Karaganda Medical University


Karaganda Medical University (KMU) is a public university located in Karaganda, Kazakhstan. It was founded in 1950 and is one of the leading medical universities in the country. KMU offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate medical programs, as well as programs in public health, biology, and pharmacy. It is accredited by the Ministry of Education and Science of Kazakhstan and is a member of the International Association of Medical Universities.

Karaganda Medical University is a renowned institution that offers excellent opportunities for students aspiring to study MBBS abroad. The university has a number of well-equipped laboratories and clinical facilities. KMU also has a strong international exchange program, and students have the opportunity to study abroad at partner universities around the world.

Overall, KSMU is a great option for students who are looking for a high-quality medical education at an affordable cost. The university has a strong academic reputation, affordable tuition fees, and internationally recognized degrees. If you are considering studying medicine abroad, KSMU should definitely be on your list.

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Karaganda Medical University: Key Highlights

  • KSMU is located in Karaganda, Kazakhstan, which is a major city in the central part of the country. 
  • Karaganda is a modern city with a population of over 1 million people.
  • The city is located in the central part of the country, about 500 kilometers from the capital, Nur-Sultan.
  • Over 7,000 students enrolled in different study programs.
  • KMU has over 1,000 faculty members, including many internationally renowned experts.
  • It has a number of research centers and institutes, including the Center for Medical Simulation and the Institute of Biomedical Research.
  • With hot summers and chilly winters, Karaganda has a continental climate. 
  • The average temperature in July is 24 degrees Celsius (75 degrees Fahrenheit).
  • While the average temperature in January is below 14 degrees Celsius (6 degrees Fahrenheit).

Why Choose Karaganda Medical University for Medicine Studies?

There are several compelling reasons why Karaganda Medical University is an attractive choice for students wanting to study MBBS abroad:

Modern Infrastructure and Facilities: The university has a modern infrastructure, including well-equipped laboratories, so students benefit from an ideal learning environment as a result of the advanced amenities.

Medium of instruction: The medium of instruction at KSMU is English. However, students might also require learning Kazakh or Russian, as these are the official languages of Kazakhstan.

Recognition: Karaganda Medical University is recognized by esteemed medical organizations such as the WHO and the MCI, which ensures that the degree obtained from the university is valued in different countries and is accepted around the world.

Cultural Diversity: Karaganda Medical University welcomes students from various countries, which fosters a multicultural learning environment and promotes networking among students.

International Faculty: At Karaganda Medical University, students benefit from a global perspective thanks to the presence of faculty from various nations.

Medicine Program at Karaganda Medical University

The Medicine program at Karaganda Medical University is highly sought-after by students around the world. The Medicine program is a six-year undergraduate program, divided into pre-clinical and clinical phases. The curriculum of the Medicine program covers a wide range of subjects, including Anatomy, Biochemistry, Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, and Obstetrics and Gynecology. Certainly, the program is designed to ensure a comprehensive understanding of medical theory and practical skills.

In addition, the Karaganda Medical University collaborates with esteemed hospitals and healthcare institutions to provide clinical training to its students. This hands-on training allows students to put their theoretical knowledge into practice in real-world medical settings, gaining valuable experience in patient care and diagnosis.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Karaganda Medical University offers scholarships and financial aid options to support deserving students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria set by the university. Several of the financial aid and scholarship options available to Indian students include:

  • Indian Government Scholarship: Awarded by the Indian government to students who are studying medicine in Kazakhstan.
  • Indian Medical Association (IMA) Scholarship: Awarded by the association (IMA to students who are studying medicine in Kazakhstan.
  • Karaganda State Medical University Scholarship: KSMU awards scholarship to Indian students who have high academic achievements.

To be eligible for these scholarships, the requirements must be met.

Cost of Medicine Program

The cost of studying the Medicine program at Karaganda Medical University (KSMU) depends on a few factors, including the year of study, the currency exchange rate, and the cost of living in Kazakhstan. However, in general, the total cost of studying MBBS at KSMU is around $27,000 for the entire 6-year program.

This is a relatively affordable option for international students who are looking to study medicine abroad.

Year Year-1 Year-2 Year-3 Year-4 Year-5 Year-6
Course Fee (in USD) 3800 3800 3800 3800 3800 3800

Cost of Living

In addition to the tuition fees, students will also need to factor in the cost of living in Kazakhstan. The cost of living in Kazakhstan is relatively low, so students can expect to spend around $1,200 per month on living expenses.

Overall, the cost of living in Karaganda would be approximately $400-600 per month, certainly affordable enough for a student. However, it is important to factor in your own spending habits when budgeting for your stay.

Here is a breakdown of some of the costs you can expect to incur as a student living in Karaganda:

Utility Average cost per person
Accommodation $100-200 /month (shared apartment)
Rent $200-300 /month (studio apartment)
Food $100-150 /month (groceries)
Meal $200-300 /month (restaurant)
Public Transportation $10 /month for a bus pass
Transportation $2-3 / taxi ride within the city
Other expenses $50-100 per month for entertainment, personal care, and laundry

Hostel and Accommodation

Karaganda Medical University provides hostel facilities to its students. KSMU has a number of hostels on campus that are available to students. There are separated hostels space for boys and girls. The rooms are shared by 2-4 students. The hostels have all the basic amenities, such as beds, desks, chairs, wardrobes, and attached bathrooms. There are also common kitchens and dining halls in the hostels.

The average monthly cost for the hostel facilities is $100 to $150 (INR 7,000 to 12,000), including room rent, utilities, and meals. The yearly cost of hostel accommodation at KSMU is $1,200, including room rent, utilities, and meals. Overall, the students have the option to choose between university-managed hostels or private accommodation based on their preferences and budgets.

Availability of Indian Food or Mess Options

For Indian students studying at Karaganda Medical University, the availability of Indian food or mess options is a crucial factor. The university recognizes the diverse student population and ensures that Indian students have access to Indian food either through mess facilities or nearby restaurants that offer Indian cuisine. 

Also, the mess hall at KSMU serves a variety of international dishes, including Indian food. The cost of meals at the mess hall is subsidized by the university. The monthly cost of Indian food at KSMU varies depending on the mess option. However, it typically costs around $100 to $150 (7,000 to 12,000 INR) per month. Certainly, you should be able to find a mess option that suits your needs at KSMU. 

Eligibility Criteria for Karaganda Medical University

To be eligible for admission to the Medicine program at Karaganda Medical University, applicants must fulfill the following criteria:

  • Completion of high school education or equivalent.
  • Meeting the minimum academic requirements 60% in 10+2.
  • Proficiency in English language (IELTS or TOEFL scores may be required).

Documents Required 

The required documents for the application include:

  • A copy of your passport.
  • A copy of your high school diploma or equal.
  • A copy of your transcripts.
  • A letter of motivation.
  • Two letters of recommendation.

Admission Deadline and How to Apply

At Karaganda Medical University (KSMU), the deadlines for applying to the medical program are the September intake and the February intake. However, it is advisable to apply as early as possible, as the university may close admissions before the deadline if all the seats are filled.

Here are the steps on how to apply for the medicine program at KSMU:

  • Fill the application form.
  • Submit the required documents.
  • Pay the application fee.
  • Take the KSMU entrance exam.
  • Wait for the results of the entrance exam.

The KSMU entrance exam is a multiple-choice exam that tests your knowledge of biology, chemistry, and physics. The exam is held in English.

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PG Options After MBBS in Karaganda Medical University

Medical PG in India or NEXT

During MBBS study, a student realizes the importance of being a specialist. They also understand the competitiveness to secure MD/MS Seat in Govt College. If we look at the success ratio to get PG in Govt Medical College which is 11% Broadly we can say that only 1 out of 10 will get PG Seat whereas the chances of getting a Clinical specialty is 1 out of 20 applicants. It is obvious that the PG journey is going to be very difficult or else students should have enough money to get the paid seat in Pvt Medical College which may be in Crores!

Total Applicants NEET PG 2022 Specialty Govt Med College Pvt Med College
Seats Success Ratio Seats
2.06 Lacs
MD (Non Clinical) 15K 8.6% 10K
MS (Clinical) 8K 4.6% 5K
Total 23K 11.4% 15K

Do you feel early preparation and the right mentorship will pave your dream of becoming a specialist?

NMC already notified the introduction of the NEXT Exam in India from 2023. This exam will replace all Medical PG exams in India. The exam will be conducted in two parts NEXT-1 and NEXT-2. The Objective of the NEXT-1 is to assess the Student’s Knowledge of Pre, Para, and Clinical Subjects on the National Level. Only post-qualifying of NEXT-1 any Medical student will be eligible for an Internship. Post completion of the internship Students needs to go thru NEXT-2 which will assess their Clinical skills, Patient Management, and Keeping of Medical history. Those who will clear NEXT-2 are awarded a license to practice and Rankers of NEXT-1 will get PG seats of their choice. You may refer to Page for detailed information on the Next Exam.

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Medical PG in USA (USMLE)

We are well aware of the difficulty of getting a PG in Kazakhstan. With the introduction of NEXT, maximum students in India are getting attracted to USMLE prep from 1st year of MBBS since it simulates the new NMC Competency-based curriculum much more easily. US Healthcare system is considered one of the best health care systems because of numerous reasons like High rewards, excellent infrastructure, Merit-based assessment, Open opportunities for Super specialties. Most of the countries trying to replicate the US health care assessment system for their Medical Graduates USMLE exam are divided into 3 Parts. One can appear in USMLE Step 1 after 2nd Year, USMLE Step 2 CK during an internship, and Step-3 during your residency (Medical PG). The USMLE is an online exam and can be taken at the PROMETRIC centers present across India.

Medical PG in USA (USMLE)

MOKSH Coaching focuses on a patient-centered learning approach which helps students score high on both USMLE & NEXT. MOKSH is the leading name in USMLE Coaching. Currently, 1000+ Students from Indian and Abroad medical colleges are preparing for USMLE steps via the MOKSH Platform.

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Medical PG IN UK (PLAB)

Till 2024, the Professional & Linguistic Assessments Board Test (PLAB test) is the instrument to assess the skills and knowledge of an International Medical Graduate. It also judges whether she is fit to be trained to practice medicine in the UK.

In short, an IMG's performance in PLAB determines her eligibility to practice in the UK.The PLAB test has two stages. PLAB 1 is an exam that has 180 MCQs that tests your recall. On the other hand, PLAB 2 is a practical OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Exam) that tests your clinical skills.

The GMC ascertains your linguistic skills by assessing your score in specific tests. It may be the IELTS (Band Score 7.0 or higher) or OET (Grade B in reading, writing, listening & speaking).
After you pass PLAB 1 & 2, you apply for the GP registration. There is one constraint. You have a window of 2 years after clearing PLAB 2 during which you may apply no later.

By 2024, the UK Medical Licensing Assessment will replace the PLAB. The COVID pandemic has resulted in a major change that has affected life everywhere and at every level.
Especially the healthcare sector has faced unprecedented pressure. Consequently, the GMC UK is going to change certain things in PLAB and create the UKMLA exam.

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Medical PG in Germany

Medical PG in Germany

PG in Germany after MBBS in Kazakhstan is another great option, though it requires you to learn the German language. Of the 6 levels starting from A1 to C2, you need to clear A1 and A2 which would qualify you to apply for the visa.

Once the Language formalities are done, you get into the phase where you do Observer-ship from a German hospital approved by the German Medical Council. This is followed by Residency.

This may sound simple here but the process is quite complicated. To know more about PG in Germany after your MBBS in Kazakhstan,

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