DILI, 23 March 2026 (TATOLI) — The Rector of the Universidade Católica Timorense (UCT), Father Joel Casimiro Pinto, said the India-based Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) program has brought renewed hope and motivation to Timorese students, encouraging efforts to further improve the quality of medical education in Timor-Leste.
“The MBBS program has transformed the dynamics of education at UCT,” Father Pinto told TATOLI at the university’s Balide campus in Dili. “Students from India and Timor-Leste exchange experiences, motivating local students to improve their English skills and pursue medical studies in greater depth. The program’s presence will continue to raise the quality of education in our country.”
Father Pinto explained that the MBBS program is supported by modern facilities, including dedicated buildings and a medical practice laboratory, which allow students to deepen their understanding of medical theories.
Currently, 380 students from India are enrolled in the MBBS program, all within the Faculty of Medical Sciences.
“These students are taught by international lecturers from India and Brazil, as well as by local faculty. After graduation, they will return to India to contribute to healthcare in their home country,” Father Pinto said.
UCT currently comprises four faculties—Education, Language and Arts; Medical Sciences; Social Sciences; and Agricultural Engineering—offering 22 undergraduate programs alongside the MBBS degree.
“The university has 140 faculty members, primarily Timorese, with additional lecturers from abroad. Each year, UCT admits roughly 500 students from more than 1,500 applicants and holds memberships in several international academic associations, partnering with numerous foreign universities.”
Top 5 Reasons Indian Students Choose Timor-Leste for MBBS at UCT
Affordable Education with Global Standards
The high cost of private medical education in India—ranging from ₹15 lakh to ₹1 crore—makes MBBS unattainable for many families. UCT offers a 4.5-year MBBS program plus a one-year internship, matching India’s curriculum. Students gain clinical experience across more than ten affiliated hospitals, benefit from transparent tuition fees, and have access to scholarships. To date, 29 full MBBS scholarships have been awarded to Indian students.
Indian-Standard Curriculum (AIIMS Delhi-Based)
UCT follows a curriculum modeled on India’s premier medical institute, AIIMS Delhi, ensuring Indian students experience a smooth academic transition without syllabus gaps. This alignment also makes preparation for India’s licensing exams, NEXT/FMGE, easier. Unlike programs in Russia, Uzbekistan, or Georgia, students at UCT avoid language barriers and curriculum mismatches.
Safe, Comfortable, and Indian-Friendly Campus
For many parents, safety and comfort are as important as academics. UCT provides Indian-style mess facilities, a secure and peaceful Southeast Asian environment, and a culturally supportive campus with students from over 25 countries. Many Indian students say the experience feels like studying in India, while gaining global exposure.
Strong Clinical Exposure with UCT’s Hospitals
Hands-on experience is central to medical training. UCT guarantees clinical exposure through more than ten affiliated hospitals and its own teaching hospital, where students complete their mandatory internship. Graduates gain practical experience across diverse patient cases under expert supervision, leaving with both theoretical knowledge and real-world clinical confidence.
Global Recognition and Career Opportunities
UCT graduates can pursue careers both in India and abroad. Students are eligible to practice in India after clearing NEXT/FMGE, and can also appear for international licensing exams such as USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), and AMC (Australia). Opportunities for postgraduate study exist in countries like the UK, USA, Germany, and Canada. The MBBS program is fully compliant with the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India, offering flexibility to return home or build a global medical career.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
