Studying MBBS in Kazakhstan has gained significant popularity among Indian and international students due to affordable tuition fees, globally recognized medical degrees, and a safe environment for education. While tuition fees in Kazakhstan are relatively lower compared to Western countries, the first year of MBBS often involves several additional expenses that students must plan for. Knowing where most costs are concentrated helps students and parents prepare a realistic budget for a smooth academic journey.
The first year is especially important because students are setting up their accommodation, buying study materials, arranging travel, and adjusting to life abroad. Therefore, a clear understanding of major expenses is essential to avoid surprises.
The most significant portion of a student’s first-year budget is typically the tuition fee. Kazakhstan offers affordable MBBS programs, but costs vary depending on the university and the medium of instruction (English or Russian).
Kazakh medical universities charge tuition fees ranging from moderate to slightly higher amounts depending on the institution’s reputation and facilities. Most students can expect to pay an amount that covers classroom instruction, laboratory work, and practical sessions.
Top-tier universities with advanced facilities often charge higher tuition. Students should compare universities to find the best value for quality education.
Many universities allow payment in installments, which can help distribute the financial burden across the year instead of a single lump sum.
Apart from tuition, students may also face extra charges for registration, exams, and library access. These fees, though smaller than tuition, are unavoidable and should be included in the first-year budget.
Universities typically charge a one-time admission or registration fee during enrollment, covering administrative and processing costs.
Laboratory work, dissections, and access to library resources are critical for MBBS students. Some universities include these in tuition, while others may charge separately.
For most international students, accommodation is the second-largest expense in the first year. Students need to decide between on-campus hostels, private apartments, or shared housing.
Many universities in Kazakhstan provide hostel facilities for international students. These hostels are convenient, secure, and often include basic amenities such as meals, electricity, and internet access.
The monthly cost of on-campus hostels varies depending on the type of room and facilities offered. Shared rooms are generally cheaper, while single rooms with private bathrooms may cost more.
Living on-campus reduces commuting costs and ensures a closer connection to university resources, including libraries and laboratories.
Some students prefer off-campus housing for more privacy and flexibility. Renting private apartments can be costlier, but sharing with roommates helps reduce expenses.
Apartments in city centers are more expensive than those in suburban areas. Utilities such as electricity, water, and internet are additional monthly expenses.
Students moving into private apartments may need to purchase furniture, kitchenware, and other household essentials, increasing initial first-year expenses.
Food and daily necessities are another major area where first-year MBBS students spend money. Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for medical students due to the demanding study schedule.
Indian students often prefer home-style Indian food, which may require cooking at home or using Indian mess facilities.
Indian mess services provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner at moderate monthly rates. Students relying on mess for all meals may find this option convenient but slightly more expensive than home-cooked meals.
Buying groceries from local markets and preparing meals at home is usually cheaper. Students can save by purchasing staples like rice, lentils, vegetables, and Indian spices in bulk.
Apart from food, students need to budget for toiletries, transportation, and occasional leisure activities.
Many students use public transport, which is affordable and reliable. Monthly transportation expenses include bus or metro fares and occasional taxi rides.
Mobile data, clothing, books, and small recreational activities add to monthly costs. Budgeting for these ensures students avoid unexpected financial pressure.
The first year also includes one-time expenses related to travel and settling in Kazakhstan.
International students must consider round-trip airfare and visa application fees. Flight costs vary depending on the time of booking and airline.
Visa fees, health checkups, and insurance are mandatory for international students and should be included in the first-year budget.
Upon arrival, students often spend money on essentials such as bedding, kitchen items, utensils, and minor home appliances.
Whether staying in a hostel or private apartment, initial setup costs include furnishing, bedding, and kitchen supplies, which can be substantial during the first month.
Students may need to install internet connections and buy SIM cards or mobile data plans to stay connected for academic purposes.
Medical education requires specialized books, lab coats, stethoscopes, and other equipment. These items are a necessary expense in the first year.
MBBS students need core medical textbooks and reference materials, which can be purchased new or used.
Many students reduce costs by using e-books, online notes, and shared resources.
Practical work in labs requires lab coats, stethoscopes, and other medical instruments. These are often one-time purchases but essential for clinical training.
Masks, gloves, and other PPE items may be required, especially in clinical sessions, adding to the first-year budget.
International students are advised to have medical insurance for emergencies, which is another area of expense in the first year.
Kazakhstan universities often require students to purchase health insurance to cover medical emergencies.
Policies typically cover hospitalization, outpatient treatment, and emergency evacuation. The cost of insurance varies based on coverage and duration.
Apart from insurance, students may need to budget for routine checkups, vaccinations, and occasional medical visits, especially when adjusting to a new environment.
WHO
Course Duration:
Average Fees:
Universities:
Medium:
6 years
$3,000 - $7,000 per year
2+
English