15 Best Canadian Medical Schools For International Students

WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT MEDICAL SCHOOLS?

Medical schools are institutions of higher education that specialize in teaching medicine and conferring professional degrees upon successful students, who later become doctors and surgeons. These medical degrees encompass a range of qualifications, including the Bachelor of Medicine, the Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS, MBChB, BMBS), the Doctor of Medicine (MD), or the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). Besides these primary degrees, many medical schools also offer additional programs, such as the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Master’s Degree (M.Sc), medical assistance programs, or other forms of postsecondary education.

Around the world, medical schools come in diverse forms, each with its unique criteria, structure, teaching methodologies, and characteristics. Admission into these schools is highly competitive and often involves standardized entrance exams, assessment of grade point averages, and consideration of leadership experiences to select the most suitable candidates. While most countries require aspiring medical students to possess a university degree, some offer mandatory prerequisite courses for entry. In countries like the United States and Canada, medical degrees typically constitute a second-degree program that follows several years of undergraduate-level studies.

The path to obtaining a medical degree usually involves completing a rigorous five- or six-year undergraduate or postgraduate program. Modern medical schools emphasize the integration of clinical education with foundational sciences, organizing their curricula into preclinical and clinical blocks. However, it is essential to note that doctors are not permitted to practice medicine legally until they receive authorization from local government authorities. The process of authorization may involve passing various tests, undergoing criminal background checks, providing references, paying fees, and pursuing postgraduate training. To ensure their quality and adherence to established standards, medical schools are subject to regulation by their respective countries and are listed in the prestigious World Directory of Medical Schools.

MEDICAL SCHOOLS IN CANADA REQUIREMENTS

Medical schools in Canada have specific prerequisites for admission, with varying criteria depending on the region and institution. Prospective medical students generally begin their studies after completing a bachelor’s degree in fields related to biological sciences. However, not all Canadian medical schools mandate a bachelor’s degree as a requirement.

In Quebec, applicants can apply to medical schools after obtaining a two-year CEGEP (Collège d’enseignement général et professionnel) diploma. On the other hand, medical faculties in Western Canada and Ontario typically require applicants to have completed at least two years of university study. The University of Manitoba, however, takes it a step further by requiring applicants to have a prior degree before admission.

To streamline the admission process, the Association of Medical Faculties of Canada regularly publishes admission requirements. Individual medical schools evaluate candidates based on various factors, including personal statements, autobiographical outlines, undergraduate registrations, MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) scores, and interviews. Some institutions, such as the University of Toronto and Queen’s University, utilize MCAT scores as a cutoff point, while others prioritize higher performance. For instance, McMaster University uses the Critical Analysis and Reasoning section of the MCAT to determine eligibility for interviews and admission consideration.

It’s worth noting that gaining admission to Canadian medical schools is highly competitive, with an annual success rate of less than 10% for Canadian citizens. The limited number of available seats adds to the challenge, with only around 2,500 freshman slots across seventeen Canadian medical schools during the 2006-2007 academic year.

Tuition costs also vary depending on the location of the medical school. In 2006-2007, the average tuition fees were $12,728 for medical schools outside Quebec and significantly lower at $2,943 within Quebec. Consequently, the debt level among Canadian medical students upon graduation has been a matter of concern and attention in the medical community.

APPLYING TO CANADIAN MEDICAL SCHOOLS

There are multiple incentives to consider when contemplating enrollment in a medical school in Canada.

Perhaps you are an international student who appreciates Canada’s robust education system. With six schools ranked among the top 100 globally by Times Higher Education, Canadian medical graduates enjoy considerable flexibility in pursuing their careers internationally.

Alternatively, the allure of attending Canadian schools may lie in their affordability. With an annual tuition of approximately USD 13,000 for Canadian students and USD 23,000 for international students, compared to the average USD 30,053 for in-state students and USD 53,469 for out-of-state students in the US, the cost-effectiveness is evident.

Moreover, Canada’s reputation for offering a high standard of living, picturesque natural landscapes, abundant opportunities, and a welcoming atmosphere might make it the perfect place to call home for you.

Regardless of your motivations for applying, it’s essential to recognize that the application process for Canadian medical schools differs from that of other countries.

In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide to applying to a Canadian medical school, addressing both international students and citizens. We will also highlight the contrasts between the application processes for American and Canadian medical schools, while offering valuable strategies to enhance your likelihood of securing admission.

ADMISSION RATES TO THE CANADIAN MEDICAL SCHOOL AND RESIDENCE

How Difficult Is It To Enter A Canadian Medical School: Canadian medical schools have varying admission requirements, which may or may not necessitate a bachelor’s degree. While some institutions in Quebec accept applicants with a two-year CEGEP diploma, most faculties in Western Canada and Ontario demand at least two years of prior university study. Notably, the University of Manitoba mandates a previous degree for admission.

The Association of Medical Faculties of Canada releases annual admission requirements, which include personal statements, autobiographical outlines, undergraduate registration, MCAT scores, and interviews. The admission rate for Canadian citizens applying to Canadian medical schools is typically below 10%. In a previous year, there were over 2,500 available seats across seventeen Canadian medical schools, with varying tuition costs.

Do Canadian Medical Schools Accept Applications From International Students: Among the 17 Canadian medical schools, only ten accept international students. Notably, Dalhousie University and the University of Calgary exclusively admit students from foreign countries with which they have contracts. This is partly to ensure that graduates commit to practicing in Canada, as these schools receive substantial government subsidies.

However, international students from other countries, including the USA and the United Kingdom, face challenges when applying to Canadian medical schools. While some schools may consider international applications, there is no guarantee of acceptance, and the number of foreign students enrolled is usually low. Quebec-based medical schools, such as Laval University, Sherbrooke University, and the University of Montreal, solely offer instruction in French.

Advantages of Canadian Medical Degrees for Residency: For non-Canadian citizens aspiring to build a medical career in Canada, obtaining a Canadian medical degree significantly improves the chances of securing a medical residency. Statistics show that a higher percentage of Canadian medical school graduates successfully obtain a residency compared to graduates of US medical schools.

Certain Canadian residency programs do not consider applicants with international medical degrees, while others have specific fees for such candidates. In some cases, the Association of Medical Schools of Canada has recommended delaying residency applications for international graduates.

Do Canadian Medical Residency Programs Favor Applicants With A Canadian Medical Degree: To be eligible for a Canadian medical residency program, applicants must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Foreign students who have studied at a recognized Canadian postsecondary institution for two years may apply for permanent residency. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) must pass the Canada Medical Council Qualification Exam before applying for residency programs, unlike graduates of Canadian and American schools.

MEDICAL SCHOOL ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

The prerequisites for each medical college are not standardized. Various medical schools might make exceptions or place emphasis on different courses and subjects during their admission process. Nonetheless, there exists a fundamental set of courses and exams widely accepted as the basic requirements for medical school admission, and nearly all institutions take these into consideration.

With the introduction of the new MCAT format in 2015, certain additional courses are now recommended, such as psychology and social sciences, which are assessed as sections within the extended MCAT.

Applicants are initially screened by computer to ensure that essential aspects like completed courses, GPA, and MCAT scores meet the minimum desired criteria. After this stage, the focus shifts from numbers to the individual. It is crucial to craft a compelling medical school application that highlights your unique qualities. The admission process to medical school is a blend of science and art, and you can assess the competitiveness of your MCAT and GPA scores by using our Medical School Search tool.

Academic Requirements; The commonly accepted course prerequisites for medical school typically consist of a minimum of 1 year of the following subjects:

General Biology
Physics with laboratory
General chemistry (inorganic chemistry) with laboratory
Organic chemistry with laboratory
Calculus
English
Sociology
Psychology

If you plan to complete your premedical coursework after obtaining your university degree, you can take these courses at almost any four-year university.

Grade Point Average (GPA): Admission to medical school is highly competitive, necessitating a strong GPA. Ideally, a GPA above 3.5 is preferable. While a GPA below 3.5 may raise concerns, especially if you attended a school known for grade inflation, such as Harvard, it is not necessarily disqualifying. It is worth noting that the perception of inflated GPAs at certain institutions may lead to a stricter assessment of your GPA.

MCAT Scores: Your MCAT scores carry significant weight in medical school admissions. While they may not reveal much about your personality, they are an essential consideration for medical schools. The MCAT sections align with the required courses and include physical sciences (inorganic physics and chemistry), biological sciences (biology and organic chemistry), and verbal and psychosocial sciences.

A large majority of medical school applicants (estimated at 70-80%) have taken a preparatory course before attempting the MCAT.

Undergraduate Degree: A university degree is a prerequisite for medical school, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be in a scientific field. In fact, some schools, like Johns Hopkins, might view a science degree negatively. Instead, what medical schools are looking for is passion and dedication. They want to see that you are willing to spend four years studying a subject you love and are enthusiastic about, regardless of the field.

Research Experience – Optional: Engaging in research can demonstrate your commitment to the field of science. If you are considering a research project during your university years, it is advisable to start early, even in your first year. This will allow you to gain experience, learn the ropes, and dedicate significant time to serious research before presenting your work during medical school interviews. Choose a respected faculty member to work with on a research project that aligns with your interests. Dedicate yourself to the work, read extensively, and understand the significance of your research, so you can confidently explain and defend it to other scientists.

Physician Shadowing – Optional: Shadowing a physician is a personal choice, but it may not hold significant weight in your application. Some may view it as a lack of commitment if it appears that you are merely exploring the idea of entering medical school. If you are uncertain about pursuing medicine, shadowing a doctor can provide valuable insights into the profession.

Volunteer Service – Optional: The impact of volunteer service on your application depends on the quality of your involvement and the level of commitment you have shown. Engaging in short-term, sporadic volunteer activities organized by others may not carry as much weight as a long-term, dedicated project where you assumed a leadership role. Medical schools seek individuals who are willing to invest time and effort to make meaningful contributions, whether in volunteer programs, academic pursuits, research, or other areas. Demonstrating your dedication and hard work towards an important goal is crucial.

BEST MEDICAL SCHOOLS IN CANADA RANKING.

Explore the finest Canadian medical schools of 2023, each renowned for its excellence in medical education and research.

University of British Columbia
Tuition: 39,000 CAD
Established in 1915, the University of British Columbia (UBC) is a leading international university renowned for its research endeavors. UBC’s medical faculty ranks among the best in Canada in 2023, boasting nineteen departments, three schools, and twenty-three research centers and institutes.

University of Alberta
Tuition: 20,400 CAD
The University of Alberta is an accredited Canadian Medical School offering undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs in the medical field. As a public research university, it emphasizes standard education, medical care services, and research opportunities. The institution upholds values of integrity, excellence, partnership, social responsibility, respect, compassion, and patient care.

Cumming Medical School; University of Calgary
Tuition: 12,700 CAD
The University of Calgary, a prominent research-intensive public university, houses the Cumming School of Medicine, a trailblazer in medical research in Canada. Their focus lies in brain and mental health, chronic diseases, and cardiovascular sciences. Programs offered include MD, BHSc, Ph.D., MBT, and BCR.

Faculty of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan
Tuition: 17,500 CAD
The Faculty of Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan envisions leading the improvement of health and well-being, both locally and globally. This research and education-centered university aims to produce skilled clinicians and expert scientists while maintaining a strong emphasis on social skills.

University of Manitoba
Tuition: 14,700 CAD
Rady’s Faculty of Health at the University of Manitoba is renowned for its outstanding medical research. The university strives to produce leading medical professionals worldwide to enhance global health. It stands as one of the premier medical universities in Canada.

Northern Ontario Medical School
Tuition: 24,600 CAD
As a French medical school rooted in northern Ontario, this institution focuses on addressing health requirements and improving medical care quality in the region. Additionally, it contributes significantly to the economic development of northern Ontario.

Western University; Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry
Tuition: 27,300 CAD
The Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry at Western University aims to provide top-notch medical services for Canada and the global community. Their comprehensive approach combines practical medicine with medical technology.

McMaster University
Tuition: 22,400 CAD
McMaster University’s Department of Medicine envisions providing exceptional clinical care worldwide. Regarded as one of the best research and innovation centers globally, McMaster aims to offer top-tier education and maintain its position at the forefront of medical excellence. They provide full-time and non-GFT courses in internal medicine.

University of Toronto
Tuition: 45,690 CAD
The University of Toronto School of Medicine attracts students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds worldwide, dedicated to solving global medical challenges. The school fosters international relationships and generously supports students’ financial needs.

Queen’s University in Kingston
Tuition: 27,500 CAD
The Faculty of Health Sciences at Queen’s University, a public research institution established over 150 years ago, offers various branches of medical sciences for undergraduate and graduate programs. Their objective is to nurture exceptional doctors and leaders in medical care.

University of Ottawa
Tuition: 25,500 CAD
The University of Ottawa’s medical school stands as the only bilingual medical school in Canada. Committed to excellence in education and health research, the school strives to meet medical needs from local to global communities.

McGill University; School of Medicine
Tuition: 29,200 CAD
McGill University School of Medicine aims to produce compassionate, evidence-based healthcare professionals, scientists, students, and staff. The school provides abundant educational and research opportunities.

Dalhousie University; School of Medicine
Tuition: 18,000 CAD
With a history of over 150 years, Dalhousie University’s medical school focuses on innovative, collaborative, and vibrant research to enhance global life and health. They offer medical health education and research programs across undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate levels, including residency and professional development training programs.

University of Montreal; School of Medicine
Tuition: 7,500 CAD
Dedicated to education and research, the University of Montreal’s medical school emphasizes skill development to improve medical care and well-being, guided by values of innovation, social commitment, thoroughness, patient association, respect, and responsibility. The school offers various professional courses for general and specialist medical positions, as well as research-oriented professions in basic and clinical sciences, audiology, occupational therapy, nutrition, speech therapy, and physiotherapy.

Now, armed with knowledge about these esteemed medical schools, you can make an informed decision about your future in the medical field in Canada. Choose the best fit for your aspirations and embark on a journey of excellence in medical education and research.

HOW TO STUDY IN A MEDICAL SCHOOL WITHOUT MCAT

MDAT programs that do not require MCAT scores offer alternative paths for students passionate about medicine. These programs, known as Early Guarantee Programs, allow students to apply for medical school during their undergraduate years. Admission standards vary across different programs, and the MCAT is often not a requirement.

For instance, Tufts University in Boston has an Early Guarantee Program that does not consider MCAT scores. Instead, applicants must maintain a general GPA of 3.5, including a 3.5 GPA in the required science courses. Additionally, they should achieve a combined score greater than 1300 in the reading and math sections of the SAT or a composite ACT score greater than 30.

Tufts University also offers an MCAT-free Early Assurance Program, specifically for college students interested in the Maine Track for MDs. Under this program, students study in Maine and receive a combined diploma from Tufts and the Maine Medical Center. Eligible university students can apply for the Tufts Early Guarantee Program during their second year of college. Graduates of this program are encouraged to practice primary care in underserved areas of the state.

EXCEPTIONAL MEDICAL HONORS PROGRAMS

The University of Florida at Gainesville provides an accelerated B.S./MD program through its prestigious Medical Honors Program. This program is open to all U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Second-year students with outstanding academic achievements can apply for this honors program, which allows them to enroll in the UF medical school without the need for an MCAT score.

Admission to the Medical Honors Program is based on several factors, including a grade point average of 3.7 in university-level courses, particularly in math prerequisites. Candidates are also evaluated on their volunteer work in medical settings and research experience. If selected, participants can complete an accelerated B.S./MD degree in just seven years.

FLEXIBLE ADMISSIONS PROGRAMS

The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City offers a unique FlexMed program, named after Donald and Vera Blinken. This program attracts students from diverse academic backgrounds, and admission decisions are made through a comprehensive evaluation process. The applicants’ standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, work history, and academic achievements are taken into account, and the MCAT is not mandatory for this program. Students who apply to the FlexMed program receive a decision letter during the last semester of their second year.

CONSIDERING A RETAKE OF THE MCAT

Entering an accredited medical school in the US MD programs without MCAT requirements can be challenging due to the high admission standards set by these programs. However, opting for a program without MCAT requirements allows students to have more time to focus on their studies, explore diverse courses, and gain work or volunteer experience in healthcare centers.

Despite the advantages of MCAT-free programs, some students choose to retake the MCAT to improve their scores. The average MCAT score in 2018-2019 was 500, as reported by the Association of American Medical Colleges. Many students who retake the exam initially scored between 494 and 501. By retaking the exam and dedicating time to study and additional courses, students can achieve higher scores, especially in subjects like physics, where they may feel less confident. Moreover, reviewing the MCAT material can serve as valuable preparation for the rigorous courses they will encounter in medical school.