Army Medical University was rebuilt in 2017, based on the former Third Military Medical University. Its main campus is located in Chongqing, a mountainous city in China.
About Army Medical University
The university integrates several key institutions, including the Bethune Medical Officer School, the Military Medical Training Brigade of the Western Theater Command Army Comprehensive Training Base, the Eighth Hospital of the People’s Liberation Army, the 260th Hospital of the People’s Liberation Army, and the 324th Hospital of the People’s Liberation Army.
Together, they form a deployment network across Chongqing, Shijiazhuang (Hebei), Hutubi (Xinjiang), and Shigatse (Tibet). The campus spans 9,079 acres and continues to be externally recognized as the “Third Military Medical University.”
Army Medical University – Table of Contents
- About
- Advantages
- Departments And Course Duration
- Facilities And Infrastructure
- Fee Structure
- Required Documents
- Eligibility Criteria
- Admission Process
- Benefits
- Privileges And Benefits for Indian students
- FAQ’s

The university traces its origins back to several historic institutions:
- The Health Teaching Team of the Ministry of Health of the Taiyue Military Region, established in 1941 (the predecessor of the Seventh Military Medical University),
- The Military Medical School of the Songjiang Military Region, founded in 1946, and
- The National Zhongzheng Medical College, founded in 1937 (both predecessors of the Sixth Military Medical University).
In 1954, the Sixth Military Medical University (located in Nanchang) merged with the Seventh Military Medical University (based in Chongqing). This merged institution was renamed the Third Military Medical University in 1975.
The Non-commissioned Officer School, now located in Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, originated from the Health School of the Shanxi-Chahar-Hebei Military Region established in 1939. That year, some faculty and students from the Chinese Workers’ and Peasants’ Red Army Medical School also merged with it. Renamed the Bethune Medical Non-commissioned Officer School in 2011, it was reorganized in 2017 into the Non-commissioned Officer School of the Army Medical University.
The Border Defense Medical Training Battalion, situated in Hutubi, Xinjiang, evolved from the Medical Training Team of the Second Column of the Northwest Field Army formed in 1947. After being renamed the Medical Training Battalion of the Western Theater Command Army Comprehensive Training Base in 2016, it was restructured in 2017 into the Border Defense Medical Training Battalion of the Army Medical University.
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The university consists of multiple academic divisions, including:
- The Basic Medical School, Graduate School, Non-commissioned Officer School, Army Medical Training Base, Department of Military Preventive Medicine, Department of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Medicine, Department of Plateau Military Medicine, Department of General Medicine, Department of Medical Psychology, Department of Nursing, Overseas Training Brigade, and Border Defense Medical Training Brigade.
Army Medical University administers six medical institutions:
- The Army Special Medical Center (known externally as “Daping Hospital”),
- The First Affiliated Hospital (“Southwest Hospital”),
- The Second Affiliated Hospital (“Xinqiao Hospital”),
- The Affiliated Hospital of the Non-commissioned Officer School,
- The 953rd Army Hospital, and
- The 958th Army Hospital.
As a premier military medical institution, the university primarily trains medical officers and civilian personnel for the Army, Rocket Force, and Armed Police Force, as well as medical sergeants for the entire army. Its core educational programs include undergraduate education, graduate education, sergeant vocational and technical education, and officer promotion education (primary command training). It also offers officer job training, civilian personnel training, sergeant training, foreign military training, standardized residency training for physicians, and national/local emergency medical rescue training.
The university offers 11 undergraduate majors:
- Clinical Medicine, Basic Medicine, Preventive Medicine, Stomatology, Pharmacy, Nursing, Biotechnology, Biomedical Engineering, Medical Imaging Technology, Medical Laboratory Technology, and Public Utilities Management.
Additionally, it provides 8 majors for sergeant vocational and technical education.
It holds 9 first-level discipline authorizations for doctoral degrees, 12 for master’s degrees, 7 professional degree categories, 8 postdoctoral mobile research stations, 13 national key disciplines, and 4 key cultivation disciplines. The university also features 3 military “double” construction disciplines, 22 first-batch military key clinical specialties, 3 Army key cultivation specialties, and 3 military “first-class disciplines.
Research infrastructure includes:
- 1 national key laboratory,
- 1 national engineering technology research center,
- 2 national-local joint engineering laboratories,
- 2 international joint research centers,
- 4 key laboratories of the Ministry of Education,
- 1 engineering research center and 1 basic medical research center of the Ministry of Education, and
- 4 military logistics research key laboratories.
The university also hosts 3 national experimental teaching demonstration centers and national virtual simulation experimental teaching centers. Ten subject areas rank within the top 1% globally according to the Essential Science Indicators (ESI), with clinical medicine ranking in the top 0.1%.
The university employs more than 1,700 senior professional and technical staff, including:
- 1 academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences,
- 3 academicians of the Chinese Academy of Engineering,
- 17 major generals specializing in professional and technical fields, and
- Over 110 nationally recognized talents such as “National Outstanding Youth,” “Changjiang Scholars,” and “Ten Thousand Talents Program” awardees.
Additionally, 59 individuals were selected for the military’s high-level scientific and technological innovation talent projects, and 13 teams were recognized as innovation teams by the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Science and Technology, and the National Natural Science Foundation of China.
The university’s main disciplines—Basic Medicine, Clinical Medicine, and Public Health and Preventive Medicine—were all rated Class A in the fifth national discipline evaluation. It has also been selected for the construction of a national high-level public health school.
Advantages of Studying in Army Medical University
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High-Quality Medical Education
- Renowned Faculty:
Army Medical University (AMU) features a highly qualified faculty with extensive expertise across various medical fields. - Well-Equipped Facilities:
The university provides state-of-the-art classrooms, advanced laboratories, and comprehensive practical training facilities. - Comprehensive Practical Training:
Students benefit from intensive hands-on training, which enhances their clinical skills and professional competencies.
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Affordability
- Lower Tuition Costs:
Compared to many Western countries, AMU offers relatively affordable tuition fees, making medical education accessible to a broader range of students. - Lower Cost of Living:
The overall cost of living in China is significantly lower than in many Western countries, further easing financial burdens for international students.
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International Recognition and Opportunities
- Internationally Recognized Degrees:
AMU’s MBBS and MD degrees are recognized by major international bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNESCO. - English-Medium Instruction:
Many academic programs are delivered in English, making it convenient for international students to adapt quickly to the learning environment. - Cultural Exposure:
Studying at AMU offers students a unique opportunity to experience Chinese culture firsthand and interact with diverse global communities, promoting a broader worldview. - Internship Opportunities:
Students may access internships at prestigious multinational companies and hospitals within China, gaining valuable practical experience. - Student Exchange Programs:
AMU may offer student exchange programs with institutions in the US, Europe, and the UK, providing additional international exposure and academic growth.
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Departments And Course Duration in Army Medical University – China
Army Medical University (AMU) — MBBS Program Overview
MBBS Program at Army Medical University
The MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) program at Army Medical University is designed to produce highly skilled, knowledgeable, and ethical medical professionals. The course is taught using a combination of theoretical education, clinical practice, and military medical training.
- Medium of Instruction:
English (especially for international students) - Recognition:
The MBBS degree is recognized by major international bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and is listed in global medical directories.
Departments at Army Medical University
The university offers comprehensive education through multiple specialized departments, ensuring students receive training across various areas of medicine:
Basic Medical Departments
- Department of Anatomy
- Department of Physiology
- Department of Biochemistry
- Department of Pathology
- Department of Pharmacology
- Department of Microbiology
- Department of Immunology
Clinical Departments
- Department of Internal Medicine
- Department of Surgery
- Department of Pediatrics
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health
- Department of Dermatology
- Department of Ophthalmology
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology (ENT)
- Department of Emergency Medicine
- Department of Orthopedics
- Department of Radiology
- Department of Anesthesiology
Public Health and Preventive Medicine
- Department of Epidemiology
- Department of Occupational Health
- Department of Environmental Health
- Department of Health Management and Policy
Specialized and Advanced Departments
- Department of Military Medicine (focuses on battlefield healthcare and trauma medicine)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging
- Department of Medical Psychology
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology
- Department of Nursing
- Department of Biotechnology
- Department of Public Utility Management
Facilities And Infrastructure in Army Medical University (AMU)
1. College Infrastructure
- Modern Campus:
The university is located in Chongqing with a massive campus spread across 9,079 acres. - Advanced Academic Buildings:
Equipped with smart classrooms, lecture theaters, multimedia teaching aids, and simulation-based learning centers. - Affiliated Hospitals:
- Southwest Hospital (First Affiliated Hospital)
- Xinqiao Hospital (Second Affiliated Hospital)
- Daping Hospital (Army Special Medical Center)
These hospitals are among China’s best and offer hands-on clinical training.
2. Technologies
- Simulation Centers:
Fully functional clinical skill training centers for surgery, internal medicine, emergency response, and battlefield trauma. - E-Learning Platforms:
Integration of virtual learning and online resource platforms for theoretical and practical learning. - Research Facilities:
High-end research labs, national-level laboratories, international joint research centers, and state-of-the-art equipment for biomedical research. - Virtual Simulation Labs:
National virtual simulation experimental teaching centers for medical, surgical, and emergency simulations.
3. Hostels and Accommodations
- Student Dormitories:
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- Well-maintained, secure, and fully furnished accommodations.
- Separate hostels for male and female students.
- Facilities Provided:
- Air-conditioned rooms
- High-speed internet (Wi-Fi)
- Laundry services
- 24/7 security surveillance
- Common rooms for study and recreation
4. Library
- Central Library:
- One of the largest military medical libraries in China.
- Access to thousands of books, journals (both Chinese and international), research articles, and e-resources.
- Digital Library Access:
- Subscription to international medical journals, online databases like PubMed, and EBSCOhost.
5. Laboratories
- Basic Science Labs:
(Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology) - Clinical Skill Labs:
Hands-on labs for medical imaging, diagnostic medicine, surgery skills, nursing, and laboratory technology. - Advanced Research Labs:
Including biotechnology, immunology, genetic research, and biomedical engineering labs.
6. Canteen
- Multi-Cuisine Food Options:
The university canteen offers nutritious meals catering to various tastes (Chinese, continental, and vegetarian options available). - Affordable Prices:
Meals are student-friendly and subsidized by the university.
7. Sports Facilities
- Sports Complex:
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- Football (Soccer) fields
- Basketball and Volleyball courts
- Badminton courts
- Table tennis halls
- Running tracks
- Gymnasium with modern fitness equipment
- Annual Sports Meet:
Regular intra-university and inter-university sports events encourage physical fitness among students.
8. Extra-Curricular Activities
- Cultural Events:
Annual cultural fests, music and dance competitions, drama clubs, and art exhibitions. - Medical Conferences and Seminars:
Regular hosting of national and international academic conferences, workshops, and guest lectures. - Student Societies:
- Medical research clubs
- Literary and debate societies
- Volunteer groups for community health services
- Military Training:
Specialized field medical training exercises and military drills designed to enhance discipline and emergency preparedness.
Official site For Army Medical University: Click Here
Army Medical University – Fee Structure
Fee Structure Approximately 30lakhs to 40lakhs
Required Documents For Admission in Army Medical University – China
- Copy of the Passport.
- Copy of Mark sheets and passing certificates of 10th and 12th class.
- Copy of offer letter
- Birth certificate
- Medical certificate
- 10 Passport size photographs
- The Ministry of External Affairs authorizes all the documents.
- Visa fees
- HIV test documents and results
- NOC from the Public Authority
- Address Proof
- Bank statement of parents or guardians
- Health Insurance
- Covid19 Report
Eligibility Criteria For Army Medical University – China
- They should have Physics, Biology, and Chemistry as the main subjects of study at the 10+2 level.
- The applicant must have a non-china nationality.
- The age of the applicant must be a minimum of 17 years and maximum of 30 years.
- The applicant must have a good track of academic records.
- The student must be fluent in the English language.
- Students must have completed 10+2 of their education or any equivalent education with a minimum 50% aggregate marks.
Admission Process For Army Medical University – China
- Apply on the official portal of the college.
- Fill the admission form on the online portal.
- Send the scanned copies of the documents.
- Get the offer letter and keep it safe for future use.
- Pay registration fees for your desired college.
- Apply for the visa after you have paid the college fees and received the confirmation letter.
- Get the visa to study in China.
- Book a flight to China.
- Fly to China and start attending your lectures.
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Benefits of Studying at Army Medical University
1. World-Class Medical Education
- Offers rigorous, research-driven medical education aligned with international standards.
- Practical and clinical training are deeply integrated into the curriculum from early years.
2. Highly Qualified Faculty
- Professors include academicians from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Chinese Academy of Engineering.
- Faculty members are experts, researchers, and military medical specialists with vast practical experience.
3. Advanced Infrastructure and Technology
- Cutting-edge research labs, simulation centers, and virtual learning platforms.
- Access to some of China’s top military hospitals for clinical exposure and internships.
4. Internationally Recognized Degrees
- MBBS and MD degrees are recognized by organizations like WHO, UNESCO, and are listed in major global medical directories.
- Eligibility to appear for licensing exams like USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), AMC (Australia), FMGE/NExT (India), etc.
5. Affordable Education
- Lower tuition fees compared to Western universities.
- Reasonable cost of living in China, especially in Chongqing.
- Scholarships and funding support may be available for outstanding international students.
6. English-Medium Programs
- Many undergraduate and postgraduate programs are taught in English, making it accessible for international students.
7. Comprehensive Practical Training
- Extensive clinical rotations at affiliated hospitals like Southwest Hospital, Xinqiao Hospital, and Daping Hospital.
- Exposure to real-life emergency and trauma care scenarios through military medicine modules.
8. Global Exposure
- Diverse international student community.
- Opportunities for student exchange programs and internships abroad (e.g., in the USA, Europe, UK).
9. Strong Research Opportunities
- Access to top-tier research centers and projects funded by the Chinese government and international organizations.
- Opportunities to publish in renowned medical journals and collaborate with global researchers.
10. Cultural and Language Experience
- Chance to experience rich Chinese culture, history, and traditions.
- Free or optional Mandarin language classes to help integrate better into the local environment.
11. Leadership and Discipline Training
- Special military medical training promotes leadership qualities, discipline, emergency handling, and resilience — valuable skills for a medical career.
12. Career Opportunities
- Excellent placement record within military hospitals, public health organizations, and private healthcare sectors.
- Opportunities to work in China or abroad after graduation depending on licensing and immigration requirements.
Privileges And Benefits for Indian students at Army Medical University
1. High-Quality Military Medical Education
- AMU is one of China’s top military medical universities, recognized for its advanced medical training, research facilities, and military-medical expertise.
- Indian students can study medicine, dentistry, nursing, pharmacy, and biomedical sciences under a structured military-academic framework.
2. English-Taught Programs (Limited Availability)
- Some programs, particularly at the undergraduate (MBBS) and postgraduate (MD/MS) levels, may be offered in English to accommodate international students.
- Chinese language courses are also provided to help students adapt.
3. Affordable Tuition & Living Costs
- Compared to Western or private Indian medical colleges, AMU offers cost-effective tuition fees (exact costs vary by program).
- Living expenses in Chongqing are relatively low compared to Beijing or Shanghai.
4. Military Hospital Training & Internships
- Students gain hands-on clinical experience in affiliated military hospitals like:
- Southwest Hospital (First Affiliated Hospital) – One of China’s top-ranked hospitals.
- Xinqiao Hospital (Second Affiliated Hospital) – Specializes in trauma and emergency medicine.
- This exposure is valuable for those interested in military medicine, emergency care, or surgery.
5. Global Recognition & Career Opportunities
- AMU’s medical degrees are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS), making graduates eligible for licensing exams like India’s FMGE/NExT or USMLE/PLAB.
- Indian students can pursue careers in:
- Military/Defense Medicine (if eligible for Indian armed forces).
- Government & Private Hospitals (after clearing licensing exams).
- Research & Public Health (AMU has strong ties with military medical research).
6. Scholarship Opportunities
- Chinese Government Scholarships (CSC) – Available for international students.
- Military Exchange Programs – Limited opportunities for defense-related collaborations.
Challenges for Indian Students
- Limited Civilian Admissions: AMU primarily trains PLA personnel, so civilian international seats are competitive.
- Military Discipline: The university follows a strict military-style discipline, which may be different from civilian Indian colleges.
- Licensing in India: Graduates must pass FMGE/NExT to practice in India.
FAQ’s
Are AMU’s medical degrees recognized in India?
- Yes, the medical degrees awarded by AMU are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other international medical bodies, including the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India.
- Indian students must clear the FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) or NExT to practice medicine in India.
Can Indian students participate in student exchange programs at AMU?
Yes, AMU offers opportunities for student exchange programs with universities in the US, UK, Europe, and other countries. These programs allow students to gain international exposure, work on research projects, and attend specialized training.
How can Indian students apply for scholarships at AMU?
AMU offers limited scholarships for international students based on academic performance and financial need. Students can inquire about available scholarships directly from the university’s International Office or through their admission consultants.
Are the MBBS programs at AMU taught in English?
Yes, AMU offers its MBBS program in English, which is beneficial for Indian students, as it eliminates the language barrier and allows for better understanding of the course material.
What are the hostel and accommodation facilities like for Indian students?
AMU provides well-equipped hostel accommodations for international students, including Indian students. The hostels are safe, clean, and equipped with basic facilities.
- Shared rooms with bunk beds.
- 24/7 security and access to the campus.
- Wi-Fi, study rooms, and recreational areas.
- Canteen and mess providing both Chinese and Indian food options.
- Laundry facilities and common areas for relaxation.
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