Vinh Medical University (VMU) is a prominent public medical institution in the North Central Coast region of Vietnam. Established as a university in 2010 (evolved from Nghệ An Medical College), it has recently gained popularity among international medical aspirants due to its affordable government-subsidized tuition and the launch of English-medium programs tailored for students from South Asia and neighboring countries.
Established: 1960 (Medical College); 2010 (University status).
Location: 161 Nguyen Phong Sac, Vinh City, Nghe An Province, Vietnam.
Degree Awarded: Doctor of Medicine (MD/MBBS).
Duration: 6 Years (including a 1-year clinical internship).
Language of Instruction: English (for international cohorts); Vietnamese.
Accreditation: Recognized by the Ministry of Health of Vietnam, WHO (World Health Organization), and the NMC (National Medical Commission, India). It is also listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS).
Regional Hub: VMU is the primary medical training center for the North Central region of Vietnam and frequently trains healthcare personnel for Laos and other neighboring nations.
Infrastructure: The campus features modern lecture halls, multi-functional laboratories, and a central library with digital access to international medical journals.
Teaching Approach: The university follows a traditional medical curriculum that has been updated to include modern simulation-based training and clinical skill modules.
Leading tertiary care hospital attached to the institution
University Hospital: VMU operates its own University Hospital, where students begin observing clinical procedures as early as their second or third year.
Affiliated Network: Students have access to several major specialized and general hospitals in Nghe An province, including:
Nghe An General Hospital (a 1,000+ bed facility).
Nghe An Pediatric Hospital.
Nghe An Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital.
Hands-on Experience: The high patient volume in regional state hospitals provides students with significant exposure to a wide variety of medical conditions, from tropical diseases to advanced trauma.
State University Affordability
VMU is one of the most budget-friendly options in Vietnam for international medical students.
Annual Tuition Fee: Approximately $3,000 – $4,000 USD per year (approx. 2.5 – 3.3 Lakhs INR).
One-Time Admission Fees: Approx. $1,000 – $1,500 USD (includes registration, document processing, and initial visa).
Total 6-Year Tuition: Estimated at roughly $18,000 – $24,000 USD (total course fee).
Miscellaneous: Budget approx. $200 – $300 USD annually for visa extensions and mandatory health insurance.
Vibe: Vinh is the economic and cultural center of North Central Vietnam. It is a peaceful, less congested alternative to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, offering a focused environment for study.
Safety: The city is highly safe for foreigners and has a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere.
Transport: Vinh International Airport connects the city to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The university is centrally located with easy access to markets and public transit.
Climate: Tropical monsoon. Expect hot, humid summers (May–August) and cool, rainy winters (November–February).
Accommodation: The university provides secure, on-campus dormitories specifically for international students.
Cost: Approx. $600 – $1,000 USD per year depending on room sharing (usually 2–3 students per room).
Facilities: Rooms are furnished and equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and 24/7 security.
Dining: An Indian Mess facility is increasingly available to cater to the growing number of South Asian students.
Mess Cost: Approx. $1,200 USD per year.
Personal Expenses: Vinh is an affordable city; students can manage personal expenses on $150 – $200 USD per month.
Academic: Minimum 50% aggregate in PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) in High School (12th Grade).
NEET (Mandatory for Indians): A qualifying NEET score is strictly required for admission and for future eligibility to sit for the NExT/FMGE exam in India.
Entrance Assessment: International students may be required to pass an interview or a basic entrance test in Biology and Chemistry conducted by the university.
Application Timeline: Intake typically starts in September.
Application Deadline: Usually late August 2026.
Well-equipped Library
Experienced Faculty
Computer Lab
Sports Activities
Heritage Campus