Pokhara Academy of Health Sciences - MBBS Fees, Admission & Eligibility 2026

Pokhara Academy of Health Sciences: An Overview

History and Establishment

Pokhara Academy of Health Sciences (PoAHS), located in Ramghat, Pokhara Metropolitan City-11, Kaski District, Gandaki Province, Nepal, was established in 2015 AD (2072 BS) under the Pokhara Academy of Health Sciences Act. The institution evolved from the Western Regional Hospital, which was initially founded in 1957 as the Soldier Board Hospital. Over decades, the hospital underwent multiple upgrades, expanding to a 500-bed tertiary care facility by 2014. The transformation into PoAHS marked Nepal’s commitment to integrating medical education, research, and healthcare services. As one of nine health science academies in Nepal, PoAHS combines academic rigor with clinical excellence, serving as a key institution for healthcare delivery in western Nepal.

Academic Programs and Offerings

PoAHS initially focused on postgraduate (MD/MS) programs, which commenced in 2019. In 2024 AD, the academy launched its MBBS program, fulfilling its vision to provide comprehensive medical education. The institution is affiliated with Pokhara University and recognized by the Nepal Medical Council (NMC). Plans are underway to introduce superspecialty programs (DM/MCh) and undergraduate courses like B.Sc. Nursing and Public Health. The English-medium curriculum ensures accessibility for international students, including Indian aspirants, who must qualify through the NEET exam for admission.

Infrastructure and Facilities

As a government-run institution, PoAHS operates within the Western Regional Hospital, one of Nepal’s largest public hospitals outside the Kathmandu Valley. The hospital offers a full range of services, including emergency care, critical care units, surgical interventions, and diagnostic facilities. The campus benefits from Pokhara’s scenic environment, situated near the Seti River with panoramic views of surrounding hills. Hostel facilities are available for students, though details on Indian food availability or cultural associations are not specified. Scholarships and financial aid programs are offered to support meritorious and economically disadvantaged students.

Why Indian Students Choose PoAHS

Indian students are drawn to PoAHS for several reasons:

• Proximity to India: Pokhara’s geographic location offers a familiar cultural and climatic environment.

• NMC Recognition: Graduates can appear for the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) in India, enabling licensure to practice.

• NEET Compliance: The requirement of NEET scores aligns with Indian admission norms, simplifying the application process.

• Cost-Effective Education: Compared to private medical colleges in India or Western universities, PoAHS offers a structured fee model.

Fee Structure

The total course package for the MBBS program at PoAHS is approximately $122,500 USD (SAARC quota) and $144,500 USD (non-SAARC quota). Converting to Indian Rupees (1 USD ≈ 83 INR in 2026), this equates to INR 10,167,500 and INR 11,993,500, respectively. Fees cover academic instruction, hospital training, and administrative charges. Additional costs for accommodation, health insurance, and living expenses apply. The admission process is conducted online via the university’s website, with support for visa assistance and immigration clearance.

Key Achievements and Future Prospects

PoAHS has rapidly expanded its academic portfolio since its inception, reflecting Nepal’s focus on decentralizing medical education. Its integration of clinical training with research and healthcare services positions it as a regional hub for medical innovation. While the institution is not yet listed in the WHO Directory of Medical Schools or FAIMER’s IMED database, its NMC approval ensures eligibility for Indian licensing exams. Future developments, including superspecialty programs and enhanced infrastructure, aim to improve its reputation regionally.

, Pokhara Academy of Health Sciences offers Indian students a structured pathway to pursue MBBS abroad, combining affordability, clinical exposure, and a strategic location. Its focus on public healthcare and academic growth makes it a noteworthy option for aspirants seeking quality medical education in South Asia.