South Kazakhstan Medical Academy (SKMA)

Top-ranked Medical University in Kazakhstan for International Students

University Name: South Kazakhstan Medical Academy (SKMA)
Location: Shymkent, Kazakhstan
Established: 1979

About the University

South Kazakhstan Medical Academy (SKMA) is a government medical university located in Shymkent, one of the major cities in Kazakhstan. Known for its modern teaching techniques, experienced faculty, and clinical exposure, SKMA offers a 6-year MBBS (MD equivalent) program in English for international students. It is recognized by several international medical councils, making it a reliable option for Indian students aiming to pursue medicine abroad.

Why Choose This University?

  • Recognized by NMC (India), WHO, FAIMER, ECFMG

  • English-medium MBBS program

  • No donation or entrance exam required

  • Affordable tuition and low living expenses

  • Clinical training in state-run hospitals of Shymkent

  • Experienced faculty and modern medical infrastructure

  • Strong Indian student community support

Quick Highlights

FeatureDetails
Year Established1979
TypePublic / Government
Course Duration6 years (5 years academics + 1-year internship)
Medium of InstructionEnglish
Intake MonthSeptember
NEET RequirementMandatory for Indian students
RecognitionNMC, WHO, FAIMER, ECFMG
Total Students11,000+
Indian Students1,000+

MBBS Course Duration

6 Years (5 years classroom + 1 year clinical internship)

Medium of Instruction

  • Entire course in English for international students

  • Basic Kazakh or Russian taught for hospital communication

Fee Structure (Approximate)

YearTuition Fee (USD)Hostel Fee (USD)Total per Year (USD)
Year 1–53,7006004,300
Year 61,000 (internship)6001,600
  • Total Estimated Cost for 6 Years: ~USD 23,100

  • Estimated in INR: ₹19–21 Lakhs (including hostel)

Extra Charges

  • Medical check-up, visa extension, insurance: ~$300–400/year

  • Food & mess (optional): ₹6,000–9,000/month

  • Other expenses: Books, lab coat, personal use

Scholarships

  • Limited academic performance-based scholarships

  • Early applicants may be eligible for partial fee waivers

Eligibility Criteria

  • 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology & English

  • Minimum 50% in PCB (General category)

  • NEET qualification is mandatory for Indian students

  • Minimum age: 17 years by 31st December of the admission year

Step-by-Step Admission Process

  1. Fill application form and submit documents online

  2. Receive Admission Letter from SKMA

  3. Pay part of the tuition fee to confirm seat

  4. Receive Invitation Letter for visa

  5. Apply for student visa at Kazakhstan Embassy

  6. Travel to Shymkent and join university in September

Important Dates

  • Applications Open: March

  • Deadline to Apply: August

  • Academic Session Begins: September

Documents Required

  • 10th & 12th mark sheets

  • NEET scorecard

  • Valid passport (minimum 18 months validity)

  • Passport-size photos

  • Medical fitness certificate + HIV report

  • Birth certificate (notarized & translated)

  • Police clearance certificate (optional)

  • Admission letter and visa documents

How We Help You

  • Personalized admission guidance

  • Assistance with document legalization & translations

  • Visa documentation and application support

  • Pre-departure briefing, travel coordination

  • Airport pickup, hostel allotment, and local registration

  • Ongoing support throughout the academic years

Hostel & Accommodation

  • On-campus hostels available for Indian and foreign students

  • Shared rooms with heating, study desks, bedding, Wi-Fi

  • Kitchens, laundry rooms, reading halls, and common areas

  • Hostel Fee: ~$500–600 per year

  • Private rented apartments also available nearby

Indian Food Facility

  • Indian mess available at the hostel and near campus

  • Shared kitchen for self-cooking

  • Indian groceries easily available in local markets

Safety, Transport & Campus Facilities

  • Shymkent is a safe and growing educational city

  • Public transport includes buses, taxis, and rideshare apps

  • Campus Facilities:

    • Teaching hospitals for clinical exposure

    • Anatomy labs, skill labs, simulation centers

    • Library, digital learning resources

    • On-campus health care, pharmacy, and emergency services

Student Life & Activities

  • Indian festivals like Holi, Diwali celebrated by student groups

  • Medical workshops, conferences, and seminars

  • Sports events, cultural shows, and inter-university competitions

  • Student clubs: arts, language, debate, volunteer work

  • International student body ensures a multicultural experience

FAQs

Q1. Is NEET compulsory for Indian students?
Yes, NEET is mandatory for MBBS admission abroad and NMC registration.

Q2. What is the total fee for the full MBBS program?
Approximately ₹19–21 Lakhs including tuition, hostel, and other fees.

Q3. Is the MBBS course fully taught in English?
Yes, the entire course is in English medium for international students.

Q4. Can I complete my internship in India?
Yes, after NMC approval, you may complete your internship in India.

Q5. Is Indian food available?
Yes, Indian mess and groceries are available both on and off campus.

Q6. When does the academic year begin?
The session starts in September every year.

Why Choose Us?

Verified & Updated College Information

We maintain individual pages for every top college, offering real, detailed insights — not just brochures. From fee structures to clinical exposure, we bring you facts that matter.

Personalized Guidance

Our team understands the worries of Indian parents and students. That’s why we offer:

    • One-on-one career counselling

    • Support for college selection

    • Step-by-step help with application, documentation & visa

All-in-One Resource Hub

We go beyond admissions:

    • Syllabus & FMGE/NExT guidance

    • Packing & pre-departure checklists

    • Budget planners

    • Downloadable PDFs & application tips

India to Abroad — Full Journey Support

From choosing a college to landing in your dorm, we offer:

    • Airport pickup guidance

    • Indian food & grocery availability info

    • Ongoing mentorship from senior students abroad

Hear from Real Students

We bring you authentic testimonials and stories from Indian students already studying in countries like Russia and Kazakhstan — so you don’t rely only on agents or vague promises.

We Care About Your Career

Your journey doesn’t end at admission. We guide you with:

    • FMGE/NExT & USMLE preparation advice

    • PG opportunities in India & abroad

    • What to do after MBBS

Our Mission

To empower Indian medical aspirants with trusted information, eliminate confusion, and support them inevery step of studying medicine abroad.
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