Medicine is one of the most respected professions in the world. Every year, lakhs of students dream of becoming doctors, but only a limited number manage to secure a seat in their home countries due to high competition, limited government seats, and extremely high private college fees. This challenge drives many students to explore MBBS opportunities abroad.
One of the popular destinations for affordable, quality medical education is Kazakhstan. Among the well-established medical universities in the country, North Kazakhstan State University (NKSU) stands out as a trusted institution that offers globally recognized MBBS programs for international students.
In this detailed article, we will explore everything you need to know about pursuing MBBS at North Kazakhstan State University, including admission procedures, eligibility requirements, fee structures, hostel facilities, career opportunities, and much more.
North Kazakhstan State University, also known as NKSU or North Kazakhstan State University named after M. Kozybayev, is one of the oldest and most respected universities in Kazakhstan. Established in 1937, the university has grown into a multi-disciplinary institution with a strong focus on medicine, science, and technology.
Located in Petropavl, the northern city of Kazakhstan, NKSU offers modern infrastructure, skilled faculty, and affordable education. The MBBS program here is designed to meet international standards, making it an excellent choice for students from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Africa.
Government university with a long-standing reputation.
MBBS taught entirely in English for international students.
Recognized by WHO, NMC (India), FAIMER, and other global medical bodies.
Affordable tuition fees and living expenses.
Advanced laboratories, modern classrooms, and strong clinical exposure.
Choosing the right university is critical for a student’s future. NKSU provides many advantages that make it a preferred choice among international students.
Affordable Fees – MBBS fees at NKSU are much lower than private medical colleges in India or Western universities.
Global Recognition – Graduates can appear for international licensing exams such as NEXT (India), USMLE (USA), and PLAB (UK).
English Medium Program – The entire course is taught in English, eliminating language barriers.
Strong Clinical Training – Partnerships with hospitals provide real-time patient care training.
Safe and Student-Friendly Location – Petropavl is a peaceful and affordable city for students.
No Donations Required – Admission is based purely on eligibility, without capitation fees.
International Community – Students from multiple countries create a multicultural learning environment.
The MBBS program at North Kazakhstan State University follows a modern structure that balances classroom learning with practical clinical training.
Duration: 6 years (5 years academic + 1 year internship).
Medium of Instruction: English for international students.
Curriculum: Follows international standards with focus on anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, surgery, pediatrics, gynecology, and general medicine.
Clinical Exposure: Starts from the 3rd year at university-affiliated hospitals.
Students must meet specific eligibility requirements to apply for MBBS at North Kazakhstan State University:
Age Requirement – Minimum 17 years old by 31st December of the admission year.
Academic Qualification –
Completed 10+2 or equivalent.
Minimum 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (40% for reserved categories in India).
NEET Requirement – Indian students must qualify NEET for eligibility to study MBBS abroad.
Language – No IELTS/TOEFL required, as the program is taught in English.
The admission process at NKSU is simple and transparent.
Application Submission – Fill out the university’s application form with personal and academic details.
Document Submission – Upload scanned copies of required documents.
Admission Letter – Receive an official admission letter after verification.
Visa Invitation – The Ministry of Education issues an invitation for a student visa.
Visa Application – Apply for a student visa at the Kazakhstan embassy.
Travel and Enrollment – Fly to Kazakhstan and complete university enrollment.
To apply for MBBS at NKSU, students need:
Valid passport.
10th and 12th mark sheets and certificates.
NEET scorecard (for Indian students).
Passport-size photographs.
Birth certificate.
Medical fitness certificate.
Police clearance certificate (if required).
One of the biggest attractions of studying MBBS at NKSU is its affordable fee structure.
Tuition Fees: Around 3,500 – 4,500 USD per year.
Total Tuition Fees (6 years): Approximately 21,000 – 27,000 USD.
Hostel Fees: 600 – 800 USD per year.
Living Expenses: Around 150 – 200 USD per month.
Tuition Fees: 21,000 – 27,000 USD
Hostel Fees: 3,600 – 4,800 USD
Living Expenses: 7,200 – 9,000 USD
Total Approx. Cost: 32,000 – 40,000 USD (entire 6 years)
This is significantly more affordable compared to private MBBS colleges in India, where costs can cross 80 lakhs to 1 crore INR.
NKSU provides comfortable hostel accommodation for international students.
Separate hostels for male and female students.
Fully furnished rooms with heating and internet.
Mess facilities providing Indian and international cuisine.
Shared kitchen facilities for self-cooking.
Laundry, gym, and recreational areas.
24/7 security with CCTV surveillance.
Campus life is vibrant, with cultural festivals, sports activities, and student clubs. The environment is safe, welcoming, and ideal for international students.
Graduates of North Kazakhstan State University have diverse career options:
Practice in India – Appear for the NEXT exam to practice in India.
International Opportunities – Eligible for USMLE, PLAB, AMC, and other licensing exams abroad.
Postgraduate Studies – Pursue MD/MS or other specializations in Kazakhstan, India, or overseas.
Hospital Practice – Work in leading hospitals across the world.
Research and Teaching – Build careers in academics and medical research.
Affordable education with global recognition.
Safe and multicultural environment.
English-medium course tailored for international students.
Modern classrooms, labs, and teaching hospitals.
Highly qualified professors with international exposure.
No donation or capitation fee required.
1. Is North Kazakhstan State University recognized by NMC?
Yes, NKSU is recognized by NMC (India), WHO, and other global medical councils.
2. What is the total duration of MBBS at NKSU?
The MBBS program is 6 years long, including 1 year of internship.
3. What is the annual tuition fee at NKSU?
The tuition fee is about 3,500 – 4,500 USD per year.
4. Do I need NEET to apply for MBBS at NKSU?
Yes, Indian students must qualify NEET to be eligible.
5. Is the MBBS course taught in English?
Yes, NKSU offers MBBS in English for international students.
6. What are the hostel facilities like at NKSU?
Hostels provide furnished rooms, heating, internet, Indian food options, and 24/7 security.
7. Can I practice in India after MBBS from NKSU?
Yes, graduates can practice in India after clearing the NEXT exam.
8. What are the living expenses in Kazakhstan?
Monthly living expenses are about 150 – 200 USD.
9. Does NKSU provide clinical exposure to students?
Yes, students receive clinical training from the 3rd year in affiliated hospitals.
10. Is Kazakhstan safe for international students?
Yes, Kazakhstan is considered safe, with Petropavl offering a welcoming student-friendly environment.