New Healthtech Entrepreneur: What's Next?

Ans: Why Philippines is a Better Option (for Indian Students):
1. English-speaking country –
o The entire medical course is in English.
o No need to learn any local language like Russian or Kazakh.
2. Similar disease pattern to India –
o Students get to study and practice on patients with diseases common in India (like dengue, diabetes, TB etc).
o This helps later during FMGE/Next exams in India.
3. Good quality teaching –
o Most colleges follow the US system, focus on clinical training, and use modern equipment.
4. No freezing climate –
o Weather is like South India – warm and humid, so your child will feel more comfortable.
o Easier to adjust than in countries with minus temperatures.
5. Medium FMGE result –
o Philippines students usually have better FMGE (MCI screening test) pass rates than Kyrgyzstan or Kazakhstan.

Points to Keep in Mind:
• Philippines has a pre-med + MD structure (usually 1.5 yrs + 4 yrs = total 5.5 yrs).
• Your child may need to write NMAT exam (simple, not very hard) after pre-med.
• Some colleges are better than others – you need to choose the right university.
• Cost is moderate – around ?25–30 lakhs total including living.
Cold Countries (Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan):
• Cheaper than Philippines, but classes often in local language or mixed (English + local).
• You must learn Russian/Kyrgyz for clinical years.
• FMGE pass rates are low from these countries.
• Harsh winters – can be tough to adjust.
• Some colleges have large batch sizes and less hospital exposure.