International School of Medicine (ISM), Bishkek

International School of Medicine (ISM), Bishkek

The International School of Medicine (ISM), located in Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan, is a distinguished institution known for its exceptional educational standards in the field of medical sciences. Established in 2004, the school has quickly grown to become one of the most sought-after destinations for medical students from across the world. The school is renowned for offering internationally recognized programs and high-quality education that is designed to meet global standards.

Overview

• Established: 2004
• Location: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
• Program Focus: Medical education, healthcare, and medical research.

ISM offers a wide range of programs that focus on not just theoretical knowledge, but practical skills through hands-on learning, clinical exposure, and research. 

Programs Offered

The International School of Medicine offers several programs to cater to students at various stages of their medical career, from undergraduate to doctoral levels. Some of the key programs include:

1. MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery)
   • The MBBS program is the flagship undergraduate course at ISM, designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in medical science. The program spans 5 years and is offered in English, making it accessible to students from non-Russian speaking countries. Students are provided with a combination of theoretical lectures and clinical practice.
   • Specializations: General Medicine, Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, and others.
2. MD (Doctor of Medicine)
   • The MD program is designed for medical graduates who wish to further specialize in advanced medical fields. This program is tailored to provide deeper knowledge in specific medical areas, offering both academic coursework and extensive clinical training.
3. PhD in Medicine
   • ISM offers doctoral programs for students interested in pursuing research in medical sciences. 

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum at ISM is structured to ensure that students receive a strong foundation in medical sciences, while also acquiring practical experience. The 5-year MBBS program, for instance, combines classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical training at affiliated hospitals. Some key components of the curriculum include:

• Year 1: Basic medical sciences, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and pharmacology. The focus is on building a strong foundation in medical knowledge.
• Year 2: Advanced subjects like pathology, microbiology, and immunology. Students start to engage more with clinical skills and patient care.
• Year 3: Clinical subjects are introduced, and students begin to work directly with patients in medical settings.
• Year 4: The emphasis shifts towards practical applications, clinical exposure in various specializations, and internships.
• Year 5: Final year involves advanced clinical practice, hands-on experience, and preparation for internships and global licensing exams.

The academic year includes a combination of lectures, laboratory sessions, clinical training, and self-study. Students also have access to research opportunities, allowing them to contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge.

Campus and Facilities

 Some of the key features of the campus include:

• Lecture Halls and Classrooms: Modern classrooms equipped with multimedia resources to facilitate interactive learning.
• Laboratories: Well-equipped labs for practical learning in subjects like anatomy, biochemistry, pharmacology, and microbiology.
• Hospital Affiliations: Students gain hands-on experience at various hospitals and clinics affiliated with ISM. These include top-tier medical centers where students learn in real-world healthcare settings.
• Library and Research Centers: The university’s library houses a vast collection of medical books, journals, and online resources. Additionally, the research centers provide students with the opportunity to engage in medical research, enhancing their academic experience.

International Student Body

ISM attracts a diverse group of students from various parts of the world, making it a truly international institution. The majority of students come from countries such as India, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and several others. The institution’s inclusive environment provides students with an opportunity to interact with peers from different cultural backgrounds, promoting cross-cultural exchange and fostering a global learning community.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for the MBBS program and other medical courses at ISM are as follows:

• MBBS:
  • Applicants must have completed secondary education with a focus on science subjects (biology, chemistry, physics).
  • Proficiency in English is required for non-native speakers. Applicants may need to provide evidence of their language skills (through IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
• MD (Doctor of Medicine):
  • Applicants must have completed an undergraduate medical degree (MBBS or equivalent).
  • Proficiency in English.

Cost of Study and Living

 Tuition fees for the MBBS program generally range from $4,000 to $5,500 per year. This makes it a cost-effective option for international students.

Tuition Fees (Annually):

• International Students: $4,000 – $5,500
• Local Students: Lower fees may apply based on government policies.

Living Costs in Bishkek are relatively low, which contributes to the affordability of studying at ISM. Students can expect to spend around $300 to $600 per month on living expenses, depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices.

Accommodation:

• On-campus hostels are available, ranging from $100 to $150 per month.
• Private accommodation options are also available and can vary in price based on the location and type of housing.

Visa and Travel

International students must apply for a student visa to study at ISM. The visa process is straightforward, and ISM assists students with obtaining the necessary documentation. The Kyrgyzstan student visa is typically valid for the duration of the course and is renewable.

Student Life

Student life at ISM is vibrant and diverse, with students participating in a variety of extracurricular activities. Some of the highlights of student life at ISM include:

• Cultural Celebrations: ISM celebrates major international festivals, providing a platform for cultural exchange.
• Sports and Physical Activities: Students have access to sports facilities and participate in various athletic events and sports clubs.
• Health and Wellness: The university offers medical support, counseling, and wellness services to ensure students’ physical and mental well-being.

Why Choose ISM?

• Affordable Education: Compared to Western medical schools, ISM offers high-quality education at a fraction of the cost.
• Cultural Diversity: Study in a multicultural environment with students from all over the world.