MBBS In Canada 2024: Entry Requirements, Free Tuition, Scholarships
Every year, Canada gets a large number of international students looking to study in the country. This trend is not unexpected, considering Canada’s is known for it’s reputation to have outstanding standards in education and a great lifestyle. Additionally, there are numbers of scholarship available for international students in Canada.
Choosing Medicine in Canada is a great idea, given the presence of many international medical institutions in the country. Unlike certain countries, Canada does not offer MBBS degree; Rather. medical students are awarded an MD (Doctor of Medicine), which is completed in 3-4 years of study.
Students applying for the MD program are expected to already have a degree in a biological science, such as anatomy, physiology, medical biochemistry, or medical microbiology, or hold a CEGEP diploma.
SEE ALSO: MBBS In USA: Entry Requirement, Cost, Scholarships
Requirement and Eligibility Criterias for Studying Medicine in Canada:
- Undergraduate Degree: Candidates must have an undergraduate degree in any of the biological sciences with at least a second-class honors degree. or a CEGEP diploma. Applicants with CEGEP are to study for 5 years and this requirement is most viable in the medical schools in Quebec City.
- Language Proficiency Test: Candidates are to have a minimum score of 6.5 at IELTS or 80 at TOEFL. For French universities, students are to take a one-year compulsory class in French.
- MCAT (Medical College Admission Test):The medical college admission test (MCAT) is an entrance examination compulsory in most medical schools in Canada. The score requirement is different for each university. However, universities such as McGill do not need this requirement.
- Canadian student visa requirements: To study in Canada, one needs to have the necessary documents required by the country and they include;
- A valid passport
- Proof of Acceptance by a learning institution
- Proof of Funds
- Passport Size Photographs
- Immigration Medical Examination (IME)
- English Language Proficiency Exam Score.
- Statement of Purpose
- Credit Card.
Benefits for Studying Medicine in Canada:
- Upon completion of their medical degree, students can practice as registered doctors in Canada.
- Scholarship opportunities are available to international students so long as they meet up with the requirements.
- There are several job opportunities for students upon graduation.
- The culture and lifestyle are easy to adapt to and there are lots of interesting places in the city to have fun.
- There’s flexibility for students to work for 20hours per week while studying. Money made from a work-study program can be used for rent and feeding
Costs of Studying MBBS in Canada:
Generally, to study Medicine across the Globe typically is expensive, and Canada is not different either. However, The medical schools in Canada located near the US border are somewhat more affordable compared to those in the United States
The costs of pursuing Medicine at different Canadian universities varies. Each University has its tuition fees and cost. Statistics has shown that the cost of annual tuition fees at Canadian medical schools varies from 17,000 to 29,000 CAD, with an estimation total of around 100,000 CAD of school fees needed to get a medical degree. However, The cheapest medical schools with budget-friendly school fees are located in Quebec City.
List of Medical Schools in Canada:
In Canada, there are about 17 medical schools across the country, with an admission rate of 7.5%. However, just only seven of these medical schools are open to accepting applications from international students
The seventeen Universities are
- Dalhousie University
- McGill University
- McMaster University
- Memorial University
- Northern Ontario School of Medicine
- Queens’s University
- Université de Montréal
- Université de Sherbrooke
- Université Laval
- University of Alberta
- University of British Columbia
- University of Calgary
- University of Manitoba
- University of Ottawa
- University of Saskatchewan
- Western University
- University of Toronto
The Dalhousie Medical School plays a vital role in the health and well-being of communities, They offer some of the most advanced medical and research education programs through their graduate studies, residency training and continuing professional development programs in Canada. The Dalhousie University is home to vibrant, innovative, collaborative research community that’s making an impact on the wellbeing of individuals and communities in the Maritimes and beyond, while providing excellent training opportunities for medical students, residents, graduate students and fellows
The McGill University School of Medicine is home to a unique and diverse community of physicians, scientists, students, residents, fellows and support staff committed to compassionate, evidence-based care, The Faculty has a national and international reputation with a list of faculty and alumni, many of whom were pioneers in their respective fields
The Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, known as the McMaster University School of Medicine prior to 2004 is one of two medical programs in Canada, along with the University of Calgary, that operates on an accelerated 3-year MD program, instead of the traditional 4-year MD program. They have an extensive infrastructure that allows development and use of cutting edge research methodology to summarize, grade and disseminate the cumulative evidence generated by themselves and others
Memorial University’s Faculty of Medicine is committed to providing the highest standard of medical education and supporting health research with the goal of advancing the health of the people and communities we serve. Faculty of Medicine includes the medical school, postgraduate residency training programs and graduate programs leading to a Masters, Doctoral or MD-PhD degree or to diplomas in Community Health, Clinical Epidemiology and Post-Secondary Studies (Health Professional Education). As the only medical school in Newfoundland and Labrador, research that focuses on the need of our communities is a priority. Ground-breaking research has provided important medical discoveries, which have led to improved medical interventions and patient care
5. Northern Ontario School of Medicine
The Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM), created in 2002, made history by becoming Canada’s first independent medical university. NOSM University is one of the greatest medical education success stories of Canada. Born of a grassroots movement, NOSM University is a made-in-the-North solution to regional health care inequalities. Its internationally recognized distributed, community-engaged learning (DCEL) model is distinctive and has grown into something extraordinary
The School of Medicine offers a four-year program leading to the degree of Doctor of Medicine. One hundred students are admitted annually into the first year of the program and are selected based on a strong academic record and the assessment of personal characteristics considered to be most appropriate for the study of medicine at Queen’s University and the subsequent practice of medicine. The four year MD Program at Queen’s University is structured in sequential terms which will allow students to progress from scientific foundational knowledge through to clinical foundations of the human systems and finally, in clinical engagement during a two year clinical rotation series; including electives for students to explore areas of interest
The Université de Montréal medical school stands as a place of excellence in the system of healthcare education, renowned for its comprehensive curriculum, cutting-edge research, and commitment to fostering compassionate, competent physicians. The Université de Montréal medical school admissions process is highly competitive and rigorous, attracting aspiring physicians from across Canada and around the world. Admissions are primarily based on academic performance, with a strong emphasis on prerequisite courses in science and mathematics. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate exceptional communication skills, ethical judgment, and a commitment to serving diverse communities through healthcare. The admissions committee also considers extracurricular activities, research experience, and letters of recommendation. Successful candidates exhibit a passion for medicine, a dedication to lifelong learning, and a desire to contribute meaningfully to the field of healthcare
The Université de Sherbrooke medical school program seeks individuals who demonstrate not only academic aptitude but also a genuine passion for medicine and a commitment to serving their communities. With a focus on fostering well-rounded physicians equipped to meet the evolving challenges of healthcare, Université de Sherbrooke provides a supportive and enriching learning environment for aspiring medical professionals
Admission to Université Laval’s medical school is highly competitive, reflecting the institution’s esteemed reputation and rigorous academic standards. Prospective students must demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, as well as a strong commitment to the field of medicine. In addition to academic transcripts, applicants are evaluated based on their performance on standardized tests, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and personal statements outlining their motivations and aspirations in pursuing a career in medicine. Under the guidance of experienced faculty members and healthcare professionals, students at Université Laval develop the skills and expertise necessary to become competent and compassionate physicians
This intensive four-year program is designed to develop knowledgeable, compassionate, collaborative, reflective, and professional physicians committed to quality health care and lifelong learning. Our innovative curriculum combines lectures and laboratory instruction with small-group case studies, problem-based learning, and preceptor-guided clinical skill sessions, providing a well-rounded degree that emphasizes education, research, and patient care. You will spend years 1 and 2 building your foundational knowledge and skills while gaining progressive clinical exposure, culminating in immersive clinical training in years 3 and 4. The MD Program is broad and deep, with an expansive yet highly structured curriculum and numerous opportunities for research and specialization
11. University of British Columbia
Admission to the University of British Columbia (UBC) Medical School is competitive and rigorous, attracting top-tier candidates from around the world, The admissions process entail review of applicants, considering not only academic performance but also personal attributes, experiences, and contributions to diversity. UBC Medical School seeks individuals who embody the values of professionalism, empathy, and cultural competence. Aspiring physicians who are passionate about making a positive impact in the field of medicine are encouraged to pursue their dreams at UBC Medical School
Admission to the University of Calgary Medical School is highly competitive, attracting applicants from across Canada and around the world. The admissions process considers various factors, including academic transcripts, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. The medical school values diversity and seeks candidates who will enrich the learning environment through their unique backgrounds and experiences. Aspiring physicians must exhibit a genuine passion for medicine and a dedication to improving the health and well-being of individuals and communities
Established in 1883 as Western Canada’s first medical school, we have a rich history of discovery, scholarship, clinician service and community engagement. Our place as Manitoba’s only medical school mandates great responsibility and expectation to serve the health-care needs of communities across the province
The first and largest bilingual faculty of medicine in Canada, we offer a competitive education in a dynamic learning environment. They have access to state-of-the art facilities and specialized institutions as you learn alongside world-class physicians and scientists. We are a national leader in medical education and research intensity, and rank among the top faculties of medicine in the world for clinical medicine, public health, and research impact
15. University of Saskatchewan
As the only medical school in Saskatchewan, the College of Medicine exists primarily to serve the residents of the province. As such, the vast majority of our seats are reserved for Saskatchewan residents.There are no specific high school requirements for the Medicine program. However, as a four-year baccalaureate degree (any subject area) is required to apply for admission to Medicine, students should consider their degree interests and research the high school prerequisite requirements for the degree to ensure they have taken the required high school courses to complete the university-level courses
Western University’s Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry stands as a cornerstone of excellence in Canadian medical education. With state-of-the-art facilities, diverse clinical opportunities, and a supportive community of faculty and peers, students at Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to excel in healthcare. Whether through groundbreaking research initiatives or hands-on clinical experiences, graduates emerge prepared to address the evolving challenges of healthcare with integrity and expertise, contributing positively to the health and well-being of communities across Canada and beyond
The University of Toronto provides students with a rigorous academic environment complemented by extensive clinical experiences. With world-class faculty leading groundbreaking research across various medical specialties, students benefit from a rich learning environment that emphasizes evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration
Scholarships Opportunities in Canada to Study Medicine and Surgery:
Canada offers variety of scholarships for international students, making Canada attractiveness as an academic Country. Some of the available scholarships to international students include:
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program (AKF ISP) gives opportunities to exceptional students from specified countries, with less funding their studies, to pursue postgraduate degree. The selection of applicants for the Master’s and Ph.D. scholarship awards is done through a competitive global application process conducted yearly
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, honoring Major-General Georges P. Vanier, Canada’s first francophone Governor General, offers applicants $50,000 yearly for three years during postgraduate studies. This idea aims to help Canadian institutions in getting suitably qualified applicants
The Z Zurich 2024 Scholarship program is a scholarship program that gives full funding to 30 great leaders participating in projects around mental well-being, especially prevention, or those increasing social equity through education, employments or entrepreneurship. It is Open to both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, this scholarship opportunity offers applicants the opportunity of attending the One Young World 2024 Summit in Canada.
Some awards will be given based on your admission average, while others will apply with a distinct application process. For international students securing entrance awards that involve an application, are expected to enroll in classes during the period for which the award was given. The undergraduate scholarship is partially funded
The President’s International Excellence Scholarship is aimed for international high school students entering the first year of a four-year undergraduate program at York University. Suitable applicants of this undergraduate scholarship are expected to show outstanding performance, a commitment to volunteering, participating in extracurricular activities, and strong leadership skills.
SEE ALSO: Canada’s Permanent Residency Program designed for Essential Workers
Conclusion:
In conclusion, starting on an MBBS program in Canada, There are great opportunities for applicants pursing to become medical professionals. The requirements involves holding a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences or a CEGEP diploma, in addition with meeting language proficiency criteria like scoring a minimum score on exams such as IELTS or TOEFL. Pursuing a medical degree in Canada may not be totally free, some medical Institutions offer tuition fees that are more or less affordable than other countries, especially those close to the US border. Moreover, a variety of scholarships is accessible to both citizens and international students, improving the accessibility of medical education in Canada. Aspiring medical students should thoughtfully put these in considerations when exploring their academic paths and explore the different opportunities available.
