Rahul · September 9, 2025 
The Karnataka government has announced a major change in medical admissions for 2025-26. It will introduce a 15% NRI quota in MBBS seats across government medical colleges. Candidates applying under this quota must pay ₹25 lakh per year as tuition fees.
This move comes as thousands of aspirants prepare for NEET UG 2025 counselling. The quota gives NRI candidates structured access to government colleges and generates extra revenue for the state’s health education sector. Karnataka, already known for its top-ranked institutions, will likely gain even more national and global appeal.
Key Highlights of the New NRI Quota
Quota Share – 15% of MBBS seats in government colleges will go to NRI applicants.
Annual Fee – Each seat costs ₹25 lakh per year. This is higher than general category fees but cheaper than private medical colleges.
Eligibility Criteria – Candidates must qualify for NEET UG 2025 and submit verified NRI documents.
Implementation Year – The quota applies from the 2025-26 academic session during NEET UG counselling.
This step brings Karnataka in line with states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu, which already offer NRI quotas. Karnataka’s fixed fee of ₹25 lakh makes it competitive compared to private universities, where NRI MBBS fees often reach ₹50–70 lakh annually.
Impact on Students and Medical Education
For NRI families, the policy creates a transparent and regulated way to pursue MBBS in India. It reduces dependence on expensive private colleges or foreign universities. Karnataka’s premier colleges, such as Bangalore Medical College and Mysore Medical College, will likely attract more NRI applicants.
Experts believe the decision could cut the migration of Indian-origin students to countries like Russia, Ukraine, and China, where affordability is the main factor. With government seats available at a fixed price, many families may now choose Indian colleges for their credibility, infrastructure, and recognition by the National Medical Commission (NMC).
The state also benefits. Higher NRI fees will generate revenue that authorities can reinvest in facilities, infrastructure, and faculty development. By balancing access with financial sustainability, Karnataka strengthens its medical education ecosystem.
As NEET UG 2025 counselling moves forward, the 15% NRI quota in government medical colleges marks a turning point. It offers NRI students fair access to MBBS seats and helps Karnataka maintain its status as one of India’s leading medical education hubs.
