Session 2025 has brought a financial jolt for MBBS aspirants. Several deemed universities across India have reportedly increased their tuition fees by up to 200%, triggering concern among students and parents. With NEET-UG counselling already underway, families are scrambling to figure out how to navigate this sudden financial strain.
In this blog, we’ll break down what the hike means, which institutions are affected, and—most importantly—how you can budget smartly if you're aiming for an MBBS seat in a deemed university.
What’s Happening with MBBS Fees?
Deemed universities are autonomous institutions that set their own fee structures, and they often charge more than government medical colleges. This year, several institutions—especially in states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Maharashtra—have revised their MBBS tuition structure sharply upward.
The Numbers:
Pre-hike annual fees: ₹8–₹12 lakhs/year
Post-hike annual fees: ₹20–₹25 lakhs/year
Total 5-year course cost: ₹1.1 crore to ₹1.4 crore
This makes MBBS from a deemed university a significant financial investment, especially when compared to government colleges where the full 5-year tuition may not even cross ₹2 lakhs.
Why This Sudden Hike?
The fee increase is attributed to:
Rising operational costs: Salaries, infrastructure upgrades, technology.
New regulations: Mandated changes in faculty–student ratio, hospital bed strength, and clinical facilities.
Autonomy in pricing: Deemed universities are less regulated in fee structuring than government or private unaided colleges.
How Does This Affect NEET-UG Counselling?
Deemed university seats are offered in the All India Counselling conducted by the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC). While the colleges declare their fees during registration, many students are caught off-guard when exact fee demands appear after seat allotment.
Important Tip: Always check the updated fee structure on the official college website and MCC portal before locking your choices.
Smart Budgeting Strategies for Deemed MBBS Aspirants
1. Estimate Your Total Expense (Not Just Tuition)
Besides the ₹20–25 lakh/year tuition, account for:
Hostel fees: ₹1–2 lakhs/year
Food + Living: ₹50,000–₹1 lakh/year
Books, instruments, and exam fees
Total Estimated Cost: ₹1.3–1.6 crore for 5.5 years
Explore Education Loans Early
Government banks offer education loans up to ₹7.5 lakhs without collateral, and up to ₹50 lakhs (or more) with collateral.
Interest rates: ~8–10%
Moratorium: Pay after internship (course duration + 12 months grace)Apply early and keep property documents ready if collateral is needed.
Scholarships & Fee Concessions
While rare in deemed universities, some offer:
Merit-based concessions for NEET scores above 600+
Trust scholarships for economically weaker sections
Check each college’s scholarship section on the website.
Consider ROI: Compare with Alternatives
Ask:
Are you choosing this college because of good clinical exposure and rankings?
Would you rather try state private colleges with lower tuition?
Could you take a drop year and target a government seat?
Use Fee Predictor Tools
Websites like Careers360, NeetGyan, and EduRanker offer:
Updated MBBS fee data for each college
Predictors based on your NEET rank
Budget vs ranking comparisons
Alternatives to Deemed Universities
If the fee hike is beyond reach, consider:
Private colleges in your home state (lower fees for domicile students)
State government colleges via state counselling (fees under ₹1 lakh/year)
MBBS abroad in countries like Russia, Georgia, or Philippines (₹30–50 lakh for full course—but verify quality)
Final Thoughts
The 200% fee hike in deemed universities for MBBS Session 2025 is a wake-up call for financial planning. While these colleges offer advanced facilities and quicker admissions via MCC, the high cost can lead to long-term debt unless approached wisely.
If you're considering a deemed university:
Get full clarity on total cost of attendance
Check loan eligibility and repayment options
Always have a backup plan in state counselling or reattempt options
Pro Tip:
Don’t let pressure force you into a seat you can’t afford. A better-informed decision—whether it’s taking a year off or opting for a private college with manageable fees—can save you years of financial stress.
Got questions about counselling or college fees? Drop them in the comments below or reach out—we’re here to help you navigate MBBS admissions with clarity and confidence.
