Medical education in China, particularly the MBBS programs offered to international students, is widely recognized and accredited by various global and national bodies. However, it’s essential to ensure that the university you choose is officially recognized and accredited to practice medicine both in China and in your home country.
1. Ministry of Education of China
The Ministry of Education (MOE) of China regulates and oversees medical education in the country. It has designated a list of universities that are authorized to offer MBBS programs in English for international students. Only universities on this list can admit foreign students to study medicine, ensuring the programs meet the required standards of teaching and infrastructure.
2. World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS)
Most medical universities in China are listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS), a global database for recognized medical programs. Being listed here means the program is recognized internationally, allowing graduates to apply for further studies or medical licensing exams in many countries.
3. World Health Organization (WHO)
Many Chinese medical schools are listed in the WHO’s Avicenna Directory (now merged into WDOMS). Recognition by WHO ensures that medical degrees are valid according to the standards followed by many countries.
4. Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) / Pakistan Medical Commission (PMC)
Medical graduates from accredited Chinese universities are eligible to take the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) Examination, now overseen by the Pakistan Medical Commission (PMC), to practice medicine in Pakistan. The PMC recognizes specific universities in China, ensuring that graduates from these institutions meet the necessary standards for medical practice in Pakistan. Only graduates from PMC-approved universities are permitted to apply for licensing and practice in Pakistan after successfully passing the PMDC/PMC examination.
Tip: Pakistani students should verify that their chosen Chinese university is recognized by the PMC to ensure that their medical degree will be accepted for licensing in Pakistan.
5. Education Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG)
Medical graduates from China can apply for ECFMG certification, a prerequisite for practicing medicine or pursuing residency in the United States. The university must be listed in the WDOMS, and other eligibility requirements must be met.
6. General Medical Council (GMC), UK
Many Chinese medical universities are recognized by the General Medical Council (GMC) in the UK. Graduates from these universities can take the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) test, which is necessary for practicing medicine in the UK.
Tip: Confirm that your chosen university is on the GMC-recognized institutions list before applying.
7. Medical Boards of Other Countries
Chinese MBBS degrees are also recognized by medical councils or boards in various countries, including:
- Medical Council of India (MCI) / National Medical Commission (NMC)
- Nepal
- Bangladesh
- Sri Lanka
- Many African nations
Graduates need to pass the respective medical licensing exams in their home countries to practice medicine.
8. International Accreditation
Some Chinese universities may seek accreditation from international accrediting bodies such as the Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER), which enhances global recognition.
9. Local Internship Recognition
The internship year (typically in the 6th year) is recognized in China. However, in some countries, students may need to complete an additional internship or pass a certification exam to meet local medical council requirements.
