While countries like the USA and Europe are known for top medical universities, Cuba quietly runs one of the most inclusive and affordable medical education systems in the world. The Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM), located in Havana, Cuba, is not only the largest medical school by enrollment, but it also offers free tuition, housing, food and a stipend to its students.
About ELAM – Latin American School of Medicine
Location: Santa Fe district, Havana, Cuba
Campus: 1.2 sq. km with 28 buildings, 80 classrooms, 37 labs, 5 amphitheatres
Recognition:
- Recognised by WHO
- Approved by ECFMG (USA)
- Accredited by the Medical Board of California
Founded to serve students from economically weaker nations, ELAM has trained over 30,000 doctors from more than 160 countries. As of 2012, there were around 19,550 students from 110 countries studying here.
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Indian Students Can Also Apply
Indian students who clear NEET-UG and come from financially disadvantaged backgrounds are eligible to apply for scholarships at ELAM. The school aims to train doctors who can return and serve their communities.
What’s Free at ELAM?
ELAM offers a fully-funded MBBS-level medical program, which includes:
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- Free hostel accommodation
- Free meals (3 times a day)
- Free textbooks and lab access
- Monthly stipend (approx. ₹1800 or 46,000 Cuban Pesos)
- Free Spanish language course
- Free uniforms, toiletries, and bedding
Students are responsible only for visa charges, airfare, and travel expenses.
MBBS Course Structure at ELAM
- 1st Year: Spanish language training + introduction to Cuban culture and public health
- 2nd–6th Year: Core medical education over 12 semesters
- Final Year: Rotating internship in hospitals across Cuba
- US students typically complete years 3 to 6 at Salvador Allende Hospital in Havana.
Eligibility Criteria
- Minimum: Class 12th (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, English) with good marks
- NEET qualification is mandatory for Indian applicants
- Medically fit certificate required
- Willingness to learn Spanish
How to Apply for Admission?
You can apply through:
- Official Cuban Embassy in India, or
- Authorised educational agents approved by the Cuban government
Application Timeline: January to March each year (final deadline via IFCO – March)
Selection Process
- Shortlisting based on academic performance and economic background
- Interview or entrance exam (in some cases)
- Language proficiency assessment (English/Spanish)
- Submission of health and police clearance certificates
- Final list of selected and rejected candidates released
Scholarship Coverage
| Facility | Provided |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | ✅ Free |
| Hostel Stay | ✅ Free |
| Meals (3/day) | ✅ Free |
| Books, Uniforms, Bedding | ✅ Free |
| Toiletries | ✅ Free |
| Monthly Stipend | ✅ ₹1800 (approx.) |
| Travel/Visa/Flight | ❌ Not covered |
Campus Life at ELAM
The main campus is built on a former naval base and houses thousands of students.
- Dorms: Rooms accommodate 5–20 students with bunk beds
- Cafeteria meals include rice, beans, and meat/soy dishes
- On-campus medical services and recreational facilities are available
- International students study in a diverse, culturally rich environment
Global Recognition & Alumni
- ELAM is officially recognised by WHO, ECFMG, and many national medical councils.
- Alumni from ELAM serve in over 160 countries across Latin America, Asia, Africa, and the U.S.
- The school receives about 150 applications annually from the U.S., and about 30 enrol each year.
Why Choose ELAM for MBBS?
- 100% Free MBBS education
- Globally recognised degree
- Inclusive of economically weaker students
- Safe and fully residential campus
- Ideal for those who want to return and serve their communities
Note: If you’re an aspiring doctor from India seeking affordable international MBBS education, ELAM in Cuba is one of the best options. With full scholarships, global accreditation, and a humanitarian mission, ELAM stands out as a beacon of opportunity for students from underprivileged backgrounds.
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