Tashkent State Medical University (TSMU), previously known as Tashkent Medical Academy, is the most prominent and historically significant medical institution in Uzbekistan, located in Tashkent — the capital and largest city of Uzbekistan. As the premier government medical university of the country, TSMU has trained generations of physicians not only for Uzbekistan but for the broader Central Asian region. It attracts thousands of international students annually due to its English-medium programme, affordable fees, and national standing. The MD programme (equivalent to MBBS in India) at TSMU runs over six years in English for international students, following the 5+1 structure of academic study and mandatory hospital internship. The curriculum covers all foundational and clinical medical sciences and integrates practical training at TSMU's affiliated hospitals in Tashkent — a capital city with high patient volumes and a broad spectrum of clinical cases across all major specialties. Students from early clinical years gain genuine patient interaction, a vital preparation for the NExT examination. TSMU holds recognition from the NMC of India, WHO, FAIMER, and is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools. These credentials are essential for Indian graduates who intend to return to India and practise medicine after clearing NExT. The university is the largest and most established medical institution in Uzbekistan, with state-of-the-art facilities, a comprehensive digital library, and simulation laboratories. However, prospective students must be aware of a critical regulatory development: the NMC issued an advisory on April 1, 2026, specifically naming Tashkent State Medical University among institutions where concerns regarding FMGL Regulations 2021 compliance have been raised. Specifically, reports cited by the Indian Embassy in Tashkent include student intake beyond approved capacity, concerns about hands-on clinical training quality, and other regulatory issues. Students and parents are strongly advised to verify TSMU's current compliance status directly with the NMC at nmc.org.in before making any admission decision or paying any fees. Tashkent is Uzbekistan's largest and most cosmopolitan city, with direct flights from Delhi taking approximately 3 hours. The city has a climate similar to northern India, Indian restaurants, Indian grocery stores, and an established Indian student community of over 10,000 students across Uzbekistan.
