My daughter wants to pursue medicine in Ukraine. However, I am concerned about her safety. Could you provide some information on the current safety conditions for international students? If Ukraine is not a viable option, what are the better alternatives for pursuing a degree similar to MBBS in affordable countries with stable academic environments?

Ans: I understand your concerns about your daughter's safety in Ukraine. Unfortunately, due to the ongoing war in eastern Ukraine, the country is currently not a safe environment for international students. The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises against travel to all regions of the country, and many universities have been forced to close or move online.

Here are some alternatives to consider for pursuing a degree similar to MBBS in affordable countries with stable academic environments:

Option 1: Other European countries:

- Poland: Poland offers affordable medical degrees in English for international students. The country has a well-developed healthcare system and a strong academic reputation.
- Germany: Germany offers high-quality medical education at public universities tuition-free for international students. However, the learning language is German, so your daughter would need to demonstrate language proficiency.
- Romania: Romania is another affordable option for medical studies with many universities offering programs in English. The country is a member of the European Union, providing your daughter with opportunities for studying or working abroad after graduation.

Option 2: Asian countries:

- India: India has a large number of medical schools offering MBBS degrees, and many of them are recognized internationally. The cost of studying medicine in India is relatively low compared to other countries. However, Indian medical schools are known for their competitive entrance exams and rigorous coursework.
- Philippines: The Philippines is another popular destination for international students to study medicine. The country has a long history of medical education, and many programs are taught in English. Additionally, the cost of living in the Philippines is relatively low.
- China: China has a growing number of medical schools offering English-language programs. The quality of medical education in China is improving rapidly, and the country is investing heavily in its healthcare system. However, the language barrier and cultural differences may be challenging for some students.

Option 3: Other options:

- Consider online medical schools: Some universities offer online medical degree programs that can be completed from anywhere in the world. This could be a good option for your daughter if she is concerned about traveling to another country.
- Research scholarships and grants: Many scholarships and grants are available for international students studying medicine. This could help to offset the cost of tuition and living expenses.

It is important to carefully research all of your options before making a decision. You should consider factors such as the cost of tuition and living expenses, the quality of the academic program, the language of instruction, and the safety of the country. You should also talk to your daughter about her preferences and goals for her medical career.

I hope this information is helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions.