Study MBBS in the UK — A Complete Guide for Nigerian Students
Are you a Nigerian student dreaming of studying Medicine abroad? The UK is one of the top destinations for aspiring doctors from Nigeria thanks to its world-class universities, globally recognised medical degrees, and shorter course durations. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about pursuing an MBBS in the UK—from eligibility and tuition fees to top universities, scholarships, and job prospects.
Why Study Medicine (MBBS) in the UK?
Here’s why the UK is an excellent choice for Nigerian students looking to build a successful career in Medicine:
Globally Recognised Medical Degrees
UK medical qualifications are respected worldwide. As a Nigerian student, graduating from a UK university significantly boosts your chances of working internationally, including in the UK, Nigeria, Canada, or the USA.
No Need for Licensing Exams in Nigeria
UK MBBS graduates are eligible to practice in Nigeria without needing to write the MDCN (Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria) qualifying exam, subject to registration.
Early Clinical Exposure
Unlike some countries where clinical experience starts late, UK medical schools begin clinical training in the early years, giving students more practical exposure.
Scholarship Opportunities
Many UK universities offer partial or full scholarships to international students, easing the financial burden.
Shorter Course Duration
MBBS courses in the UK typically last 5-6 years, helping students begin their careers earlier compared to some other countries.
Top UK Universities for MBBS (QS World Rankings 2025)
| University | World Ranking |
|---|---|
| University of Oxford | 2 |
| University of Cambridge | 5 |
| University College London (UCL) | 6 |
| Imperial College London | 8 |
| King’s College London | 13 |
| University of Edinburgh | 22 |
| University of Manchester | 30 |
| University of Glasgow | 48 |
Eligibility Criteria for Nigerian Students
To apply for an MBBS program in the UK, Nigerian students must:
- Have strong WASSCE/NECO results with top grades in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Maths and English.
- Be at least 18 years of age at the time of enrolment.
- Provide scores from accepted entrance exams such as:
- UCAT (UK Clinical Aptitude Test)
- BMAT (Biomedical Admissions Test)
- GAMSAT (for graduate-entry medicine)
- Provide a valid IELTS or TOEFL score to demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS: 7.0 overall, minimum 6.5 in each section).
Required Documents
- Completed application via UCAS
- Personal Statement
- Academic transcripts and certificates (WAEC/NECO)
- Reference letters
- Entrance exam scores (e.g., UCAT, BMAT)
- Proof of English proficiency
- Proof of financial support (for visa purposes)
Cost of Studying MBBS in the UK (For Nigerian Students)
Tuition Fees
Tuition for international medical students ranges between £22,800 and £52,000 per year.
That’s approximately ₦35 million to ₦80 million per year (depending on the exchange rate).
Living Expenses
According to UK immigration guidelines:
- In London: £1,334/month (₦2 million)
- Outside London: £1,023/month (₦1.5 million)
Other Costs (Before Admission)
| Item | Estimated Cost (₦) |
|---|---|
| IELTS exam | ₦150,000 |
| UCAS application | ₦50,000 |
| Visa application fee | ₦250,000 |
| Tuberculosis test | ₦45,000 |
| Flight ticket | ₦600,000 – ₦1,000,000 |
Scholarships for Nigerian Students
Here are some scholarships you can apply for as a Nigerian student pursuing MBBS in the UK:
| Scholarship | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Chevening Scholarship | Fully funded (tuition + living costs) |
| Rhodes Scholarship | Fully funded for University of Oxford |
| Hull York Medical School International Scholarship | Partial to full tuition |
| Imperial College Faculty of Medicine Scholarships | Varies |
| University-specific merit-based scholarships | Varies by institution |
Course Duration and Degree Name
In the UK, MBBS degrees may be awarded as MB ChB, MB BCh, or BMBS, but all are equivalent to the MBBS. The program usually lasts 5 to 6 years.
Some universities also offer graduate-entry medicine programs that last 4 years, ideal for students who already hold a science degree.
Job Opportunities After MBBS in the UK
After graduation, you can apply for a two-year Foundation Programme (F1 and F2 training). Post-completion, you can begin working as a licensed doctor in the UK.
Average Salaries for MBBS Graduates (in the UK):
| Job Role | Average Annual Salary (GBP) | Equivalent in Naira |
|---|---|---|
| General Practitioner | £138,000 | ₦210M+ |
| Cardiologist | £276,000 | ₦420M+ |
| Gynecologist | £197,000 | ₦300M+ |
| Neurologist | £214,000 | ₦330M+ |
FAQs
Can Nigerian students study MBBS in the UK?
Yes, thousands of Nigerian students pursue MBBS in the UK each year. You must meet the academic, language, and visa requirements.
Is MBBS from the UK valid in Nigeria?
Yes. UK MBBS degrees are recognised by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).
Do I need NEET to study MBBS in the UK?
No. NEET is not required. Instead, you’ll need exams like UCAT, BMAT, or GAMSAT based on the university’s requirements.
Can I get a scholarship for MBBS in the UK?
Yes. Several universities and organisations offer scholarships for international students based on merit or need.
How long is MBBS in the UK?
The duration is usually 5 to 6 years, but some fast-track programs (graduate entry) take 4 years.
Can I stay in the UK after completing my MBBS?
Yes, you can apply for the UK’s Graduate Route visa which allows you to stay and work for 2 years after completing your studies.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Studying medicine in the UK can be a life-changing opportunity. Let our expert counsellors at Kampus Group help you apply to the best universities, find scholarships, and guide you through the visa process.
Book a free consultation today to get started on your MBBS journey in the UK!