Volgograd State Medical University (Established 1935) — Detailed Overview
Volgograd State Medical University is one of Russia’s longest-standing and most respected institutions for medical education, with a legacy dating back to 1935. Originally founded as the Stalingrad Medical Institute, it evolved into an academy and later into a comprehensive medical university, earning national and international acclaim for excellence in teaching, research, and clinical training.
About the University
Volgograd State Medical University is a government-funded medical university located in Volgograd, a historic city on the banks of the Volga River in southwestern Russia. Over its long history, the university has trained thousands of medical professionals, many of whom serve in healthcare systems around the world.
Since 1962, the university has welcomed international students, becoming a preferred destination for students from Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America. Today, graduates with VolSMU degrees are practicing in over 120 countries across the globe.
International Recognition & Accreditation
Volgograd State Medical University enjoys wide international recognition and is officially authorized by:
Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation
World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS)
World Health Organization (WHO)
Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG)
Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER)
World Federation for Medical Education (WFME)
Recognized by India’s National Medical Commission (NMC, formerly MCI).
This accreditation ensures that degrees awarded by the university are accepted worldwide and eligible for licensing examinations such as FMGE/NEXT (India), USMLE (United States), PLAB (UK), and others.
Academic Structure & Faculties
Volgograd State Medical University comprises multiple faculties and departments that offer a broad spectrum of medical and health sciences programs, including:
Faculty of General Medicine
Faculty of Dentistry (Stomatology)
Faculty of Pediatrics
Faculty of Pharmacy
Faculty of Medical Biochemistry and Biotechnology
Postgraduate & Continuous Education Programs
The university hosts over 60 academic departments staffed by a highly qualified faculty that includes professors, associate professors, academicians, and researchers with international experience.
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Programs & Degree Awarded
The flagship program at Volgograd State Medical University is the Doctor of Medicine (M.D.), equivalent to the MBBS degree in many countries. Key features include:
Duration: 6 years (includes 5 years of academic study + 1 year internship)
Medium of Instruction: English and Russian options available
Clinical Training: Affiliated hospitals and healthcare centers provide real-world hands-on experience
Internship: Final year internship in various specialties to prepare for clinical practice
Admission Criteria
For international applicants, especially from India, typical requirements include:
Successful completion of class 12 with Physics, Chemistry & Biology and at least 50% aggregate marks
NEET qualification (as per NMC guidelines)
Minimum age of 17 years by December 31 of the admission year
No separate entrance exam required by the university for international admissions
Fee Structure & Costs
Volgograd State Medical University offers a competitive and affordable fee structure compared to many Western and other overseas medical universities. While fees can vary annually, typical estimates include:
Annual Tuition Fee: Approximately $5,000–$6,500 (varies by currency conversion and year)
Hostel Fees: Reasonable hostel accommodation on or near campus
Living Expenses: Affordable cost of living with moderate food, transport, and personal costs
Campus Life & Facilities
The university’s campus life blends academic focus with a vibrant cultural and social environment:
Comfortable hostels with necessary amenities
Well-equipped laboratories, libraries, and research facilities
Sports, cultural activities, and student clubs
Dedicated international student support for academics, visa guidance, and daily life transitions
Global Reputation & Rankings
Volgograd State Medical University is consistently ranked among the top medical universities in Russia and holds global places in international rankings. Its academic reputation, research output, and strong clinical training programs contribute to its growing stature on the world stage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When was Volgograd State Medical University established?
Volgograd State Medical University was established in 1935 and is one of the oldest and most reputed government medical universities in Russia.
2. Is Volgograd State Medical University a government or private university?
It is a government-funded medical university under the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation.
3. Is the MBBS degree from Volgograd State Medical University recognized in India?
Yes, the university is recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India, and graduates are eligible to appear for FMGE/NEXT.
4. Is the university recognized by WHO and other international bodies?
Yes, Volgograd State Medical University is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS) and recognized by WHO, FAIMER, ECFMG, and WFME.
5. What is the duration of the MBBS course at Volgograd State Medical University?
The MBBS course duration is 6 years, which includes 5 years of academic study and 1 year of compulsory internship.