MBBS College Priority List & Strategy for CEE Aspirants

A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Medical College in Nepal

By CEE Medico Nepal Team | Last updated: April 2025

Fellow CEE Aspirants and Future Doctors of Nepal: As the Common Entrance Examination (CEE) results are announced and the medical journey inches closer to its next chapter, one of the most crucial decisions for every aspiring doctor is setting the right college priority list for MBBS.

Choosing a medical college isn't just about reputation—it's about aligning your goals, values, and aspirations with an institution that will shape your future in medicine.

In this post, we'll guide you through the top 21 MBBS colleges in Nepal as per the priority list, explain the rationale behind these choices, and share insights that may help you make a well-informed decision.

Understanding the CEE Landscape in Nepal

The Common Entrance Examination (CEE) is conducted by the Medical Education Commission (MEC), Nepal, to streamline and centralize the admission process into MBBS, BDS, and other health science programs. CEE has brought much-needed transparency and meritocracy into medical education in Nepal.

But after the results are out, the next big step is setting your priority list of colleges. This priority list determines where you might get admission based on your rank, availability of seats (scholarship/self-finance), and your order of preference.

The MBBS College Priority List 2025

Below is a sample priority list many top-ranking students have used in past years. This can be used as a reference point—but remember, it should reflect your personal preference based on academic reputation, facilities, location, environment, and future plans.

1 Maharajgunj Medical Campus (MMC) – TU's premier institution, known for academic excellence, exposure, and opportunities. It's the dream college of most aspirants.
2 Patan Academy of Health Sciences (PAHS) – Renowned for its rural health focus, ethical training, and community-centered education.
3 Nepalese Army Institute of Health Sciences (NAIHS) – Offers excellent infrastructure, discipline, and job security for those inclined toward service.
4 KU School of Medical Sciences (KUSMS) – The top medical college under Kathmandu University with great academics and a peaceful learning environment.
5 BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences (BPKIHS) – A reputed autonomous health science university in Dharan with excellent clinical exposure.
6 Kathmandu Medical College (KMC) – Known for experienced faculty and good hospital services.
7 KIST Medical College – Rising in reputation, has been providing consistent results and quality education.
8 Manipal College of Medical Sciences – International collaboration, great infrastructure, and global recognition.
9 Nepal Medical College (NMC) – Offers decent facilities and a good academic track record.
10 Chitwan Medical College – Emerging hub for students from Terai and western Nepal.
11 College of Medical Sciences, Bharatpur – One of the oldest and established private institutions.
12 Universal College of Medical Sciences, Bhairahawa – Offers a good hospital for learning, especially for surgical practice.
13 Nepalgunj Medical College – A common preference for students from western Nepal.
14 Gandaki Medical College – Located in Pokhara, it provides scenic surroundings and a growing academic setup.
15 Nobel Medical College, Biratnagar – Popular in eastern Nepal, known for clinical exposure.
16 Birat Medical College – Relatively new but rapidly growing in popularity.
17 Lumbini Medical College – Good infrastructure and facilities in Palpa region.
18 Devdaha Medical College – Another option in western Nepal with moderate preference.
19 Karnali Academy of Health Sciences – Prioritizes rural health and is important for students inclined toward public service.
20 National Medical College, Birgunj – One of the oldest private institutions with decent facilities.
21 Janaki Medical College, Janakpur – Usually kept last due to issues in consistency and accreditation in the past.

Important: This is a sample reference list. Your personal priority order may vary based on your rank, preferences, and career goals. Always do your own research before finalizing.

How to Set Your College Priority List Wisely

Here are a few points to consider before finalizing your college list:

Key Factors to Consider

  1. Merit-Based Ranking: Top colleges like MMC, PAHS, NAIHS, KUSMS, and BPKIHS are usually chosen first due to their affordability, quality, and future career prospects.
  2. Scholarship vs. Self-Finance: If you are aiming for a scholarship seat, your priority should reflect top colleges where you actually have a chance of being placed based on your rank.
  3. Location & Environment: Think about whether you prefer a city-based campus (Kathmandu Valley) or are comfortable in places like Dharan, Pokhara, or Nepalgunj.
  4. Special Interests: Some colleges focus on rural medicine (PAHS, KAHS), while others offer global exposure (Manipal, Nobel).
  5. Infrastructure & Exposure: Hospital tie-ups, patient flow, and academic rigour matter. More patients = more learning.
  6. Seniors' Feedback: Try talking to seniors from the respective colleges. First-hand reviews matter a lot.

CEE Counseling Tips

Why This Decision Matters

The college you choose will impact:

It's not just about a name—it's about the journey you're going to embark on for the next 5.5 years and beyond.

Final Words for CEE Aspirants

To all the hardworking CEE candidates out there—you've made it past one of the toughest gates. Now, it's about planning wisely, staying informed, and choosing a path that works best for you.

Don't panic about rank or competition—every student has a unique journey. With dedication, even a college ranked 15th or 20th can help you become an amazing doctor.

Good luck with your counseling and MBBS journey ahead. May you wear that white coat with pride one day!