allows students to immerse themselves in new cultures, fostering greater intercultural understanding and adaptability—skills that are essential in today's globalized world.
3. Students have the chance to build international networks with peers, faculty, and professionals in the medical field. These connections can lead to future collaborations and career opportunities.
4. Living and studying in a foreign country challenges students to step out of their comfort zones, promoting personal development, independence, and resilience.
5. For many students, studying abroad provides an opportunity to learn or improve language skills, which can be beneficial in both personal and professional contexts.

How Does the Academic Mobility Programme Work?

The Academic Mobility Programme typically involves several steps:

1. Partnership Agreements: Universities establish partnerships with other institutions worldwide, creating a framework for student exchanges and collaborative programs.
2. Application Process: Interested students must apply for the program through their home institution. This often includes submitting academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and language proficiency proof if required.
3. Selection Criteria: Students may need to meet specific criteria, such as academic performance or language skills, depending on the host institution's requirements.
4. Credit Transfer: Upon completion of the mobility period, students usually receive credits that can be transferred back to their home institution, ensuring that their time abroad contributes towards their degree.
5. Support Services: Many universities offer support services for mobile students, including assistance with visas, housing arrangements, and orientation programs to help them adjust to their new environment.

Academic Mobility Programme eligible countries

Indian students who are studying in universities in Ukraine that recognize academic mobility programme have been allowed by NMC to relocate to universities in the countries mentioned below and complete their medical studies. However, the degree would be awarded by the parent Ukrainian university.

Austria	Azerbaijan	Belgium
Belarus	Bulgaria	Croatia
Czech Republic	Egypt	France
Italy	Iran	Israel
Georgia	Greece	Germany
Hungary	Kazakhstan	Kyrgyzstan
Latvia	Lithuania	Moldova
Poland	Rumania	Spain
Slovakia	Sweden	Turkey
Uzbekistan	US

However, a lot of medical students are complaining that universities in Ukraine are demanding the payment of full tuition fees in order to release their documents to process the academic mobility programme. A section of medical students has also rejected the government’s proposed academic mobility programme. The next hearing is scheduled for November 2022.

NMC Issues list of Medical Universities in Georgia as part of Academic Mobility Programme

In accordance with the academic mobility programme to relocate Ukraine-returned Indian students, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has published the names of three medical universities in Georgia along with their fees and medium of instruction where Indian medical students can apply for MBBS.

MBBS Universities in Georgia

University Name	Fees in US Dollars	Medium of Instructions
BAU International University, Batumi	6500 USD	English
Georgian National University, SEU	5500 USD	English
New Vision University	7000 USD	English

Indian medical students should note that the ‘Academic Mobility Program’ is a temporary relocation to other universities in different countries globally. The National Medical Commission (NMC) has also made it clear that this list is to facilitate the Indian medical students who are studying in Ukraine and not by way of any responsibility of the Indian government. The list of universities issued by the commission has been done so in consultation with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Ministry of External Affairs.