In Canada, there are 17 accredited medical schools across the country that train students to eventually become physicians or surgeons and provide patient care. Unfortunately, these medical schools have high admissions criteria, making them difficult for students to successfully gain acceptance to. In fact, Maclean’s reports that as of 2016, most medical schools in the country accepted less than 10% of applicants on average. 

Thankfully, for the students seeking a pathway to postgraduate medical education, there are other options when it comes to medical school. Learn how the American University of Antigua College of Medicine (AUAMED) is helping Canadian students gain the education they need to obtain a medical degree. 

Canadian Medical School Admission Requirements 

Canada’s medical schools are notoriously difficult to get into, and while that’s partially due to a lack of available spots for medical students, it’s also a direct result of the rigorous application process students are subject to. 

That process includes: 

  • Obtaining an accredited bachelor’s degree in a related, science-based program 
  • Proving an above-average grade point average (GPA) in an undergraduate program 
  • Achieving a high score on the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) 
  • Gaining valuable work, leadership and volunteer experience 
  • Writing an essay that outlines medical career goals and personal experiences that show aptitude and determination 
  • Discussing skills, goals and experience with medical school representatives in an admissions interview 

Where to Find Alternative Postgraduate Medical Education 

Attending medical school in Canada isn’t the only way to become a surgeon in Canada. Schools that are located outside the country, including AUAMED in the Caribbean, can provide the necessary foundation to work as a successful Canadian surgeon and help students develop advanced medical skills. 

Many international students who become graduates of AUAMED go on take on roles in fields such as: 

  • General surgery
  • Pediatric surgery
  • Orthopedic surgery 
  • Thoracic surgery 
  • Vascular surgery 
  • Internal medicine 
  • Cardiac surgery 
  • Cardiothoracic surgery 
  • Surgical therapy 
  • Surgical oncology 
  • Plastic surgery
  • Critical care 

Attending Medical School in the Caribbean 

The hands-on experience students gain during their time at schools like AUAMED prepares them to provide complex operative care. While attending an accredited program, they can receive specialty training, gain operating room experience, and participate in residency programs to ensure students gain experience in their chosen surgical specialty areas. 

On top of that, students develop a thorough knowledge of their specialties through regular examinations and training pathways, providing them the physician’s credentials they need to achieve success in their careers. 

Gain Undergraduate and Graduate Education Internationally 

While there are several medical schools in the Caribbean that provide the necessary tools to pass Royal College exams and become a qualified medical doctor and surgeon in Canada, AUAMED is among the best options for students who are seeking a well-rounded medical education. 

AUAMED provides pre-med and clinical science programs to help students successfully obtain their undergraduate degree in a science-based program prior to applying for medical school programs. With an array of undergraduate and graduate education options, this university can provide you with the knowledge and experience you need to become a qualified medical doctor.

Take Advantage of Hands-On Experience and Training Pathways 

International medical graduates gain the same general surgery training and residency training as those studying in Canada. While abroad, students can interact with qualified health care professionals, eventually playing an important role in patient care. Students can work alongside professionals in their chosen field, whether it’s general surgery, cardiovascular and thoracic surgery or providing surgical oncology for cancer patients. 

Transitioning Back to Canada 

The Royal College of Physicians overseas postgraduate medical education in Canada. Medical schools such as AUAMED in the Caribbean work directly with the Royal College to ensure students are placed in residency training programs that give them the tools they need to succeed in their future medical practice. 

Learn more about attending medical school in Antigua. Contact AUAMED for more information.