
Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences (HUMS) is a prominent higher education institution located in Bandar Abbas, Hormozgan Province, Iran. Established after the Iranian Islamic Revolution in 1987, though another source indicates it was founded in 1986, HUMS is dedicated to medical education, research, and healthcare services. It operates under the Ministry of Health and Medical Education of Iran.
History and Expansion
Initially founded in 1987, HUMS began as the School of Nursing and Midwifery with 98 students. Within a month of its establishment, the university expanded to include the School of Medicine with 140 students. It now consists of seven schools: Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing & Midwifery, Paramedical, and Health. The university currently accommodates over 3,320 students studying in 16 fields of medical sciences and employs 300 academic staff.
Location and General Information
HUMS is located in the port city of Bandar Abbas. Bandar Abbas has a city population of 527,000. The university’s address is P.O. Box 3838 Shahid Chamran Blvd, Bandar Abbas, Hormozgan, 79166-13885, Iran. HUMS is also known by its alternative name, دانشگاه علوم پزشکی هرمزگان. The official website is hums.ac.ir. The primary languages used are Persian and English.
Schools and Faculties
Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences comprises several schools and faculties dedicated to various medical disciplines:
- School / Faculty of Medicine:Â Offers a comprehensive MBBS program, covering foundational sciences, clinical rotations, and internships. It focuses on cutting-edge research and collaborates with affiliated hospitals for practical training.
- School / Faculty of Dentistry:Â Focuses on dental surgery, oral health, and advanced practices, equipped with modern laboratories and affiliated clinics for training.
- School / Faculty of Pharmacy:Â Trains students in pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and pharmaceutical sciences, emphasizing practical and research skills.
- School / Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery:Â Offers programs in Midwifery and Nursing.
- School / Faculty of Paramedical Sciences:Â Provides training in Paramedical Sciences.
- School / Faculty of Health:Â Offers programs in Health Sciences. It is dedicated to promoting public health and preventive healthcare, offering programs in epidemiology, community health, and environmental health.
Programs and Degrees
HUMS offers a wide range of programs from undergraduate (Bachelor’s) to postgraduate (Master’s and Doctoral) levels. While a general overview is provided, specific majors may vary. The academic calendar typically runs from September to June.
Specific programs mentioned include:
- Bachelor’s (Karshenasi):Â Anaesthesiology, Entomology, Health Sciences, Information Technology, Laboratory Techniques, Midwifery, Nursing, Occupational Health, Paramedical Sciences, Public Health, Radiology. Also offers programs in Biology, Business, Chemistry, Computer Science, Economics, Engineering, Environmental Science, Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, Mathematics, Medicine, Physics, Psychology.
- Master’s (Karshenasi Arshad):Â Biochemistry, Genetics, Health Education, Health Sciences, Medical Parasitology, Medicine, Nursing, Physiology. Also offers programs in Biology, Business, Chemistry, Computer Science, Economics, Engineering, Environmental Science, Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, Mathematics, Medicine, Physics, Psychology.
- Doctoral:Â Genetics, Health Education, Physiology. Professional Doctorates are offered in Dentistry, Medicine, and Pharmacy. Doctoral programs are TBD (To Be Determined) for many other fields.
Rankings
Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences holds national and international rankings from various sources:
- EduRank.org:Â Ranks HUMS as #9292 in the World (out of 14,131), #3683 in Asia (out of 5,830), and #133 in Iran (out of 310). It is ranked #1 out of 3 in Bandar Abbas. EduRank.org is an independent metric-based ranking utilizing scholarly papers and citations.
- QS World University Rankings:Â Ranks HUMS 55th Nationally (Iran) and 1,600th Internationally.
- Iran Ministry of Health:Â Ranks HUMS 40th Nationally.
HUMS holds a notable position nationally and internationally for its contributions to the medical field, research, and education.
Accreditation and Recognition
HUMS is officially accredited by the Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MOHME) of Iran. Its MBBS and related medical programs follow WHO (World Health Organization) guidelines. For Indian students, the university is recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC), allowing graduates to practice in India after meeting necessary criteria. The university also maintains recognition by international organizations such as ECFMG and IMED for global degree acceptance, and is recognized by EMSA and FIMER.
Affiliated Medical Institutions and Hospitals
HUMS is affiliated with multiple top-tier hospitals and medical centers in Bandar Abbas and surrounding regions. These affiliated institutions serve as primary clinical training centers for students across various medical fields, including dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, and general medicine. Noteworthy affiliations include:
- Shahid Mohammadi Hospital
- Pediatric Medical Center (referred to as Pediatric Center or Specialized Pediatric Center)
- Dentistry Training Center
These affiliations ensure advanced clinical training and hands-on experience in real-world healthcare settings.
The MBBS Program
The MBBS program at Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences is a globally recognized medical degree.
- Language of Instruction: The MBBS program is taught in English.
- Course Duration: The total duration of the MBBS program is 6 years. This is divided into three distinct phases:
- Pre-Clinical Phase (2 years):Â Focuses on basic sciences such as Anatomy, Physiology, and Biochemistry. Includes practical lab work to build foundational medical knowledge.
- Clinical Phase (3 years):Â Involves clinical rotations in fields like Surgery, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Psychiatry. Provides hands-on experience at affiliated hospitals and healthcare centers.
- Internship Phase (1 year):Â Full-time practical training across various hospital departments. This phase is supervised by experienced medical professionals and focuses on the real-world application of medical knowledge.
- Syllabus Outline:Â The syllabus is structured year-wise:
- Year 1:Â Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry.
- Year 2:Â Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology.
- Year 3:Â General Medicine, General Surgery, Pediatrics.
- Year 4:Â Obstetrics, Gynecology, Psychiatry.
- Year 5:Â Clinical Rotations and Internships in various medical specialties.
- Year 6:Â Final Examinations and Practical Assessments.
The curriculum is designed to align with global medical standards, providing a blend of academic knowledge and practical skills.
Advantages of Studying MBBS at HUMS and in Iran
Studying MBBS at HUMS and in Iran offers several advantages, particularly for international students:
- Affordability: Iran, including HUMS, offers cost-effective medical education compared to many other global universities. The tuition fees are significantly lower than in Western countries. The overall estimated cost for the entire MBBS program ranges from approximately ₹30,00,000 to ₹45,00,000 (USD $35,000 to $53,000).
- High-Quality Education and Facilities: HUMS is recognized for its high-quality education and provides state-of-the-art facilities, modern laboratories, and advanced research centers. It boasts a well-developed healthcare infrastructure. The university encourages engagement in medical research.
- Extensive Clinical Training: Through its affiliations with hospitals like Shahid Mohammadi Hospital and Pediatric Center, HUMS provides extensive clinical training and hands-on experience in various medical fields.
- Global Recognition:Â The MBBS degree is internationally recognized by bodies such as WHO, NMC (for India), ECFMG, and IMED, enabling graduates to pursue medical careers globally.
- Diverse Learning Environment:Â HUMS has a diverse student body, including students from India and other neighboring nations, which enriches the learning experience and fosters interaction across different healthcare practices.
- Support Services:Â The university offers comprehensive support services for international students, including assistance with admissions, visa processing, hostel accommodations, and pre-departure/post-arrival guidance.
Admission Process and Eligibility Criteria
The admission process for the MBBS program at HUMS involves several steps. The application process for the 2025 academic year is expected to begin in the first quarter of the year, with deadlines typically by mid-year. Applicants should monitor the university portal for updates.
Eligibility Criteria
Prospective students must meet specific criteria to be eligible for the MBBS program:
- Minimum Academic Requirements: Applicants must have completed 12 years of schooling with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. A strong background in science subjects is essential.
- NEET Qualification (for Indian Students): Indian students are required to clear the NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) for eligibility to apply.
- Age Limit: The age limit for applicants is typically between 17 and 25 years at the time of admission.
- Medical Fitness: Students must submit a medical fitness certificate.
- English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers may need to provide proof of English proficiency through exams like IELTS or TOEFL.
Admission Steps
The general admission process includes:
- Application Submission:Â Completing the online application form via the HUMS portal.
- Document Upload:Â Submitting required documents such as academic transcripts, passport copies, and medical fitness certificates.
- Entrance Examination: Students may be required to take an entrance exam for specific programs.
- NEET Submission:Â Indian students must submit their NEET results.
- Acceptance and Visa:Â Upon receiving an acceptance letter, students apply for a student visa.
- Final Enrollment:Â Completing registration upon arrival at the university in Bandar Abbas.
Required Documents
Essential documents for MBBS admission typically include:
- Completed application form.
- High school diploma and transcripts (showing Physics, Chemistry, Biology marks).
- NEET results (for Indian students).
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months’ validity).
- Medical fitness certificate (including vaccination records).
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS scores or equivalent).
- Passport-sized photographs (4-6 recent photos).
- Financial documents (proof of funds for tuition and living expenses).
- Student visa or relevant documents.
- Any additional documents specified by the university.
Documents should be up-to-date and translated into English if required.
Fees and Living Costs
Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences offers an affordable tuition fee structure.
- Annual MBBS Tuition Fees: Range from approximately $4,000 to $6,000 USD. One source provides estimated fees in INR: ₹4,25,000 for the 1st Year and ₹3,75,000 for Years 2-5.
- Total Estimated MBBS Tuition Cost: Ranges from approximately ₹19,25,000 to ₹22,50,000 (USD $23,000 to $27,000) for the entire program.
In addition to tuition, students must budget for living expenses. Estimated yearly costs in Bandar Abbas include:
- Hostel/Dormitory Fee: ₹60,000 – ₹1,20,000 (USD $720 – $1,440). Note that on-campus housing may be free of charge for select prospective students.
- Living Expenses (Food, etc.): ₹2,00,000 – ₹2,50,000 (USD $2,400 – $3,000). Monthly food/groceries estimate is $100-$150, with dining out costing $3-$10 per meal.
- Books & Study Materials: ₹35,000 – ₹55,000 (USD $420 – $660).
- Health Insurance: ₹25,000 – ₹35,000 (USD $300 – $420). International students are required to have health insurance, estimated at $50 per month.
- Miscellaneous: ₹25,000 – ₹40,000 (USD $300 – $480).
The Total Estimated Cost for the entire MBBS program, including tuition and living expenses, is approximated between ₹30,00,000 and ₹45,00,000 (USD $35,000 and $53,000).
Hostel and Accommodation
HUMS offers on-campus housing facilities for students, including international students.
- Availability: On-campus housing is provided to select prospective students, sometimes free of charge, particularly for those pursuing Bachelor’s degrees. Accommodations may be offered based on academic merit, financial need, and extracurricular achievements.
- Facilities:Â Dormitories are equipped with modern amenities such as study rooms, recreational areas, and dining facilities. They meet international standards and provide high-quality living conditions.
- Amenities:Â Each student has access to free internet, study areas, and healthcare services. The university also offers free access to the library and modern on-campus facilities.
- Application:Â Prospective students must apply through the university’s selective housing portal. Admission is competitive, and early application is recommended.
For students opting for private housing off-campus, costs range from $200 to $400 USD per month, depending on location and amenities. Public transportation is affordable, around $20 per month, with walking or cycling also common.
Assessment
Assessment at HUMS involves a comprehensive approach, including topical exams, practical evaluations, and ongoing feedback. Narrative reviews provide insights into student performance. General information about assessment structure is shared at the start of each academic year.
The acceptance rate for the MBBS program is influenced by factors including the field of study, overall assessment criteria, university ranking, and the narrative review of applicants’ academic backgrounds. While an estimated acceptance rate of 36% is provided based on comparable universities, HUMS is among institutions that do not provide direct data on acceptance rates. This may be because some programs only require meeting admission requirements rather than competing with others.