Shymkent State Medical University

Country: Kazakhstan
University Type: Public
Establishment Year: 1979
World Ranking: 11,996
Course Duration: 6 years (with internship)
Teaching Medium: English

Shymkent State Medical University, officially known as South Kazakhstan Medical Academy (SKMA), was established in 1979 in the city of Shymkent, Kazakhstan. It is a government-recognized institution offering high-quality medical education with a strong emphasis on practical training and research. The academy is accredited by international bodies such as WHO, NMC (India), and FAIMER, making its MBBS degree valid globally.

The university provides a 6-year MBBS program (5 years of academics + 1 year of internship) in English medium, making it highly suitable for international students, especially from India. It houses more than 11,000 students, including 2,000+ Indian students, and offers facilities such as simulation labs, clinical rotations, and modern lecture halls.

Its focus on international standards, bilingual teaching (English and Russian), and strong hospital affiliations have made it one of the preferred destinations for MBBS abroad in Central Asia.

  1. Must be 17 years or older by 31 December of the admission year
  2. Completion of 10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English
  3. Minimum 50% marks in PCB for general category (40–45% for reserved categories)
  4. NEET qualification is mandatory for Indian applicants
  5. Required documents: Passport, 10th and 12th mark sheets, NEET scorecard, medical fitness certificate (including HIV report), passport-sized photos

Documents Required For Admission


1. Class 10th pass certificate and mark sheet
2. Class 12th pass certificate and mark sheet
3. NEET score card
4. Valid passport
5. Passport-size photographs
6. Medical test report including HIV negative report.

Student Life at the University

  • Hostels: Well-maintained dormitories with shared rooms (2–4 students), kitchens, laundry, Wi‑Fi, Indian mess, and 24/7 security
  • Indian-friendly atmosphere: Indian cultural festivals, food options, and a large Indian student body
  • Clinical Exposure: Begins from the 3rd year, with rotations in local hospitals and hands-on training
  • Facilities: Equipped with modern labs, medical simulation centers, digital library, sports complex, and large lecture halls
  • Student Activities: Annual cultural events, sports competitions, academic seminars, and international student communities
  • FMGE/NExT Coaching: Available within the campus to support Indian students’ licensing exam preparation

Overview of Shymkent

Shymkent is Kazakhstan’s third-largest city with a population of about 1.2 million people. It has a blend of modern infrastructure and rich historical heritage, making it a vibrant and affordable student city. The climate is continental, with hot summers (up to 35 °C) and cold winters (as low as −5 °C).

The cost of living is moderate, and students generally spend US $150–250 per month on food, transport, and personal expenses. Public transport, taxis, and grocery access are student-friendly, and many Indian restaurants and services are available within the city.

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