This question was originally posted on Quora.com and was answered by Venkatraman Radhakrishnan, Associate Professor Medical and Pediatric Oncology Medical graduates from India are obsessed with USMLE for the following reasons. The American residency and fellowship is recognized worldwide. It gives an opportunity to work in many countries like Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand and Middle East. The scope of Indian degree is limited for working in the above countries. Better pay. American degree holders are paid more than Indian degree holders in middle east and Indian hospitals. They are also given senior positions. Uniform training. The quality of training in American hospitals are consistent across the hospitals. In contrast the post graduate training for doctors varies considerably across hospitals in India. Choice of choosing speciality. After USMLE most of the medical specialities are accessible to overseas graduates. Surgical specialities are difficult to get. In India your PG rank determines what speciality you choose. USMLE and American residency offers you the chance to settle in USA. The pay scales are better in USA than India. Also career progression is better in USA. If you are hardworking you will do well. Source
