Ibrahim Gardner
Applying to medical school as an international student can be challenging due to limited spots and strict eligibility criteria. In the US and Canada, only 82 medical schools accept international students, and each school has its own admissions policies and requirements. International students often face additional financial burdens and visa considerations. To improve their chances, applicants should research schools that accept international students, demonstrate their passion for medicine, and ensure they meet all necessary requirements, including language proficiency tests and entrance exams like the MCAT.
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What You'll Learn
Research the eligibility requirements of your desired medical schools
Applying to medical school as an international student can be challenging, as you can only apply to a small number of schools. Out of all the medical schools in the US and Canada, only 82 accept international students—64 allopathic and 18 osteopathic. Moreover, different medical schools use different criteria to determine the eligibility of international students. Here are some common eligibility requirements you may encounter:
Fluency in English
Fluency in English is a common requirement for international students applying to medical schools in the US and Canada. This is usually demonstrated through the TOEFL exam. However, some schools, like Harvard Medical School (HMS), do not require TOEFL and only expect fluency in English. The Medical College Admission Test® (MCAT®) is also always administered in English.
Coursework at an accredited US or Canadian college or university
Many medical schools require applicants to have taken at least one year's worth of coursework at an accredited US or Canadian college or university. Some schools, like Boston University, require that all prerequisite coursework be taken at an American or Canadian university. Others, like George Washington University, only accept international students who have earned a bachelor's degree from a school in the US or Canada.
Financial resources
Some medical schools require applicants to prove they have sufficient financial resources to pay for all four years of medical school or have the full amount in an escrow account. International students may need to secure private loans or institutional loans if offered by the medical school.
Visa status
If you are applying to medical schools in the US, you will need to consider the terms of your F-1 visa and ensure that you do not engage in any professional activity when you shadow.
MCAT score
Most US and Canadian medical schools require the Medical College Admission Test® (MCAT®) for admission. Almost every applicant, including international students, must take the exam. A score of 509 or above is generally considered good, but more competitive schools will be looking for a score closer to 518.
It is important to research the specific eligibility requirements of your desired medical schools, as they may have additional or more stringent criteria. You can find this information on the schools' websites or in the "Application Deadlines and Requirements" section of the Medical School Admission Requirements guide.
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Prepare for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
Preparing for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) takes time, dedication, and a plan. The MCAT is a standardised test that assesses your knowledge of natural and social sciences, as well as your critical thinking and scientific problem-solving skills. It is a crucial prerequisite for students applying to medical school, and almost every applicant must take the exam. The exam is offered multiple times a year at various test sites in the United States, Canada, and around the world, and it is always administered in English.
To prepare for the MCAT, it is recommended to create a study plan to help you stay organised and focused. The AAMC provides free and low-cost official MCAT test preparation tools and resources, such as study tips and information on the medical admission process. The AAMC also collaborated with the Khan Academy and Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to create video tutorials and review questions that cover all content tested on the exam. Additionally, the Fee Assistance Program assists eligible students by reducing the registration fee and providing free MCAT preparation resources.
It is important to note that there are testing limits of three times in one calendar year, four times over two years, and seven times over a lifetime. Admissions committees consider not only your MCAT score but also your academic strengths, exposure to healthcare and medical research environments, personal experiences and interests, potential to contribute to the campus and community, and personal attributes such as maturity and drive.
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Ensure your visa status is in order
As an international student, you must have a student visa to attend medical school in the US. A visitor or temporary visa will not be valid. You should also be aware of the terms of your visa and any restrictions it places on your activities. For instance, if you are on an F-1 visa, you are not allowed to do any work off-campus during your first year. This includes paid work, as well as unpaid internships at private companies. However, you can take on volunteer roles without violating your visa, such as volunteering at a soup kitchen or community clinic.
If you are an undergraduate, you will need to get authorization before taking on off-campus work or internships after your first year. You can also join student organizations and groups, which can be a great way to gain extracurricular activities for your medical school application.
Some medical schools, such as the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, offer programs that welcome international applicants with F-1 and other visa statuses. It is important to research the admissions policies of individual schools to confirm their policies on accepting international applicants.
Additionally, some schools may require you to prove that you have sufficient financial resources to pay for all four years of medical school or have the full amount in an escrow account.
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Gain relevant extracurricular experience
Gaining relevant extracurricular experience is crucial to strengthening your medical school application. Here are some ways to gain such experience as an international student:
Clinical Experience
Seek out opportunities to gain clinical experience, such as shadowing physicians or working as a medical scribe. Shadowing allows you to observe and assist with patient care and interact with healthcare professionals. However, international students might face constraints due to visa requirements, so ensure that your activities comply with the regulations of your student visa.
Research
Engage in research projects or join undergraduate research teams on campus. Getting research experience is beneficial and demonstrates your interest in exploring the field.
Volunteering
Volunteering is one of the most important extracurricular activities for medical school applicants. Look for opportunities to volunteer in your community, such as at a non-profit community clinic or a homeless shelter. International volunteering can be valuable, but it is not inherently more impressive than local community service. Medical schools want to see a commitment to service, whether it is domestic or abroad.
Student Organizations and Clubs
Join student organizations or clubs related to your interests, such as robotics, biology, or engineering. These groups can provide meaningful learning opportunities and allow you to connect with faculty members and physicians.
Healthcare Certifications and Pre-med Jobs
Obtain healthcare certifications such as EMT, CNA, or CPT, or pursue pre-med jobs like medical scribe, phlebotomist, or medical assistant. These experiences will provide you with valuable skills and knowledge relevant to the medical field.
Teaching and Tutoring
Teaching or tutoring positions can be valuable as they demonstrate strong communication skills, which are essential for physicians. Doctors often act as teachers throughout their careers, so showcasing your ability to convey complex information in a simple manner can be advantageous.
Remember to strategically choose activities that showcase your commitment to medicine and your passion for the field. Accumulating extensive clinical, research, and community service experience will bolster your application.
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Prepare strong letters of recommendation
When applying to medical school, letters of recommendation are an important part of your application. They are an opportunity to let others make your case for you and provide an objective opinion of your abilities and aptitude for a career in medicine. Schools usually request a minimum of three recommendations, but you may want to send up to six to be a competitive applicant.
- Select the right recommenders: Choose recommenders who can objectively assess your potential as a medical student and highlight your unique characteristics and traits that make you suitable for the medical profession. Seek letters from professors, preferably in medically-related science classes, advanced-level classes in your major area, and humanities. If you have been out of school and working, it is also a good idea to include a letter from your employer.
- Build strong relationships with your recommenders: The better your professors know you, the more likely they are to write detailed and strong letters. Spend time with them, go to their office hours, ask questions, and demonstrate a genuine interest in their subject.
- Provide them with the necessary information: Once a letter writer agrees to write you a recommendation, provide them with a packet that includes your grades, CV or resume, personal statement, and any other materials that will remind them about your achievements. Also, let them know which medical programs you are applying to and why.
- Ask early and communicate deadlines: Respect your recommender's time by asking them as early as possible. Communicate a deadline for when you need the letter and don't be shy about sending reminders.
- Follow the guidelines: Different medical schools may have different requirements for letters of recommendation. Be sure to follow the guidelines provided by the schools regarding the number and type of letters required or allowed.
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Frequently asked questions
Some of the top medical schools in the USA for international students include Harvard Medical School, the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Johns Hopkins Medicine, and Stanford Medical School. In the UK, most medical schools have a dedicated admissions email address or phone number to help with queries.
Requirements vary depending on the school, but some common requirements include demonstrating fluency in English (through the TOEFL exam in the US), taking coursework at an accredited US or Canadian college or university, and taking the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). International students may also need to prove they have the financial resources to pay for all four years of medical school.
It is important to demonstrate your passion for the school and its program. It is recommended to include specific details about the school and why it is a good fit for you in your application. Participating in extracurricular activities and research related to medicine can also strengthen your application. Strong letters of recommendation are key, so be sure to choose recommenders who know you well and can write in English.
International students often face a more competitive application process and have a smaller pool of schools to choose from. They may also face challenges with visa rules and restrictions and may not qualify for financial aid.
