Every year, thousands of Pakistani students aspire to become doctors and pursue rewarding careers in medicine. Because admission to medical colleges in Pakistan is highly competitive, many students consider studying abroad. China has emerged as a popular option due to its medical education infrastructure, research facilities, teaching hospitals, and potentially affordable study options.
Studying MBBS in China can offer Pakistani students opportunities to learn in established academic institutions, access modern laboratories, and gain clinical exposure. However, choosing a medical university requires more than comparing names and rankings. Applicants should carefully assess admission criteria, teaching quality, clinical training, tuition fees, living expenses, and compliance with Pakistan’s medical registration regulations.
This guide introduces 10 Chinese universities that Pakistani students can explore for the 2027 intake. It also covers estimated living expenses, admission requirements, PM&DC regulations, and essential factors to consider before submitting an application.
Quick Overview
- Universities to explore: 10 Chinese institutions
- FSc marks: at least 60% under the relevant PM&DC rules, subject to current requirements
- Foreign medical graduates: must meet applicable National Registration Examination (NRE) requirements
- Estimated monthly living expenses: RMB 1,000–2,000, depending on location and lifestyle
There is no universally best university for every student. Your ideal choice depends on your academic results, budget, preferred location, and career plans. Before applying, verify the university’s current eligibility under PM&DC regulations and confirm that the specific English-medium clinical medicine programme is available for your intended intake.
Why Should Pakistani Students Study MBBS in China?
China attracts international students through its higher education system, medical research facilities, and opportunities for practical learning. For Pakistani students who want a medical degree overseas, Chinese universities may provide an alternative to studying medicine locally. Some potential advantages include:
1. Comparatively affordable education
Certain Chinese universities may offer more affordable tuition than medical schools in several Western countries. Still, compare actual tuition, accommodation, insurance, and other expenses before deciding.
2. English-taught programmes
Some institutions offer clinical medicine programmes in English for international students. Confirm the language of instruction for your specific course and intake.
3. Modern laboratories and facilities
Students may study in well-equipped laboratories, research centres, and affiliated teaching hospitals, depending on the institution and programme.
4. Clinical learning opportunities
Hospital placements and rotations help students understand procedures, patient care, and healthcare practice. Quality and availability vary by university.
5. International career pathways
Graduates may explore postgraduate education or licensing in other countries. Eligibility depends on the regulations of the country where they intend to practise.
6. Exposure to different cultures
International student communities help Pakistani students experience new cultures, develop independence, and build relationships with peers from different backgrounds.
Although studying in English makes academic learning more accessible, learning basic Mandarin is valuable for communicating with patients during clinical placements.
How to Select the Right Medical University in China
Choosing a medical university is a significant educational and financial commitment. Pakistani applicants should evaluate the actual programme rather than relying exclusively on a university’s reputation.
Check PM&DC requirements
If you intend to return to Pakistan and practise medicine, verify the university and programme against the latest PM&DC regulations. Confirm the requirements for your admission year before paying any fees.
Confirm eligibility under Chinese regulations
Check whether the institution is authorised to offer the relevant English-taught clinical medicine programme to international students. Request written confirmation from the official admissions office.
Evaluate clinical training
Research affiliated teaching hospitals, rotation schedules, internship arrangements, patient exposure, and supervision.
Calculate the complete cost
Include tuition, accommodation, meals, transportation, health insurance, visa expenses, documentation, and international travel.
Review student support
Investigate hostel availability, international student services, language support, academic assistance, and arrangements for new arrivals.
Consider your career plans
Different countries have different licensing and postgraduate training requirements. Understand the pathway you will need to follow after graduation.
Before paying an application or admission fee, verify the programme’s current eligibility under PM&DC regulations and obtain confirmation that the intended English-medium clinical medicine course accepts international students.
Top 10 Universities in China for MBBS
The following institutions are starting points for Pakistani students researching MBBS in China from Pakistan. Their inclusion does not establish that every university currently offers an eligible English-medium MBBS programme to Pakistani applicants.
1. Jilin University
Located in Changchun, Jilin University is a comprehensive research institution with a medical education and research environment associated with its Norman Bethune Health Science Center. Students can investigate its medical sciences programmes, academic facilities, and clinical education opportunities.
Key factors to explore:
- Academic and medical research facilities
- Clinical education opportunities
- University facilities and student support services
- Accommodation and living expenses in Changchun
Changchun has cold winters, so consider seasonal clothing and heating-related expenses. Before applying, confirm the availability of the relevant international clinical medicine programme, its teaching language, entry criteria, and applicable recognition requirements.
2. China Medical University
China Medical University is situated in Shenyang, Liaoning Province. It has a long-standing background in medical education and focuses on healthcare, medicine, and related scientific disciplines. Its specialised environment may appeal to students interested in medicine and healthcare research.
Key factors to explore:
- Medical and health sciences education
- Research and healthcare learning opportunities
- Clinical training arrangements
- Accommodation and additional university charges
Contact the university to confirm whether the appropriate English-medium clinical medicine programme is available to international students. Ask about affiliated hospitals, clinical rotations, accommodation fees, and any additional registration costs.
Do not assume every medical programme is taught in English. Ask the admissions office to confirm the language of instruction for your specific course and intake in writing.
3. Dalian Medical University
Dalian Medical University is located in Dalian, a coastal city in Liaoning Province. It focuses on medical education, healthcare, and scientific research. Students who prefer a coastal urban setting may wish to compare its academic offerings and overall cost of attendance.
Key factors to explore:
- Medical education and research facilities
- Clinical training opportunities
- Campus environment and city infrastructure
- International student support services
Review the curriculum, language requirements, clinical placement arrangements, and annual expenses. Verify that the specific degree meets the PM&DC requirements applicable to Pakistani graduates.
4. Capital Medical University
Capital Medical University is based in Beijing, the capital of China. It has an academic focus on medicine, healthcare research, and connections with clinical institutions, and its location offers access to the educational, cultural, and healthcare environment of a major metropolitan city.
Key factors to explore:
- Medical and health sciences education
- Research opportunities
- Hospital-based learning arrangements
- Access to Beijing’s educational and cultural facilities
Living expenses in Beijing may be higher than in smaller Chinese cities, so calculate accommodation, food, transport, and insurance before deciding. Also confirm that the intended English-medium clinical medicine programme is available to international students, because not every degree at the university is taught in English.
5. Tianjin Medical University
Tianjin Medical University is located in Tianjin, a major Chinese city near Beijing. Its academic activities include medical sciences, healthcare education, and research. Pakistani students can compare its academic environment and living costs with those of other cities.
Key factors to explore:
- Medical education and scientific research
- Clinical learning opportunities
- Programme duration and admission criteria
- Accommodation and transportation expenses
Before applying, verify the teaching language, clinical placement arrangements, programme duration, and current eligibility under PM&DC regulations. Confirm all details directly with the university.
6. Shandong University
Shandong University is a major research institution in Jinan, Shandong Province. Its medical education includes institutions associated with Cheeloo College of Medicine. Students interested in a comprehensive university environment can investigate its medical sciences programmes, research facilities, and clinical learning opportunities.
Key factors to explore:
- Academic and research facilities
- Medical sciences education
- Clinical learning arrangements
- Student services and accommodation options
Ask the admissions office about the international clinical medicine curriculum, English-language instruction, hospital rotations, accommodation charges, and scholarships. If a scholarship is available, review its eligibility criteria, renewal conditions, coverage, and deadline. A university’s overall reputation does not automatically establish that every programme satisfies Pakistan’s medical registration requirements.
Compare the actual medical programme, not just the university’s general ranking. A famous university may not offer an eligible English-medium MBBS programme to Pakistani students.
7. Fudan University
Fudan University is situated in Shanghai and is recognised as a prominent research university in China. Its medical education and associated healthcare institutions may interest students exploring medical sciences and clinical research. Shanghai offers an extensive urban environment, international facilities, and transport networks.
Key factors to explore:
- Research-oriented academic environment
- Medical science and clinical education opportunities
- Healthcare and research facilities
- Access to Shanghai’s educational infrastructure
Shanghai can be expensive for international students, particularly for accommodation and everyday expenses, so prepare a complete budget before applying. Verify that the intended clinical medicine programme accepts Pakistani applicants, offers the required language of instruction, and meets the relevant PM&DC requirements.
8. Xinjiang Medical University
Xinjiang Medical University is located in Urumqi, the capital of the Xinjiang region in northwestern China. Its academic focus includes medicine, healthcare, and related disciplines. Students comparing universities across different regions can investigate its programmes, campus environment, and cost of living.
Key factors to explore:
- Medical and healthcare education
- Research and clinical learning opportunities
- Accommodation and everyday expenses
- Regional lifestyle and student support
Before making a financial commitment, investigate accommodation, food, local transport, and language requirements. Ask how much Mandarin proficiency is expected during hospital placements, and confirm the university’s current eligibility under applicable PM&DC regulations.
9. Nanjing Medical University
Nanjing Medical University is based in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. Its academic focus includes medicine, public health, healthcare research, and related disciplines. It is worth investigating for students comparing specialised medical institutions and their research opportunities.
Key factors to explore:
- Medical and health sciences education
- Public health and research opportunities
- Clinical education arrangements
- Nanjing’s transport and student facilities
Confirm the programme’s availability for international students, admission criteria, language of instruction, and clinical training arrangements. Students planning to return to Pakistan should establish whether the specific curriculum and qualification satisfy the requirements for medical registration.
10. Jiangsu University
Jiangsu University is located in Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province. It is a comprehensive institution offering various academic disciplines, including healthcare-related education and research. Students may compare its programmes, location, accommodation, and overall study costs with those of universities in larger cities.
Key factors to explore:
- Comprehensive academic environment
- Healthcare-related education and research
- Student support and campus facilities
- Accommodation and living expenses
Confirm that the university offers the specific English-medium clinical medicine programme you intend to study. Ask about clinical placements, language use in hospitals, international student services, and recognition requirements for Pakistani graduates.
Comparison of the 10 Universities in China
The table below summarises the locations and areas Pakistani students can investigate when researching these institutions.
| No. | University | City | Main Area to Explore |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jilin University | Changchun | Medical sciences and clinical education |
| 2 | China Medical University | Shenyang | Medical and healthcare education |
| 3 | Dalian Medical University | Dalian | Medical education and clinical training |
| 4 | Capital Medical University | Beijing | Medical research and hospital-based learning |
| 5 | Tianjin Medical University | Tianjin | Medical sciences and clinical education |
| 6 | Shandong University | Jinan | Medical research and clinical learning |
| 7 | Fudan University | Shanghai | Medical sciences and research |
| 8 | Xinjiang Medical University | Urumqi | Medical education and healthcare |
| 9 | Nanjing Medical University | Nanjing | Medicine and public health |
| 10 | Jiangsu University | Zhenjiang | Healthcare-related education and research |
Please note: This is a research shortlist, not a verified ranking. Inclusion does not confirm that an institution currently offers an eligible English-medium MBBS programme to Pakistani students. Verify the exact programme and applicable regulations before applying.
How Much Does It Cost to Study MBBS in China?
Tuition fees are only one part of the total expense of studying medicine abroad. Pakistani families should prepare a realistic budget covering both university charges and daily living costs.
Accommodation
University hostels may cost approximately RMB 4,000–8,000 per year, depending on room type, facilities, and institution. Private accommodation may cost more.
Food and groceries
Monthly food expenses depend on dietary preferences, shopping habits, and whether you cook yourself or eat on campus.
Local transportation
Buses, metro services, and occasional taxi journeys should be included in your monthly budget.
Health insurance
International students may need to purchase health insurance in accordance with university and local requirements.
Visa and documentation
Allow for visa processing, residence permits, medical examinations, document preparation, and other administrative expenses.
Flights and personal expenses
Additional costs may include international flights, books, clothing, mobile services, and other personal necessities.
For initial planning, monthly living expenses of RMB 1,000–2,000 may provide a starting estimate. Actual costs vary considerably by city, accommodation, and lifestyle, so confirm current figures with your selected university before finalising your budget.
MBBS Admission Requirements for Pakistani Students
Admission criteria differ between Chinese universities and individual programmes. Consult the official requirements for your intended intake instead of relying on general eligibility estimates. Common application requirements may include:
- FSc Pre-Medical or an equivalent qualification
- Required grades in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and other relevant subjects
- Compliance with current PM&DC regulations
- A valid passport
- Academic certificates and transcripts
- Medical fitness documentation
- Financial evidence, where required
- Police clearance or other supporting documents, where applicable
Some universities may require 65–70% marks or higher, while competitive programmes may set additional academic conditions. Age limits, language requirements, and document rules can also differ. Meeting a university’s admission criteria does not automatically mean you satisfy Pakistan’s medical registration requirements, so check both sets of rules before accepting an offer or paying a deposit.
PM&DC Recognition and Medical Licensing
For Pakistani students planning to study medicine abroad, recognition and licensing are among the most important considerations. The World Health Organization does not individually approve every medical university in China, and appearing in an international directory does not automatically establish eligibility to practise medicine in Pakistan. Before enrolling:
- Check the university and programme against current PM&DC requirements.
- Confirm the rules governing foreign medical education and registration.
- Review the programme’s duration, curriculum, clinical training, and internship arrangements.
- Keep official records such as admission letters, transcripts, and certificates.
- Investigate licensing examinations and registration procedures in your intended country of practice.
PM&DC Eligibility for Foreign Medical Degrees
Pakistani students intending to study MBBS in China should review the latest PM&DC regulations before selecting a university. The key requirements to investigate are:
- Academic eligibility. Complete FSc Pre-Medical or an equivalent qualification with at least 60% marks, subject to the applicable PM&DC rules and other eligibility conditions.
- Online student registration. Complete the required PM&DC registration through the official student registration portal, following the procedure that applies to you.
- Provisional registration. Fulfil the requirements that apply to students pursuing medical education abroad.
- National Registration Examination. Meet the eligibility conditions and examination requirements for the NRE under the PM&DC Act, 2022, and any applicable regulations.
- University and programme eligibility. Ensure your selected Chinese institution and the intended programme satisfy the recognition and eligibility conditions for your admission year.
The PM&DC Council decision dated 24 July 2025 states that graduates of foreign medical and dental institutions must meet the relevant recognition and eligibility requirements to qualify for the NRE. Admission to a Chinese medical university alone does not guarantee medical registration in Pakistan, so verify the university, programme, clinical training, and internship requirements before travelling or making a major financial commitment.
Which Chinese University Should You Choose?
The right university depends on your academic performance, financial circumstances, preferred lifestyle, and future career objectives. Use these factors to narrow down your options:
Academic reputation
Investigate the teaching facilities, medical departments, research strengths, and affiliated hospitals of universities such as Jilin University, Shandong University, and Fudan University. Evaluate the specific programme, not only the university’s overall reputation.
Available budget
Compare annual tuition and living expenses. Beijing and Shanghai may involve higher everyday costs than cities such as Changchun, Urumqi, and Zhenjiang, though actual expenses depend on lifestyle and accommodation.
Research and clinical opportunities
Examine the medical departments, research facilities, teaching hospitals, clinical rotations, and practical learning arrangements available to students.
Lifestyle and location
Consider the local climate, food options, transport, accommodation, language requirements, and international student support.
Plans to practise in Pakistan
If you plan to return to Pakistan after graduation, give priority to confirming compliance with current PM&DC requirements. Evaluate the exact programme and qualification instead of assuming that a highly ranked university automatically meets every regulatory condition.
Why Choose Global Migration Advisors?
Applying to a medical university abroad involves several stages, including selecting an institution, preparing academic documents, communicating with admissions offices, and arranging visa documentation. Global Migration Advisors can help Pakistani students understand the application process, explore suitable university options, review eligibility considerations, and organise their applications.
Before choosing any adviser, verify claims about university recognition, tuition fees, scholarships, and admission guarantees directly with the relevant university and regulatory authorities. Students interested in exploring their options can visit our study MBBS in China service page or contact the team for guidance on university selection, eligibility, and application procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which university is best for MBBS in China?
There is no single best university for every applicant. The right choice depends on academic qualifications, budget, programme availability, clinical training, and future licensing requirements. Research each institution and verify its current eligibility before applying.
Is an MBBS degree from China valid in Pakistan?
A medical degree from China does not automatically grant permission to practise in Pakistan. Graduates must satisfy the applicable PM&DC recognition, registration, and examination requirements. Confirm that the specific university and programme meet the rules relevant to your admission year.
How can I compare the costs of Chinese medical universities?
Compare tuition fees, hostel charges, food, transportation, health insurance, visa expenses, flights, and personal costs. Request an official fee schedule from each shortlisted university and calculate the total estimated cost for the full programme.
Can Pakistani students obtain scholarships for MBBS in China?
Scholarship availability and eligibility depend on the university, programme, funding scheme, and admission year. Contact the university’s official admissions or international student office to check current opportunities, deadlines, coverage, and renewal conditions.
Are MBBS programmes in China taught in English?
Some Chinese universities offer English-medium clinical medicine programmes for international students, but the teaching language varies by institution and course. Confirm the language of instruction for your intended programme and ask about Mandarin requirements during clinical placements.
Final Thoughts
China offers Pakistani students several medical education options worth investigating, including institutions with established academic environments, research facilities, and teaching hospitals. The 10 universities in this guide can serve as a starting point for comparing potential study destinations.
The best choice is not necessarily the most famous or least expensive institution. It is the university that offers an appropriate medical programme, suitable clinical training, manageable total expenses, and a qualification pathway aligned with your career goals. Before applying for the 2027 intake, verify the admission criteria, availability of English-medium clinical medicine, tuition fees, and current PM&DC regulations. Careful research and guidance from professional study abroad consultants for China can help you make a better-informed decision.
Ready to Begin Your MBBS Journey?
Share your FSc marks, preferred budget, and career goals with Global Migration Advisors to discuss potential university options and application requirements.
Chat on WhatsAppGlobal Migration Advisors | Lahore, Pakistan | globalmigration.pk
