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Study Abroad – Study in Kazakhstan for Indian Students

Study Abroad – Study in the Kazakhstan
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Over the last decade, Kazakhstan has gained immense popularity among Indian students, particularly for medical studies (MBBS). With low tuition fees, NMC-approved universities, English-medium instruction, and globally recognized degrees, it is one of the most affordable and reliable destinations for Indian students dreaming of becoming doctors.

In 2025, more than 12,000 Indian students are enrolled in Kazakh universities, most of them pursuing MBBS.

This article gives you a complete guide on studying in Kazakhstan as an Indian student – including top universities, courses, eligibility, admission process, scholarships, visa details, cost of living, and career opportunities.

Quick Facts About Kazakhstan

AspectDetails
CapitalAstana (Nur-Sultan)
Largest CityAlmaty
CurrencyKazakhstani Tenge (KZT)
Official LanguageKazakh & Russian
Medium of StudyEnglish & Russian
Indian Students12,000+
Popular CoursesMBBS, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Engineering
Academic IntakesSeptember (major), January (limited)
ClimateExtremely cold winters (-20°C), warm summers (30°C)

Why Study in Kazakhstan?

✅ Advantages

  1. Affordable Education – MBBS fees ₹15–25 lakh total (much cheaper than India, USA, or UK).
  2. NMC/MCI-Approved Universities – Graduates can practice medicine in India after FMGE/NExT exam.
  3. English-Medium Programs – Especially for MBBS, Dentistry, and Pharmacy.
  4. Globally Recognized Degrees – WHO, ECFMG, and UNESCO listed.
  5. No Entrance Exam – Admission based on NEET score (required for Indian students).
  6. Safe for Indians – Large Indian community, cultural similarities, and vegetarian food availability.
  7. Good Teacher-Student Ratio – Practical-oriented medical training.
  8. Proximity to India – Only 3–4 hours flight from Delhi.

Challenges

  • Harsh Winters (very cold, especially in Astana).
  • Language Barrier – Daily life often requires Russian/Kazakh.
  • Limited Job Scope in Kazakhstan – Most students return to India or move to other countries.

Top Universities in Kazakhstan for Indian Students

Most Indian students choose medical universities in Kazakhstan. Below are some NMC-approved universities:

  1. Kazakh National Medical University (Almaty) – Top-ranked, highly preferred by Indians.
  2. Astana Medical University (Astana) – Strong research facilities, modern hospital tie-ups.
  3. South Kazakhstan Medical Academy (Shymkent) – Affordable fees, English-medium MBBS.
  4. Karaganda State Medical University (Karaganda) – Oldest and reputed institution.
  5. Semey State Medical University (Semey) – Known for quality education and international recognition.
  6. West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University (Aktobe) – Good for clinical practice exposure.

💡 All these universities are recognized by NMC (India), WHO, and listed in WDOMS (World Directory of Medical Schools).

Popular Courses in Kazakhstan for Indian Students

  • MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery) – Most popular course.
  • Dentistry (BDS)
  • Pharmacy
  • Nursing & Paramedical Courses
  • Engineering & IT (limited Indian student presence).

Admission Requirements for Indian Students

For MBBS (Most Popular Program)

  • Must have completed 10+2 with PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology).
  • Minimum 50% marks (General), 40% (SC/ST/OBC).
  • NEET qualification is mandatory for Indian students.
  • Age: Minimum 17 years by 31st December of admission year.

Documents Required

  • Passport (valid for 18+ months).
  • 10th & 12th mark sheets.
  • NEET scorecard.
  • Birth certificate.
  • Medical certificate (fitness + HIV test).
  • Passport size photos.
  • University admission letter.
  • Apostille & translation of documents (done in India).

Cost of Studying in Kazakhstan

Tuition Fees for MBBS (6 years including internship)

  • Average: ₹2.5 – 4.5 lakh per year
  • Total: ₹15 – 25 lakh (entire MBBS course)

Cost of Living (Monthly Average)

ExpenseCost (KZT)Cost (INR)
Accommodation30,000 – 50,000₹5,500 – 9,000
Food25,000 – 40,000₹4,500 – 7,000
Transport5,000 – 10,000₹900 – 1,800
Miscellaneous10,000 – 15,000₹1,800 – 2,700
Total Monthly70,000 – 1,00,000₹12,000 – 18,000

👉 Annual living cost: ₹1.5 – 2 lakh, much lower compared to Europe or USA.

Scholarships for Indian Students

While tuition is already affordable, some universities and government programs offer partial scholarships:

  1. Bolashak International Scholarship – For international students in Kazakhstan.
  2. University-specific Scholarships – Based on merit (rare for MBBS).
  3. Indian Embassy & NGO Grants – Small financial support options.

Student Visa Process for Kazakhstan

Indian students need a Kazakhstan Student Visa (Type – C9).

Visa Requirements

  • Admission letter from Kazakh university.
  • Valid passport.
  • Visa application form.
  • Medical certificate.
  • Proof of funds (bank statement).
  • Visa fee payment receipt.

👉 The university usually assists in visa application.

Part-Time Jobs for Indian Students in Kazakhstan

  • Officially, part-time work opportunities are limited for international students.
  • Some students manage freelance work (online tutoring, IT projects, etc.).
  • Primary focus is on studies, especially MBBS (time-consuming course).

Career Opportunities After Studying in Kazakhstan

  1. Return to India – Appear for FMGE/NExT exam to get license and practice in India.
  2. Work Abroad – MBBS graduates can appear for USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), AMC (Australia) and practice abroad.
  3. PG in Medicine – Many students pursue MD/MS in India or abroad after MBBS.
  4. Job in Kazakhstan – Limited, requires Russian/Kazakh language proficiency.

Lifestyle for Indian Students in Kazakhstan

  • Indian Community – Large number of Indian MBBS students (12,000+).
  • Food – Indian mess facilities available in hostels; Indian restaurants in big cities (Almaty, Astana).
  • Culture – Friendly, safe, and affordable lifestyle.
  • Climate – Winters can be extreme (carry warm clothing).

Comparison: MBBS in Kazakhstan vs Other Countries

CountryDurationTuition FeesRecognitionLanguageLiving Cost
Kazakhstan6 years₹15–25 lakhNMC, WHOEnglishLow
Russia6 years₹20–30 lakhNMC, WHOEnglish/RussianMedium
Ukraine6 years₹20–30 lakhNMC, WHOEnglish/UkrainianMedium
Philippines6.5 years₹18–25 lakhNMC, WHOEnglishMedium
India (Private MBBS)5.5 years₹50–80 lakhNMCEnglishHigh

👉 Kazakhstan is one of the most affordable MBBS options for Indian students.

FAQs – Study in Kazakhstan for Indian Students

Q1. Is Kazakhstan good for MBBS for Indian students?
✅ Yes, it is one of the most affordable and NMC-approved destinations for MBBS abroad.

Q2. Is NEET required to study in Kazakhstan?
✅ Yes, Indian students must qualify NEET to apply for MBBS in Kazakhstan.

Q3. What is the total cost of MBBS in Kazakhstan?
👉 Around ₹18 – 30 lakh (including tuition + living) for the full 6-year program.

Q4. Is MBBS from Kazakhstan valid in India?
✅ Yes, but students must clear the FMGE/NExT exam to practice in India.

Q5. Do students face language problems in Kazakhstan?
👉 Classes are in English, but daily life often requires basic Russian/Kazakh.

Conclusion

Studying in Kazakhstan is an excellent option for Indian students who want to pursue MBBS abroad at an affordable cost. With NMC-recognized universities, English-medium education, and strong clinical exposure, it offers great value for money compared to Indian private colleges.

While students must prepare for FMGE/NExT to practice in India, the overall return on investment is very high.

👉 If you’re an Indian student looking for budget-friendly MBBS abroad options in 2025, Kazakhstan should be one of your top choices.