South Kazakhstan Medical Academy

Country: Kazakhstan

University Type: Public

Establishment Year: 1979

World Ranking: 11,996

Course Duration: 6 years (with internship)

Teaching Medium: English

About University
Eligibility Criteria

South Kazakhstan Medical Academy (SKMA), located in the city of Shymkent, Kazakhstan, was established in 1979. It is a government-accredited institution recognized by WHO, NMC (India), FAIMER, and listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools. The academy has gained popularity among Indian students due to its affordable fee structure and English-medium MBBS program.

The university offers a 5-year MBBS program with 1 year of clinical internship, providing comprehensive medical education that includes pre-clinical, para-clinical, and clinical training. SKMA is known for its emphasis on research, clinical exposure, and the development of practical skills through simulation labs and hospital rotations.

Over 6,000 students are currently enrolled, with 2,000+ Indian students, reflecting its strong international presence. The medium of instruction is English for MBBS, making it accessible for foreign students.

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

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: On-campus and nearby hostels with shared rooms (2–4 people), kitchens, laundry, security, and Wi‑Fi
Indian-friendly environment: Availability of Indian mess, language support, cultural events, and FMGE/NExT coaching from Year 2
Clinical exposure: Starts from the 3rd year in affiliated hospitals; one-year compulsory internship after the 5-year MBBS course
Facilities: Modern simulation labs, research centers, a digital library, lecture halls, medical museums, and sports complexes
Tuition & Costs: Approx. US $4,200–4,400/year tuition; US $700–800/year hostel; total cost for 6 years is around US $26,000
Community & Events: Students participate in cultural celebrations, student unions, international student forums, and medical exhibitions

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.

Top Recognized Medical Universities for MBBS Abroad

Tver State Medical University

Well-known among Indian students, Tver provides an English-medium MBBS course with extensive hospital exposure.

Mari State University

A prestigious Russian university known for its MBBS program, offering modern infrastructure and diverse student life.

Pskov State University

Located in Pskov, this university offers globally recognized MBBS education with a focus on research and international cooperation.

Perm State Medical University

One of Russia’s oldest medical universities, offering clinical-based training and a strong
international MBBS.

Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal
University

Collage Provides high-quality medical education with a strong focus on innovation.

Kabardino Balkarian State University

it offers affordable medical education with excellent facilities and
a multicultural environment.

Orenburg State Medical University

Popular among Indian students, it offers well-structured MBBS programs and extensive clinical practice in Orenburg.

Northern State Medical University

Located in Arkhangelsk, it offers modern teaching methods and strong practical exposure through regional hospitals.

Kemerovo State University

A reputed academic center in Siberia, offering MBBS with research-oriented learning and
modern infrastructure.

Kemerovo State Medical University

A dedicated medical institution with a strong academic base, modern labs, and
affordable tuition fees.

Kazan State Medical University

Ranked among Russia’s top medical schools, it offers English-medium MBBS courses and extensive clinical training.

Kazan Federal University

A historic and prestigious university offering world-class MBBS programs with excellent research and teaching infrastructure.

Mkhitar Gosh Armenian-Russian International

this university is known for affordable MBBS programs and quality teaching aligned with European standards.

Tbilisi State Medical University

Georgia’s top medical university, offering globally accepted MBBS degrees with modern infrastructure and teaching.

Avicenna International Medical University

located in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, and is one of the fastest-growing private medical institutions in Central Asia.