Tashkent Medical Academy (TMA) stands as one of the most reputable medical institutions in Central Asia, offering high-quality education, affordable tuition, and a globally recognized MBBS program. Located in the capital city of Uzbekistan, TMA has become a favored destination for thousands of international students seeking a strong academic foundation in medicine without the financial burden often associated with Western universities. Founded officially in 2005 following the merger of the First and Second Tashkent State Medical Institutes, the academy’s roots go back to 1920, making it one of the oldest and most historically significant medical institutions in the region. Its long-standing academic tradition, combined with a progressive approach to education, provides a solid platform for students who aspire to pursue global careers in medicine, research, or public health.

Situated in Tashkent, a culturally rich, safe, and vibrant city, Tashkent Medical Academy offers an ideal environment for international students. Tashkent combines traditional Uzbek hospitality with modern infrastructure, giving students access to museums, historical landmarks, and diverse cuisines, while also ensuring affordable living and public transportation. The university campus itself is fully equipped with modern infrastructure including smart classrooms, simulation labs, diagnostic centers, and research laboratories. TMA also has a multidisciplinary teaching hospital right on campus, where students gain hands-on experience in real-life medical scenarios from the early years of their education. The university’s efforts to blend theory with practical exposure through its on-site hospital, OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) labs, and internships in public health facilities reflect its mission to prepare students for both local and international healthcare systems.

One of the major advantages of studying at Tashkent Medical Academy is its globally recognized MBBS program. The MBBS degree offered here is acknowledged by various global health authorities such as the World Health Organization (WHO), UNESCO, and the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) in the United States. In India, TMA is recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC), which enables Indian graduates to take the FMGE/NEXT examination to obtain a license to practice in India. TMA’s listing in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS) further certifies the institution’s credibility and makes graduates eligible for licensing exams such as USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), and AMC (Australia). This international accreditation opens doors for students who wish to continue their studies or begin their medical practice abroad.

The MBBS program at TMA spans six years and follows a structured and scientifically backed curriculum. The program is divided into five academic years and one year of compulsory internship. The initial two years focus on pre-clinical subjects including Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology, and Histology. These foundational courses equip students with the necessary knowledge to understand the human body and its functions. From the third year onward, students begin clinical rotations in various disciplines including Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Neurology, Psychiatry, and Emergency Medicine. The final year is dedicated to an internship where students work under the supervision of senior doctors in affiliated hospitals, gaining invaluable practical skills and confidence. This rigorous, hands-on training ensures that graduates of TMA are not only well-versed in theory but also capable of managing real patients in real-world settings.

One of the key features that make TMA attractive to international students is the affordability of the program. Unlike medical schools in Europe, the USA, or the UK, where tuition can exceed tens of thousands of dollars per year, TMA maintains a much more accessible fee structure. The total cost for a six-year MBBS program ranges from $21,000 to $27,000, inclusive of tuition, hostel accommodation, and other administrative fees. This cost-effectiveness is especially beneficial for students from South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, where demand for affordable yet reputable medical education is high. Furthermore, the cost of living in Tashkent is considerably lower than in most Western countries. Monthly expenses, including food, transportation, and leisure, typically fall between $150 to $250. TMA also provides hostel facilities with basic furnishings, heating, Wi-Fi, and 24/7 security, ensuring that students have a comfortable and safe environment to focus on their studies.

Tashkent Medical Academy is not only focused on teaching but also deeply invested in medical research. With over 25 ongoing research projects annually, the academy encourages students to participate in studies across various medical fields. The Interuniversity Scientific Research Laboratory acts as a hub for innovation, where faculty and students collaborate on projects that contribute to both local and global healthcare improvements. From public health initiatives to advanced clinical trials, students are exposed to a research-driven environment that sharpens their analytical and investigative skills—qualities highly valued in postgraduate medical education and specialized practice. TMA also organizes international scientific conferences and medical competitions, giving students opportunities to present their findings and engage with professionals from around the world.

The academy actively supports internationalization, offering services tailored to the needs of foreign students. The medium of instruction for the MBBS program is English, and the faculty includes professors who have trained or worked in countries like Germany, Russia, India, and China. The International Department assists new students with admission, visa processing, airport pickup, accommodation, and cultural orientation. This student-focused approach ensures that newcomers feel welcomed and supported from the moment they arrive in Uzbekistan. Cultural integration is also encouraged through student exchange programs and collaborations with universities in Europe and Asia. These partnerships allow TMA students to participate in exchange semesters and research collaborations, providing them with a global perspective on healthcare systems and patient care models.

Student life at Tashkent Medical Academy goes beyond academics. The campus hosts several student clubs, including sports teams, debate forums, cultural societies, and volunteer organizations. Annual events such as the International Student Day, Health Week, and the TMA Cultural Festival allow students from different countries to showcase their traditions, build cross-cultural friendships, and participate in community service. These events foster a sense of unity and help students adapt to a multicultural environment. Additionally, the university ensures the safety of its students through round-the-clock campus security and emergency response protocols. Female students, in particular, benefit from women-only hostels and health support services, making TMA a suitable and secure option for students from conservative or safety-conscious backgrounds.

Admission into TMA is relatively straightforward compared to medical colleges in Western countries. There is no entrance examination for most international students. Applicants need to have completed 12th grade with at least 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. For Indian students, qualification in the NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) is mandatory to obtain eligibility for practicing in India post-graduation. The admission process begins around April or May every year, with classes typically starting in September or October. Prospective students are required to submit their academic transcripts, NEET scorecard (if applicable), copyright, copyright-sized photographs, and a medical certificate stating their fitness. Once admitted, students receive an official invitation letter, which they use to apply for a student visa from the Uzbekistan embassy or consulate.

Graduates of Tashkent Medical Academy enjoy a wide range of career opportunities. Upon completing their degree and internship, students can return to their home country and appear for licensing exams like FMGE in India, USMLE in the USA, PLAB in the UK, or equivalent licensing tests in their respective countries. TMA alumni are currently working in prestigious hospitals, private practices, research institutes, and public health organizations across the globe. Those who wish to continue their studies can pursue postgraduate degrees (MD/MS) in Uzbekistan or move to Europe or other countries that accept TMA’s MBBS degree. Additionally, TMA graduates have a good track record in clearing international medical licensing exams, thanks to the comprehensive training and guidance provided throughout the program.

In recent years, the popularity of MBBS in Uzbekistan—and particularly at Tashkent Medical Academy—has grown significantly. As global demand for qualified medical professionals continues to rise, more students are looking for alternatives to expensive Western medical schools. Uzbekistan, with its NMC-approved universities, English-medium courses, and increasing global integration, has emerged as a reliable destination. TMA, in particular, leads this transformation with its commitment to academic quality, research, global affiliations, and student-centric approach. By offering a holistic educational experience that balances classroom learning, clinical practice, research exposure, and personal development, TMA has earned its place as a leading medical education hub not just in Central Asia but in the world.

For international students—especially those from countries like India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, and parts of Africa—Tashkent Medical Academy represents a golden opportunity. It combines academic rigor with affordability, clinical excellence with practical exposure, and cultural diversity with institutional support. With dedicated English-language programs, easy admission procedures, globally recognized degrees, and a strong alumni network, Tashkent Medical Academy is paving the way for the next generation of globally competent doctors. Choosing Tashkent Medical Academy is more than just selecting a university; it’s a step toward a promising, impactful, and respected career in medicine.