Founded in 1921, Vinnytsia National Pirogov Memorial Medical University (VNMU) is a public institution in Vinnytsia, Ukraine, named in memory of the surgeon Nikolai Pirogov. It gained national university status in 2002.
Programs
VNMU is known for its medical programs and offers English-medium instruction to international students. The university has historically offered programs in:
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS): A six-year program that includes academic study and a clinical internship.
- Other programs: Degrees in Dentistry and Pharmacy.
Recognition and reputation
- International recognition: The university’s degrees are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Medical Commission (NMC).
- Accreditation: VNMU has been certified and accredited at level IV since 1994.
- FMGE pass rate: According to some sources, the university has a high pass rate for the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE), which is a key consideration for Indian students.
Admission requirements
Typical admission requirements for international students have included:
- Academic qualifications: Completion of 10+2 (or equivalent) with a science background (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology). A minimum of 50% aggregate marks is typically required (40% for reserved categories).
- NEET: Passing the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) is mandatory for Indian students wishing to practice in India after graduation.
- English proficiency: An English proficiency test is not explicitly mentioned as mandatory for the English-taught programs.
- Entrance exams: Unlike some countries, there is no mandatory pre-qualifying entrance exam for undergraduate courses at VNMU.
Fees and accommodation
- Tuition fees: Some sources mention an annual tuition fee for the English-taught MBBS program of approximately USD 5,000.
- Hostel facilities: The university offers on-campus accommodation for international students, with some sources mentioning seven hostels and other amenities.
- Cost of living: Some students have mentioned the relatively low cost of living in Vinnytsia.
- Indian mess: Some sources mention the availability of Indian mess services.
Campus and facilities
- Location: The main campus is in Vinnytsia, a city located in west-central Ukraine.
- Infrastructure: VNMU has a large library, research centers, computer labs, sports facilities, and access to affiliated hospitals.
- Hostels: All hostels are centrally heated and provide basic amenities.
- Indian Student Society: An active Indian Students Society has historically been present at the university.
Safety considerations
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is a significant safety risk for anyone in the region.
- Military activity: Vinnytsia has been subjected to attacks during the war.
- Official guidance: All prospective students should closely monitor travel advisories from their home countries and consult with the university’s official website [https://vnmu.edu.ua/] for the most current information regarding academic delivery and safety protocols.
- Study alternatives: Due to the security concerns, some academic programs might be delivered online or through alternative arrangements. Students should verify the current operational status directly with the university.