Studying Medicine in Canada 2025: Requirements and Costs

Studying Medicine in Canada in 2025: Conditions and Costs

Studying medicine in Canada can be an excellent choice for many aspiring medical students around the world. Not only is the quality of education in Canada very high, but students can also benefit from other advantages such as a high quality of life, reputable universities, and an international environment. Studying medicine and receiving a medical scholarship in Canada can be a challenging and valuable experience for international students. Since medicine is one of the most popular and competitive fields of study, the admission standards for all medical schools in Canada are strict and precise. The broad landscape of medical education in Canada offers various programs and specialties.

If you dream of becoming a doctor, surgeon, nurse, pharmacist, dentist, and more, studying medicine in Canada is an excellent option for you. Educational migration to Canada and studying medicine in this country provide students with a comprehensive understanding of healthcare and equip them with the skills, knowledge, and clinical experience needed to excel in their chosen field. In this article, part of Elm Vira’s series, we will review studying medicine in Canada.

Types of Medical Degrees in Canada

For studying medicine in Canada, students and applicants can pursue three levels: undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Below is an overview of each:

1. Undergraduate

Undergraduate medical programs in Canada, often referred to as Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) or Doctor of Medicine (MD), are very popular. Every year, many students migrate to Canada to study medicine. The curriculum of these programs is comprehensive, covering a wide range of subjects including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and pathology. Students can gain practical clinical experience by completing internships in hospitals and clinics during their final years.

The duration of undergraduate medical studies in Canada ranges from 4 to 6 years. The cost of studying medicine at the undergraduate level in Canada varies depending on the university, ranging from 26,000 to 96,000 Canadian dollars per year.

2. Master’s Degree

Master’s degrees in medicine in Canada offer a diverse range of specialized programs. These programs are designed for students in the medical and healthcare fields who seek further education and specialization. These study options provide various career pathways in medicine for interested candidates. Studying medicine in Canada at the master’s level includes training programs that offer clinical experience in medical specialties such as internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, radiology, and more.

Medical professionals interested in research and teaching can pursue a Master of Science (MSc) or Master of Health Sciences (MHS) in various medical fields. These degrees are ideal for specialists seeking advanced careers in medical research, teaching, or healthcare management. Studying medicine in Canada at the master’s level typically takes 3 to 5 years. The cost of medical studies at the master’s level ranges from 50,000 to 92,000 Canadian dollars per year.

3. Studying Medicine in Canada: Doctoral Level

A doctoral degree in medicine allows students to engage in the fields of medical research, innovation, and teaching. These doctoral programs are designed to train specialists in various medical disciplines who can contribute to significant advancements in healthcare, disease prevention, and treatment. While studying medicine at the doctoral level in Canada, students collaborate with renowned faculty members and participate in exceptional research projects.

These projects may cover various medical fields including clinical research, biomedical sciences, public health, and health policy. The duration of doctoral medical studies in Canada is typically 4 to 6 years. The annual cost of doctoral medical studies in Canada ranges from 6,000 to 22,000 Canadian dollars.

Medical Scholarships in Canada

Studying medicine in Canada can be expensive for some international students. It is important to note that international students are required to pay higher tuition fees compared to domestic students. However, with the availability of scholarships and financial aid for medical studies in Canada, students can pursue their medical education without a heavy financial burden. Some of the most prominent scholarships available for international students studying medicine in Canada are as follows:

• Vainer Scholarship Canada: The Vainer CGS is one of the most prestigious scholarship programs in Canada, awarded to both domestic and international doctoral students. This scholarship is granted to students who demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and leadership abilities in pursuing advanced studies across various fields.
• Canadian Government Scholarships: The Canadian government offers medical scholarships to international students through various agencies and programs such as the International Scholarships Program.
• University Scholarships: Many Canadian universities offer different scholarships based on academic achievements and merit to international students.
• External Organizations: Some international organizations and foundations provide medical scholarships for students seeking to study medicine in Canada. For example, joint scholarship programs between Japan and the World Bank, as well as scholarships from Commonwealth countries, are available to international students.
• Professional Associations: Certain professional or medical organizations related to specific medical fields may also offer grants or scholarships to support medical students. For example, if you intend to specialize in fields such as pediatrics or cardiology, you can explore related associations for potential scholarship opportunities.

Please note that you should prepare all required documents months before the scholarship application deadline and register as early as possible.

Requirements for Studying Medicine in Canada

Students who wish to study medicine in Canada must meet certain requirements, which are outlined below:

1. Academic Degree

Students intending to study medicine in Canada must hold a bachelor’s degree in biology or basic sciences. Most medical institutions in Canada accept international students who have demonstrated academic excellence in undergraduate biological sciences programs. Finding undergraduate medical programs in Canada is somewhat difficult. International students looking to study medicine at the undergraduate level in Canada can apply to medical schools located in Quebec.

These schools generally admit students at the undergraduate medical level. A necessary condition for admission at the undergraduate level is having a high school diploma in experimental sciences with strong grades, along with a one-year diploma from CEGEP.

2. Language Proficiency

One of the most important requirements for studying medicine in Canada is proficiency in English. Holding an English language certificate (IELTS, TOEFL) is mandatory to keep up with medical studies at Canadian universities. The overall IELTS score required for obtaining a Canadian student visa is 6.5, with a minimum of 6 in each section. However, many Canadian medical schools require higher scores.

3. MCAT Exam

The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is a standardized test for admission to medical colleges. Students interested in studying medicine in Canada must take the MCAT exam and achieve an acceptable score. Different programs and universities across Canada have varying MCAT score requirements for admission. Students should check the MCAT score requirements of their desired university before applying. Some universities, such as Northern Ontario School of Medicine and McGill University Faculty of Medicine, do not require the MCAT for admission.

4. Grade Requirement

The grade requirement for studying medicine in Canada can vary depending on the university. Generally, having a GPA above 16 (out of 20 or equivalent) can increase students’ chances of admission. High grades in subjects such as biology, physics, chemistry, and mathematics can positively affect the admission process.

5. Other Requirements

Canadian universities consider specific conditions for admitting students to medical programs, including physical and mental health. Therefore, providing a medical fitness certificate is among the requirements for studying medicine in Canada. Additionally, submitting a motivation letter, recommendation letters, and an academic resume can influence the admission decision. Canadian universities usually do not set strict age limits for admission; however, applicants aged between 18 and 30 have better chances of acceptance. Having a gap year or gap period in education can also affect the admission process.

Cost of Studying Medicine in Canada

The cost of medical education in Canada varies depending on the university and location. Generally, tuition fees range from CAD 11,000 to 13,000 per year. Students should also consider living expenses in Canada. The tuition fees for some Canadian universities are approximately as follows:

• University of Toronto: CAD 27,850

• University of British Columbia: CAD 17,755

• McGill University: CAD 37,396

• McMaster University: CAD 95,955

• University of Alberta: CAD 12,044

• University of Calgary: CAD 15,986

• University of Montreal: CAD 14,310

• University of Ottawa: CAD 22,500

Top Universities for Studying Medicine in Canada

Medical universities in Canada are recognized among the best worldwide for medical education. These universities not only offer internationally accredited degrees but also provide students access to the latest facilities and advanced technologies, delivering top-quality education. Below are some of the top universities in Canada for medical studies.

1. University of Toronto

Founded in 1827, the University of Toronto is one of Canada’s top public universities for medical studies. It currently ranks 21st in the QS World University Rankings 2024. Thanks to the creativity and perseverance of its staff, students, alumni, and supporters, the University of Toronto boasts a remarkable track record. The university offers a vibrant and dynamic environment for students, resulting in an exceptional student life experience.

The university provides a wide range of services and facilities for its students and is considered one of the best choices for studying medicine in Canada. Currently, over 64,000 students are enrolled across various programs. The university offers more than 600 programs at undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.

2. McGill University – Medical Studies in Canada

McGill University is an English-language public university located in the predominantly French-speaking province of Quebec. It was established in 1821 by James McGill, a prominent Scottish merchant. McGill is one of the best universities for studying medicine in Canada and is the oldest university in Montreal. It ranks second among Canadian universities and holds the 30th position globally in world university rankings. Currently, around 30,000 students are enrolled at McGill. The university offers opportunities for medical scholarships to its students.

McGill provides over 300 academic programs at various levels. The university’s facilities include student dormitories, sports halls, indoor swimming pools, restaurants, cafeterias, and more.

3. University of British Columbia (UBC)

Founded in 1915, the University of British Columbia (UBC) is one of Canada’s leading institutions for research, education, and teaching. It ranks third among Canada’s top 10 public universities. Over 50,000 students, including 12,000 international students, study at UBC.

UBC offers more than 250 undergraduate programs and 240 graduate programs. In the 2024 QS World University Rankings, UBC is ranked 34th globally. If you are considering studying medicine in Canada, the University of British Columbia is an excellent choice. The university comprises 16 faculties, 18 schools, and 2 colleges. Medical studies at UBC provide amazing opportunities for international students.

4. McMaster University – Study and Migration to Canada

McMaster University, founded in 1887 in Hamilton, is a public university with about 70 research centers and institutes offering world-class education to students from over 120 countries. It has established itself among Canada’s top 10 universities. McMaster is considered one of the best universities for studying medicine in Canada.

A wide range of academic programs at various levels are offered at McMaster. In the 2024 QS World University Rankings, it is ranked 184th globally. Currently, more than 33,000 students are enrolled at McMaster. The university offers over 3,000 academic programs and provides various facilities and scholarships to students. McMaster has been recognized as one of Canada’s top research universities for four consecutive years due to its strong research output in multiple fields.

5. University of Montreal (Université de Montréal)

The University of Montreal (UdeM), founded in 1878 in Quebec, is one of the top universities for studying medicine in Canada. In the 2024 QS World University Rankings, UdeM was ranked 141st globally. The university has 14 faculties offering more than 500 programs across various fields. The languages of instruction are French and English. Annually, the University of Montreal attracts over 500 million dollars in research funding, making it one of Canada’s most influential research institutions. The university currently enrolls about 70,000 students.

The medical facilities at the University of Montreal are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, enabling students to gain all the necessary experience to become skilled physicians. The university also offers a variety of scholarships to international students.

Other Top Medical Universities in Canada

• University of Alberta

• University of Calgary

• University of Ottawa

• Dalhousie University

• Queen’s University

• and more…

Summary

Studying medicine in Canada combines acquiring medical knowledge with fostering empathy, cultural competence, and ethical practice, as Canadian medical education emphasizes holistic patient care. Canada’s overall commitment to healthcare innovation ensures that medical students are well-prepared to serve in an evolving healthcare system.

International students have diverse motivations for pursuing medical studies in Canada. Canadian medical schools offer world-class educational and research facilities, creating an exceptional learning environment. Students have access to advanced laboratories, modern technologies, and clinical training.

Studying medicine in Canada is always an exciting experience for international students. Canadian medical scholarships provide an opportunity for students to enjoy their studies without financial worries. You can easily benefit from free consultations with our expert advisors. Elm Vira is your best companion on your educational migration journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best medical programs in Canada?
Top-ranked Canadian universities host the best medical faculties offering diverse and internationally recognized programs. Popular programs include Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery, Doctor of Medicine (MD), Medical Radiation Sciences, Dentistry, Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy, Biostatistics, and Occupational Therapy.

How much does medical education cost in Canada?
Medical education costs vary depending on the program, university, and level of study. The annual tuition fees can range from CAD 3,000 to CAD 125,000.

What are the admission requirements for medical studies in Canada?
Admission criteria typically include holding valid academic credentials with high grades, completing specific prerequisite courses, and successfully passing the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). International students must also demonstrate proficiency in English or French.