Your Medical Career Starts Here

Build your medical career with an international curriculum, hands-on clinical training, and modern facilities designed to prepare you for global medical practice.

Universidade Católica Timorense (UCT) – São João Paulo II

Dili, Timor-Leste

Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)

World-Class MBBS Curriculum

The academic rigor and clinical excellence of the medical program at Universidade Católica Timorense prepares you for a global healthcare career.

Program Duration

English Medium

Direct Registration

Features a structured 4.5 Years MBBS Curriculum paired with a 12-month Compulsory Rotating Medical Internship (CRMI).

All lectures, academic materials, exams, and clinical interactions are conducted entirely in English for seamless global integration.

Eligible for direct application for medical practice registration in Timor-Leste without any additional licensure examination.

CBME-Based Syllabus

Clinical Exposure

A modern Competency-Based Medical Education program aligned with NMC Schedule I guidelines and the AIIMS New Delhi syllabus.

Students gain hands-on clinical training and direct patient exposure through our network of modern affiliated teaching hospitals.

WHY STUDY MBBS IN TIMOR-LESTE?

Top Reasons to Choose Timor-Leste

1. 4.5 Years Curriculum + 1 Year Internship

The MBBS program consists of 4.5 years of academic study, followed by a 1-year compulsory rotating medical internship.

2. Direct License to Practice in Timor-Leste

According to the booklet, foreign nationals with a valid medical degree can apply directly for a license to practice medicine in Timor-Leste without an additional licensure examination.

3. Curriculum Aligned with Indian Medical Education

The booklet presents the UCT MBBS curriculum as following the same syllabus as AIIMS, New Delhi.

4. English-Medium Education

The booklet states that English and the local language are offered across universities in Timor-Leste, with English available for international students.

5. International Student-Friendly Environment

UCT promotes a diverse student community, supportive faculty, hands-on learning, and a multicultural campus environment.

WHY STUDY MBBS IN TIMOR-LESTE?

Top Reasons to Choose Timor-Leste

4.5 Years + 1 Year Internship

Direct License to Practice

Aligned with Indian Standards

The MBBS program consists of 4.5 years of academic study, followed by a 1-year compulsory rotating medical internship.

Foreign nationals with a valid medical degree can apply directly for a license to practice medicine in Timor-Leste without an additional licensure examination.

The comprehensive medical curriculum is carefully aligned with Indian standards, making it highly compatible for students aiming to practice globally.

A Medical Education Built Around Knowledge, Service and Compassion

Universidade Católica Timorense welcomes aspiring doctors and future healthcare professionals into a dynamic academic community.

UCT Focuses On

Hands-on medical education

Dedicated and experienced faculty

Clinical exposure

Modern learning facilities

Research opportunities

Ethical and compassionate patient care

Student-centered learning

International exposure

MBBS PROGRAM

CBME MBBS Program

Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery. UCT offers a 4.5-year MBBS academic program divided into 9 semesters, followed by a 1-year compulsory rotating internship. The academic program is structured into professional phases.

6 Months

120 Days

8 Hours

Each semester has a 6 months duration, providing a comprehensive and structured block of medical training and clinical preparation.

Each semester includes 120 teaching days of intensive classroom instruction, practical laboratory sessions, and guided clinical study.

Approximately 8 hours of college working time per day, including one hour for lunch, ensuring a balanced and highly productive learning schedule.

Phase 1 – First Professional MBBS

The initial phase of the MBBS curriculum establishes a rigorous academic foundation, combining core biomedical sciences with early clinical exposure and community-oriented healthcare practices.

Core Sciences

Community & Clinical

Professionalism & Ethics

Master the structure and function of the human body through comprehensive courses in Anatomy, Physiology, and Biochemistry.

Engage with real-world healthcare early on through Introduction to Community Medicine, the Family Adoption Programme (FAP), and hands-on Early Clinical Exposure.

Build vital patient-care skills with Medical Humanities, the Attitude, Ethics and Communication Module (AETCOM), and our comprehensive Foundation Course.

Phase 2 – Second Professional MBBS

A pivotal year transitioning from basic medical theory to active clinical observation. Students acquire deep diagnostic knowledge and begin direct patient interactions.

Pathology & Microbiology

Pharmacology

Clinical & Ethical Practice

In-depth study of disease processes, structural changes in cells, and the microbial pathogens responsible for infectious diseases.

Understanding drug mechanisms, therapeutic effects, dosage, and clinical toxicology to prepare for safe prescribing.

Includes Introduction to Clinical Subjects, Clinical Postings, Family Visits for FAP, and core AETCOM communication training.

Phase 3 Third Professional MBBS Part I

A comprehensive 12-month program spanning 2 semesters, designed to cultivate advanced clinical skills, community health leadership, and professional medical ethics.

Clinical Specialties

Community & Forensic

Postings & Ethics

In-depth training in Medicine & Allied Subjects, Surgery & Allied Subjects, Pediatrics, and Obstetrics & Gynecology.

Practical education in Community Medicine, Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, alongside hands-on Family Visits.

Immersive Clinical Postings, tailored Electives, and dedicated AETCOM (Attitude, Ethics & Communication) training.

Practical Clinical Exposure

Through clinical postings and community family visits, students transition from classroom theory to active patient care, preparing for global medical licensing and practice.

Phase 4 Third Professional MBBS Part II

Duration: 18 Months / 3 Semesters. An intensive final phase focusing on advanced clinical subjects, hands-on hospital postings, and ethical professional development.

Medicine & Allied

Surgery & Clinical

• General Medicine

• Dermatology

• General Surgery & Orthopedics

• Psychiatry

• Ophthalmology & ENT

• Respiratory Medicine

• Radiodiagnosis & Anesthesia

• Pediatrics

• Obstetrics & Gynecology

• AETCOM (Ethics)

• Clinical Postings

Learn Medicine Through Real Clinical Exposure

The booklet describes clinical postings beginning from the 3rd through the 9th semesters, with daily clinical exposure in various departments.

Core Rotations

Specialized Postings

Students receive hands-on exposure to primary clinical and surgical care disciplines:

Comprehensive rotations through specialized therapeutic and diagnostic departments:

• General Medicine • General Surgery • Pediatrics • Obstetrics & Gynecology • Orthopedics • Casualty

• Ophthalmology • ENT • Psychiatry • Radiology • Community Medicine • Dentistry • TB & Chest • Skin & STD

Compulsory Rotating Medical Internship

After completing the academic MBBS program, students must complete a 12-month rotational internship to gain essential practical exposure across diverse clinical environments.

Acute & Critical Care

Specialized & Community

Guido Valadares Hospital

Develop vital clinical skills through structured rotations in active hospital wards, High Dependency Units (HDU), and intensive care units (ICU).

Gain broad clinical exposure and serve diverse patient demographics across multi-speciality hospitals, rural health centres, and community-based healthcare settings.

Complete your core clinical rotations at Guido Valadares National Hospital in Dili, the premier affiliated national hospital offering comprehensive medical training.

1-Year CRMI

After completing the academic MBBS program, students must complete a 12-month rotational internship.

The internship includes rotations through different departments and practical exposure in:

Hospital wards

HDU

ICU

Multi-speciality hospitals

Rural health centres

Community-based healthcare settings

The booklet identifies Guido Valadares National Hospital in Dili as an affiliated internship hospital.

Clinical Learning Through Multiple Healthcare Settings

The MBBS program highlights multi-specialty hospitals with 640+ beds and clinical exposure in a range of specialties, preparing students for global medical careers.

UCT Base Private Hospitals

Maternidade de Nossa Senhora de Fátima, Dili

Saint Vincent Clinic of Dili

Primary clinical training centers offering comprehensive exposure to diverse medical and surgical specialties.

Dedicated maternity and neonatal care facility providing specialized training in obstetrics and gynecology.

A key healthcare clinic in Dili offering hands-on experience in community medicine and outpatient services.

Associate Government Hospitals & Community Centres

Our program provides comprehensive clinical exposure across major specialties including medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics & gynecology, and orthopedics at Timor-Leste's leading medical institutions.

Guido Valadares National Hospital (HNGV)

Eduardo Ximenes Regional Hospital (HoREX)

Lahane Hospital

Timor-Leste's premier national referral hospital, offering students dense clinical exposure to complex medicine, emergency surgery, and specialized pediatric care.

A vital regional training site in Baucau, providing hands-on experience in secondary healthcare delivery, obstetrics, and regional community medicine.

A specialized facility in Dili offering targeted clinical environments, focusing on specialized internal medicine, recovery, and patient rehabilitation.

Ermera Hospital

Liquiçá Hospital

A key community hospital where students engage directly with maternal-child health programs, outpatient services, and rural clinical practice.

Providing essential primary care exposure, emergency response, and community-based healthcare initiatives in a regional municipal setting.

Learn in a Student-Centered Environment

UCT highlights facilities designed to support academic and practical medical education.

Library

Clinical Skills & Simulation

Our facility offers an extensive collection of medical and health science books, national and international journals, high-speed internet access, and a quiet academic environment.

We provide advanced simulation skill labs, virtual patient scenarios, team-based learning, interactive classrooms, and student-centered clinical skills training.

WHY CHOOSE UCT?

A Complete Medical Education Experience

Modern Facilities

Advanced laboratories, simulation centres and a full-fledged library.

Clinical Training

Real-time clinical exposure through hospital partnerships.

Research Focus

Students are encouraged to participate in hands-on research.

English Medium

International students can study through English.

Expert Faculty

The booklet highlights experienced and supportive medical educators.

Cultural Diversity

Students become part of a friendly and diverse international community.

A Complete Medical Education Experience

Modern Facilities

Clinical Training

Research Focus

Advanced laboratories, simulation centres and a full-fledged library.

Real-time clinical exposure through hospital partnerships.

Students are encouraged to participate in hands-on research.

FACULTY

Learn From Experienced Medical Educators

The booklet highlights:

• 500+ faculty members with professional and research experience

• 120+ faculty members from prestigious institutions around the world

• 30+ faculty members with international exposure and experience

It also features faculty members from departments including:

• Community Medicine

• Biochemistry

• Anatomy

• Physiology

• Microbiology

• Psychiatry

• Obstetrics & Gynecology

• Surgery

• Pediatrics

• Ophthalmology

• Orthopedics

• Radiology

• Pharmacology

• Forensic Medicine

• Anaesthesia

• Dermatology

The booklet also states that academic classes and FMGE/NExT coaching are conducted in collaboration with MedWay.

ACCREDITATION & COMPLIANCE

UCT's booklet presents its MBBS program with references to:

• NMC

• FAIMER

• WDOMS

• ECFMG

• ANAAA

The booklet describes UCT as complying with and being associated with international academic and medical education organizations.

LICENSE TO PRACTICE IN TIMOR-LESTE

Medical Practice Opportunity

According to the booklet, both local and international medical graduates with valid medical degrees can apply for registration to practice medicine in Timor-Leste.

The booklet states that:

• An additional licensure examination is not mandated by the Ministry of Health.

• Foreign nationals can apply for medical practice registration.

• The license granted to foreign nationals is stated to be equivalent to that granted to local citizens.

• The booklet reports that Indian citizens have received clinical practice licenses without a licensure examination.

COMMUNITY MEDICINE

Healthcare Beyond the Classroom

UCT students participate in community-based medical activities across Timor-Leste.

Activities include:

• Community field visits

• Health education

• Health surveys

• Immunization-related activities

• Preventive healthcare initiatives

• Interaction with families and local health workers

These experiences are presented as a way to develop clinical, communication and social responsibility skills.

STUDENT LIFE

A Diverse International Campus

UCT promotes a student environment that combines:

• Academic learning

• Clinical exposure

• Research

• Community service

• Cultural activities

• Sports

• Peer learning

• Faculty mentorship

The booklet includes students from multiple Indian states, including Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Kerala, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Odisha, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and others.

HOSTEL & ACCOMMODATION

Comfortable Living for International Students

The booklet states that:

• Separate hostel facilities are available for boys and girls.

• Air-conditioned rooms are available.

• Food accommodation includes Indian and international cuisine.

The course comparison section presents food and accommodation at approximately ₹20,000–₹25,000 per month, including AC accommodation and Indian food, as shown in the booklet.

COURSE FEES

Affordable Medical Education

The course comparison page in the booklet presents Timor-Leste MBBS college fees in the range of:

₹14 Lakhs – ₹16 Lakhs

It also shows:

Food & Accommodation

Approximately ₹20,000 – ₹25,000 per month

These figures should be displayed on the website as indicative figures from the booklet and confirmed with the admissions office before final publication or enrollment.

ADMISSION ELIGIBILITY & REQUIREMENTS

Who Can Apply?

The booklet's FAQ states that NEET qualification is not mandatory for admission to Timor-Leste.

Documents Required

Applicants are required to provide:

• High school certificates

• Passport copy

• Passport-size photograph

• 10th marksheet

• 12th marksheet

• Medical Fitness Letter

• Police Clearance Certificate

• Sponsor Letter

• Bank statement for the previous 3 months

• Minimum bank balance of US$7,000

• Original Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate

ADMISSION PROCESS

Simple Step-by-Step Application

Step 1 – Submit Application

Submit:

• High school certificates

• Passport scan

• Passport-size photograph

Step 2 – Receive Acceptance Letter

The booklet states that the Admission Review Committee will issue an acceptance letter within approximately two weeks.

Students then pay 40% of the tuition fee as advance fee.

Step 3 – Submit Required Documents

Submit:

• 10th & 12th marksheets

• Medical fitness letter

• Police clearance certificate

• Sponsor letter

• Three-month bank statement with minimum US$7,000 balance

• Yellow Fever vaccination certificate

Step 4 – Pay Balance Fee

After document processing, students proceed with:

• Remaining tuition fee

• Accommodation charges, where applicable

• Flight ticket costs

Step 5 – Travel to Timor-Leste

The Indian Admission Office informs students about the travel schedule.

The booklet states that:

• Tickets are arranged for the batch.

• Airport pickup is provided.

• Airport drop-off services are provided.

STUDENT VISA

The booklet's FAQ states that the student visa is issued on arrival and later converted into a one-year student visa by the university.

Discover Asia's Hidden Gem

Timor-Leste is presented in the booklet as a young Southeast Asian nation known for its natural beauty, cultural diversity and welcoming community.

Geography & Capital

People & Culture

Climate & Seasons

Capital: Dili. Total Area: 14,874 km². Climate: Tropical.

Population: Approximately 1.4 million. Official Languages: Tetum and Portuguese. Currency: United States Dollar (USD).

Average Temperature: Approximately 25°C–35°C. Wet Season: December–May. Dry Season: June–November.

Life in Timor-Leste

Discover a welcoming, peaceful, and culturally diverse environment designed for international medical students to thrive academically and personally, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

Beaches, Mountains & Nature

Warm & Culturally Diverse

Between classes, recharge along pristine coastlines, tropical beaches, and scenic mountain ranges. The tranquil environment is ideal for students seeking a focused, peaceful learning setting.

Experience a deeply welcoming society that embraces international students with genuine warmth, offering a rich multicultural community where you will feel safe and supported from day one.

The Capital City of Dili

Dili hosts a vibrant international community with a student-friendly atmosphere, blending modern conveniences, cafes, and study spaces with a relaxed, peaceful coastal lifestyle.

Growing Educational & Diplomatic Cooperation

The bilateral relationship between India and Timor-Leste continues to expand, fostering mutual growth across key developmental sectors and establishing a vibrant community of students and professionals.

Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals

Education & IT

Agriculture & Growth

Deepening bilateral cooperation in medical training, healthcare infrastructure, and the consistent supply of high-quality, affordable pharmaceuticals across the region.

Empowering the next generation of leaders through academic exchanges, advanced information technology training, and comprehensive technical capacity building programs.

Fostering sustainable agricultural practices and collaborative research initiatives designed to drive long-term food security and rural development.

Established Embassies

Students & Professionals

The formal establishment of resident diplomatic missions in both nations marks a historic milestone, streamlining high-level bilateral dialogue and significantly strengthening official diplomatic ties.

A growing community of Indian students, medical educators, and skilled professionals in Timor-Leste is actively contributing to local academic excellence, healthcare delivery, and economic development.

INDIAN EMBASSY SUPPORT

The booklet states that India has a resident embassy in Dili, Timor-Leste, providing consular and support services to Indian nationals.

Timor-Leste also maintains diplomatic representation in India.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is NEET mandatory?

According to the booklet, NEET qualification is not mandatory for admission to Timor-Leste.

What is the MBBS duration?

The MBBS program is 4.5 years, followed by a 1-year compulsory rotating medical internship.

Is the curriculum similar to India?

The booklet states that the MBBS curriculum follows the same syllabus as AIIMS, Delhi.

Is the medium of instruction English?

The booklet states that English is available for international students, alongside the local language.

Is the internship rotational?

Yes. The booklet states that Timor-Leste mandates a one-year CRMI, designed to provide comprehensive practical experience.

Do Indian students need a licensing exam after MBBS?

The booklet states that Indian nationals do not have to pass an additional licensure examination to apply for a license to practice medicine in Timor-Leste.

Can foreign nationals practice medicine in Timor-Leste?

Yes. The booklet states that foreign nationals can apply for medical registration and practice in Timor-Leste.

Can graduates pursue further studies abroad?

The booklet states that graduates can pursue postgraduate opportunities in countries such as the UK and USA subject to the relevant examinations and registration requirements, such as PLAB or USMLE.

Is hostel accommodation available?

Yes. Separate hostels for boys and girls are provided, with air-conditioned rooms and Indian/international food options.

What happens if a student fails an examination?

The booklet states that students may receive special classes and one opportunity to reappear for the semester examination.

Is Timor-Leste safe for students?

The booklet describes Timor-Leste as peaceful and welcoming, with a friendly local population and a low-crime environment.

According to the booklet, students can benefit from:

Catholic university management

Integrated teaching, research and public engagement

Hands-on clinical education

Affordable medical education

Practical-oriented medical training

Indian academic partnership

Curriculum aligned with the Indian medical syllabus

Indian and Jain home-style cuisine

Tropical climate similar to India

A culturally diverse and friendly environment

The booklet also presents information about residency and citizenship eligibility, which should be confirmed with the relevant Timor-Leste authorities before publication as final legal guidance.

What Our Students Say

The booklet features student testimonials highlighting:

Supportive faculty

Research opportunities

Cultural diversity

Early clinical exposure

Simulation-based learning

Peer learning

Mentorship

Community medicine

Hands-on medical education

Students describe UCT as an environment that combines academic rigor, clinical exposure and personal development.

Why UCT is Different

Academic Excellence

Clinical Exposure

International Environment

A structured CBME-oriented medical curriculum.

Hands-on learning through affiliated hospitals and clinical postings.

Students from India and other backgrounds learn together.

Empowering Your Medical Journey

At Universidade Católica Timorense, we ensure every MBBS student has the resources, mentorship, and practical clinical training needed to thrive academically and personally.

Student Support

Community Engagement

Career Preparation

Hostel facilities, faculty mentorship and academic support.

Students participate in community health programs and field activities.

The program combines classroom education, clinical experience and internship training.

START YOUR MBBS JOURNEY IN TIMOR-LESTE

4.5 Years Academic Program + 1 Year Internship

Ready to take the next step toward your medical career? Apply for MBBS at Universidade Católica Timorense.

English-Medium Education | Clinical Training | International Student Support

Get Complete Information

Get complete, detailed information about Eligibility, Admission, Fees, Hostel, Travel, Visa, Clinical Training, Internship, Documentation, and Career Opportunities. Contact our Admissions Team today to begin your application.