In recent years, Kazakhstan has become a preferred destination for Indian students pursuing MBBS abroad. Known for its affordable tuition fees, English-medium instruction, and globally recognized universities, Kazakhstan attracts thousands of aspirants annually. Many students opt for MBBS in Kazakhstan due to limited government medical seats in India and the high costs of private medical colleges.
However, studying MBBS abroad is only the first step. To practice medicine in India after graduation, foreign medical graduates (FMGs) must clear licensing requirements, particularly the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE), which will soon be replaced by the National Exit Test (NExT).
This raises a key question: How are Kazakhstan MBBS degrees recognized in India, and what are the FMGE and licensing requirements?
This article provides a comprehensive overview of Kazakhstan MBBS FMGE and licensing requirements, including NMC guidelines, exam eligibility, performance statistics, and future implications.
The National Medical Commission (NMC) regulates the recognition of foreign medical qualifications in India. For Kazakhstan MBBS graduates, the following factors ensure recognition:
University Approval:
Most top medical universities in Kazakhstan, such as Kazakh National Medical University (KazNMU), Astana Medical University, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Semey State Medical University, and Karaganda Medical University, are NMC-approved.
These universities are also listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS), which is mandatory for FMGE/NExT eligibility.
Eligibility Criteria:
Students must complete MBBS at a university recognized by NMC and WDOMS.
They must fulfill NMC’s criteria for course duration, medium of instruction, and internship requirements.
Thus, Kazakhstan MBBS degrees are recognized in India, but graduates must qualify through FMGE (or NExT in the future) before obtaining a medical license.
The Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE), also called the screening test, is mandatory for all Indian citizens or Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) who have obtained an MBBS degree from a foreign university.
Conducted by: National Board of Examinations (NBE).
Frequency: Twice a year – June and December.
Format: Computer-based, multiple-choice questions.
Total Questions: 300 (two sections of 150 each).
Passing Criteria: Minimum 150 marks (50%).
Attempts: Unlimited, no age restriction.
Must have completed MBBS from an NMC-approved university in Kazakhstan.
Must possess a Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) recognized by WDOMS.
Must hold an Eligibility Certificate (for batches admitted before 2019) or NEET qualification (mandatory for admissions after 2019).
Without clearing FMGE, Kazakhstan MBBS graduates cannot register with NMC or practice in India.
The FMGE acts as a quality filter, ensuring that only competent doctors receive licenses.
One of the biggest concerns for Indian students is the FMGE success rate.
Data from the National Board of Examinations indicates:
Kazakhstan MBBS graduates’ pass rate ranges between 10%–18% on average.
The global average pass rate for FMGE is between 12%–25%.
Kazakhstan’s performance is comparable to Kyrgyzstan and Russia but lower than Bangladesh and Nepal, which report higher pass percentages.
Curriculum Gaps – Kazakhstan MBBS syllabus differs slightly from India’s MBBS curriculum.
Language Issues – Although teaching is in English, clinical practice often involves Kazakh or Russian, limiting students’ ability to interact with patients effectively.
Limited Clinical Exposure – Compared to Indian teaching hospitals, some Kazakhstan universities offer fewer patient-handling opportunities.
Late FMGE Preparation – Many students begin preparing only after returning to India, reducing success chances.
The rise of online FMGE coaching programs, mock tests, and Indian faculty collaborations in Kazakhstan has improved the preparedness of students.
Many students now start FMGE preparation in their 3rd or 4th year of MBBS, leading to slightly better pass rates.
Once an Indian student completes MBBS in Kazakhstan, they must fulfill certain licensing requirements in India.
Complete a 5 or 6-year MBBS program, depending on the university.
Successfully finish internship training as per university norms.
Register for FMGE with NBE.
Qualify the exam with 50% marks.
Obtain FMGE clearance certificate.
Even if students complete internships abroad, NMC requires a one-year internship in India after FMGE.
This internship is done at NMC-approved hospitals.
After FMGE clearance and internship, graduates can apply for permanent registration with NMC/state councils.
Only then can they legally practice in India.
India is introducing the National Exit Test (NExT), which will replace FMGE.
Single Exam System: Will serve as a final MBBS exam for Indian students, a licensing exam for FMGs, and the basis for PG admissions.
Two Steps:
NExT Step 1 – Theoretical knowledge-based exam (similar to FMGE).
NExT Step 2 – Practical/clinical skills test.
Greater Emphasis on Clinical Knowledge – More challenging than FMGE.
Kazakhstan MBBS degrees will still be recognized in India if from NMC-approved universities.
Graduates will be eligible to take NExT Step 1 and Step 2.
Passing both steps is mandatory for licensing.
NExT may prove tougher than FMGE due to its practical orientation, demanding better clinical exposure.
Some students may wish to practice in Kazakhstan itself after graduation. In such cases, requirements include:
Completion of MBBS from an accredited Kazakhstan university.
Passing the state licensing exam conducted by Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Health.
Registration with the Kazakhstan Medical Council.
Fluency in Kazakh/Russian for effective practice.
While possible, most Indian students aim to return to India, making FMGE/NExT more relevant.
Affordable Fees – Total cost (₹15–30 lakhs) is much lower than Indian private colleges.
Globally Recognized Universities – Many institutions are NMC-approved and WDOMS-listed.
English-Medium Courses – Easier adaptation for Indian students.
Similar Curriculum – Comparable to Indian MBBS structure, with theoretical and clinical balance.
Indian Community – Thousands of Indian students already enrolled, providing cultural comfort.
Modern Infrastructure – Universities are equipped with advanced labs and teaching hospitals.
FMGE/NExT Hurdle – Success depends on preparation, not just the degree.
Language Barriers – Clinical training often requires Russian/Kazakh interaction.
Quality Variations – Some universities offer limited clinical exposure.
Climate and Cultural Differences – Harsh winters and cultural adaptation may affect some students.
Uncertainty of NExT – New exam format creates anxiety about future requirements.
Choose the Right University – Prefer reputed, NMC-approved institutions like KazNMU, Astana Medical University, etc.
Start Early Preparation – Begin FMGE/NExT-oriented studies by 2nd or 3rd year.
Coaching Support – Enroll in specialized FMGE/NExT preparation courses.
Clinical Exposure – Actively participate in hospital rounds, even with language challenges.
Mock Tests – Regular practice boosts confidence and exam readiness.
Stay Updated on NMC Rules – Requirements can evolve, so students must follow the latest guidelines.
Bangladesh & Nepal – Higher FMGE pass rates due to curriculum similarity with India.
Russia & Kyrgyzstan – Similar FMGE pass rates as Kazakhstan.
Philippines – Moderate pass rates, but US-style education system.
Kazakhstan – Balanced option with affordable fees, but students must work harder for FMGE success.
Kazakhstan MBBS degrees are recognized in India if obtained from NMC-approved universities.
Graduates must clear FMGE (currently) or NExT (future) to practice in India.
Licensing requirements also include a one-year internship in India and registration with NMC.
While Kazakhstan provides affordable, quality medical education, the true challenge lies in FMGE/NExT clearance.
Success depends heavily on choosing the right university, early preparation, and practical exposure.
Studying MBBS in Kazakhstan offers a great opportunity for Indian students, thanks to affordable fees, English-medium courses, and globally recognized universities. However, recognition in India requires compliance with NMC regulations, FMGE clearance, and a compulsory internship. With the upcoming NExT exam, the pathway will become more challenging but also more standardized.
For students committed to hard work, Kazakhstan MBBS can be a valid, rewarding choice, provided they prepare diligently for FMGE/NExT and remain updated about licensing requirements.