Smolensk State Medical University (SSMU) is a public medical university located in Smolensk, Russia, established in 1920. It is a popular destination for international students, especially from India, due to its English-medium MBBS program and affordable fees.
Programs for international students
The university offers several medical programs in English.
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS): This program lasts six years, including five years of academic study and a one-year clinical internship.
- Other faculties: The university offers other courses, such as Dentistry, Pediatrics, and Pharmacy.
Recognition and reputation
- International recognition: SSMU is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India, and the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) in the U.S..
- International standing: Some sources list SSMU among the top medical universities in Russia.
- FMGE pass rate: According to 2024 data, SSMU had a strong Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) pass rate of approximately 42.9% among its Indian graduates.
Admission requirements for Indian students
For admission to the English-medium MBBS program, Indian students must meet the following criteria:
- Academics: Must have completed 10+2 with a science background (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) and a minimum of 50% aggregate marks (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.
- No entrance exam: No additional entrance exam is required for admission.
Campus and facilities
- Hostels: SSMU provides hostel accommodation for international students, with separate facilities for boys and girls.
- Amenities: Hostels are equipped with essential amenities such as heating, internet access, cooking facilities, laundry, and 24/7 security.
- Indian mess: Indian mess facilities are available on campus, offering both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food options.
- Clinical training: The university has affiliations with multiple hospitals, providing students with extensive practical training.
- Library: SSMU has an extensive library with a wide collection of medical resources.
- Recreational facilities: The campus offers sports facilities, a swimming pool, and a cultural center that hosts events and festivals.
Location
- Smolensk: The university is in Smolensk, a historic city in western Russia, about four hours from Moscow.
- Cultural environment: International students have the opportunity to experience a new culture while studying.