Have you ever considered the option to study medicine in the Caribbean? It may sound unpopular but surprisingly the Caribbean is a top destination for medical students.
The demand for medicine and medical related degrees in recent years has grown steadily. However, the fact remains that studying medicine can be very expensive.
The most expensive countries to study medicine in remain the US, Canada, and the UK. Aside from cost, the admission process into most Western universities can be complicated and long. Therefore, a viable alternative is worth looking into. An alternative with a more agreeable admission process that won’t leave students knee-deep in debt.
Interestingly, the Caribbean offers the same quality of education at more favorable costs.
Why Study Medicine In The Caribbean? Hidden Benefits
Choosing to study medicine in the Caribbean can give students a headstart in many areas of their life. They’re less likely to be in debilitating debt while getting top-quality education. On top of that, they’ll obtain clinical experience that many don’t have a chance to experience early on in their education.
5 Reasons to Study Medicine in the Caribbean
1. Smoother Admission Process
No medical student will ever define their application and admission process as easy. Still, there is no reason it shouldn’t at least be smooth.
The US, UK, and Canada have become more competitive than ever, with obstacles and barriers at every step. Luckily, the same cannot be said for applying to a medical school in the Caribbean. In fact, Caribbean medical schools have a higher level of acceptance rate. Additionally, they follow the so-called “rolling system” of admission, which makes it possible for students to apply all year long.
2. Lower Tuition & Admission Fees
Tuition and admission fees sometimes are the main obstacle that many students simply cannot afford. Universities in the Caribbean offer a generally lower cost of tuition and admission than the great variety of other Western countries.
Lower tuition fees make studying medicine more approachable for students that stem from different backgrounds, which is why many students from all over the world decide to study medicine in the Caribbean.
3. Accredited Medical Schools & Reputation
Some people may get skeptical about Universities in the Caribbean and whether they offer quality education. In reality, their curriculums correspond to those of the learning medical universities elsewhere.
More precisely, Caribbean medical schools follow the North American established model, in line with the Modern Medical Standard. Thus, the quality of education is virtually the same.
4. Hands-On Clinical Experience
Medical schools in the US and Canada offer clinical experience later on in a student’s scholastic period. On the contrary, many Caribbean medical schools put practical experience first.
In every medical student’s career, practice and hands-on experience are invaluable. Therefore, being able to practice medicine during their studies will prepare students better for the future challenges that follow their career path.
5. Studying Abroad Enhances Students’ Characters
Studying abroad is not for the faint-hearted. It defines students’ character and helps them become more self-reliant and decisive. On their road to independence, students will trust their instincts more than if they are cushioned in a well-known environment.
Also, a study abroad experience is a catalyst for character development by immersing students in another culture.
Where to Study Medicine in The Caribbean?
Medical programs and curriculums in the Caribbean vary from school to school. Below, students can explore some of the most popular options.
St. George’s University (SGU), Grenada
One of the “Big Three” medical universities in the Caribbean, SGU is a top-rated medical school that birthed thousands of physicians. Being eligible for Federal Student Aid, SGU’s medical program is recognized by American medical boards. The quality of education corresponds to the one students can find in the states.
It is located in vibrant and beautiful Grenada. The environment international students find there will cure them of any homesickness they might have.
Saba University (SU), Saba
Being a student at Saba University will put students on the right path to being licensed medical practitioners. With a medical program that consists of a hybrid of academic and clinical studies, Saba University is bound to prepare its medical students for all of their future endeavors.
Saba is an island with virtually no beaches – it offers an active outdoorsy life. The crime rate is nonexistent, so students can be sure to feel both safe and welcome.
Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM), Barbados
As one of the most reputable institutions for medical training in the Caribbean, Ross University is a popular choice for future medical experts. The versatile MD curriculum at RUSM offers many global medical opportunities. Ross University graduates practice medicine in nearly a thousand countries worldwide.
This university is located in Barbados, which has a great healthcare system in addition to beautiful weather and beaches.
Ready to Study Medicine in the Caribbean?
Being a doctor isn’t simply a career path; it’s a calling. Studying medicine in the Caribbean can help students release their full potential, both as a doctor and as a person.
With a multitude of Caribbean universities, it is important to find one with a medical program that corresponds to one’s specific needs. However, all of them offer top-quality affordable education, with a facilitated admission process.