CHED Confirms Philippine MD Program Meets Indian NMC Standards
The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) of the Philippines has officially addressed inquiries regarding the recognition of the Doctor of Medicine (MD) program in the Philippines, particularly for Indian students. In a letter dated 08 May 2025 to the Indian Embassy, CHED confirmed that the Philippine MD degree meets the standards of India’s National Medical Commission (NMC) and is a globally recognized qualification. The Philippine MD degree is equivalent to the Indian MBBS course.
When it comes to studying abroad, a common doubt among Indian medical aspirants is whether a medical degree from the Philippines is recognized in India and whether it holds global recognition. This official clarification from CHED puts an end to those concerns. The picture attached with this blog is the official letter from CHED that addresses all such doubts. Let’s break down the key points mentioned in the letter, one by one.
This blog will be especially helpful for Indian medical aspirants. So if you're one, make sure to read till the end. Now, shall we take a look at the key clarifications provided by CHED?
Clarifications provided by CHED
1. Degree Meets NMC standards
The Philippine MD program aligns with the requirements of the Indian NMC, ensuring that graduates are eligible to practice in India after clearing the Foreign Medical Graduates Examination (FMGE).
2. Course structure
The course structure follows the NMC norms: 54-month MD program + 12-month internship. NMC. Medical colleges and universities follows this course structure strictly which is perfect for Indian students.
3. Limited Practice before Licensure
Even before passing the Philippine Licensure Exam (PLE), graduates can engage in:
- Researcher/Medical Scientist/Innovator
- Health Professions teacher
- Health Information Manager
- Health Economist
- Health Policy Maker
4. Full Practice Rights after PLE
Upon passing the PLE, graduates gain full medical practice rights in the Philippines. This is a good opportunity for Indian students. And this is why we suggest you to choose the Philippines for your MBBS abroad program.
5. Global Recognition & Career Opportunities
The medical degree is internationally recognized, allowing graduates to pursue medical careers in:
- USA (USMLE pathway)
- UK (PLAB/UKMLA pathway)
- Canada (MCCQE pathway)
- Australia, Middle East, and other countries
6. The main point both Filipino and international students receive the same MD degree, officially recognized by CHED.
Attention Indian Medical Aspirants!
This letter means a lot to Indian medical aspirants. The Philippine MD is a valid route for Indian students who wish to study medicine abroad and return to practice in India. Graduates must pass the FMGE to practice in India but can also explore global opportunities. The degree ensures high-quality medical training, comparable to international standards. And foremost among all the other points, the course is affordable when compared to other countries. Indian medical aspirants opt to study abroad due to the high fee structure in Indian private medical colleges. Thus, MBBS abroad is a suitable getaway. But choosing to study in the Philippines is a smart choice.
Thus, CHED’s letter clarifies that the medical course offered in the Philippines meets NMC standards. For Indian medical aspirants considering abroad medical education, the Philippines is a perfect choice. Stay informed, choose wisely, and pursue your medical dreams with confidence! Follow our page for more informative updates. If you have any doubts regarding MBBS in the Philippines and admissions, reach out to us at 1800 833 7707