According to the Indian Embassy in Astana, as reported by College Mentor, medical degree courses in Kazakhstan may be extended to seven years, with the option remaining of completing the programme in six, if the student is accepted onto the accelerated pathway.
Thousands of students are currently training to be doctors in Kazakhstan on specialised programmes aimed at preparing medical professionals in six years. The Indian Embassy is urging potential applicants to Kazakh medical institutes to thoroughly check the conditions of study before making an application, and not to make assumptions that the course will last for the shorter duration.
According to College Mentor, this plan has not yet been finalised, and discussions are underway before a reasoned decision is taken, in the interests of all parties.
Foreign medical students are an asset both to their universities and to the local community, some of the more active introducing initiatives that inspire others, build bridges, and further the study ambitions of the members. These include both the Association of International Students and the 2026 Microbiological Summit, both the result of students from other countries working together.
Meanwhile, a recent graduate of the Asfendiarov Kazakh National Medical University in Almaty, recently returned to his homeland, Ankit Singh, told saqtimes.kz that he believes the decision is the right one.
“Yes, this will require more time and cost more, but in the end, it is the right decision not only for the students, but for their future patients, too.
“I would also like to add one thing… I lived in Almaty for five years, and since I left, I miss it enormously.
“Adding the extra year to the training will also mean that foreign students get to spend more time in Kazakhstan.”
It should be noted that this is not yet a final decision, and the Indian Embassy will release details when confirmed, but the advice remains to prospective students to factor in the possible extra year before committing.
