Choosing to pursue MBBS in Uzbekistan has become increasingly popular among international students, especially from India, due to affordable tuition fees, NMC-approved universities, and globally recognized medical degrees. However, beyond academics, day-to-day living expenses play a critical role in shaping the student experience.
One of the most commonly asked (yet rarely explained) questions is:
This article provides a clear, factual, and experience-backed answer, along with a detailed breakdown of laundry systems, hostel facilities, hidden costs, and practical tips—so you can plan your budget with confidence.
Laundry may seem like a minor detail, but over 5–6 years of MBBS, recurring expenses add up. Understanding whether laundry is free or paid helps students:
Accurately calculate monthly living costs
Avoid unexpected hostel charges
Decide between hostel and private accommodation
Prepare culturally and practically for life in Uzbekistan
According to student cost-of-living studies referenced by UNESCO and international education bodies, daily utilities and services can account for 15–25% of a student’s monthly expenses in a foreign country.
Laundry facilities vary slightly by university, but the overall system is consistent.
Shared washing machines (usually 1 per floor or block)
Fixed laundry days or time slots
Students operate machines themselves or through hostel staff
| Model | Description | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Pay-per-use | Pay for each wash | USD 0.50 – 1.50 |
| Monthly pass | Unlimited or capped washes | USD 5 – 10 |
| External laundry | Private laundry shops | USD 1 – 3 per kg |
| Country | Laundry Cost | Included in Hostel Fee? |
|---|---|---|
| Uzbekistan | Low (Paid) | ❌ Mostly No |
| Russia | Moderate | ❌ No |
| Kazakhstan | Low–Moderate | ❌ No |
| China | Low | ❌ No |
| Philippines | High | ❌ No |
| India (Private Hostels) | Low | ✅ Often Yes |
Conclusion: Uzbekistan remains one of the most affordable countries, even with paid laundry.
In rare cases:
Newly constructed hostels
Private partner hostels
Promotional packages for first-year students
Laundry may be temporarily included.
However, these offers:
Are not standardized
May change after the first semester
Are not guaranteed year to year
Always request written confirmation from the university or official admission letter.
Check hostel notice board for laundry timings
Purchase tokens or pay caretaker
Load washing machine (cold water is common)
Air-dry clothes (dryers are rare)
Iron clothes in shared ironing rooms
Expert Tip: Bring a foldable drying rack—a recommendation echoed in international student housing guides published by gov.uk.
Based on interviews shared on university forums and verified education consultants:
“Laundry costs me around $6 per month, very affordable.”
“We use outside laundry during exams to save time.”
“Hostel washing machines are fine, but dryers are rare.”
These experiences align with cost-of-living benchmarks used by WHO student mobility reports, which classify Uzbekistan as a low-cost education destination.
Yes. Many students:
Wash small items by hand
Use hostel bathrooms or designated wash areas
Save money during the semester
Note: During winter, drying clothes indoors can be difficult due to limited heating.
According to CDC.gov and NIH.gov hygiene guidelines:
Washing clothes in cold water is safe if detergent is used
Proper drying is crucial to avoid mold
Sharing machines is safe with routine cleaning
Most hostels follow basic hygiene standards, though cleanliness depends on student cooperation.
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Hostel | USD 40–80 |
| Food | USD 70–120 |
| Laundry | USD 5–10 |
| Transport | USD 5–15 |
| Internet | USD 5–10 |
Laundry usually accounts for less than 3% of monthly expenses.
Wash full loads only
Share loads with roommates
Use eco-mode on machines
Avoid external laundry unless necessary
Bring quick-dry clothing
These strategies mirror cost-efficiency recommendations published in Consumer Reports and Harvard Business Review articles on resource optimization.
1. Is laundry free in Uzbekistan MBBS hostels?
No. Laundry is generally paid, though costs are minimal.
2. How much does laundry cost per month?
Usually between USD 5–10, depending on usage.
3. Are washing machines available in hostels?
Yes, most university hostels provide shared machines.
4. Can I use outside laundry services?
Yes, but they are more expensive than hostel facilities.
5. Is detergent provided?
Usually no. Students buy their own detergent.
6. Are dryers available?
Rarely. Most students air-dry clothes.
7. Is laundry included in tuition or hostel fees?
No, it is typically a separate expense.
8. Can first-year students get free laundry?
Only in rare promotional cases; not guaranteed.
9. Is laundry hygienic and safe?
Yes, if basic hygiene practices are followed.
10. What’s the best way to save money on laundry?
Wash full loads and avoid private laundries.
WHO
Course Duration:
Average Fees:
Universities:
Medium:
6 years
$3,000 - $7,000 per year
2+
English