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
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Year Established | 1979 |
Type | Public / Government |
Course Duration | 6 years (5 years academics + 1-year internship) |
Medium of Instruction | English |
Intake Month | September |
NEET Requirement | Mandatory for Indian students |
Recognition | NMC, WHO, FAIMER, ECFMG |
Total Students | 11,000+ |
Indian Students | 1,000+ |
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)
Year | Tuition Fee (USD) | Hostel Fee (USD) | Total per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|---|
Year 1–5 | 3,700 | 600 | 4,300 |
Year 6 | 1,000 (internship) | 600 | 1,600 |
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
Fill application form and submit documents online
Receive Admission Letter from SKMA
Pay part of the tuition fee to confirm seat
Receive Invitation Letter for visa
Apply for student visa at Kazakhstan Embassy
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.