Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities 2025-26

  • China

Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities “Inner Mongolia University” (IMU), located in Hohhot City—the capital of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region (IMAR) and a culturally rich historic city just over 400 kilometers from Beijing—is a prestigious institution established in 1957. 

About Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities

Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities was the first university founded by the Communist Party of China and the state in an ethnic minority region after the founding of the People’s Republic of China. 

IMU’s early leadership included Ulanhu, then Vice Premier and Governor of IMAR, as its first president, and Yu Beichen, a senior official from the Ministry of Higher Education, as vice president. Esteemed scholars, such as Li Jitong—a Yale PhD and Class A professor from Peking University—also helped lay the academic foundations. With strong initial support from top universities across China, including Peking University, IMU developed a robust academic and administrative culture. 

Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities – Table of Contents

IMU was approved to offer postgraduate degrees in 1962, designated one of China’s 88 key universities in 1978, and authorized to confer doctoral degrees in 1984. It joined Project 211 in 1997, became co-sponsored by the Ministry of Education (MOE) and the IMAR government in 2004, and was included in China’s strategic mid-western higher education development plan in 2012. In 2017, IMU was selected for China’s “Double First-Class” discipline initiative and reaffirmed its status in 2022 as a second-round candidate under the program.

With 23 schools and colleges, including Manzhouli and Pioneer Colleges, IMU operates affiliated educational and medical institutions and maintains an Advisory Council for Development Strategies. The university covers 11 major academic fields, including philosophy, law, education, science, engineering, and more. It holds two national key disciplines—minority languages and literature, and zoology—and several regional key and development disciplines. 

Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities
Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities

Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities Accreditations, Affiliations, Recognitions

IMU is authorized to confer degrees across 13 doctoral and 24 master’s disciplines, offers 83 undergraduate programs, and hosts 8 postdoctoral research stations. Its biology program has been chosen for national first-class development, while disciplines such as ecology, chemistry, mathematics, and ethnology are recognized as regional top-notch disciplines. 

IMU’s subjects like chemistry, engineering, environment/ecology, and materials science are ranked among the top 1% globally in ESI. Recognized for academic excellence, IMU has been included in multiple national educational initiatives such as the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Project, National Demonstration Universities, and Emergency Education Pilot Programs. It boasts 130 teaching labs, 227 training bases, 33 national first-class undergraduate programs, 16 national-level first-class courses, and numerous other national education honors.

IMU has a vibrant student body of 28,749, including 15,893 undergraduates, 8,353 master’s students, 1,030 doctoral candidates, and 392 international students. Among its distinguished alumni are several academicians from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Engineering.

With a strong faculty of 1,990 staff members—1,254 of whom are full-time teachers, including 274 professors and 420 associate professors—IMU is home to nationally and internationally recognized talent. This includes recipients of the Changjiang Scholars Program, National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars, and participants in national-level talent support programs. 

The university also has multiple teaching and research teams recognized at national and regional levels and continues to play a vital role in advancing higher education and innovation in China’s ethnic minority regions.

Advantages of Studying in Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities

1. Focus on National and Regional Needs:

  • The university is jointly run by the State Nationalities Affairs Commission and the People’s Government of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, which allows it to tailor its programs to the specific needs of the region and its diverse ethnic groups. 
  • It offers specialized programs in Mongolian language and literature, Mongolian medicine, and other fields relevant to the region’s culture and history. 
  • This focus can be particularly appealing to students interested in research and careers related to ethnic studies, minority affairs, or cultural preservation. 

2. Strong Academic Programs and Resources:

  • The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including philosophy, economics, law, literature, history, sciences, engineering, agriculture, management, and art theory. 
  • It boasts a well-equipped library with a vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources. 
  • The university also has a large-scale museum showcasing the history of the university, Horqin culture, Mongolian medicine, and Tongliao minority education. 
  • Facilities for sports and recreational activities are also available, including a multi-functional music hall and sports centers. 
  • Furthermore, the university actively participates in international academic exchange and cooperation, with agreements with numerous foreign universities. 

3. Affordable Education and Living Costs: 

  • Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities is known for providing quality education at a lower cost compared to many other universities, both in China and internationally.
  • This affordability extends to living expenses as well, making it an attractive option for students seeking cost-effective education.

4. Unique Cultural Environment: 

  • As the name suggests, the university provides a unique cultural environment that is deeply rooted in the traditions and heritage of Inner Mongolia.
  • Students can immerse themselves in the local culture, learn about Mongolian traditions, and interact with people from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
  • The university also offers opportunities to learn Mongolian language and culture.

5. International Recognition and Scholarship Opportunities:

  • The university is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Medical Council of India (MCI), making it a viable option for medical studies. 
  • It is also a training base for international students under the China Government Scholarship program. 
  • International students can also apply for scholarships offered by the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Government. 

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Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities – Ranking

The School of Mongolian Studies at Inner Mongolia University (IMU) is a distinguished institution dedicated to cultivating advanced professionals in the field of Mongolian Studies and conducting scientific research in related disciplines. 

Established in 1957 with the creation of the Department of Mongolian Language and Literature, the school was formed to meet the national and regional demand for qualified professionals in Mongolian language and culture. In 1962, the Mongolian Language Research Office was established as a specialized research institution, which later evolved into the Institute of Mongolian Language in 1982. 

On December 12, 1995, several institutes—including those of Mongolian Language, Mongolian History, Inner Mongolian Modern and Contemporary History, and Neighboring Countries—merged with the department to form the Academy of Mongolian Studies, which was renamed the School of Mongolian Studies in 2000. A separate Department of Mongolian History was established in 2010 to further strengthen research and teaching in historical disciplines.

IMU began offering a master’s degree program in Mongolian Language and Literature in 1962, followed by undergraduate journalism programs in Mongolian starting in 1975. The undergraduate major in Journalism was formally introduced in 1986 and began enrolling students in 1988. 

The Department of Journalism and Publishing was founded in 1999, offering majors in Journalism and Publishing. A master’s program in Chinese Ethnic Minority Languages and Literature began in 1981, and a doctoral program in Chinese Language and Literature was launched in 1984 and approved again in 2011. The university expanded its offerings with a post-doctoral program in 2002 and additional master’s and undergraduate programs in Journalism, Communication, and Broadcasting.

Over the past 60 years, the school has played a crucial role in advancing higher education for ethnic minorities, building a comprehensive academic structure that includes undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and post-doctoral programs. To date, it has produced over 4,700 undergraduate graduates, more than 1,500 master’s graduates, and over 340 doctoral graduates, contributing significantly to various sectors domestically and internationally. The School’s Communist Party of China (CPC) Committee comprises 13 sub-committees with a total of 314 members, including 89 faculty and 225 student members.

During the 12th Five-Year Plan period, the school established several specialized research centers, including the Research Center for Applied Linguistics, Research Center for Documents of Mongolian History, Research Center for History and Geography of the Mongolian Plateau, Research Center for Mongolian-Tibetan Culture, and Research Center for Jangar. Supporting facilities such as the Joint Laboratory of Machine Translation, Laboratory of Social Linguistics, Experiment Center for Mongolian Journalism and Communication, and the Museum of Mongolian Literature were also developed.

The discipline of Mongolian Language and Literature was recognized as a national-level key discipline in 1988 and later designated as a key discipline under the “211 Project” in 1995. It was also named a national base for talent cultivation and scientific research in the liberal arts. 

In 2008, Mongolian Language and Literature was recognized as a national-level major with distinctive characteristics, while Journalism was designated as a regional-level brand major. In 2009, Mongolian Language and Literature became part of a national pilot program for innovation in talent training. With decades of dedication from its faculty, the School of Mongolian Studies has emerged as a leading center for academic research and talent development, known for its unique strengths and disciplinary excellence.

Departments And Course Duration in Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities

At Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities (IMUN), the MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in medical science, clinical skills, and healthcare practice, particularly within multiethnic and multicultural settings. The university emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical training, with a focus on serving minority regions and rural healthcare needs. MBBS Departments at IMUN

Departments

  • Department of Basic Medical Sciences

      • Description: Offers foundational courses in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, pathology, and microbiology. This department equips students with core medical science knowledge necessary for understanding human health and disease.
      • Key Labs: Anatomy dissection lab, histopathology lab, and physiology lab.
  • Department of Clinical Medicine

      • Description: Focuses on clinical subjects such as internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, dermatology, psychiatry, ophthalmology, ENT, and orthopedics. Students learn through both classroom instruction and hospital rotations.
      • Affiliated Hospital: Students gain hands-on experience at IMUN-affiliated hospitals.
  • Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine

      • Description: Offers training in epidemiology, community medicine, health policy, environmental health, and disease prevention strategies. Prepares students for roles in public health services, especially in rural and minority regions.
  • Department of Traditional Mongolian Medicine (Elective/Optional)

      • Description: Offers electives in ethnic traditional medical knowledge, especially focusing on Mongolian medicine, which is significant given the university’s location and heritage.
  • Department of Medical Humanities and Ethics

      • Description: Emphasizes medical ethics, doctor-patient communication, psychology, and professionalism to shape well-rounded, compassionate medical practitioners.
  • Department of Pathophysiology and Diagnostic Imaging

    • Description: Includes pathology, radiology, and diagnostics, teaching students how to interpret clinical tests and imaging studies.

Course Duration

The MBBS program at IMUN typically spans 6 years, divided as follows:

  • Year 1–2: Pre-clinical studies focusing on basic medical sciences (anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, pathology, pharmacology).
  • Year 3–5: Clinical subjects and rotations in internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, OBGYN, psychiatry, etc., combined with public health training and hands-on practice.
  • Year 6: Clinical internship, where students work under supervision in affiliated hospitals across different departments. This year is crucial for developing real-world medical skills.
  • The MBBS program is taught primarily in Chinese, but international batches may have English-medium instruction for the first few years, with Chinese language training for clinical interaction.
  • IMUN emphasizes cultural integration, which benefits Indian and other international students in understanding healthcare delivery in ethnically diverse populations.

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Facilities and Infrastructure in Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities

Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities (IMUN) offers a well-established and modern campus infrastructure that supports both academic learning and student life. 

Located in Tongliao City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, the university is known for its commitment to education in ethnic minority areas, offering specialized resources for medical, linguistic, cultural, and scientific training. Here’s an overview of the facilities and infrastructure at IMUN:

Campus Infrastructure

  • Multiple Campuses: The university operates a main campus and additional branches including dedicated spaces for medicine, Mongolian studies, and sciences.
  • Smart Classrooms: Equipped with interactive boards, multimedia teaching systems, and e-learning platforms to support modern education.
  • High-Speed Internet: Wi-Fi connectivity is available throughout the campus, including libraries and hostels.

Academic Facilities

  • State-of-the-Art Laboratories:
    • Anatomy Dissection Lab
    • Pathology and Microbiology Labs
    • Pharmacology and Biochemistry Labs
    • Clinical Skills Simulation Lab
  • Clinical Training Facilities:
    • Affiliated teaching hospitals with modern diagnostic and surgical facilities.
    • Medical simulation centers and patient interaction rooms for hands-on learning.
  • Research Centers:
    • Centers for ethnic minority medicine and Mongolian traditional medicine.
    • Laboratories for molecular biology, public health, and disease prevention research.

Library and Digital Resources

  • Central Library:
    • Houses over 1.5 million volumes, including medical textbooks, journals, research papers, and ethnic literature.
    • Special collection on Mongolian Studies and Traditional Medicine.
  • E-Library Access: Offers access to major international medical and academic databases.
  • 24/7 Reading Rooms: Quiet study areas for extended use during exam seasons.

Affiliated Hospitals

  • IMUN is partnered with well-equipped teaching hospitals offering:
    • Tertiary care services
    • Departments in surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics, OBGYN, and emergency medicine
    • Patient-centered learning for clinical interns

 Hostels & Accommodation

  • Separate hostels for male and female students
  • Well-furnished rooms with:
    • Attached bathrooms
    • Central heating for winter
    • Basic furniture and internet access
  • Common areas for social interaction and study
  • 24/7 security with student ID access

Canteen & Dining

  • Multiple canteens offering Chinese, Mongolian, and select international cuisines
  • Hygienic food preparation and student meal plans
  • Special meal options for international students

Sports and Recreation

  • Sports Facilities:
    • Indoor gymnasium
    • Outdoor football field, basketball and volleyball courts
    • Tracks for running and athletics
  • Recreational Centers:
    • Student activity center
    • Art and cultural exhibition halls

Health & Wellness

  • On-campus student health clinic
  • Mental health counseling services
  • Programs to promote physical and mental well-being

Additional Facilities

  • International Student Center: Supports Indian and other foreign students with visa, accommodation, and academic guidance.
  • Innovation & Entrepreneurship Centers: For students interested in research, startups, and technological development.
  • Museum of Mongolian Culture & Literature: Highlighting regional history, culture, and language.

Official site For Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities: Click Here 

Required Documents For Admission in Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities

  • A birth certificate as an age proof is mandatory.
  • 10th and 12th class mark sheets.
  • Passport size photo.
  • Valid passport with 18 months of validity.
  • Student VISA is mandatory.
  • Report of HIV test.
  • Bank statements are required for the submission.
  • Medical certificates for fitness proofs.
  • Invitation letter from concerned university.
  • Approved documents from the Ministry External Affairs.
  • Legalized papers from the embassy.

Eligibility Criteria For Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities

  • 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

Admission Process For Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities

  1. Online Application: Fill out the application form and submit the required documents online.
  2. Fee Payment: Once the university reviews and approves the application, pay the required fees.
  3. Immigration Process: The university initiates the immigration process and issues an invitation letter after receiving the ministry order.
  4. Visa Approval: The visa approval process takes around 30 days.
  5. Travel to China: After receiving the student visa, students can finalize their travel plans and prepare for departure.

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Benefits of Studying in Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities 

Studying at Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities (IMUN) offers a range of academic, cultural, and career advantages—especially for students interested in healthcare, ethnic studies, and intercultural learning. Below are the key benefits of studying at IMUN, particularly in fields like medicine and Mongolian studies:

1. Strong Academic Reputation in Ethnic and Medical Education

  • IMUN is a prestigious institution in ethnic minority education in China, with decades of experience.
  • The School of Mongolian Studies and the Faculty of Medicine are nationally recognized for academic excellence and unique disciplinary strengths.
  • The MBBS program is built on a strong foundation of clinical training and theoretical knowledge, with modern labs and teaching hospitals.

2. Multicultural & Bilingual Environment

  • Located in Tongliao City, Inner Mongolia, IMUN offers a culturally rich, bilingual environment (Chinese and Mongolian), making it ideal for students interested in multiculturalism, ethnomedicine, and language learning.
  • Opportunities to study Mongolian traditional medicine and culture alongside modern medical education.

3. Affordable and Quality Education

  • Compared to other medical universities globally, IMUN offers affordable tuition fees and cost-effective living, without compromising on education quality.
  • Availability of government scholarships and regional funding support, especially for international and minority students.

4. Excellent Clinical Exposure

  • IMUN has affiliated hospitals and clinical training bases, offering hands-on experience in internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, OBGYN, and more.
  • Students get real-time exposure to patients, diagnostics, and hospital environments from the later years of the MBBS program.

5. Strong Research Platforms

  • Home to multiple research centers and labs, especially in linguistics, ethnic medicine, public health, and applied sciences.
  • Encourages student participation in innovation projects and offers opportunities for research assistantships and academic publication.

6. Friendly for International Students

  • A growing number of Indian and international students are choosing IMUN for MBBS and higher studies.
  • The International Student Center offers dedicated support for visa assistance, accommodation, cultural adaptation, and academic services.

7. Safe & Comfortable Living Environment

  • Modern campus infrastructure, secure hostels with heating (important for Inner Mongolia’s cold winters), and hygienic canteen services.
  • 24/7 campus security and student-friendly services ensure a safe and comfortable student life.

8. Strong Career and Postgraduate Opportunities

  • Graduates from IMUN, especially in Mongolian studies and MBBS, are well-placed for career opportunities in China, international NGOs, ethnic policy institutions, healthcare sectors, and further postgraduate studies.
  • The university has a large alumni network across government, research, and academic sectors.

9. Cultural Enrichment and Extracurricular Activities

  • Rich exposure to Mongolian heritage, traditional medicine, ethnic festivals, and music.
  • Students can participate in sports, academic clubs, cultural exhibitions, and volunteer programs.

Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students in Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities

1. English-Medium MBBS Program (for International Batches)

  • IMUN offers an MBBS program in English for international students in the early years.
  • Alongside medical education, Chinese language training is provided to help students interact with patients during clinical practice in later years.

2. Affordable Tuition & Living Costs

  • IMUN offers a cost-effective medical education compared to private medical colleges in India and many foreign countries.
  • Living expenses in Tongliao City are relatively low, making it a budget-friendly destination for Indian students.

3. Eligibility for FMGE (MCI Screening Test/NExT)

  • The MBBS degree from IMUN is recognized by the Medical Council of India (now NMC) (subject to NMC guidelines).
  • Indian students can appear for the FMGE/NExT exam after graduation to practice in India, making it a viable option for future doctors.

4. Scholarship Opportunities

  • IMUN offers scholarships for international students based on academic performance and conduct.
  • Some scholarships may cover tuition fee reductions, hostel subsidies, or monthly stipends.

5. Clinical Training in Affiliated Hospitals

  • Indian students receive hands-on training in IMUN’s modern teaching hospitals equipped with departments for internal medicine, surgery, gynecology, pediatrics, etc.
  • These hospitals provide real-life clinical exposure, vital for MBBS training.

6. Multicultural & Supportive Campus Environment

  • IMUN promotes a multicultural and bilingual setting, creating opportunities to learn about Chinese and Mongolian cultures.
  • Indian students experience warm hospitality and support from university staff and the International Student Office.

7. Safe Accommodation with Amenities

  • IMUN provides on-campus hostels for international students with:
    • Central heating
    • Furnished rooms
    • High-speed internet
    • Indian-style cooking facilities in common kitchens (in select dormitories)

8. Access to International Standard Facilities

  • Indian students benefit from modern laboratories, medical libraries, simulation centers, and e-learning platforms.
  • The university supports student participation in seminars, workshops, and academic conferences.

9. Cultural Exchange and Student Activities

  • IMUN encourages Indian students to participate in:
    • Ethnic festivals
    • Cultural programs
    • Sports and extracurricular clubs
  • This builds cross-cultural understanding and makes the academic experience more enriching.

10. Convenient Location & Travel

  • Tongliao City is connected by train and air to major Chinese cities like Beijing and Hohhot, making travel for holidays and emergencies easier.
  • The university assists with visa extension and legal formalities for Indian and other international students.

FAQ’s

Is the MBBS degree recognized in India?

The degree is recognized subject to NMC (National Medical Commission) approval. Students must qualify the FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Exam)/NExT to practice in India.

Does the university provide clinical training?

IMUN offers clinical training through its affiliated teaching hospitals, which are fully equipped with modern medical facilities.

What is the medium of instruction for non-medical programs?

Most programs are taught in Chinese, though a few may have bilingual or English options depending on the department.

Is accommodation provided on campus?

IMUN provides separate hostel facilities for international students, with amenities like heating, Wi-Fi, and common kitchens.

What extracurricular activities are available?

Students can join various clubs and societies related to sports, music, arts, cultural events, and Mongolian heritage programs.

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