Study Medicine in Europe: Why “Nicolae Testemitanu” State University of Medicine and Pharmacy of the Republic of Moldova is a smart choice

​​In an era where healthcare professionals are more essential than ever, choosing the right university to pursue medical education is one of the most impactful decisions a student can make. For thousands of aspiring doctors, dentists, pharmacists, and public health specialists from across the globe, Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy of the Republic of Moldova (Nicolae Testemitanu University) has become the destination where ambition meets opportunity.

Located in the heart of Eastern Europe, Nicolae Testemitanu University is the only public medical university in the Republic of Moldova. With more than 80 years of history and over 51,000 graduates, it has built a reputation for academic excellence, international collaboration, and world-class training. Its degrees are fully accredited by the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME), and the institution is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), UNESCO, and medical licensing bodies such as India’s National Medical Commission (NMC), the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), and the UK’s PLAB exam.

The university is currently listed in seven major international rankings, standing as a national leader in four of them, including the SCImago Institutions Rankings and the Global Aggregate Ranking. These recognitions reflect not only academic performance, but also scientific output, innovation, and the strength of its global partnerships.

​​​​According to Rector Emil Ceban, Nicolae Testemitanu University is deeply committed to the success and well-being of international students. “We believe that excellence in medical education begins with creating an environment where international students feel supported, challenged, and inspired. At Nicolae Testemitanu University, we don’t just train students to pass exams — we prepare them for a lifetime of meaningful medical practice”, he says.

The university offers a wide range of programs for international students. These include integrated programs in Medicine (MBBS, six years), Stomatology (Dentistry, five years), and Pharmacy (five years), as well as Bachelor’s degrees in fields such as Public Health, Optometry, Radiology and Medical Imaging Technologies, Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, and Nursing. Courses are delivered in English, Romanian, Russian, and French, making it an attractive choice for students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

What sets Nicolae Testemitanu University apart is its focus on research-based medical education and clinical practice from early stages. Students train in 95 affiliated university clinics, gaining hands-on experience in modern hospitals that meet European standards. They also benefit from a world-class simulation center, where clinical and communication skills are practiced using high-fidelity mannequins and standardized patients.

​​The campus is fully equipped with modern classrooms, digital libraries, research labs, indoor and outdoor sports facilities, and over 2,000 accommodation spots. It also offers high-speed Wi-Fi, recreation areas, and access to Indian cuisine and separate living spaces for male and female students. All these contribute to a smooth adaptation process for international students, particularly those coming from India and neighboring countries.

The cost of studying medicine in Moldova is remarkably affordable compared to private medical colleges in India. A full MBBS degree over six years costs approximately €36,000, a fraction of what many students pay elsewhere. Despite the lower cost, the quality of education and infrastructure is on par with Western European standards. Additionally, Moldova’s path toward European Union membership, expected by 2030, means that degrees obtained here will gain even more recognition within the EU in the coming years.

​​Nicolae Testemitanu University is also home to a dynamic international student community. Currently, over 6,700 students from 34 countries study here, including more than 1,200 from India. The Association of Medical Students and Residents plays an active role in organizing academic, cultural, and social activities, ensuring a vibrant and inclusive university experience.

Graduates from Nicolae Testemitanu University consistently succeed in international medical licensing exams and go on to work in countries such as the United States, Canada, Germany, France, the UK, Israel, and India. One such graduate, Dr. Rakesh Kamalakannan, shared: “I cleared my Indian entrance exams MCI FMGE. This achievement is a result of Nicolae Testemitanu University’s contribution. I am truly thankful to all the doctors and academic staff. I am very grateful that I studied here.”

Admissions for the 2025–2026 academic year are now open. Prospective students must submit their application forms, educational documents, proof of language proficiency, passport and birth certificates, photos, and other notarized documents. The deadline for submitting applications is August 15, 2025. The university accepts both digital and physical submissions, and support is available through its dedicated Admissions Office.

For those dreaming of a medical career, but concerned by high costs or limited seats in competitive exams, Nicolae Testemitanu University offers an alternative rooted in quality, accessibility, and international recognition. It’s more than a medical school — it’s a launchpad for a life of purpose, compassion, and professional success.

Your future in medicine starts here. Learn more or apply now at: https://admission.usmf.md/en.