Medicine is a career path that requires dedication, perseverance, and the right educational foundation. With the increasing demand for doctors worldwide, many students look beyond their home countries for affordable yet high-quality medical education. Kazakhstan has become one of the top destinations for MBBS aspirants, and Kokshetau State University (KSU) is among the most sought-after medical universities in the country.
Kokshetau State University, officially known as Sh. Ualikhanov Kokshetau State University, has gained recognition for its world-class teaching, affordable fee structure, and student-friendly environment. The MBBS program at this university attracts students from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Africa, and other countries due to its globally recognized degree and English-medium curriculum.
Founded in 1962, Kokshetau State University is located in Kokshetau, Kazakhstan. The university is named after Shoqan Ualikhanov, a famous Kazakh scholar and ethnographer. Over the years, it has developed into a multidisciplinary institution with strong programs in medicine, engineering, law, and humanities.
Location: Kokshetau, Kazakhstan
Medium of Instruction: English and Russian
Recognition: Recognized by WHO, National Medical Commission (NMC) India, and other medical councils
Students Enrolled: Thousands of local and international students
Courses Offered: MBBS, nursing, pharmacy, postgraduate medical programs
The medical faculty of KSU provides students with modern facilities, highly qualified professors, and exposure to clinical practice from the early years of study.
There are several reasons why international students prefer KSU for their MBBS journey:
Affordable Education – Compared to Indian private colleges or Western universities, the tuition fees are much lower.
Globally Recognized Degree – The MBBS degree is recognized worldwide, including by NMC and WHO.
English-Medium Curriculum – The program is taught in English for international students, eliminating language barriers.
High-Quality Faculty – Professors are experienced in teaching both local and international students.
No Donation or Capitation Fee – Admission is strictly merit-based, unlike some private institutions in other countries.
Safe Student Environment – Kazakhstan is considered safe, with student-friendly policies and facilities.
Cultural Diversity – Students from different countries study together, encouraging global exposure.
Modern Infrastructure – Well-equipped laboratories, libraries, hostels, and hospitals for practical training.
The MBBS program is 6 years long, divided into:
5 years of academic study (classroom + clinical practice)
1 year of compulsory internship in affiliated hospitals
English for international students
Russian/Kazakh for local students
The MBBS curriculum follows international standards and is designed to produce skilled doctors.
Pre-Clinical Years: Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology, Histology, Genetics
Para-Clinical Years: Microbiology, Pathology, Pharmacology, Forensic Medicine
Clinical Years: General Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Orthopedics, Psychiatry, Dermatology
Internship: Compulsory training in hospitals under supervision
The admission process is straightforward and transparent.
Application Form: Submit the online application form with personal and academic details.
Document Submission: Provide scanned copies of educational certificates, passport, and photographs.
Admission Letter: If eligible, the university issues an official admission letter.
Fee Payment: Students must pay the first installment of tuition fees to confirm admission.
Visa Application: Apply for a Kazakhstan student visa using the admission letter and other documents.
Travel to Kazakhstan: Once the visa is approved, students can travel and join classes.
Class 10 and 12 mark sheets
Valid passport
Passport-size photographs
NEET scorecard (for Indian students)
Medical fitness certificate
Migration and transfer certificates
Age Requirement
The candidate must be 17 years old by December 31 of the admission year.
Academic Qualification
Completion of 10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
Minimum 50% aggregate marks in PCB (40% for reserved categories in India).
NEET Requirement (for Indian Students)
NEET qualification is mandatory to study MBBS abroad and to practice in India later.
English Proficiency
Since the medium is English, students must have basic English communication skills.
One of the biggest advantages of studying MBBS at KSU is its affordability.
Tuition Fee: 3,500 – 4,000 USD per year
Total for 6 years: 21,000 – 24,000 USD
Hostel Fee: 600 – 1,000 USD per year
Food and Living Expenses: 1,200 – 1,800 USD per year
No hidden charges or donations
Overall cost is much lower than private MBBS colleges in India
Affordable cost of living in Kokshetau city
Kokshetau State University provides comfortable accommodation for international students.
On-Campus Hostels: Furnished rooms with Wi-Fi, study desks, and common areas
Food Facilities: Indian food is available in mess facilities and nearby restaurants
Private Housing: Students can also rent apartments off-campus
Safety: 24/7 security and CCTV monitoring ensure safety
The MBBS degree from KSU is recognized globally. The university is listed in:
World Health Organization (WHO)
National Medical Commission (NMC), India
FAIMER (Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research)
Medical councils of several other countries
This recognition allows graduates to appear for exams such as FMGE/NExT (India), USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), and more.
The university ensures students enjoy a well-rounded campus experience.
Cultural Diversity: Students from Asia, Africa, and Europe study together
Sports & Activities: Football, cricket, basketball, gym, cultural events
Support Services: Academic mentoring, counseling, and orientation programs
Safe Environment: Affordable lifestyle and friendly locals
Graduates of KSU have multiple career opportunities globally:
Practice in India – After clearing FMGE/NExT
Practice Abroad – Eligible for USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), MCCQE (Canada)
Postgraduate Studies – Can pursue specialization (MD/MS) in India or abroad
Research and Teaching – Opportunities in medical education and research institutes
Practice in Kazakhstan – Students can also work in local hospitals if they wish
Affordable tuition and living expenses
Globally recognized MBBS degree
English-medium education for international students
Safe and multicultural campus environment
Simple admission process without heavy entrance exams
Opportunity to practice medicine worldwide
Q1: Is Kokshetau State University recognized by NMC and WHO?
Yes, the university is recognized by both NMC and WHO, making its MBBS degree globally valid.
Q2: What is the duration of MBBS at KSU?
The program lasts 6 years, including 1 year of internship.
Q3: What is the approximate cost of MBBS at KSU?
The total cost ranges between 21,000 – 24,000 USD for the complete course, excluding living expenses.
Q4: Is NEET mandatory for Indian students applying to KSU?
Yes, NEET qualification is required for Indian students to apply and later practice in India.
Q5: What is the medium of teaching at KSU?
The MBBS program is taught in English for international students.
Q6: Does KSU provide hostel facilities?
Yes, on-campus hostels with all necessary facilities are available for students.
Q7: Is Kazakhstan safe for international students?
Yes, Kazakhstan is considered safe, and the university ensures additional security on campus.
Q8: Can I do postgraduate studies after MBBS at KSU?
Yes, graduates can pursue PG studies in India, the USA, the UK, or other countries.
Q9: How is the living cost in Kokshetau city?
The living cost is affordable, ranging from 1,200 – 1,800 USD per year for food and other expenses.
Q10: What career opportunities are available after MBBS at KSU?
Graduates can practice in India, pursue PG abroad, appear for licensing exams, or work in Kazakhstan.