Are you looking for a good university to study medicine in Canada? Our article covers 26 Medical Schools in Canada for International Students, which you can apply to, to kickstart your training and career in the medical field. Keep reading to find out about these schools.

In Canada, medicine is one of the most sought-after programs among international students. The reason why they flock to this place is that Canada houses some of the best medical colleges and prominent medical academics in the world. The country is a hub of cutting-edge biomedical research, disease studies, and cancer treatment research.

Besides that, Canada may reportedly have to struggle with a huge deficit in the number of medical personnel needed by 2028, with the main affected area being family doctors. Considering the increase in population and shortage of doctors, medical colleges in Canada are gearing up to train another 30,000 physicians to maintain the average number of doctors per population.

This demand for doctors and the availability of training makes the place an ideal destination for aspiring doctors from across the world. When you combine this demand with its cheap education system, easier immigration policies, and citizens-friendly nature towards immigrants, then you understand why Canadian medical schools are the best for you.

Based on your needs and interests as a potential medical student, we have listed out the top medical schools in canada for international students. 

Read - 44 Best Medical Schools In The World 2024.
 

Table Of Content:

1. General admission requirements for studying at medical schools in Canada for international students

2.  Medical schools in Canada for international students

3. 27 medical schools in Canada for international students

4. Frequently asked questions about studying at a medical school in Canada for international students.

 

General Admission Requirements For Studying At Medical Schools In Canada For International Students

Before we get to listing out those medical schools in Canada we talked about, let us first discuss certain general requirements to study medicine in canada for international students, which you should have handy at the time of your application.

1. Academic Qualifications

International students should have completed a pre-medical or science-related undergraduate degree or equivalent from a recognized institution. Minimum GPA requirements vary among schools.

2. Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)

Certain medical schools in Canada often request that you submit MCAT scores as part of the application process. The MCAT assesses your knowledge of scientific principles, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.

3. Prerequisite Courses

There are specific prerequisite courses that may be required by your institution of choice. These courses include biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, which you would have completed during your undergraduate studies. 

4. Personal Statement And Letters Of Recommendation

You’ll be asked to submit a personal statement detailing your motivation, experiences, and career goals, to be delivered along with recommendation letters from professors or an employer.
 

Medical Schools In Canada For International Students

1. University Of Toronto

2. McGill University

3. McMaster University

4. University Of Alberta

5. University Of British Columbia

6. University Of Calgary

7. University Of Ottawa

8. Dalhousie University

9. Columbia College

10. Queens University, Kingston

11. Memorial University Of Newfoundland

12. Athabasca University

13. University Of Manitoba

14. Trinity Western University

15. Northern Ontario School Of Medicine

16. Western University

17. University Of Montreal

18. University Of Saskatchewan

19. Farleigh Dickinson University 

20. Humber College

21. University Laval

22. University Of Waterloo

23. Acadia University

24. Lakehead University

25. Carleton University

26. Conestoga College

 

26 Medical Schools In Canada For International Students 

Canada is a prominent destination for foreign students who wish to acquire higher education in the medical field. With its astounding institutions and solid healthcare system, this country provides an unmatched world-class education that equips you for successful careers in medicine.

Besides top-quality education, another good thing about studying here as an international student is the presence of medical schools with low tuition fees.

So, in this section, we will discuss and include a list of medical schools that accept international students in canada, along with important information about admission requirements and links to get more details about each program.

 

1. University Of Toronto

The Temerty Faculty Of Medicine at the University Of Toronto applies world-class talent, interdisciplinary excellence, and collaboration with peers and partners to consistently solve the most pressing medical challenges in the world.

Temerty leads the medical schools in canada for international students, remaining at the front of life-changing health research and innovation for over a century.

Location: Toronto, Canada.

Admission Requirements

• Completed a non-medical bachelor's degree equivalent to a four-year bachelor's degree in Canada with World Education Services (WES) transcript assessment.

• Applicants who completed their studies in the US, do not require WES assessment.

• Minimum of 3.6 GPA.

Learn more about medicine admission requirements at the University Of Toronto.

 

2. McGill University

McGill University's Medicine (Med-P) program is one of the best pre-med courses in canada for international students. It is designed to prepare CEGEP students for McGill's Doctor of Medicine and Master of Surgery MDCM Medical program and to become compassionate caregivers.

Med-P trains you to become a key member of the medical community in clinical practice, medical education, research or leader of the health care system.

Location: Montreal, Canada.

Admission Requirements

• Applicants should be recognized residents of Québec.

• Be in the final year of collegial studies and get a Diploma of Collegial Studies (DEC) (by July 31 of the entering year) in any of the listed programs.

• Complete the DEC in a maximum of 3 years.

Learn more about the Med-P program at McGill.

 

3. McMaster University

The Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine at McMaster University offers major programs in undergraduate and postgraduate medical education including the first programs for midwives and (civilian) physician assistants in Canada.

DeGroote comprises of an Undergraduate Medical Program, Postgraduate Medical Education Program, Midwifery Education Program and Physician Assistant Education Program. These programs are spectacularly innovative and world-leading in their special ways. 

Location: Ontario, Canada.

Admission Requirements

• You can learn more about the requirements to study medicine in canada for international students at DeGroote's website.

 

4. University Of Alberta

The Faculty Of Medicine & Dentistry at the University Of Alberta is one of the elite academic health sciences centres in the world, where top scholars are tutored by award-winning educators and mentored by renowned scientists in a dynamic learning environment.

Alberta reinforces its place among the best medical schools in canada for international students, by conducting its medical teachings, research and patient care under the highest international standards.

Location: Edmonton, Canada.

Admission Requirements

• Applicants to the Doctor of Medicine Program at Alberta should be registered with a baccalaureate degree from a recognized program by the University.

• Minimum of 3.50 GPA on a 4.0 grading scale.

• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended should be sent directly from the issuing institution to the Office of the Registrar.

Learn more about studying Medicine at the University of Alberta.

 

5. University Of British Columbia

University Of British Columbia's Department of Medicine delivers excellence in research, teaching and clinical services related to the nature, cause, and prevention of adult diseases.

It is the largest Department in the Faculty of Medicine with more than 1,600 faculty and staff. The university of british columbia medicine international students enrol is one of the best in the country. Its department has 18 divisions located across the province of British Columbia.

Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

Admission Requirements

Learn more about enrolling for Medicine at the University of British Columbia.

 

6. University Of Calgary

The Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary is dedicated to equipping dynamic physicians and scientists for the future of health through its educational and research programs. 

Calgary is on the list of medical schools in canada that accept international students, it gets credit for breakthrough research in certain areas such as brain and mental health, chronic diseases and cardiovascular sciences.

Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

Admission Requirements

Learn more about the admission requirements for Cumming at Calgary.

 

7. University Of Ottawa

The Faculty Of Medicine At Ottawa is Canada's first and biggest bilingual faculty of medicine, they offer a competitive education delivered in a dynamic learning environment. 

If you are thinking about studying medicine in canada for international students, you should give the University of Ottawa a try. Here, you'll have access to world-class facilities and specialized institutions while studying alongside world-class physicians and scientists.

Location: Ottawa, Canada.

Admission Requirements

• Applicants must be in good academic standing and completed at least 3 years of full-time study to get a bachelor's degree.

• The required minimum cGPA is 3.50 on a 4.0 scale.

• Submit official transcripts from every university, college, CEGEP, junior college, graduate school or postsecondary institution currently attending, previously attended or withdrew from.

Learn more about enrolling for medicine at the University of Ottawa.

 

8. Dalhousie University

The Dalhousie Medical School teaches students scientific excellence and humanity in medicine, supports leading health research, influences social and health policy, and helps propel the regional economy. 

This school is a top recommendation for canada medical schools for international students. Dalhousie's success is linked to its relevance to the communities it serves. Highly skilled graduates from the school can be found caring for people of all ages throughout Canada and across the world.

Location: Halifax, Canada.

Admission Requirements

• Applicants must possess a 90-120 Credit Hour Baccalaureate Degree awarded by an accredited institution.

• Meet the GPA requirement of 3.7 on a 4.0 scale.

• Applicants must be Canadian permanent residents to qualify for admission to this course.

Learn more about the requirements to study medicine at Dalhousie.

 

9. Columbia University

Columbia University's Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons prides itself on being a leader in medical education, research, and clinical care by offering programs that benefit their neighbours and patients that travel from around the world to seek treatment.

Vagelos is a good medical university in canada for international students, their claims of excellence are supported by over 250 years of educating and training the most notable physicians and scientists in the world, conducting research that brought new ways to prevent and treat disease, and delivering the best clinical care possible to patients.

Location: Vancouver, Canada.

Admission Requirements

Learn more about studying Medicine at Columbia College.

 

10. Queen's University, Kingston

The School Of Medicine at Queen's University, Kingston offers some of the best medicine courses in canada for international students. It seeks to advance the tradition of training excellent physicians and leaders in health care by embracing a spirit of inquiry and innovation in education and research.

Location: Kingston, Canada.

Admission Requirements

• Meet the minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale according to OSMAS' scale.

• Submit all your transcripts through Queen's OSMAS, even for education obtained outside Canada.

• You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (landed immigrant) of Canada at the application deadline to qualify to apply to our program.

Learn more about the admission requirements to study at Queen's University.

See - 45 Best Universities In Canada For International Students 2024.

 

11. Memorial University Of Newfoundland

Memorial University's Faculty of Medicine is dedicated to offering the highest standard of medical education and supporting health research to advance the health of the people and communities they serve.

MUN is among the cheapest medical schools for international students in canada. They lead rural medical education and have received national and international awards and recognition.

Location: St John's, Canada.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from a recognized university or university college before admission.

• Two reference letters (one must be an academic reference); reference guidelines can be found in Reference Criteria.

• MCAT exam written, within 5 years of the application deadline.

Learn more about enrolling for medicine at Memorial University.

 

12. Athabasca University

Athabasca University and Trinity School of Medicine partnered to offer AU learners interested in pursuing an M.D. degree program a clear path to earn a medical degree in canada for international students.

Athabasca learners are given preferential admission into the program with Trinity, where they get a high-quality education that matches the requirements of Canada and the United States Of America for International Medical Schools. 

Location: Athabasca, Canada.

Admission Requirements

• Applicants should submit a completed application to Trinity's Online Application or a current and processed AMCAS, AACOMAS, TMDSAS, or OMSAS Application in PDF form.

• Pay the application fee of 50 USD.

• Recommendation letter sent directly from a university pre-health advising office, professors, physicians, or supervisors who are not family members.

Learn more about the admission requirements to study medicine at Athabasca.

 

13. University Of Manitoba

The Max Rady College of Medicine at the University Of Manitoba has a rich history of discovery, scholarship, clinician service and community engagement. Being Manitoba's only medical school demands great responsibility and expectation to serve the healthcare needs of communities across the province. 

Location: Manitoba, Canada.

Admission Requirements

• A bachelor's degree is completed no later than June 30th from a university recognized by the University of Manitoba.

• Adjusted Grade Point Average of 3.0 or higher.

• MCAT completed no earlier than April 2019 and no later than September 10, 2022.

Learn more about the university of manitoba medicine admission requirements for international students.

 

14. Trinity Western University

Trinity Western University's Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences provides a variety of pre-professional programs to help students get accepted into vocation-specific schools. You also have the option to extend your studies to acquire a BA.

The Faculty also offers a Pre-Medicine program that teaches the basic sciences needed to gain entrance to medical school. Trinity is one of the best pre med schools in canada for international students, they offer several courses in this program that'll help you be accepted into local medicine schools and schools across North America and Europe.

Location: Langley Township, Canada.

Admission Requirements

Learn more about the requirements needed to study medicine at Trinity.

 

15. Northern Ontario School Of Medicine

The Northern Ontario School of Medicine made history by becoming the first independent medical university in Canada. NOSM delivers impeccable training on canada medicine for international students.

As one of the greatest medical education success stories of the country, NOSM is a made-in-the-North solution to regional healthcare inequalities. Its globally renowned, community-engaged learning (DCEL) model is distinctive and has transformed into something extraordinary.

Location: Thunder Bay, Canada.

Admission Requirements

• Applicants must be permanent residents (landed immigrants) of Canada before the application deadline to apply.

• Meet the minimum admission requirement of a 4-year undergraduate university degree, or equivalent, from a recognized institution in any discipline.

• A minimum required overall GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

Learn more about the admission requirements for NOSM.

 

16. Western University

Western University's Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry has a tradition of excellence, with began with establishing the medical school in 1881 and continuing with the formation of the dental school in 1964.

Schulich is one of the medical schools that accept international students in canada. Their reputation is built by efforts from dedicated teachers, breakthrough discoveries, their commitment to social responsibility and their affinity for strategic partnerships.

Location: London, Canada.

Admission Requirements

Learn more about studying medicine at Western University.

 

17. University Of Montreal

The Faculty of Medicine at the University of Montreal ignited the spark of a healthy future through a long tradition of innovation, major scientific breakthroughs and teaching based on the highest quality standards. Montreal is the best for international medical students canada has to offer.

Location: Montreal, Canada.

Admission Requirements

• Applicant must have a college diploma (DEC) awarded by the Quebec Ministry of Education or demonstrate training equivalent to the DEC.

• Possess a bachelor's degree or demonstrate training seen as equivalent by the University of Montreal. University studies with no diploma do not qualify.

Learn more about the requirements to study medicine at Montreal.

 

18. University Of Saskatchewan

The Medicine program at the University of Saskatchewan exists to ensure that students graduate with a common foundation of knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes. Saskatchewan offers a fantastic md program in canada for international students. This general professional education equips graduates for subsequent education in primary or specialty care areas.

Location: Saskatoon, Canada.

Admission Requirements

• International applicants must have Permanent Resident status by the application deadline of October 1.

• You must submit written personal statements based on question prompts provided as a supplemental item once an application is submitted. 

• Complete the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) before the application deadline and arrange for all your scores to be released to the admission office during the given time.

Learn more about the requirements to study medicine in Saskatchewan.

 

19. Farleigh Dickinson University

The Department Of Biological Sciences at Farleigh Dickinson University offers an eight-year program BS in Biology (FDU) and Doctor of Medicine with Ross University School of Medicine, Dominica, West Indies.

FDU offers top notch medical education in canada for international students through its 4+4 combined degree program that provides eligible students with the chance to complete a baccalaureate degree and a Medical Doctor (MD) degree in eight years.

Location: Vancouver, Canada.

Admission Requirements

• High school seniors with a combined Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) score of 1170 and a high school GPA of 3.25 may apply for the combined degree program.

• All applicants must complete secondary school preparation in English, mathematics, biology, chemistry and physics.

Learn more about studying medicine at Farleigh Dickinson University.

 

20. Humber College

Humber College has a Biomedical science program that is a developing interdisciplinary field with facilitates the creation, revision, and implementation of innovative methods to advance medicine and human health.

As a Biomedical scientist, you'll integrate knowledge from numerous fields like biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology and pathophysiology, and paraclinical sciences. You can find information to study medicine in canada for international students fees on the program website.

Location: Toronto, Canada.

Admission Requirements

Learn more about the medical program at Humber College.

See also: 20 Best Medical Colleges In The World 2024.

 

21. University Laval

University Laval's Faculty of Medicine has numerous study programs in health sciences which are available to you, these programs include audiology, occupational therapy, kinesiology, medicine, speech therapy, physiotherapy, biomedical sciences, or research, knowledge transfer and continuing education. Laval makes the list of medical schools in canada that accept international students.

Location: Quebec City, Canada.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should meet the required degree in:

• DEC in sciences, letters and arts.

• Or International Baccalaureate - Health Sciences (obtained in Quebec).

• Or DEC in natural sciences AND have completed related courses.

Learn more about studying medicine at Laval.

 

22. University Of Waterloo

University of Waterloo's Biomedical Sciences program is for individuals who wish to have a career in health care. Here, you'll study human and animal systems and their functions related to health, disease, and the healing process.

You'll also learn to diversify your knowledge by learning about viruses, bacteria, and other microbes, and how these (along with genetic and environmental influences) can influence health. Before you apply, find information on medicine in canada for international students fees at Waterloo.

Location: Ontario, Canada.

Admission Requirements

• Meet the minimum cumulative university average of 65%.

• Students whose first language isn't English may need to meet Waterloo's English language requirements.

Learn more about studying Biomedical Sciences at Waterloo.

 

23. York University

York University has a Biomedical Science program that offers a comprehensive curriculum taught by leading researchers in the field. The program focuses on emerging areas of biomedicine such as physiology, microbiology, immunology, endocrinology, molecular genetics, and development. York is on the list of medical schools that accept international students in canada.

Location: Toronto, Canada.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should submit the following documents for their application to be reviewed:

• High school transcript (s).

• IB Predicted / Expected/ Anticipated Grades.

• Additional documents may be required, and are determined by academic background.

Learn more about studying Biomedical Science at York.

 

24. Lakehead University

Students of Applied Life Sciences at Lake University will explore the modern applications of bio-molecular research in anthropology, chemistry, biology, and physics. Lakehead is a medical university canada international students can enrol in.

This interdisciplinary program focuses on the study of living organisms at the bio-molecular or cellular level, and the human manipulation of molecular biological processes, it offers you hands-on learning through laboratory courses, research opportunities, and internships.

Location: Thunder Bay, Canada.

Admission Requirements

• Successfully graduated from an academic secondary school program or equivalent (Required for most countries, the same academic preparation as requested for university entrance in your country is required for consideration.)

Learn more about studying Applied Life Sciences at Lakehead.

 

25. Carleton University

Carleton University is part of the top medicine schools in canada for international students. Their Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSC) is a wide-ranging and career-focused program that equips you with the skills needed to succeed in the fast-changing worlds of medicine, biomedical research and healthcare research.

Location: Ottawa, Canada.

Admission Requirements

• Provide transcripts from your most recent / highest level of education.

• Submit English as a Second Language (ESL) test score, if required.

Learn more about studying medicine at Carleton.

 

26. Conestoga College

Conestoga College is one of the good international medical schools for canadians that international students can attend. The School of Health & Life Sciences provide a range of credentials to help you become a healthcare professional. 

From pre-health programs, certificates, diplomas, graduate certificates and degrees, this School provides the most recent training delivered by expert faculty and staff in state-of-the-art facilities.

Location: Kitchener, Ontario, Canada.

Admission Requirements

Learn more about studying medicine at Conestoga College.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Studying At A Medical School In Canada For International Students

To conclude, we will answer a few frequently asked questions you have about studying medicine in canada for international students. 

1. Are scholarships available for international students studying medicine in Canada?

Yes, there are several scholarships and financial aid options provided for you as a foreign student studying medicine in Canada. You could get merit scholarships or external scholarships too.

2. Is this admission process for medical programs in Canada competitive?

Admission to medical programs in Canada is highly competitive. You and other applicants will be assessed based on academic achievements, extracurricular activities, personal statements, and performance via interview.

3. What are some admission requirements for international students from Canadian medical schools?

Some medical schools in canada requirements for international students include - a high school diploma or its equivalent, minimum GPA requirements, and English language proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS. Requirements often vary based on educational level.

4. Can I practice medicine in Canada as a medical graduate from Canadian medical schools?

To practice medicine in Canada, you must fulfil additional requirements. This entails you passing the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE) and completing a residency in the country to get a license to practice.

5. How long will it take to complete a medical program in Canada?

A medical program in Canada generally takes four years to complete. After the program, you’ll embark on residency training which ranges from 2-7 years based on the specialization.

Similar Articles:
Canada Student Visa Application.
13 Universities in Canada without IELTS 2024.
20 Cheapest Canadian Universities 2024.