Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS) is one of Nepal’s premier medical institutions, known for providing quality medical education in a structured environment. It has gained recognition among aspiring doctors for its modern infrastructure, experienced faculty, and strong clinical exposure. For students aiming to pursue MBBS in Nepal in 2025, KAHS is an attractive option due to its NMC-approved curriculum, affordable fees, and focus on practical training. This article provides a detailed guide on fees, admission process, and eligibility criteria for Karnali Academy of Health Sciences in 2025.
Karnali Academy of Health Sciences is located in the remote but strategically significant region of Jumla, Nepal. The academy was established to improve healthcare access in the Karnali region while offering medical education that meets international standards. It is affiliated with the Nepal Medical Council (NMC) and follows a curriculum aligned with global medical education practices.
KAHS emphasizes hands-on clinical training, community medicine, and rural health exposure, making it a unique choice for students seeking comprehensive medical education with a focus on serving underserved communities.
KAHS is recognized by:
Nepal Medical Council (NMC)
World Health Organization (WHO)
Ministry of Education, Nepal
Approved for FMGE/NExT eligibility for Indian students
Recognition ensures that graduates from KAHS can appear for licensing exams like FMGE/NExT in India and are eligible for postgraduate studies abroad.
The MBBS program at KAHS is structured to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical clinical exposure:
Total Duration: 5.5 years
Medium of Instruction: English
Structure:
Pre-clinical phase (Years 1–2): Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry
Para-clinical phase (Year 3): Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Forensic Medicine
Clinical phase (Years 4–5): Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Community Medicine
Internship (6 months to 1 year): Compulsory clinical training in affiliated hospitals
The curriculum integrates classroom teaching with early patient exposure to develop practical skills and clinical reasoning.
KAHS is popular among Indian students due to its affordable tuition fees compared to private medical colleges in India. Fees are structured annually, and additional costs are associated with hostel accommodation and living expenses.
Year | Tuition Fee (USD) |
---|---|
1 | 6,500 |
2 | 6,500 |
3 | 7,000 |
4 | 7,000 |
5 | 7,000 |
Total Approximate Tuition Fees: USD 34,000 – 34,500
KAHS provides accommodation facilities for international students:
Hostel Fee: USD 1,000 – 1,500 per year
Facilities: Furnished rooms, internet access, shared kitchens, security
Food and groceries: USD 1,500 – 2,000 per year
Medical insurance: USD 200 – 300 per year
Books and study materials: USD 200 – 400 per year
Overall, the total cost of studying MBBS at KAHS remains lower than most private colleges in India while offering high-quality education.
The eligibility criteria for MBBS at KAHS are straightforward, designed to admit academically qualified students capable of handling rigorous medical training:
Academic Qualification:
Completion of 10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
Minimum 50% marks in PCB for general category
40% marks in PCB for reserved categories
Age Limit:
Minimum age: 17 years
Maximum age: 25 years
English Proficiency:
Instruction is in English; students should have proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking
NEET Qualification (India):
Indian students must qualify NEET to pursue MBBS abroad
Medical Fitness:
Students must provide a medical fitness certificate indicating suitability for medical studies
KAHS has a simple and student-friendly admission process:
Fill out the online application form on the official university website
Upload required documents:
Passport copy
10+2 mark sheet
NEET scorecard (for Indian students)
Birth certificate
Medical fitness certificate
University reviews applications and issues an admission confirmation letter
This letter is needed for visa application
Apply for a Nepal student visa at the nearest embassy or consulate
Submit admission confirmation, passport, and required documents
Pay the first-year tuition fee and hostel fee
Payment can usually be made via online transfer
University provides airport pickup and orientation programs
Students begin classes as per academic calendar
NMC-Approved: Graduates eligible for FMGE/NExT in India
Affordable Fees: Cost-effective compared to Indian private colleges
English-Medium Program: Easy for international students
Clinical Exposure: Hospital rotations and rural healthcare programs
Experienced Faculty: Professors with practical experience and academic expertise
Modern Infrastructure: Labs, libraries, and teaching hospitals
Cultural Experience: Exposure to rural healthcare in Nepal
Community Medicine Focus: Opportunity to work in underserved areas
The MBBS curriculum at KAHS is structured into pre-clinical, para-clinical, and clinical phases:
Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Histology
Medical Ethics, Communication Skills
Introduction to Community Medicine
Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology
Forensic Medicine and Toxicology
Advanced Community Medicine
Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics
Obstetrics & Gynecology, ENT, Ophthalmology
Psychiatry, Neurology, Community Medicine
Hands-on hospital training
Rotations in various departments
Preparation for licensing exams like FMGE/NExT
Safe, secure hostels for international students
Shared and private rooms available
Common kitchens and study areas
Counseling and mentoring
Academic support and workshops
Cultural events and sports activities
Affordable city with basic amenities
Peaceful environment for study
Opportunities for community engagement and rural healthcare exposure
Graduates from KAHS have multiple career pathways:
Practice in India: After passing FMGE/NExT
Postgraduate Studies: MD/MS in Nepal or abroad
Global Licensing Exams: USMLE, PLAB, AMC eligibility
Public Health & Research: Work in hospitals, NGOs, and health organizations
Rural Medicine: Opportunities to serve underserved communities
Ensure NEET qualification before applying
Verify NMC-approved status
Learn basic Nepali for local patient interactions
Maintain consistent academic performance
Participate in community outreach programs for holistic development
1. What is the duration of MBBS at KAHS?
The MBBS program lasts 5.5 years, including 5 years of academic study and 6–12 months of internship.
2. Is KAHS recognized by NMC for Indian students?
Yes, KAHS is NMC-approved, allowing graduates to appear for FMGE/NExT in India.
3. What is the tuition fee for MBBS at KAHS?
Approximate tuition fee is USD 6,500–7,000 per year, totaling around USD 34,000–34,500 for the entire course.
4. Is NEET mandatory for Indian students?
Yes, Indian students must qualify NEET to study MBBS at KAHS.
5. Are hostels available for international students?
Yes, KAHS provides safe, furnished hostels with shared facilities.
6. Can I study MBBS in English at KAHS?
Yes, the university offers English-medium MBBS programs for international students.
7. What are the eligibility criteria for MBBS admission at KAHS?
Students must have 50% in PCB, be 17–25 years old, and medically fit.
8. What is the admission process for 2025?
Submit online application, receive admission confirmation, apply for a student visa, pay fees, and join classes in Nepal.
9. Can I practice in India after MBBS from KAHS?
Yes, after passing FMGE/NExT, graduates are eligible to practice in India.
10. Are there opportunities for postgraduate studies after KAHS?
Yes, graduates can pursue MD/MS or specialization programs in Nepal or abroad.