Best Medical Colleges in Armenia: Courses, Duration, Eligibility

Imagine studying medicine in a place that promises you the best career prospects. Yes, I am talking about Armenia. Here, you can pursue an MBBS or postgraduate degree in healthcare. The country’s medical field has witnessed significant growth in the past few years, which implies multiple job opportunities for professionals. Currently, there are around 1,683 job openings in the country, which highlights the demand for medical graduates. 

Meanwhile, I feel it is equally important to choose the right medical colleges in Armenia because the quality of education, the reputation of the institution, and the support system significantly impact the academic success and professional growth of students.

In this blog, I will discuss the best medical colleges in Armenia so that you can make your decision more easily. 

 

Why Study Medicine in Armenia

There are several reasons to study medicine in Armenia.  Some of the primary reasons are:

• Top Medical Universities: Armenia hosts top medical universities that offer MBBS programs to international students. Currently, over 2,000 of these students are from India.
• Well-Recognized Institutions: The top medical colleges in Armenia collaborate with international medical institutions and are globally recognized.
• Direct Admission: Indian students must clear the NEET examination to get admission to top medical colleges in Armenia.
• Affordable Tuition Fees: Tuition fees for MBBS programs in Armenia are more affordable compared to other countries, making it a budget-friendly option for international students.
• English Medium Instruction: Classes in top medical colleges in Armenia for MBBS are conducted in English, making them accessible to international students.
• High Standard of Living: Armenia offers a high standard of living at a low cost, allowing students to live comfortably within their budget.
• Hostel Facilities: Universities provide comfortable hostel accommodations and mess facilities for student safety and comfort.
• Career Prospects: After clearing the FMGE, graduates can practice medicine in Armenia or India or pursue careers worldwide.

Top 10 Medical Colleges in Armenia at Glance

I have gone through several websites to learn more about top educational institutes in the country. Here is my curated list of the top 10 medical colleges in Armenia for aspiring students. 

University	Annual Fees	Duration
Yerevan State Medical University (YSMU)	$6,500 (UG), $7,000 (PG)	1-4 years
St. Teresa Medical University	N/A	4-5 years
Mkhitar Gosh Armenian-Russian International University	$23,950.38 - $35,925.57	6 years
The University of Traditional Medicine	N/A	6 years
Armenian Medical Institute	$3,800	6 years
Yerevan Haybusak University	$3,800 - $5,000	6 years
American University of Armenia (AUA)	$11,703.64 (AMD 4,500,000)	4 years
Russian-Armenian (Slavonic) University	$5,000	4 to 6 years
Gladzor University	$2,228.07	6 years
Erebuni Medical Academy Foundation	$3,500	4 to 6 years

The fees for MBBS or any other medical degree may vary depending on the program type, institution, and other relevant factors.

Criteria for Choosing These Colleges 

I have considered several factors when selecting the above medical colleges in Armenia. These include: 

• Academic Reputation: This reflects the quality of education and the success of its graduates in the medical field.
• Facilities: Modern laboratories, libraries, and healthcare centers play a crucial role in providing comprehensive medical education.
• Student Satisfaction: Feedback from current and former students can provide insights into the student experience and the support services available.
• Research Output: This indicates the institution's commitment to advancing medical knowledge and providing opportunities for student involvement in research projects.

Detailed Overview of Top Medical Colleges 

You must know how to get admission to medical college in Armenia before proceeding with the program of your choice. Meanwhile, I have detailed an overview of the top 3 educational institutes that offer various medical programs for international students.

Yerevan State Medical University

Overview and History

Established in 1920, Yerevan State Medical University (YSMU) is the leading medical institution in Armenia. It has a rich history of providing medical education and training to students from around the world. YSMU is renowned for its distinguished faculty and comprehensive curriculum.

Programs Offered

• General Medicine (MBBS)
• Dentistry
• Pharmacy
• Nursing
• Postgraduate programs (Residency and Fellowship)
• Ph.D. programs

Benefits and Challenges

Let me help you understand the benefits and challenges of studying at the Yerevan State Medical University below. 

Benefits:

• It was awarded the best medical university for Indian students in 2019.
• It has trained more than 30,000 doctors practicing all over the world.
• Holds regular conferences and seminars for a supportive learning environment.

Challenges:

• High competition for admission.
• Intensive coursework and rigorous training requirements.
• Language barrier for non-Armenian speaking students.

St. Theresa Medical University

Overview and History

Established in 1922, St. Theresa Medical University is one of the private medical colleges in Armenia known for its innovative teaching methods. The university aims to provide education that combines modern medical practices with a humanistic approach to healthcare.

Programs Offered

• General Medicine (MBBS)
• Dentistry
• Nursing
• Public Health
• Master’s and Doctoral programs

Benefits and Challenges

Now, let us look at the benefits and challenges of pursuing medicine programs in this educational institute.

Benefits:

• Emphasis on practical and hands-on training.
• Modern facilities and state-of-the-art laboratories.
• Small class sizes ensure personalized attention.
• Focus on research and development in medical sciences.

Challenges:

• Higher tuition fees compared to public institutions.
• Limited extracurricular activities and campus facilities.
• Smaller alumni network compared to older institutions.

Mkhitar Gosh Armenian-Russian International University

Overview and History

Founded in 1996, Mkhitar Gosh Armenian-Russian International University focuses on providing a collaborative environment with international academic partnerships. The university is named after the medieval Armenian scholar Mkhitar Gosh and promotes academic excellence and cultural exchange.

Programs Offered

• General Medicine (MBBS)
• Dentistry
• Pharmacy
• Medical Laboratory Science
• Master’s and Doctoral programs

Benefits and Challenges

Let us have a look at the benefits and challenges of studying in this medical college in Armenia. 

Benefits:

• Dedicated quality monitoring center for grooming students.
• Collaborations with other organizations like the Armenia medical center for student placement and research purposes.
• Access to advanced research facilities and resources.
• A supportive environment for international students.

Challenges:

• Language barrier for students not fluent in Armenian or Russian.
• A relatively newer institution with a smaller alumni base.
• A limited number of specialized medical programs compared to larger universities.

Honorable Mentions: Medical Schools in Armenia

These educational institutes have a reputation for providing the highest quality medical courses in the country:

• Armenian Medical Institute
• University of Traditional Medicine
• Medical University After Saint Teresa
• Erebuni Medical Academy
• Kapan State Medical College

Eligibility for Medical Colleges in Armenia

The following are the points to consider in terms of eligibility criteria for medical colleges in Armenia. 

• Age: You must be at least 17 years old at the time of admission on or before the 31st of December of the year. The maximum age limit is 25 years for MBBS courses in the country.
• Entrance Exam: You must have cleared the NEET exam with the minimum required percentile.
• Nationality: You must be an Indian national and meet the specified criteria.
• 10+2 Qualification: You must have passed the 10+2 examination from a recognized board with at least 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

Admissions Requirements for Armenian Medical Colleges

There are specific requirements for admission into medical colleges in Armenia. I have curated these considerations below for your understanding.

• The application form must be filled with accurate information to avoid cancellation.
• Submit the online application directly to the university. Offline applications must be mailed with the required documents.
• An offer letter or acceptance letter will be sent to the applicant after the college receives the application.
• Confirm admission by paying the enrollment fee or admission fee to the medical college.
• Apply for your visa at the Armenian embassy with the necessary documents and the admission receipt.
• Following checks and interviews, you will receive the visa for the MBBS course in Armenia.
• Book flight tickets to Armenia once your enrollment is finalized.

Document Requirements

Here is a list of documents required for admission to medical programs in the colleges of Armenia.

1. Application Form and Curriculum Vitae 
2. School Mark Sheets and Pass Certificates (Class X & XII)
3. NEET Result
4. Birth Certificate
5. Notary-attested copies of the above documents
6. Fifteen colored passport-sized photographs
7. Processing Fee
8. Medical fitness certificate with HIV report
9. Eligibility Certificate from MCI
10. Valid Passport with three Notary attested photocopies

Visa Requirements

Here is a list of requirements to get a student visa and study in a medical college in Armenia:

• Completely filled application form with accurate details.
• Original and photocopies of passport
• Birth certificates and other mandatory certificates
• Passport size (3cm X 4cm) photographs
• Original and photocopies of mark sheets of classes XI and XII
• A scorecard of NEFT, if needed
• Transfer certificate from the previous school
• Leaving certificate from the concerned school
• Certificate of code of conduct
• Bank copy of guardians with sufficient funds to pay the Armenia MBBS College fees
• Medical checkup certificate

How to Apply to Medical Colleges in Armenia

I have curated the required steps to follow when applying to medical colleges in Armenia:

1. Research and select the medical college of your choice.
2. Fill out an application form on the college’s official web portal.
3. The institute will send an offer or admission letter once your application is reviewed and accepted.
4. Pay the application fee.
5. After confirmation, the college will send an invitation letter, which is required for the visa application.

Cost of Studying Medicine in Armenia

The cost of studying medicine in Armenia is around $6,500 to $7,000 per year. You will find some of the most affordable medical colleges in Armenia that provide quality education, modern facilities, and experienced faculty.

Cost of Living in Armenia

The cost of living in Armenia is approximately AMD 280,881.5 ($727.70) without rent. Meanwhile, the transportation cost ranges from AMD 100 ($0.26)  to AMD 4,000 ($10.36), depending on the vehicle type you use. 

Scholarships and Financial Aid for Students

I have researched multiple scholarships and financial aid options that you can take advantage of as a medical student in Armenia. Here are a few common options:

Here is the information organized into a table for better readability:

Scholarship Name	Benefits	Beneficiaries (Eligibility)
Yerevan State Medical University Scholarship	Covers up to 100% of the tuition fees for MBBS	International students with a high school diploma or equivalent
Armenian International Women's Association (AIWA)	Provides financial assistance of up to $2,000	Female students pursuing higher education (including MBBS) with a minimum of 70% marks in 10+2 and a NEET scorecard
Armenian General Benevolent Union Scholarship	Covers tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly allowance of $1,000 to $5,000	International students wishing to pursue an MBBS degree in Armenian universities and who have completed their secondary education

Student Life in Armenia

Studying in Armenia offers an enriching experience for all Indian students. The country provides a combination of high-quality education, affordability, and a rich cultural heritage. Armenian universities, including medical colleges, are known for their academic excellence, making Armenia an ideal destination for aspiring medical students.

Career Prospects After Studying Medicine in Armenia

You will have several career opportunities lined up after graduating from the best medical colleges in Armenia for Indian students. I have browsed through the following opportunities associated with this field. 

• Medical Practitioner: You can work as a medical doctor in hospitals, clinics, and private practices upon qualifying for the Licensing Examination of the country.
• Medical Researcher: You can work in universities, research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies to improve healthcare and develop treatments for diseases.
• Medical Consultant: You can provide advice and guidance to healthcare organizations, medical institutions, and pharmaceutical companies in various medical fields such as medicine and dentistry.

Conclusion

You have numerous course options at the top medical colleges in Armenia for postgraduate students. However, you need to keep certain things in mind when applying to these institutions. This involves checking the top institutes in the country, your eligibility criteria, the course cost, and more. By identifying these considerations, you can choose the best medical colleges in Armenia that align with your academic goals, budget, and career aspirations.