Caspian International School of Medicine (CISM) is a medical school located in Almaty, Kazakhstan, that is a subdivision of Caspian University. It was established in 1992 and is a popular choice for international students, particularly those from India, due to its English-medium MBBS program and affordable fees.
Programs for international students
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS): This 6-year program, which is equivalent to an MD in Kazakhstan, consists of five years of academic study and a one-year clinical internship.
- Instruction: The program is conducted entirely in English for international students.
- Curriculum: The syllabus is designed to meet international standards and includes basic sciences in the initial years, followed by clinical sciences and hands-on training.
Recognition and reputation
- International recognition: CISM is recognized by major international medical bodies, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India.
- Affiliation: It is certified by the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan and accredited by the German-based Accreditation, Certification and Quality Assurance Institute (ACQUIN).
- Rankings: Recent rankings vary depending on the source. According to uniRank, CISM is ranked 48th in Kazakhstan and 8807th globally. Other sources mention different rankings.
- FMGE pass rate: According to the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) Report for 2024, CISM had a pass percentage of 8.73% among its Indian graduates. However, some sources report varying pass rates.
- Clinical experience: Students gain clinical experience at affiliated hospitals in Almaty, with practical training increasing in later years.
Admission requirements for Indian students
To be eligible for admission, Indian students must meet the following criteria:
- Academics: Completed 10+2 with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (40% for reserved categories).
- NEET: A qualifying score on the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) is mandatory.
- Age: Must be at least 17 years old by December 31 of the admission year.
Fees and accommodation (2025 session)
- Tuition fees: The annual tuition fee for the MBBS program is approximately $4,500 USD.
- Hostels: CISM offers on-campus hostel facilities for international students, with some sources mentioning that the first year’s hostel fees are included in the total cost.
- Indian mess: Indian mess facilities are available on campus, and some sources mention it being compulsory for the first year.
- Cost of living: The cost of living in Almaty is relatively affordable.
Campus and facilities
- Location: The main campus is in Almaty, Kazakhstan, near the airport.
- Infrastructure: CISM features a modern campus with lecture halls, well-equipped laboratories, and research facilities.
- Student life: Students can participate in various extracurricular activities and cultural events.
- Exchange programs: The university has exchange programs with other universities in Russia and Europe.
Important considerations
- FMGE results: The FMGE pass rate should be a significant factor in your decision. While some sources suggest good results, others report lower pass rates, and pass rates can vary over time.
- Official confirmation: Students should verify all information, especially regarding admission requirements, fees, and program duration, directly with the university and relevant authorities like the NMC.