Canada is renowned for its high-quality education system, and its medical schools are no exception. International students seeking to pursue a medical degree in Canada can benefit from world-class facilities, experienced faculty, and diverse clinical experiences.
This guide provides an overview of medical schools in Canada that welcome international students, detailing their programs, tuition fees, and admission requirements.
General Admission Requirements for International Students
International students aspiring to study medicine in Canada must meet specific criteria, which may vary slightly between institutions. Common requirements include:
- Educational Background: Completion of a bachelor’s degree, preferably in a science-related field.
- GPA: A competitive Grade Point Average (GPA), often above 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- MCAT: A valid Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) score.
- English Proficiency: Proof of English language proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS, unless exempted.
- Prerequisite Courses: Completion of specific undergraduate courses, such as biology, chemistry, and physics.
Top 15 Medical Schools in Canada for International Students
University of Ottawa – Temerty Faculty of Medicine
Located in Laurier Ave E, Ottawa, the Temerty Faculty of Medicine at the University of Ottawa is renowned for its research-intensive programs and commitment to advancing health care. It offers a diverse and inclusive environment, attracting students worldwide.
- Location: Laurier Ave E, Ottawa
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $91,760 per year for international students.
- Admission Requirements:
- Completion of a non-medical bachelor’s degree equivalent to a four-year Canadian degree, assessed by World Education Services (WES).
- Minimum GPA of 3.6 on a 4.0 scale.
- MCAT scores are required.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
Learn more about medicine admission requirements at the University Of Toronto.
McGill University – Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
Situated in Montreal, Quebec, McGill University’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences is one of Canada’s oldest and most prestigious medical schools. It offers a comprehensive curriculum emphasizing research and clinical practice.
- Location: Montreal, Quebec
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $50,000 per year for international students.
- Admission Requirements:
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5; a GPA of 3.8 or higher is considered competitive.
- MCAT scores are required for applicants who completed their undergraduate studies outside Canada.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
Learn more about the Med-P program at McGill.
McMaster University – Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine
Located in Hamilton, Ontario, McMaster University’s medical school is known for its innovative problem-based learning approach and emphasis on early clinical exposure. It has a reputation for producing well-rounded medical professionals.
- Location: Hamilton, Ontario
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $96,000 per year for international students.
- Admission Requirements:
- Completion of at least three years of undergraduate study.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 on the OMSAS 4.0 scale.
- MCAT scores, with emphasis on the Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) section.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
University of Alberta – Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry
Based in Edmonton, Alberta, the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry offers a comprehensive MD program with a strong focus on research and community engagement. It provides a supportive environment for international students.
- Location: Edmonton, Alberta
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $20,400 per year for international students.
- Admission Requirements:
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5 for non-Alberta residents.
- MCAT scores with a minimum of 128 in the Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) section and 124 in other sections.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
Learn more about studying Medicine at the University of Alberta.
University of British Columbia – Faculty of Medicine
Located in Vancouver, British Columbia, UBC’s Faculty of Medicine is recognized for its commitment to excellence in education and research. It offers a diverse and inclusive environment for students.
- Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $18,000 per year for international students.
- Admission Requirements: Learn more about enrolling for Medicine at the University of British Columbia.
6.University of Calgary – Cumming School of Medicine
Located in Calgary, Alberta, the Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary offers a three-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) program. The curriculum is designed to integrate clinical experience early in the program, emphasizing research and community involvement.
- Location: Calgary, Alberta
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $16,063 per year for international students.
- Admission Requirements:
University of Ottawa – Faculty of Medicine
Situated in Ottawa, Ontario, the University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Medicine offers a bilingual MD program, providing instruction in both English and French. The program emphasizes patient-centered care and research.
- Location: Ottawa, Ontario
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $66,000 per year for international students.
- Admission Requirements:
- Completion of at least three years of full-time undergraduate studies.
- A competitive GPA.
- MCAT scores.
- Proof of English or French language proficiency.
Learn more about enrolling for medicine at the University of Ottawa.
Dalhousie University – Faculty of Medicine
Located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Medicine offers a four-year MD program with a focus on community engagement and research. The program provides clinical experiences across the Maritime provinces.
- Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $33,814 per year for international students.
- Admission Requirements:
Columbia College
Columbia College, located in Vancouver, British Columbia, is a private institution offering university transfer programs. While it does not offer a direct MD program, students can complete prerequisite courses and transfer to a university that offers a medical degree.
- Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $14,900 per year for international students.
- Admission Requirements:
Learn more about studying Medicine at Columbia College.
Queen’s University – School of Medicine
Queen’s University, located in Kingston, Ontario, offers a four-year MD program through its School of Medicine. The program emphasizes integrated learning and early clinical exposure. However, it’s important to note that Queen’s University does not currently accept international students into its MD program.
- Location: Kingston, Ontario
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $86,250 per year for international students.
- Admission Requirements:
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree.
- A competitive GPA.
- MCAT scores.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
Learn more about the admission requirements to study at Queen’s University.
Memorial University of Newfoundland – Faculty of Medicine
Located in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Memorial University’s Faculty of Medicine is committed to delivering high-quality medical education and advancing health research. The institution emphasizes rural medical education and has received national and international recognition for its efforts.
- Location: St. John’s, Newfoundland
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $30,000 per year for international students .
- Admission Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
- Two reference letters, including one academic reference.
- MCAT scores obtained within five years of the application deadline.
Learn more about enrolling for medicine at Memorial University.
Athabasca University (in partnership with Trinity School of Medicine)
Athabasca University, based in Athabasca, Alberta, offers a unique pathway for students aspiring to pursue a medical degree through its partnership with Trinity School of Medicine. This collaboration provides students with a clear route to earn an MD degree, combining Athabasca’s flexible learning approach with Trinity’s medical education.
- Location: Athabasca, Alberta
- Tuition Fees: Varies based on course selection and residency status.
- Admission Requirements:
- Completion of an application to Trinity’s online platform or submission of a current AMCAS, AACOMAS, TMDSAS, or OMSAS application in PDF form.
- Payment of a USD $50 application fee.
- A recommendation letter from a university pre-health advising office, professor, physician, or supervisor who is not a family member.
Learn more about the admission requirements to study medicine at Athabasca.
University of Manitoba – Max Rady College of Medicine
The Max Rady College of Medicine at the University of Manitoba, located in Winnipeg, is Manitoba’s sole medical school. It has a longstanding history of excellence in medical education, research, and community service, aiming to meet the healthcare needs of diverse communities across the province.
- Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $11,300 per year for international students .
- Admission Requirements:
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree by June 30th from a recognized university.
- An adjusted GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- MCAT scores obtained no earlier than April 2019 and no later than September 10, 2022.
Trinity Western University – Pre-Medicine Program
Trinity Western University, located in Langley, British Columbia, offers a Pre-Medicine program through its Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences. This program provides students with the foundational sciences necessary for admission into medical schools in Canada, the United States, and Europe.
- Location: Langley, British Columbia
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $798 per credit hour for international students .
- Admission Requirements:
Learn more about the requirements needed to study medicine at Trinity.
Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM University)
NOSM University, with campuses in Thunder Bay and Sudbury, Ontario, is Canada’s first independent medical university. It focuses on addressing healthcare disparities in Northern Ontario through community-engaged learning and innovative medical education.
- Location: Thunder Bay and Sudbury, Ontario
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $11,950 per year for international students .
- Admission Requirements:
- Applicants must be permanent residents (landed immigrants) of Canada before the application deadline.
- Completion of a four-year undergraduate degree or equivalent from a recognized institution.
- A minimum overall GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
Learn more about the admission requirements for NOSM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there scholarships available for international medical students in Canada?
Yes, several Canadian medical schools offer scholarships and financial aid to international students based on academic merit and financial need. It’s advisable to check each university’s official website for specific scholarship opportunities and application procedures.
Can international students work while studying medicine in Canada?
International students with a valid study permit can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. However, the demanding nature of medical programs may limit the feasibility of part-time work.
Is it possible to practice medicine in Canada after graduation as an international student?
Yes, but international graduates must complete a residency program in Canada and obtain licensure from the Medical Council of Canada. This process includes passing the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE) and meeting provincial regulatory requirements.
What is the duration of medical programs in Canada?
Most Doctor of Medicine (MD) programs in Canada span four years, followed by a residency program whose length varies depending on the specialty.
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