Overview:
Lithuania, as a member of various prominent international organizations including the European Union, the Council of Europe, the Eurozone, the Schengen Agreement, NATO, and the OECD, boasts a robust infrastructure conducive to student life. Despite its small geographical size, the abundance of top-tier universities underscores the safety and student-friendly environment within the country. Lithuanian universities attract a significant number of foreign students annually, reflecting the favorable conditions for academic pursuits.
Education serves as a cornerstone of Lithuania's culturally rich landscape, with a steady influx of foreign students contributing to the country's financial framework. Among these students, there is a notable contingent from India, particularly in the field of medicine. Graduates of medical programs in Lithuania have the opportunity to pursue further studies or professional practice in various countries, including the United States (USMLE) and the United Kingdom (PLAB), as well as in India through examinations like the NEXT.
The duration of MBBS/MD programs in Lithuania aligns with the standard six-year format prevalent across European universities, a structure facilitated by the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).
While Lithuania hosts numerous universities, only two are featured in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS), namely the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences and Vilnius University Faculty of Medicine. These institutions offer programs in both Lithuanian and English languages, as confirmed by WDOMS. It's important to exercise caution when considering other Lithuanian universities promoted by foreign education agents in India, ensuring that the medium of instruction aligns with your preferences and academic goals.
Eligibility criteria for pursuing MBBS in Lithuania vary between universities, with the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Faculty of Medicine and Vilnius University Faculty of Medicine having distinct requirements. A notable distinction lies in the prerequisites concerning scores in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) at the Class XII level. The Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Faculty of Medicine considers applications with a minimum Class XII PCB score of 50%. Conversely, to apply to the Vilnius University Faculty of Medicine, a minimum PCB score of 80% in Class XII is necessary.
Additional eligibility criteria include age constraints, with applicants typically required to be between 17 and 25 years old, and successful completion of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET).
Furthermore, while TOEFL or IELTS scores are presently requested by Lithuanian universities, this requirement is subject to review. Applicants should verify current criteria at the time of application.
Studying MBBS in Lithuania presents several advantages, including the opportunity to leverage the benefits of EU membership for future career prospects, high-quality education, and recognition and accreditation of universities. The six-year duration of the MD program ensures eligibility for the National Exit Test (NEXT) in India. Moreover, Lithuania offers a tranquil environment with moderate weather conditions and hospitable locals, enhancing the overall student experience.