Founded in 1996 in Yerevan, Armenia, Mkhitar Gosh Russian Armenian International University is a private institution that has historically attracted international students with its medical programs. The university offered an English-taught MBBS program.
Concerns regarding recognition and quality
Information from different sources varies significantly regarding the university’s recognition and quality.
- Contradictory Recognition: Some sources claim the university is recognized by international bodies like the World Health Organization (WHO), the National Medical Commission (NMC), and the Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER). However, other educational consultants advise against attending due to poor infrastructure, low education quality, and a lack of proper clinical exposure.
- Low Clinical Exposure: Due to Armenia’s relatively small population, the university offers limited clinical exposure, which is a key component of medical education.
- Low Quality and Ranking: Some sources cite poor quality of education, low-quality infrastructure, and poor international rankings for the university.
Admission requirements (past)
Based on information from before the university’s accreditation issues were widely reported, the requirements for admission typically included:
- A minimum of 50% in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology in the 12th grade (40% for reserved categories).
- A qualifying score on the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) was required for Indian students.
- Applicants were required to be at least 17 years old by December 31 of the admission year.
Facilities (past)
Historically, the university offered various facilities to attract international students, such as:
- On-campus hostels with amenities
- Indian food options
- Libraries, computer labs, and sports facilities
Status update and official warning
Following a 2021 investigation by Armenia’s Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports, St. Tereza Medical University’s (which some sources indicate was linked to Mkhitar Gosh) license was terminated in February 2022. A 2022 advisory from the Embassy of India in Yerevan warned Indian students not to seek admission at St. Tereza, citing issues including lack of accreditation renewal and allegations of corruption.
While Mkhitar Gosh may not be officially named in the Embassy’s warning, the broader context surrounding private medical universities in Armenia warrants significant caution. Prospective students should verify the current status of any university with relevant government and accreditation bodies.