The University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City (UMP-HCMC) is one of the most prestigious and oldest medical institutions in Vietnam. Known as the medical hub of Southern Vietnam, it has recently opened its doors to international students with English-medium programs, making it a top choice for aspirants from India and other neighboring countries.
Established: 1947.
Location: 217 Hong Bang Street, Ward 11, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Degree Awarded: Doctor of Medicine (MD) (Equivalent to MBBS).
Duration: 6 Years (5 years of academic study + 1 year of clinical internship).
Language of Instruction: English (for the international program) and Vietnamese.
Accreditation: Recognized by the Ministry of Health of Vietnam, WHO, and the NMC (National Medical Commission, India). It is also listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS).
Academic Prestige: UMP-HCMC is the leading medical university in Southern Vietnam, known for high academic standards and competitive entry for local students.
Infrastructure: The campus features a 500-seat main auditorium, multiple smaller lecture halls, and over 60 specialized pre-clinical labs.
Advanced Tools: The university utilizes 3D virtual anatomy tables and high-fidelity simulation models to bridge the gap between theory and clinical practice.
Leading tertiary care hospital attached to the institution
UMP-HCMC follows a "University-Hospital" model, providing massive clinical exposure:
University Medical Center (UMC): A 1,000-bed multi-specialty hospital owned by the university.
Major Affiliates: Students rotate through the city’s top-tier hospitals, including Cho Ray Hospital (one of the largest in SE Asia), Tu Du Hospital (Obstetrics/Gynecology), and Children's Hospitals 1 & 2.
Clinical Phase: Hands-on training begins in the 3rd year. Due to the high patient volume in Ho Chi Minh City, students see a wide variety of pathological cases, ensuring robust clinical competency.
State University Affordability
Tuition is highly affordable compared to private medical colleges in India or the West.
Annual Tuition Fee: Approximately $6,000 – $6,500 USD per year (approx. ₹4.8 – ₹5.2 Lakhs).
Total 6-Year Tuition: Roughly $36,000 – $39,000 USD (approx. ₹30 – ₹33 Lakhs).
One-time Admission Charges: Approx. $1,000 – $1,500 USD (includes registration, document processing, and initial visa).
Vibe: A bustling, modern metropolis (formerly Saigon) known for its vibrant street food, historical landmarks, and thriving international community.
Connectivity: Tan Son Nhat International Airport has direct flights to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kochi (approx. 4-5 hours travel time).
Climate: Tropical. It is warm and humid year-round with a rainy season from May to November.
Safety: Very high. The city is welcoming to foreigners, and the university takes student security seriously with 24/7 guards at hostels.
Accommodation: Dedicated, secure dormitories are available for international students.
Cost: Approx. $800 – $1,200 USD per year (sharing basis).
Facilities: Rooms are furnished with beds, study tables, and wardrobes, with 24/7 security and Wi-Fi.
Indian Mess: Given the rising number of Indian students, specialized mess facilities providing both North and South Indian meals (Veg/Non-Veg/Halal) are available.
Monthly Food Budget: Approx. $150 – $250 USD.
Off-Campus: Private apartments in District 5 range from $300 – $500 USD per month.
Academic Requirements: Minimum 50% marks in PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) in 10+2/Senior Secondary exams.
NEET (Mandatory for Indians): A qualifying NEET score is required for admission and future eligibility to practice in India.
Entrance Assessment: International students typically undergo an online interview focusing on their motivation and basic science knowledge.
Documents: Valid passport, 10th/12th marksheets, NEET scorecard, and a medical fitness certificate.
Application Timeline: Intake typically starts in August/September. Applications for 2026 should be submitted by June 2026.
Well-equipped Library
Experienced Faculty
Computer Lab
Sports Activities
Heritage Campus