Kyrgyzstan is a renowned destination for international students, especially those pursuing an MBBS. Cheap tuition fees, globally accredited medical degrees, and the vibrant cultural exposure available in this Central Asian country attract many to its medical universities. Students worldwide, especially from India, have chosen Kyrgyzstan as a cheaper and more affordable option for MBBS.
In this blog, you will learn all about why Kyrgyzstan is the perfect country to study medicine, the best universities, the admission process and last but not least, the pros and cons of doing your MBBS in Kyrgyzstan.
Why Choose Kyrgyzstan for MBBS?
The medical universities in Kyrgyzstan offer direct admissions to students, especially from South Asian countries. All you need to do is to clear your NEET or MCAT exam.
Here's why MBBS in Kyrgyzstan is an excellent choice:
- The yearly tuition fees for MBBS in Kyrgyzstan are as low as 2500 USD.
- You don’t have to pay a capitation fee to study in the country.
- The admissions process at Kyrgz Medical Universities is quite simple; the universities allow direct admissions to Indian and Pakistani students.
- Although the university offers on-campus accommodation to students, living in the country would still be cheap for students.
- International medical bodies recognise all the universities in the country.
- The passing rate for FMGE is quite high in Kyrgyzstan.
- IELTS or TOEFL are not a requirement
What are the Top Medical Universities in Kyrgyzstan?
The medical universities in the country combine the advantages of low hostel fees and standards of education for the students. Here’s a look at the top medical universities in Kyrgyzstan:
The Kyrgyz State Medical Academy (KSMA)
KSMA is one of Kyrgyzstan's oldest and most well-known medical schools. The university has over 15,000 students enrolled, more than half of whom are Indian students. It provides a variety of packages covering most medical disciplines. Some of the university's outstanding features include well-equipped laboratory facilities, research facilities, clinical training centres, and the second-largest anatomy lab in the world. Another thing that sets the college apart is the fact that all the hospitals in Bishkek city are affiliated with the university.
International School of Medicine
The International School of Medicine was developed in 2003 to introduce a modern MBBS program. ISM is known for explicitly mending its curriculum and teaching practices for international students. ISM delivers programs taught exclusively in English to ensure that they are accessible to everyone. ISM has a 5-year MBBS program, with a preference for internships. Besides this, ISM also offers an Erasmus+ program to increase the international population on the premises.
Osh State University
Originally established as a teacher training institute in 1951, the Osh State University is a public medical university in Osh. The university ensures that all the students are delivered with high academic precision and rigorous clinical practices. Students can work on practical sessions in local hospitals and the university’s simulation centre, which allows them to get more practical experience from their early years at medical school.
Jalal-Abad State University
If you’re looking for quality, good reputation and cost efficiency all in one place, Jalal-Abad State University is where you should go. Popular for being one of the best medical universities in Central Asia, Jalal-Abad University ensures that its students have ample opportunities for growth and engagement. The University perfectly blends theory and practical lessons to prepare students as valuable assets for the healthcare sector worldwide.
Asian Medical Institute
The Asian Medical Institute emphasises international students' intake, and its curriculum meets international standards. The institute provides the best facilities, has experienced faculty members, and has tied up with certain hospitals for practical Purposes.
How Much Does MBBS in Kyrgyzstan Cost?
One of the most significant factors attracting international students to Kyrgyzstan is the affordability of tuition fees. Medical education in Kyrgyzstan costs a fraction of that in countries like the U.S., U.K., or Australia. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect:
Tuition Fees Range $2,500 - $4,000 per year
Additional Costs: Nominal fees for lab work, examinations, and other administrative costs may apply
What is the Process of Admission to MBBS in Kyrgyzstan?
Admission to MBBS programs in Kyrgyzstan is easy, straightforward, and without any hidden gimmicks.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must hold a high school or equivalent with at least 50 per cent in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Indian students also have to qualify for the NEET exam for admission to the MBBS program.
- Visit the University Website: International Students can apply to the university online. An online application form can be found on the university's official website.
- Application Process: The country's application process is fairly simple. Students can complete the application form or the admissions form online.
- Documents Required: Students must submit their documents along with the admissions form. Documents demands include:
- A statement of purpose
- Medical documents
- Passport or Original identity documents
- Original transcripts
- NEET scorecards.
- Admission Letter: After students have submitted and provided all necessary documents to the university and after the documents are reviewed, the university issues an admission letter.
- Visa Application: Once you have received the admission letter, you can apply for a study visa. You do this by attending the Kyrgyzstan embassy or consulate in your home country.
- Flying in and Getting Settled: Students may travel to the country after the visa has been issued. The universities usually provide on-campus hostels, but off-campus options are also available.
Why Should Indian and Pakistani Students Choose Kyrgyzstan?
For various reasons, Kyrgyzstan has become the favourite destination for students from India and Pakistan who want to complete their MBBS from foreign countries. First, tuition fees in Kyrgyzstan remain much lower than in private medical colleges in India and Pakistan, making it possible for most middle-class families to send their children to colleges for higher education.
In addition, the cost of living in Kyrgyzstan is relatively low, and students can meet most of their daily expenditures. The universities in Kyrgyzstan also teach MBBS in English, raising no language barrier for the students, especially the Indians and Pakistanis. Furthermore, The medical degrees from Kyrgyz medical universities and colleges are recognised by international organisations like WHO, UNESCO, MCI, and the Medical Council of India. This gives Kyrgyz medical graduates the liberty to practice in their home country and abroad after clearing the necessary licence examination.
Another reason is the relative availability of halal food, the friendly environment, and the large community of Indian and Pakistani students already present there. This makes Kyrgyzstan easy and comfortable to live and study in.
Easy enrollment is also a pull factor for many South Asians, as the universities don’t require entrance tests. The combination of standard education, cost-efficiency, and the ability to work in the culture makes Kyrgyzstan ideal for Indian and Pakistani MBBS students.
Are There Any Disadvantages of Studying Medicine in Kyrgyzstan?
Since there While studying MBBS in Kyrgyzstan has many advantages, there are a few challenges students should be aware of:
Language Barrier: Clinical rotations may involve using Russian or Kyrgyz with patients. Students may have to learn the local language to attend to their patients in a Hospital.
Post-Graduation Licensing Exams: Graduates intending to work in countries such as the U.S., the U.K., or India may need to write other licensing examinations, such as the USMLE, PLAB, or the FMGE.
Which University Do We Recommend?
Kyrgyzstan has numerous medical schools that provide MBBS. However, the Kyrgyz State Medical Academy (KSMA) stands out. It was officially founded in 1939 and is one of the longest-serving and, accordingly, the most reputable medical universities in the country. It offers a competitive academic programme, latest equipment, and experienced personnel, making it an ideal place to study medicine. The university also has facilities that teach in English, especially for international students localised to India and Pakistan.
In addition, KSMA operates internationally and is affiliated with important global medical organisations and institutions, including WHO and UNESCO; consequently, graduates may practice medicine anywhere in the world. Hence, graduates searching for a good medical college in the country should consider Kyrgyzstan.
Conclusion
MBBS in Kyrgyzstan is among the best options for students willing to study at a cheap but quality university. With internationally accredited degrees, excellent practical experience, and opportunities to study in a friendly country, Kyrgyzstan offers an effective experience of becoming a highly qualified doctor. If you wish to avoid spending loads of money on an MBBS in other countries, Kyrgyzstan should be your choice.
And the expert counsellors at CounsellingX will be there to help you with the admissions process.
