MBBS Salary: What Doctors Earn in India and Abroad

When you finish your MBBS, a professional medical degree in India that qualifies you to practice as a doctor. Also known as Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, it’s the first major step into a career that demands years of study, long hours, and deep responsibility. But the big question on everyone’s mind is: How much does an MBBS doctor actually earn? The answer isn’t simple—it changes based on where you work, how experienced you are, and whether you stay in India or move overseas.

In India, a fresh MBBS graduate starting in a government hospital might earn between ₹30,000 to ₹50,000 a month. That’s not much compared to the years of effort, but it’s stable. Private hospitals pay more—₹60,000 to ₹1,00,000—especially in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore. But here’s the catch: most new doctors start as interns or junior residents, and real earning power kicks in after you finish your NEET PG, the national entrance exam for postgraduate medical specializations. Specialties like surgery, radiology, or cardiology can double or triple your salary within 5–7 years. And if you’re working in a corporate hospital or running your own clinic? The sky’s the limit.

Now, think about going abroad. In the UK, an MBBS graduate (called a Foundation Doctor) earns around £30,000–£40,000 per year. In the US, after clearing the USMLE and finishing residency, you’re looking at $70,000–$100,000 as a junior doctor—and over $200,000 as a specialist. Countries like Canada, Australia, and Germany also offer high salaries, better work-life balance, and strong healthcare systems. But don’t forget: moving abroad means re-examining, learning new systems, and often starting over. It’s not easy, but for many, the payoff is worth it.

What really affects your salary isn’t just your degree—it’s your choices. Do you want to work in a rural government hospital? Or open a clinic in a tier-2 city? Do you want to teach, research, or join a startup health tech company? Each path has different pay, pressure, and pace. The MBBS is just the starting line. What you do after that shapes your income, your life, and your impact.

Below, you’ll find real stories, salary breakdowns, and insights from doctors who’ve walked this path—whether they stayed in India or moved overseas. No fluff. Just facts that help you plan your next move.

January 17 2025

Understanding the Earnings of MBBS Doctors in India: Salary Insights and Career Growth

In India, the salary of an MBBS doctor varies widely based on experience, specialization, and location. Entry-level doctors often start with modest earnings, but with time and the choice of a specialty, salaries can significantly increase. Various factors such as rural versus urban postings, government versus private sectors, and even choice of hospitals greatly influence earnings. Those considering a medical career should also factor in the long-term financial prospects, job stability, and opportunities for further specialization.