The Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune, stands as a premier medical institute under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, renowned for its rigorous training of medical professionals for the Indian Armed Forces. Established in 1948, AFMC offers unparalleled financial support to its MBBS and postgraduate students through a service-based model. Cadets receive fully funded education, including free tuition, accommodation, and a competitive stipend, in exchange for a commitment to serve in the Armed Forces. This unique structure not only alleviates financial burdens but also instills discipline and patriotism. As per the latest AFMC Prospectus 2025 and Ministry of Defence guidelines, all benefits are government-funded, ensuring transparency and reliability for aspiring doctors.
AFMC Scholarship Highlights 2025
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded (Service-Based) |
| Applicable For | MBBS & PG Medical Students |
| Offered By | Ministry of Defence, Government of India |
| Benefits | Free Tuition, Stipend, Free Hostel, Uniform Allowance |
| Obligation | 7 Years of Service in Armed Forces after course completion |
Types of AFMC Scholarships and Allowances
1. AFMC MBBS Cadet Scholarship (Core Benefit)
This is the primary financial aid for undergraduate students, covering 100% of tuition, hostel, and mess expenses from the Ministry of Defence budget. Cadets also receive monthly allowances for personal upkeep, such as washing (₹840/month) and hair cutting (₹210/month). During the compulsory one-year internship, a stipend of approximately ₹25,000 per month is provided to support living expenses.
2. Merit and Need-Based Assistance
AFMC offers supplementary aid through the AFMC Alumni Association and Army Welfare Education Society (AWES) schemes for exceptional merit or financial need. These include book allowances (up to ₹5,000 annually) and emergency funds, as updated in the 2025 prospectus. Eligible cadets can apply post-admission via the college welfare office.
3. PG Resident Doctors’ Scholarship/Stipend
For MD/MS postgraduate residents, stipends range from ₹1,00,000 to ₹1,20,000 per month, integrated into the Armed Forces training benefits. This covers specialized training under service terms, with additional research grants available for meritorious candidates.
AFMC Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for AFMC scholarships:
- Candidates must qualify NEET UG (for MBBS) or NEET PG (for postgraduate) and secure a seat through the centralized counseling.
- Meet Armed Forces medical fitness standards, including physical endurance tests.
- Indian citizenship; unmarried status required for MBBS cadets.
- Age limit: 17–24 years for MBBS (as of December 31, 2025).
- Minimum 60% aggregate in Physics, Chemistry, Biology in Class 12; 50% in English.
- Commitment to a 7-year service bond post-graduation.
AFMC Scholarship Benefits and Stipend
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fee | Fully covered |
| Accommodation | Free hostel facility |
| Messing Charges | Subsidized or covered (₹1,500–₹1,600/month) |
| Uniform Allowance | Provided once during joining (₹25,000 approx.) |
| Stipend | ₹25,000+ per month during internship (MBBS); higher for PG |
| Additional Perks | Medical cover, travel allowance, leave benefits, insurance (₹7,200 one-time premium) |
All benefits are funded by the Government of India and subject to the terms of service upon graduation.
AFMC Scholarship Application Process
Step 1: Apply for AFMC Admission through NEET UG/PG via the Medical Counseling Committee (MCC).
Step 2: Shortlisted candidates attend the Test of English Language and Reasoning (ToELR) followed by a personal interview and medical examination.
Step 3: Scholarship is automatically granted upon admission and enrollment as a cadet.
Step 4: Sign the service bond and acceptance letter during joining formalities.
For comprehensive guidance, visit AFMC Admission Process 2026
AFMC Service Bond and Commitment
Upon completion of MBBS, cadets must serve 7 years as commissioned officers in the Armed Forces Medical Services (Army, Navy, or Air Force). This includes the one-year internship. Breaking the bond incurs a penalty of ₹69,00,000 (as per 2025 joining instructions), covering training costs. The bond ensures a steady supply of skilled doctors for national defense, with opportunities for permanent commission based on performance.
Documents Required
- NEET Scorecard
- AFMC Application Form
- Birth Certificate, Aadhaar Card
- Class 10 and 12 Mark Sheets
- Fitness Certificate from Armed Forces standards
- Undertaking for Service Bond (signed by parent/guardian)
Renewal and Continuation Policy
The scholarship is renewed annually throughout the MBBS/PG course, contingent on maintaining academic performance (minimum 60% aggregate), physical fitness, and disciplinary standards. Regular reviews include attendance (90% minimum) and conduct evaluations by the college board.
