Internship opportunities for Indian students studying MBBS in the Philippines

Studying MBBS in the Philippines has become a popular choice for Indian students in recent years. The country offers high-quality medical education, with its universities ranked among the best in Asia. Additionally, the cost of living and tuition fees in the Philippines is relatively lower compared to other countries like the USA, UK, or Australia.

However, one of the significant concerns that Indian students face while pursuing an MBBS in the Philippines is the lack of internship opportunities. An internship is a critical part of medical education as it provides hands-on experience, exposure to various medical practices, and helps students to acquire practical skills necessary for their future careers. In this blog, we will explore the current status of internship opportunities for Indian students studying MBBS in the Philippines and ways to increase their chances of securing internships.

The Current Scenario of Internship Opportunities for Indian Students in the Philippines

As per the Medical Act of 1959 of the Philippines, Indian students studying MBBS in the country are eligible for internships. However, in reality, it is challenging for Indian students to secure internships due to various reasons, such as:

1. Lack of Information: Indian students often lack information regarding the availability of internships and the application process. Most universities in the Philippines do not have a dedicated department for internships, which makes it difficult for students to navigate the process.
2. Limited Seats: The number of internship seats available in the Philippines is limited, and the competition is high. The Philippines government has set a cap on the number of interns that can be accommodated in public hospitals. Private hospitals, on the other hand, have their selection criteria and may not entertain foreign students.
3. Language Barrier: The official language of the Philippines is Filipino, and while English is widely spoken, many hospitals may require interns to be proficient in Filipino. This language barrier can prove to be a hindrance for Indian students.

Ways to Increase the Chances of Securing Internships

1. Plan Early: Students should start planning for internships as early as possible. They should research the hospitals that offer internships and their eligibility criteria. Students should also keep in mind the duration of the internship, which may vary from hospital to hospital.
2. Network: Networking is crucial in securing internships. Students should try to connect with alumni from their universities who have completed their internships in the Philippines. They can also reach out to hospitals and doctors who may be able to guide them in the right direction.
3. Language Proficiency: As mentioned earlier, the language barrier can be a significant obstacle for Indian students. Students should start learning Filipino as early as possible to improve their chances of securing internships.
4. Apply to Private Hospitals: Private hospitals have their selection criteria and may not have the same limitations as public hospitals. Students can research private hospitals and apply directly to them.
5. Consult with University Authorities: While universities in the Philippines may not have a dedicated department for internships, students can reach out to their university authorities for guidance. They can also seek assistance from their Indian embassies in the Philippines.

Conclusion

Securing internships is a critical aspect of medical education. While it may be challenging for Indian students studying MBBS in the Philippines to secure internships, it is not impossible. With proper planning, networking, and language proficiency, students can increase their chances of securing internships. Additionally, exploring private hospitals and seeking guidance from university authorities and Indian embassies in the Philippines can also prove to be beneficial.

Internships provide students with the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge to practical situations. It also helps them gain a better understanding of the healthcare system in the Philippines, which can be useful in their future careers. Therefore, it is essential to address the lack of internship opportunities for Indian students in the Philippines and take steps to improve the situation.