Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM) Cairo In 1842, Antoine Clot, a French doctor (commonly referred to as Klot Bey), came to Egypt and, after one year, was employed in the Egyptian government. He came at a time when Mohamed Ali Pasha, the Egyptian ruler, had become firmly convinced of the necessity for developing a solid medical service for his troops. This awareness occurred after the Elmora campaign, when it was noticed that more soldiers died of wounds, infections, and epidemic diseases than in combat itself.
About Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM) Cairo
Klot Bey was instrumental in convincing Mohamed Ali that the long-term answer did not reside in the dependency on foreign doctors but rather in establishing a contemporary medical school in Egypt to educate native doctors. His dream came true in 1827 when Mohamed Ali founded the School of Medicine at Abu Zaabal, which was the first modern medical school in the Middle East.
Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM) Cairo – Table of Contents
- About
- Advantages
- Ranking
- Departments And Course Duration
- Facilities And Infrastructure
- Fee Structure
- Required Documents
- Eligibility Criteria
- Admission Process
- Benefits
- Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students
- FAQ’s
Klot Bey was subsequently promoted to Director of the Medical Department of the Egyptian Army, becoming in effect the army’s Chief Doctor. He was made the manager of the School of Medicine, where he was responsible for not just medical education but also for the development of allied health sciences. During his tenure, the school expanded very quickly and came to comprise a 720-bed teaching hospital, a School of Pharmacy, and a School of Midwifery.

Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM) Cairo Accreditations, Affiliations, Recognitions
During the plague epidemic in Egypt in 1830, Klot Bey orchestrated large-scale public health activities and hospital-based interventions, proving his administrative and medical proficiency. His contributions did not stop at the patient; he enriched the Arabic library of medicine by translating and making available useful European medical texts, providing Egyptian students with access to scientific advances. For his outstanding services, Mohamed Ali awarded him the honorary rank of “Bey.”.
Another prominent player in the evolution of Egyptian medical training was Mohamed Ali Pasha El-Bakly, who was among the initial group of Egyptian students to join the School of Medicine in 1815. He came from El-Bakly village in Menoufia Governorate and was subsequently dispatched by Mohamed Ali to France in 1832 to continue advanced medical studies. On his return, El-Bakly served in the Kasr Al-Ainy Hospital, which had then become a focal point for medical practice in Egypt.
Advantages of Studying in Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM) Cairo
Participation:
AFCM hosts a major international medical congress, providing students with access to over 250 multidisciplinary topics and showcasing the latest medical advancements, research, and education across various specialties.
Hands-On Workshops:
Prior to the congress, advanced workshops are held at the AFCM Hospital, offering students unique opportunities for practical skill development and deeper expertise in their chosen fields.
Exposure to Cutting-Edge Research and Innovation:
The college is a leader in medical research and education, providing an environment where students can engage with the latest medical developments and contribute to shaping the future of healthcare.
Professional Networking:
Attending the congress and workshops allows students to connect with other professionals, fostering collaboration and growth within the global medical community.
Centralized Medical Hub:
AFCM acts as a central hub for innovation and learning, offering a comprehensive experience that combines academic rigor with practical application.
Focus on Professional Growth:
The college is dedicated to fostering professional growth through continuous learning, inspiration, and networking opportunities for its students.
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Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM) Cairo – Ranking
In 1837, the School of Medicine was formally shifted from Abu Zaabal to Cairo, further establishing it as a trailblazing school of medical education in the Arab region. El-Bakly worked his way up the ranks of the profession, ultimately becoming the first Egyptian manager of Kasr Al-Ainy Hospital, a distinction that neither represented nor indicated his knowledge but rather his and Egyptians’ increasingly prominent role in heading their own medical establishments.
In reward for his excellent service, he was conferred with the honorific title of “Pasha.” El-Bakly unfortunately subsequently died during the Egyptian campaign against the Habasha (Ethiopian) army during the reign of Khedive Ismail Pasha.
This early history established by Klot Bey and El-Bakly Pasha forms the foundation of contemporary medical education in Egypt, and their own pioneering work ultimately paved the way for the establishment of more sophisticated institutions such as the Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM) in Cairo, continuing their work of marrying medicine and national service.
Departments And Course Duration in Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM) Cairo
MBBS Departments & Course Duration – Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM), Cairo
Course Duration
- The MBBS program at AFCM follows the Egyptian National Medical Education Framework.
- Duration:
- 5 years academic study (divided into basic sciences, pre-clinical, and clinical phases).
- 2 years compulsory internship (house officer training) at affiliated military and civilian hospitals.
- Total Duration: 6 years (5 + 1).
- The curriculum integrates medical sciences with military discipline, leadership training, and community service.
Departments
The faculty is organized into academic (basic sciences) and clinical departments, supported by military medical training units.
Basic / Pre-Clinical Departments
- Anatomy
- Histology
- Physiology
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Pathology
- Parasitology
- Microbiology & Immunology
- Forensic Medicine & Toxicology
- Community, Environmental & Occupational Medicine
- Military Medical Sciences (unique to AFCM – includes battlefield medicine, disaster management, and military hygiene)
Clinical Departments
- Internal Medicine
- Cardiology
- Chest (Pulmonology) Medicine
- Neurology
- Psychiatry & Behavioral Medicine
- Dermatology & Venereology
- Pediatrics
- General Surgery
- Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
- Urology
- Vascular Surgery
- Pediatric Surgery
- ENT (Otorhinolaryngology)
- Ophthalmology
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Anesthesiology & Intensive Care
- Emergency & Critical Care Medicine
- Radiology & Medical Imaging
- Oncology & Nuclear Medicine
Unique Features of AFCM MBBS Program
- Emphasis on military medicine, including combat casualty care, disaster response, field surgery, and aerospace medicine.
- Students receive dual training in academic medical education and military leadership skills.
- Clinical rotations conducted at Armed Forces Medical Complexes, in addition to civilian teaching hospitals.
The MBBS program at Armed Forces College of Medicine, Cairo spans 7 years including internship, with a curriculum that covers all core medical departments, while also integrating specialized military medical sciences, making it distinct from traditional civilian medical schools in Egypt.
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Facilities And Infrastructure in Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM) Cairo
infrastructure designed to support medical education, training, and research
Academic and Training Facilities
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Amphitheaters:
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- The college has 6 amphitheaters for lectures and large gatherings.
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PBL Classrooms:
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- There are 15 Problem-Based Learning (PBL) halls to facilitate interactive and student-centered learning.
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OSCE Classrooms:
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- 2 Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) rooms are available for practical assessments and clinical skills testing.
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Labs:
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- 6 general labs support basic scientific and medical experiments.
- 3 English labs are dedicated to language training and communication skills development.
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Simulation and Clinical Training Center:
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- This center includes specialized rooms for hands-on clinical training, such as:
- Operation Room
- Emergency Room
- ICU Room
- Pediatric Room
- Ultrasound Room
- Cardio Room
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Room
- CCU Room
- Skill Lab
- Debriefing Room.
- This center includes specialized rooms for hands-on clinical training, such as:
Library and Resources
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Libraries:
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- The college has 2 libraries to support academic and research needs.
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PC Share Room:
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- 1 PC Share room is available for collaborative work and computer-based activities .
Specialized Facilities
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Museums:
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- 2 museums are maintained for educational purposes, likely showcasing anatomical, pathological, or historical medical exhibits.
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Morgue:
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- 1 morgue is available for practical training in forensic medicine and pathology.
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Academic Teams:
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- The college supports 50 study groups, indicating a strong emphasis on collaborative learning.
E-Learning and Digital Infrastructure
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E-Learning Portal:
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- AFCM provides an online portal where students can access course information, transcripts, timetables, exam schedules, and department.
Collaborations and External Support
- AFCM has signed cooperation protocols with institutions like Cairo University to exchange expertise in medical education, research, and training.
- The college also engages in international capacity-building initiatives, such as laboratory infrastructure development and disease surveillance programs, in collaboration with global health organizations.
Official site For Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM) Cairo: Click Here
Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM) Cairo Fee Structure
Approximately Estimated fee will be 30 lakhs to 40 lakhs.
Required Documents For Admission in Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM) Cairo
- Valid passport (minimum 18 months validity)
- 10th and 12th-grade certificates and mark sheets
- Birth certificate
- Ten passport-sized photographs
- Official invitation letter from the university
- Authorization of all documents by the Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi
- Legalization of all documents by the Egyptian Embassy
- Visa fees
- Bank receipt of first-year tuition fee payment
- Medical fitness certificate
Eligibility Criteria For Admission in Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM) Cairo
- Age: The student should be at least 17 years old
- Academic Qualification: Students must have completed their secondary education or equivalent from a recognized board with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as mandatory subjects.
- Language Proficiency: International students must be proficient in the Chinese language as it is the language of instruction for the MBBS program.
- Entrance Exam: Students must clear the entrance exam conducted by the respective university.
- Health Checkup: International students must pass a medical examination to ensure they are fit to pursue MBBS studies
- No Criminal Record: A police clearance certificate can be procured in order to check whether the candidate is free from a criminal background.
Admission Process For Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM) Cairo
- Online Application: Fill out the application form and submit the required documents online.
- Fee Payment: Once the university reviews and approves the application, pay the required fees.
- Immigration Process: The university initiates the immigration process and issues an invitation letter after receiving the ministry order.
- Visa Approval: The visa approval process takes around 30 days.
- Screening: The university then undertakes a screening process in which the applicant must determine eligibility for admission to MBBS programs in Ain Shams University.
- Physical Copy of Admission Letter: A hard copy of the admission letter will be sent by the university, which you will need to complete the visa process and enrollment.
- Fly to Egypt: Book your tickets and travel to Egypt to join MBBS. Complete enrollment once you reach there and start with your education.
Get more details about the colleges in Egypt: Click Here
Benefits of Studying in Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM) Cairo
1. Widespread Financial Aid and Perks
Paid Education: The details of AFCM are not entirely explained in the search results, but the same military medical training (such as Canada’s MOTP) offer to pay for tuition, books, and instruments, as well as offer a competitive salary while in attendance.
Other Perks: The students can be offered medical and dental treatment, vacation time off, and use of armed forces facilities (such as clubs, resorts, and housing programs)3.
2. High-Quality Education and Training
Academic Distinction: AFCM provides bachelor’s degrees in medicine and surgery, as well as postgraduate degrees (diploma, master, doctorate) in different specialties of medicine37.
Clinical Practice: The students have a 12-month internship in British Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons-accredited military hospitals, with intense practical exposure3.
Evidence-Based Learning: The college implements problem-based learning (PBL) and keeps lecture groups up to 100 students, facilitating enhanced interaction and better understanding.
3. Military Discipline and Leadership Development
Structured Environment: The students reside on campus and undergo military training that imparts discipline, time management, and teamwork.
Leadership Courses: The college provides specialized courses in leadership, communication, and scientific thinking, improving professional and personal development.
4. Career Opportunities and Professional Growth
Guaranteed Employment: The graduates are commissioned as officers in the Egyptian Armed Forces and are guaranteed posts in military healthcare systems.
Advanced Training: Fellowships (e.g., British Royal College) and specialized scholarships abroad are opportunities.
Research and Conferences: Students become involved in research and scientific conferences at an early stage of study, promoting scholarly interest and creativity.
5. State-of-the-Art Facilities and Resources
Campus Amenities: AFCM offers barracks, mess halls, labs, sports facilities, and libraries, providing a favorable environment for learning and living.
Simulation Centers: The college has sophisticated simulation suites (e.g., ICU, operation theater) for experiential clinical practice.
6. Prestige and Networking
Elite Faculty: Study with best-in-class faculty members handpicked according to global standards.
Global Collaborations: AFCM collaborates with global institutions (e.g., Cairo University) for knowledge sharing and capacity-building initiatives
Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students at Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM) Cairo
Academic Excellence & Reward
Internationally Recognized Degree: MBBS from AFCM is issued under the guidance of the Egyptian Ministry of Higher Education and recognized by NMC (India), WHO, ECFMG, and WFME, enabling Indian students to practice in India (after NEXT exam) or overseas.
English-Medium Instruction: Entire MBBS course is delivered in English, reducing language limitations for Indian students.
Integrated Curriculum: PBL, simulation labs, and early years of clinical exposure.
Clinical & Military Training Exposure
Opportunities for clinical rotations at cutting-edge Armed Forces Hospitals and research institutions.
Exclusive exposure to military and disaster medicine, with emergency care, trauma surgery, and field medicine.
Clinical competence is solidly established through practical training at state-of-the-art military medical complexes.
International & Cultural Advantages
Multicultural Setting: AFCM welcomes students from the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, thus providing a multicultural peer group.
Proximity to Culture: Egypt has common historical and cultural affinity with India, which facilitates adaptation than Western nations.
Avenues for learning Arabic (though not mandatory) can enhance communication with indigenous patients and expand professional opportunities in Gulf & Middle Eastern nations.
Financial & Professional Advantages
Low Tuition Charges & Living Expenses as compared to private Indian medical schools or foreign countries.
Large Return on Investment (ROI): Internationally accepted medical degree at reduced prices, higher professional prospects in India, Gulf, Europe, and America.
Military medical training offers a comparative advantage in specialties such as trauma care, surgery, aviation medicine, and emergency response.
Student Life & Support
Hostel & Accommodation Facilities available in campus or nearby with security and military discipline.
Indian students tend to form helpful peer groups and communities.
Cafeteria and mess facilities sometimes have Indian food options (in Cairo, Indian restaurants are also available).
Safe & Secure Environment because of the military-managed campus.
Post-Graduation Opportunities
Eligible to appear for NEXT (India), USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), DHA / HAAD / MOH (UAE), and other global licensing exams.
Preference in military medical services and disaster relief organizations because of AFCM’s special training.
Networking with Egyptian military and civilian health leaders and international leaders abroad.
For Indian students, pursuing MBBS at AFCM Cairo provides a degree widely recognized overseas at reasonable prices, excellent clinical and military medical exposure, a secure and disciplined environment, and extensive career opportunities overseas and in India.
FAQ’s
What kind of clinical exposure will I get?
- Training in Armed Forces Hospitals, Military Medical Complexes, and Civilian Hospitals in Cairo.
- Special focus on emergency medicine, trauma surgery, and military/disaster medicine.
Is Indian food available on campus?
- Campus mess and cafeterias offer international food.
- Indian restaurants and grocery stores are available in Cairo.
Can Indian students practice in India after graduating from AFCM?
- After completing MBBS, students must qualify NEXT (National Exit Test) to practice in India.
What is the medium of instruction?
- The MBBS program is taught in English, ensuring easy adaptation for Indian students.
- Basic Arabic is recommended for clinical practice in later years.
Where is the Armed Forces College of Medicine located?
- AFCM is located in Cairo, Egypt, under the Egyptian Armed Forces.
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