Best Medical Colleges in Canada for Indian Students: Know Fees, Eligibility, Admission Process, & Much More!

In the ever-evolving landscape of global healthcare, Canada stands at a pivotal crossroads. According to a recent report by the Royal Bank of Canada, the nation is facing an impending shortage of approximately 44,000 physicians by the year 2028. Factors such as a burgeoning population, medical practitioner burnout, and the inevitable march of retirement age have converged to create this pressing challenge. This has lead us to bring your attention to the best medical colleges in Canada.

The solution, it appears, lies in the hands of Canada’s esteemed medical colleges. To bridge this ever-widening healthcare gap, these institutions must take on the herculean task of training an additional 30,000 physicians, all while maintaining the high standards that define Canadian medical education. The question then arises: Does this impending healthcare crisis render Canada more welcoming to international students seeking to pursue a career in medicine? The answer is a resounding yes!

Canada’s medical colleges have not only recognized the urgency of the situation but have also opened their doors wider to international students who wish to contribute to the country’s healthcare system. However, choosing the right college out of 17 medical colleges in Canada could be a daunting task! But you need not to worry about it because we are here to help you! 

Whether you’re a prospective student eager to explore your options or a curious soul intrigued by Canada’s medical prowess, this page is for you! So, continue reading till the end! 

List of best medical colleges in Canada

Canada boasts 17 accredited medical schools, all of which grant the coveted Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree. This qualification is essential for individuals aspiring to become physicians or surgeons in Canada. These medical institutions hold joint accreditation from the Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools (CACMS) and the U.S. Liaison Committee on Medical Education, affirming their high standards of medical education and training. These schools are gateways to fulfilling careers in the healthcare field, attracting ambitious students from around the globe.

Following is the list of top medical colleges you can consider for studying in Canada (Medicine):

Medical School	City name
Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary	Calgary
Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine	Halifax
Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba	Winnipeg
McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences	Montreal
Memorial University of Newfoundland Faculty of Medicine	St. John’s
Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University	Hamilton
Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Lakehead, and Laurentian Universities	Sudbury
Queen’s University Faculty of Health Sciences	Kingston
Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University	London
Université de Montréal Faculté de Médecine	Montreal
Université de Sherbrooke Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé	Sherbrooke
Université Laval Faculté de Médecine	Québec
University of Alberta Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry	Edmonton
University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine	Vancouver
University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine	Ottawa
University of Saskatchewan College of Medicine	Saskatoon
University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine	Toronto

Best medical colleges in Canada as per Times Higher Education Ranking 

Following are the top 6 medical colleges in Canada based on ranking and recognition received from Times Higher Education’s World University Rankings 2023: 

University	WUR medicine rank 2023	City
University of Toronto	7	Toronto
McMaster University	25	Hamilton
McGill University	=32	Montreal
University of British Columbia	37	Vancouver
University of Alberta	=75	Edmonton
University of Ottawa	=94	Ottawa

About the top 10 best medical colleges in Canada

In this section, we will be exploring the in-depth information about the top 10 medical colleges in Canada mentioned above. So, let’s get started… 

McGill University

Located in Montreal, Quebec, McGill University’s Faculty of Medicine is renowned for its cutting-edge research and comprehensive medical programs. It boasts a rich history of producing outstanding healthcare professionals. The curriculum emphasizes a combination of classroom instruction and clinical experience, preparing students for various medical specialties. McGill’s medical research contributions span a wide range of fields, making it a leader in healthcare innovation.

1. Courses Offered: M.D., C.M., MDCM & Ph.D., M.D., C.M. program for International Medical Graduates (IMG), Med-P Qualifying Year
2. Average Fees: Varies from course to course but somewhere around CAD 33,796.59 to 63,400.39 per year
3. Type of University: Public University

McMaster University

Situated in Hamilton, Ontario, McMaster University’s medical program is highly regarded for its problem-based learning approach. Students engage in active, small-group discussions to solve clinical cases, fostering critical thinking and decision-making skills. McMaster’s program places a strong emphasis on early clinical exposure, allowing students to gain hands-on experience from the outset.

1. Courses Offered: MD/PhD
2. Fees: CAD 96,000 per year and students will get Stipend amounts (guaranteed) at a minimum rate of $21,700 per year but may vary between departments.
3. Type of University: Public University

Queen’s University

Queen’s School of Medicine, located in Kingston, Ontario, provides a patient-centered approach to medical education. With a focus on small class sizes, students benefit from close interactions with faculty and peers. Queen’s emphasizes the development of well-rounded physicians, fostering skills in research, leadership, and community engagement.

1. Courses Offered: MD (Doctor of Medicine), MSc, PGME in Cardiology, Emergency Medicine, etc., and Ph.D. in Biomedical/Molecular Science, Neuroscience, etc.
2. Fees: Varies from course to course but somewhere around CAD 20,000 to 44,000 per year
3. Type of University: Public University

Université de Sherbrooke

The University of Sherbrooke, situated in Sherbrooke, Quebec, is a French-language institution dedicated to French-speaking medical education in Canada. It offers a comprehensive medical program that prioritizes bilingualism and cultural sensitivity. Students here gain a unique perspective on healthcare in Canada’s bilingual context.

1. Courses Offered: MD
2. Fees: NA
3. Type of University: Public University

University of British Columbia

The University of British Columbia’s Faculty of Medicine, in Vancouver, British Columbia, is renowned for its comprehensive medical programs and cutting-edge research. UBC’s medical curriculum combines classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience, preparing students for diverse medical specialties. The university’s strong research contributions span various healthcare disciplines, making it a hub for innovation in healthcare.

1. Courses Offered: MD
2. Fees: $22,869.72 per year
3. Type of University: Public University

University of Calgary

Located in Calgary, Alberta, the University of Calgary’s Cumming School of Medicine offers a dynamic medical program. It focuses on research-driven education and clinical experience to prepare future physicians. Students benefit from the university’s strong ties to local healthcare facilities, enabling hands-on training in a diverse range of medical specialties.

1. Courses Offered: MD, Ph.D., MPath, MDCS, etc. 
2. Fees: Varies from course to course. Refer to the official website for more information – https://www.ucalgary.ca/pubs/calendar/current/p-1-1.html
3. Type of University: Public University

University of Alberta

In Edmonton, Alberta, the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry is renowned for its research excellence and comprehensive medical programs. Students here receive a well-rounded education, combining classroom instruction with extensive clinical exposure. The university’s strong emphasis on research contributes to medical advancements across various fields.

1. Courses Offered: MD
2. Fees: $15,565.92 per year
3. Type of University: Public University

University of Ottawa

The University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Medicine, located in Ottawa, Ontario, offers bilingual medical education. Its curriculum integrates French and English instruction, preparing students for healthcare practice in Canada’s bilingual capital. The program emphasizes clinical experience, ensuring students are well-prepared for various medical specialties.

1. Courses Offered: Bachelor of Science, Masters of Science, MD, Ph.D.
2. Fees: CA$2,228.31 for Ph.D. (Medicine & Biochemistry) for fee information for other courses check this tool https://www.uottawa.ca/study/fees-financial-support/university-fees/tuition-canadians-outside-ontario
3. Type of University: Public University 

If you need any help in assessing the fees of the college, talk to study abroad consultants in Hyderabad. 

Memorial University of Newfoundland

Located in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Memorial University’s Faculty of Medicine provides a unique focus on healthcare in eastern Canada. Its curriculum emphasizes community-based learning and rural medicine, preparing students to serve diverse populations, including those in remote areas.

1. Courses Offered: MD
2. Fees: $20,511 per year
3. Type of University: Public University

University of Toronto

The University of Toronto’s Faculty of Medicine, in Toronto, Ontario, is one of Canada’s premier medical institutions. It offers a comprehensive medical program with a strong emphasis on research and innovation. Students benefit from access to world-class healthcare facilities and a diverse patient population, providing valuable clinical experience.

1. Courses Offered: MD, Ph.D, 
2. Fees: $94,307.17 per year
3. Type of University: Public University

Worried about finances? Read about: Scholarships for Indian Students in Canada

Eligibility Criteria & Admission Process

Canada is an attractive destination for international students seeking medical education. To secure admission to medical programs, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria and navigate a comprehensive admission process tailored to their chosen level of study.

Undergraduate Medical Courses:

• Academic Requirements: International applicants must possess Class 10 and 12 certificates. A background in science with proficiency in Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Biology, and Computer Science is essential.
• Language Proficiency: Demonstrating English proficiency through TOEFL (85-100) or IELTS (Minimum 7) is mandatory.
• Assessments: Some programs may require tests or interviews. A competitive MCAT score (472-528) is often needed.
• Documentation: Candidates should submit a Statement of Purpose, Letters of Recommendation, Academic Transcripts, and a recent photograph.
• Visa and Passport: A Canadian Student Visa and a valid passport copy are crucial for international students.

Graduate Medical Courses:

• Academic Qualifications: Applicants should hold an undergraduate degree in a related field with a B-grade or 75% in their last examination.
• GRE Score: Candidates must provide a GRE score.
• Language Proficiency: Meeting English language requirements is mandatory.
• University-specific Requirements: Some institutions may have additional criteria.
• Documents: Required documents include a Statement of Purpose, two Letters of Reference, a CV/Resume, Academic Transcripts, a Canadian Study Visa, and a valid passport copy.

Doctoral Medical Courses:

• Academic Background: Applicants must possess a Master’s degree in medicine or a related field with a GPA of 3.0 or grade B in their last exams.
• GRE Score: A GRE score is a prerequisite.
• Language Proficiency: International candidates must satisfy TOEFL (85-100) or IELTS (Minimum 7) requirements.
• Research Paper Acceptance: Universities often require acceptance of research papers.
• Documentation: Submission of Academic Transcripts, Resume, Statement of Purpose, Letters of Recommendation, and a Research Proposal is essential.

Please note that this is a general eligibility and admission process for studying medicine in Canada. It is advisable to check the official website before filling out the application form for chosen medical colleges in Canada. 

Bonus Read: MCAT or No MCAT?

“Without MCAT” should not be a choice for you as international students are mostly judged through MCAT scores in Canada except for 5 colleges.

Out of these 5 exceptions, 3 schools are either only francophone (French speaking) or bilingual. Other than these few, all medical colleges in Canada require or recommend the MCAT exam.

These 5 exceptions are:

1. The University of Ottawa
2. Montréal Université
3. Laval Université
4. Sherbrooke Université
5. Northern Ontario School of Medicine

2 further exceptions:

1. McGill University

• The acceptance rate for McGill is highly inflated because McGill loves accepting international students!
• MCAT is optional here only if you’ve obtained a basis-of-admission (pre-med) degree from a Canadian university

2. McMaster University

• The selection committee uses only 4^th section of the MCAT exam for admission
• However, all applicants are required to write the MCAT before the application deadline

Final Words!

There you go! You have all the stuff you want. Do you want to make a career decision now? Not settled yet?

Don’t worry! Reach out to industry experts! Talk to highly experienced counselors at iDreamCareer.

Here is our success story out of many:

With iDreamCareer’s guidance, Shreya pursued NEET preparation alongside US pre-medicine program applications due to her medical history. Her exceptional time management and unwavering commitment led to impressive acceptance offers and scholarships from renowned institutions like the University of Pittsburgh, Virginia Commonwealth University, the University of Connecticut, Temple University, Stony Brook University, Drexel University, and Wayne University. After careful deliberation, she selected the University of Pittsburgh to fulfill her aspirations.

Useful Links

1. Top Universities in Canada
2. MBA Colleges in Canada
3. Best Universities in Canada for MS

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