Archive · 22 Jun 2025
Why Indian Medical Students, Especially Kashmiris, Study in Iran
Many Indian students study medicine abroad, particularly in Iran, because it's cheaper and less competitive.
This is especially true for students from Kashmir who share cultural and religious ties with Iran.
However, there are challenges.
The quality of education might be different, and getting a license to practice in India after studying abroad is difficult.
They also have to pass a difficult exam.
Many Indian students, especially from Kashmir, pursue medical education in Iran.
The trend is driven by competitiveness of Indian medical schools and lower costs abroad.
Cultural and historical ties, along with religious affinity, attract Kashmiri students to Iran.
Experts warn of potential issues like differing standards and challenges upon returning to India.
Foreign-trained doctors face hurdles like the FMGE exam with historically low pass rates.
- Who
- Indian students seeking medical degrees, with a significant portion from Kashmir.
- What
- Indian students, particularly from Kashmir, pursue medical education in Iran.
- When
- The trend has been ongoing and has gained recent attention.
- Where
- Iran, with a focus on institutions like Tehran University of Medical Sciences.
- Why
- Driven by competitiveness, lower costs, cultural and historical ties.
Advantages of studying in Iran
Disadvantages of studying in Iran
Cultural and Educational Advantages vs. Risks
Advantages of studying in Iran
Cultural and religious affinity with Iran makes the transition easier and more appealing for Kashmiri students.
Disadvantages of studying in Iran
Concerns regarding the quality of education and potential difficulties practicing in India upon return.
- Indian students in Iran (2022)
- Approx. 2,050
- NEET-UG 2024 Candidates
- More than 22.7 lakh
- MBBS seats in 2024
- Approx. 1.18 lakh
- FMGE 2024 Test Takers
- Approx. 79,000
- FMGE 2024 Pass Rate
- 25.8%
- Kashmir's cultural link
- Historical ties to Iran-e-Sagheer (Iran Minor)