Retro

Consultancy

Retro Guidance Library

Frequently AskedQuestions.

Frequently AskedQuestions.

We've answered 47 of the most common questions students and parents ask us. Can't find what you're looking for? Get in touch — we respond typically within 2–3 business days.

We've answered 47 of the most common questions students and parents ask us. Can't find what you're looking for? Get in touch — we respond typically within 2–3 business days.

We've answered 47 of the most common questions students and parents ask us. Can't find what you're looking for? Get in touch — we respond typically within 2–3 business days.

Free 10-minute assessment

No spam, no pressure, no hidden fees

NMC, WHO & Govt. recognised only

Verified universities in India and abroad

One dedicated counselor

From first call to after you reach campus

Showing all 47 questions across 8 topics

01

Getting Started & Assessment

6 questions · Q01–Q06

How the free assessment works, what it covers and what happens next.

It's simple and free. Take our Free Profile Assessment — you'll share your goals, academic background and preferences (study abroad vs. India). We'll match you with a specialised counselor who'll book a free consultation. We respond typically within 2–3 business days (we aim for faster, but this is our standard).

No spam. No pressure. No hidden fees.

The assessment covers:

  • Your academic background (10th, 12th marks, NEET score if available)
  • Career goals (which healthcare field interests you)
  • Study preference (India, abroad, or exploring both)
  • Budget comfort level
  • Timeline (when you want to start)
  • Family involvement preferences

Based on your answers, we'll recommend a personalised pathway and match you with the right counselor for your situation.

Exactly 10 minutes. No lengthy forms. Just the essentials so we can understand your situation and recommend the best next step.

We respond typically within 2–3 business days:

  1. A specialised counselor reviews your profile
  2. They schedule a free 30-minute consultation call
  3. During the call, they'll discuss your goals, answer initial questions and outline a personalised admission plan
  4. If you're ready to move forward, we'll explain our service structure and next steps

No commitment. Just clarity.

Yes. Completely free. It's our way of ensuring we're the right fit for your journey and that you feel confident before moving forward.

Absolutely. If you prefer to discuss first, reach out directly:

  • Email: consultancyretro@gmail.com
  • Phone: +91 63983 08129 / 93104 82380
  • WhatsApp: Available for quick questions

We're available to discuss your situation anytime.

02

Study Abroad Pathway

6 questions · Q07–Q12

Countries, costs, timelines, visas and options beyond board marks.

We have established partner networks in:

  • Russia: Perm State Medical University, Mari State University, Orenburg State University
  • Georgia: Tbilisi State Medical University, Caucasus International University, SEU University
  • Kazakhstan: Astana Medical University, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University
  • Kyrgyzstan: Osh State Medical University, Jalal-Abad State University
  • Armenia: Yerevan State Medical University
  • Europe: Studienkolleg (Germany), Charité Berlin, University of Hamburg

We also assist with applications to universities in the Philippines, Nepal and other NMC/WHO-recognised institutions. If a country isn't listed, we'll research and guide you through the admission process directly.

We provide guidance and resource recommendations for exam preparation, but we don't conduct formal coaching ourselves. We:

  • Help you understand exam score requirements for specific universities
  • Connect you with trusted prep partners (subject to availability)
  • Review your study timeline and strategy
  • Guide you on retake strategies if needed

Your counselor will tailor support based on your baseline scores and target universities.

Standard timeline: 14–18 months from initial counselling to on-campus arrival.

  • Months 1–2: Counselling, university research, document preparation
  • Months 3–6: Application filing to target universities
  • Months 7–9: Admission letters, visa processing
  • Months 10–12: Travel arrangements, accommodation, pre-arrival onboarding
  • Month 14+: Arrival and ongoing support

Can it be faster? Yes, if you have all documents ready and apply early in the admission cycle (July–August). We'll help you optimise every phase.

Total cost varies by country. A realistic breakdown for MBBS abroad (full program + living per year):

  • Russia: ₹20–50 lakhs tuition + ₹2–4 lakhs/year living
  • Kazakhstan: ₹20–35 lakhs + ₹2–3 lakhs/year
  • Kyrgyzstan: ₹18–30 lakhs + ₹2–3 lakhs/year
  • Georgia: ₹30–45 lakhs + ₹3–4 lakhs/year
  • Philippines: ₹25–40 lakhs + ₹3–4 lakhs/year
  • Nepal: ₹45–60 lakhs + ₹3–5 lakhs/year

Other programs (BDS, Nursing, Pharmacy, BPT) are typically 30–50% lower than MBBS. Your counselor will provide university-specific quotes and help you explore loan and scholarship options.

Yes. We handle the complete visa process:

  • Document verification and compilation
  • Application filing with embassies/consulates
  • Interview preparation
  • Timeline management to prevent delays

Visa approval depends on the embassy, but we'll guide you through every step and coordinate with universities to provide required affidavits and admission letters.

Yes. Many universities abroad have flexible admission criteria. Your eligibility depends on:

  • Your NEET score (if applicable)
  • The specific university's entry requirements
  • Your course choice (BDS, MBBS, Nursing, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, etc.)

Some universities prioritise NEET performance over board marks. Our counselors will identify universities that align with your academic profile and help maximise your chances.

03

Study in India Pathway

6 questions · Q13–Q18

Partner colleges, NEET strategy, government vs. private and alternatives.

We have established partnerships with 9 premier institutions:

  • AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences)
  • Manipal (KMC Manipal)
  • CMC Vellore
  • KGMU Lucknow
  • DY Patil Pune
  • SRM Chennai
  • Amrita Kochi
  • Banaras Hindu University (BHU Varanasi)
  • St. John's Bangalore

Beyond these, we guide admissions to 50+ government and private medical colleges across India (expanding to 200+ colleges by November 2026).

We provide strategic NEET guidance, not formal coaching:

  • Analyse your mock test scores and identify weak areas
  • Recommend trusted coaching centres (if needed)
  • Help you prioritise your study time across subjects
  • Create a realistic timeline to your target score based on your current level
  • Guide retake strategy if your first attempt doesn't meet target

Your counselor will also help you set realistic score targets based on the colleges you're aiming for.

Government colleges (AIIMS, KGMU, BHU, etc.)

  • Much lower fees: typically ₹1–10 lakhs for the full course (AIIMS is lower still; varies by state)
  • Highly competitive (need higher NEET scores)
  • Strong academic reputation and infrastructure
  • Limited seats available (counselling-based allocation)
  • Merit-based selection

Private colleges (Manipal, DY Patil, SRM, Amrita, St. John's, etc.)

  • Higher fees: typically ₹60 lakhs–₹1.5 crores+ (varies by college, state and seat type)
  • More flexible admission criteria (lower cutoffs possible)
  • Quality varies by institution
  • More available seats
  • Merit scholarships at some institutions

Our approach: we help you identify colleges that align with your NEET score, budget and career goals — whether government or private.

Yes. India's medical admission system works through:

  • NEET All-India Counselling: 15% all-India seats (open to all states, merit-based)
  • State Counselling: 85% state seats (varies by state rules)

We guide you through both processes and help maximise your chances across multiple states. Some states also offer supernumerary (extra) seats to non-domicile students.

Yes. If NEET isn't successful, options include:

In India

  • Direct college admissions (private colleges with alternative admission criteria)
  • Diploma programs (GNM Nursing, D.Pharmacy)
  • Deferred admission (reappear for NEET next year with our support)

Abroad

  • Healthcare programs that don't require NEET (many universities abroad accept alternative qualifications)

Combined approach

  • Apply abroad while preparing for a NEET retake in India

Your counselor will outline all viable paths so you're not stuck.

  • MBBS: 5.5 years (5 years coursework + 1 year internship)
  • BDS: 5 years (4 years + 1 year internship)
  • BAMS (Ayurveda): 5.5 years
  • BUMS (Unani): 5.5 years
  • BHMS (Homeopathy): 5.5 years
  • B.Sc. Nursing / GNM: 3–4 years (depending on qualification level)
  • B.Pharmacy: 4 years
  • D.Pharmacy: 2 years
  • BPT (Physiotherapy): 4 years

After graduation, competitive exams (NEET-PG, NEXT) are optional but recommended for higher specialisation.

04

Eligibility & Requirements

5 questions · Q19–Q23

Basic criteria, science background, low marks and international students.

For MBBS/BDS/BHMS/BAMS/BUMS in India

  • Completed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology
  • Minimum marks vary by state/college (typically 50%+, sometimes 40% for reserved categories)
  • Qualify the NEET exam (mandatory)
  • Indian national or OCI/NRI (for specific seats)

For nursing/pharmacy

  • 10+2 pass (some programs have flexible stream requirements)
  • NEET or state-level nursing entrance exams (depending on college)

For study abroad

  • 10+2 completion
  • NEET score (varies by country; some universities have flexible entry)
  • English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL for non-English-medium students)
  • Valid passport

Your counselor will verify your eligibility and identify realistic colleges within weeks.

  • MBBS/BDS/BAMS/BUMS/BHMS: Yes, Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) is mandatory
  • Nursing (GNM): Science background is preferred but not always mandatory (varies by college)
  • B.Pharmacy: Science background is typically required
  • Study abroad: Most universities require a science background, though some are flexible. We'll clarify this during your consultation

If you didn't study science, we'll explore alternative pathways (nursing diploma, pharmacy, physiotherapy) that match your goals.

Yes. Eligibility depends on:

  • The specific college's cutoff (government colleges have higher cutoffs; private colleges are more flexible)
  • Your NEET score (sometimes NEET performance matters more than board marks)
  • Reservation category (if applicable)

Strategy: aim for a strong NEET score. We've guided students with lower board marks into good colleges through excellent NEET performance. Your counselor will help you target realistic colleges and optimise your NEET preparation.

No, it's not mandatory. However:

  • For competitive colleges: Some prefer candidates with healthcare exposure/volunteering
  • For study abroad: A few universities appreciate healthcare exposure (it improves application strength)
  • For your own clarity: We recommend at least 1–2 weeks of exposure to confirm healthcare is your calling

We can connect you with short-term volunteering opportunities if you want to strengthen your profile.

  • Study in India: International students can apply for NRI/OCI seats (limited, higher fees). Quota availability varies by college
  • Study abroad: Most universities worldwide accept international students (our network spans multiple countries)

If you're an international student, let us know during the assessment, and we'll recommend colleges and pathways that accept your profile.

05

Process & Timeline

6 questions · Q24–Q29

Our 7-step process, how long it takes and how often you hear from us.

We guide you through our 7-step end-to-end support process:

  1. Personal Counselling: Free 30-minute consultation to understand your goals, background and preferences, with a personalised pathway recommendation (India vs. abroad, course options)
  2. Document Submission: Collect and organise all required documents (10th, 12th, NEET, passport, etc.). We verify completeness to prevent delays
  3. Application Filing: Research and shortlist colleges aligned with your score/budget, file applications to 6–10 target universities, and track deadlines
  4. Admission Letter & Visa: Secure admission offers, begin visa documentation and coordinate with universities for required affidavits
  5. Travel & Accommodation: Book flights, secure student accommodation (hostel/PG/apartment) and arrange airport pickup if abroad
  6. On-Campus Support: First-week orientation, help with registration, fee payment and documents, and connections with senior students
  7. Ongoing Mentorship: Monthly check-ins throughout your course, career guidance, exam preparation support and internship connections

A lifelong relationship — we're here beyond admission.

  • Study abroad: 14–18 months (from counselling to on-campus arrival)
  • Study in India (NEET counselling): 8–12 months (from counselling to college admission)
  • Study in India (direct admission, private college): 2–4 months

Timeline depends on:

  • When you start counselling (earlier is better)
  • How quickly you gather documents
  • NEET exam timing
  • College application cycles

We'll create a customised timeline during your first counselling call.

Yes. There's no lock-in period. However:

  • If you've already paid for our service, refund terms apply (discussed at sign-up)
  • Dropping out mid-applications may leave college applications incomplete (universities have deadlines)

We recommend discussing concerns with your counselor — most challenges can be resolved. But ultimately, it's your decision.

Great news. We'll:

  1. Help you evaluate the offer (college quality, fees, fit with your goals)
  2. Pause new applications if you accept it
  3. Continue supporting other applications if you want backup options
  4. Shift focus to visa/travel preparations for your chosen college

It's smart to have multiple offers before deciding. We'll help you weigh the options.

  • Active application phase: Weekly check-ins (every 7 days)
  • Quieter phases: Bi-weekly (visa processing, waiting for decisions)
  • Urgent issues: Reach us anytime by email, WhatsApp or phone

Response time: typically within 2–3 business days for routine questions; faster for urgent matters.

You'll also have access to our support team (not just your counselor) for immediate help.

Reach out anytime:

  • WhatsApp/Call: Direct to your counselor or support team
  • Email: consultancyretro@gmail.com (we respond typically within 2–3 business days)
  • Urgent: Call +91 63983 08129

We're accessible because we know the admission journey can feel overwhelming. No question is too small.

06

Costs & Fees

6 questions · Q30–Q35

What the service covers, when you pay, refunds and scholarships.

Our service fee covers:

  • Personal counselling and pathway planning
  • College research and application filing (6–10 universities)
  • Document preparation and verification
  • Visa guidance and coordination
  • Travel and accommodation support
  • 1 year of ongoing mentorship and career guidance

Pricing is discussed after your free consultation, based on your specific pathway (study abroad vs. India) and chosen universities. Installment options are available — ask during your consultation.

No. Payment structure:

  • Assessment + consultation: Free
  • Decision point: After your consultation, if you choose to move forward, we discuss payment options
  • Installment plans: Available (typically 2–3 installments across 6–12 months)
  • No upfront full payment required

We believe in transparency — you'll know the full cost before committing.

We have a refund clause for this scenario:

  • If no university offers admission after completing all applications, we discuss next steps
  • Options include reapplication (NEET retake, different pathway), alternative universities, or refund eligibility
  • Full terms are outlined in our service agreement at sign-up

Discuss this clause with your counselor before paying.

Scholarships and financial aid are not guaranteed, but we actively help you secure them:

  • Research and identify universities offering merit scholarships
  • Help you apply for need-based financial aid
  • Connect you with external loan/scholarship programs
  • Guide government scholarship applications (if eligible)

Our goal is to make education affordable. We'll explore every avenue.

No. All consultations, follow-ups and support calls are included in our service fee — over WhatsApp video, Zoom or phone.

No hidden charges for communication.

  • Free assessment/consultation: No refund needed (it's free)
  • After payment: Refund eligibility depends on the service stage and our service agreement
  • Full transparency: All refund conditions are discussed and agreed upon before you pay

If you're unhappy, talk to us. We'd rather resolve concerns than process refunds. But if a refund is necessary, we honour our commitment.

07

Our Counselors & Expertise

6 questions · Q36–Q41

Who guides you, how they are trained and what happens if you disagree.

  • Founder & CEO: Dr. Murshad Ali, with deep expertise in education consulting
  • Specialised counselors: Each specialises in 1–2 healthcare pathways (MBBS, BDS, Nursing, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, etc.) and has personally guided students to admissions
  • All counselors are: Verified (identity + credentials checked), experienced in education guidance, and certified in our admission process

Every counselor has personally gone through or coached similar journeys, so they speak from real experience — not scripts.

Yes. After your initial consultation, a dedicated counselor is assigned to your case. They'll:

  • Guide you from start to finish
  • Understand your specific goals and challenges
  • Maintain continuity and accountability

If circumstances change or you prefer to switch, you can request a different counselor.

Yes. During your consultation, you can request:

  • A counselor experienced with your specific pathway (e.g. MBBS abroad in Russia)
  • A counselor from a similar academic or family background
  • A counselor fluent in your preferred language

We'll match you with the best fit. If your preferred counselor is unavailable, we'll recommend alternatives.

All counselors:

  • Complete internal certification (training on processes, colleges, visa requirements)
  • Maintain updated knowledge of admission criteria, university changes and visa policies
  • Undergo background checks and credential verification
  • Participate in regular training and case review sessions
  • Are evaluated by students through feedback forms

Your counselor is as invested in your success as you are.

You have options:

  1. Discuss openly: Sometimes recommendations make sense after clarification. Talk through the reasoning
  2. Get a second opinion: Consult another Retro counselor or our founder, Dr. Murshad Ali
  3. Make your own call: Ultimately, it's your decision. If you prefer a different college or country, we'll support that (though we may flag risks)

We're advisors, not dictators. Disagreements usually surface misaligned expectations — we resolve those quickly.

Each counselor tracks:

  • Number of students guided through specific colleges
  • Outcomes by college and program
  • Current scholarship/fee information
  • Student experiences post-admission (reviews, feedback)

Ask them directly about admissions, fee structures, campus culture or specific program outcomes — they'll share real student feedback.

08

Support & Guarantees

6 questions · Q42–Q47

What we guarantee, what we don't, and how we handle setbacks.

  • During applications: Your counselor resolves it within 48 hours (or escalates)
  • During visa processing: We escalate to our embassy contacts and university liaison officers
  • After admission: Our on-campus support team handles day-one issues (hostel, registration, local orientation)

Common issues — delayed visas, documentation problems, college communication gaps — we've managed them before and have proven solutions.

Honest answer: No.

Admission depends on universities and their eligibility criteria. What we do guarantee:

  • Expert counselling — we guide you to realistic colleges aligned with your score and budget
  • Careful application filing — no missing documents or missed deadlines
  • Continuous support — we optimise your chances through every phase
  • A refund clause — if there is no admission after proper execution, refund terms apply

We stand behind our process. But final university decisions are out of our hands.

Our response:

  1. Analyse why rejections occurred (score too low, application gaps, timing issues)
  2. Reapplication strategy: Retake NEET, apply to more realistic colleges, or consider the study abroad pathway
  3. Alternative pathway: Nursing, pharmacy or other healthcare programs
  4. Support: We guide you through the next cycle (refund or continued service may apply)

You won't be left hanging. We'll pivot to a viable plan.

Yes. Completely fine:

  • You take a gap year (preparation, NEET retake, personal reasons)
  • When ready, reconnect with us or your original counselor
  • We'll update your profile and file fresh applications

Reapplication after a gap may involve updated service fees (discussed at the time), as guidance context changes. We prioritise returning students and often offer favourable terms.

  • All student data is stored securely (encrypted, password-protected)
  • Data is never shared with third parties without written consent
  • We comply with Indian data protection standards
  • We share necessary information with universities/visa authorities — always with your knowledge

Your rights

  • Access your data anytime
  • Request corrections or deletions (within legal limits)
  • Opt out of non-critical communication

Full details are in our Privacy Policy.

  • We never encourage donations or unethical admission practices
  • We only recommend NMC, WHO and government-recognised universities
  • We don't guarantee admissions or hide risks
  • We operate transparently on fees, refunds and timelines
  • We don't charge hidden fees

“Your dream is our responsibility — but we achieve it ethically.” — Dr. Murshad Ali, Founder

We're here for the long-term relationship, not quick profit.

Take the next step

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Take the first step with a free assessment. No obligation. No hidden costs. No pressure.

No spam. No hidden costs. No pressure.

Take the next step

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Take the first step with a free assessment. No obligation. No hidden costs. No pressure.

No spam. No hidden costs. No pressure.

Take the next step

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Take the first step with a free assessment. No obligation. No hidden costs. No pressure.

No spam. No hidden costs. No pressure.

R

Retro Consultancy

Your trusted partner in global education opportunities.

consultancyretro@gmail.com

+91 63983 08129 / 9310482380

Address: B-2, Tower Flat no-1501, 15th Plot no-11 Golf City, Sector 75, Uttar Pradesh-201301

Follow Us

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WhatsApp

© 2026 Retro Consultancy. All rights reserved.

R

Retro Consultancy

Your trusted partner in global education opportunities.

consultancyretro@gmail.com

+91 63983 08129 / 9310482380

Address: B-2, Tower Flat no-1501, 15th Plot no-11 Golf City, Sector 75, Uttar Pradesh-201301

Follow Us

LinkedIn

Instagram

WhatsApp

© 2026 Retro Consultancy. All rights reserved.

R

Retro Consultancy

Your trusted partner in global education opportunities.

consultancyretro@gmail.com

+91 63983 08129 / 9310482380

Address: B-2, Tower Flat no-1501, 15th Plot no-11 Golf City, Sector 75, Uttar Pradesh-201301

Follow Us

LinkedIn

Instagram

WhatsApp

© 2026 Retro Consultancy. All rights reserved.