Medicine is among the many fields of education chosen by Indian students to pursue their dreams of studying in Canada. It must be noted that the traditional undergraduate MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) program is not commonly offered in Canada as a study option. Instead, medical education in Canada follows a slightly different model, wherein students take up an MD (Doctor of Medicine) degree to complete their education. This MD degree in Canada is a postgraduate program spanning four years and requires completion of a bachelor's degree before admission to the program. The MD program is considered an exceptional degree on the lines of MBBS offered in several countries, because of which the course is sometimes popularly referred to as the MBBS of Canada. 

The curriculum of this program is designed to provide students with comprehensive medical education and training, covering basic medical sciences, clinical skills, and practical experience. The program includes classroom-based learning, laboratory work, clinical rotations, and elective experiences in various medical specialties, which makes the training highly valuable for students. 

If you are interested in pursuing this specialized field of study and starting an international career in the healthcare sector in Canada, keep reading to learn more about the medicine program offered to Indian students in Canada.

Top MBBS Universities and Colleges in Canada

Canada is known for its outstanding medical education and has several medical schools within the top universities that offer MD programs. The top universities for studying medicine in Canada as per the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024 are:

- University of Toronto - Temerity Faculty of Medicine

The University of Toronto's Temerity Faculty of Medicine is known for its innovative curriculum and state-of-the-art facilities, offering Indian students an exciting place to thrive and grow. Nine fully affiliated research-intensive hospitals and dozens of community and clinical care sites provide opportunities to more than 9,000 faculty and staff and 7,000 learners at all levels.

- McGill University - School of Medicine

The McGill School of Medicine is a part of the university's larger Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. The school offers undergraduate and postgraduate medical education programs along with continuing professional development programs for professionals. The school has several departments of medicine catering to the needs of students who wish to study specific courses such as critical care medicine, family medicine, diagnostic radiology and oncology, among others. 

- University of British Columbia - UBC Faculty of Medicine

The UBC Faculty of Medicine is ranked among the best medical schools in the world and has the fifth-largest MD enrolment in North America. The university offers high-quality medical education at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels through various departments. The faculty is also known for its groundbreaking research activities, which research institutes and centres at the university run. 

- McMaster University - Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine

McMaster's Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine has a global reputation for innovative educational programs and high-impact research activities. Indian students can undertake medical education at different levels through innovative teaching methods unique to the university, such as problem-based learning and evidence-based medicine. 

- University of Montreal - Faculty of Medicine 

The Faculty of Medicine at the University of Montreal is renowned for its excellent educational programs at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. It offers North America’s only francophone health management training program. The faculty has state-of-the-art facilities and resources, providing students access to the latest advancements in medical technology and research tools. 

- University of Alberta - Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry

The University of Alberta has a renowned Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, offering programs with innovative curricula to train the healthcare professionals of tomorrow. The university is also at the forefront of cutting-edge research in medicine, which helps scholars disseminate new and innovative medical knowledge.

- University of Calgary - Cumming School of Medicine

The Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary is responsible for bringing about transformative changes in medical education and clinical practice. Indian students can choose the innovative three-year medical education program to earn a world-renowned medical degree. The university has a dedicated community of more than 8,000 students, clinicians, scientists, and professional staff. 

- University of Ottawa - Faculty of Medicine

The University of Ottawa has Canada’s first and largest bilingual Faculty of Medicine, which provides high-quality education in a dynamic learning environment in the capital city of Canada. Indian students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities at specialized institutions within the faculty with world-renowned scientists and physicians. The faculty is known for being a leader in medical education and research for public health and clinical medicine.

- Queen's University - School of Medicine

The School of Medicine at Queen's University was established more than 150 years ago to impart training and education to prepare excellent physicians and leaders in health care. Indian students can find opportunities to take up programs that combine medical training with advanced research training. Additionally, students can find other programs to earn diplomas and professional master's degrees in medical sciences. 

- Dalhousie University - Dalhousie Medical School 

The Dalhousie Medical School was established in 1868 and has since been an integral part of the university and the region of Maritime Canada. The school is known for providing scientific medical excellence through the most up-to-date curriculum and health research. The faculty members also provide patient care in clinics, health centres, and regional offices, helping drive the economy further. 

Admission Requirements to Study MBBS in Canada for Indian Students

Admission to the MBBS programs in Canada is highly competitive and requires a strong academic background at various levels apart from other requirements, which are mentioned below:

• Academic qualifications: Indian students must have completed their bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record and good scores in biology, chemistry, physics, and English.
• Entrance exams: Many Canadian universities require Indian students to take standardized entrance exams, such as the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) or the Canadian Residency Matching Service (CaRMS) exam. These exams assess students' aptitude for medical studies and may be required for admission consideration. Indian students must also provide test scores from the NEET exam. 
• Language proficiency: Since instruction in Canadian medical schools is typically in English or French, Indian students must demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction by providing scores from standardized English or French language tests. 
• Letters of recommendation: Universities offering MBBS in Canada for Indian students generally require them to submit letters of recommendation from teachers, counsellors, or healthcare professionals who can attest to their academic abilities, personal qualities, and suitability for medical studies.
• Personal statement: Some medical schools require Indian students to submit a personal statement or essay outlining their motivations for pursuing a medical career, relevant experiences, and future field goals.
• Interview: In some cases, shortlisted Indian students may also be required to attend an interview as part of the admissions process. The interview allows students to demonstrate their communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and suitability for medical studies.

MBBS Fees in Canada for Indian Students

On average, Indian students can expect to pay tuition fees ranging from approximately CAD 1,20,000 to CAD 3,50,000 per year for medicine programs at top Canadian universities. These fees cover the cost of tuition and may vary based on factors such as residency status, program duration, and additional expenses.

It's important for Indian students to carefully research and budget for their medical education expenses, considering tuition fees, accommodation, living costs, and other associated expenses to ensure a smooth and financially stable situation in Canada.

Scholarships to Study MBBS in Canada for Indian Students

Scholarship opportunities for Indian students pursuing medical education in Canada usually vary depending on the institution, the specialized program, and the eligibility criteria to get that scholarship. Some of the potential scholarship options for Indian students studying MBBS or MD programs in Canada may include:

• University-specific scholarships: Many Canadian universities offer merit-based scholarships, bursaries, and awards to exceptional students, including international students. Indian students can inquire with their respective universities' scholarship offices or financial aid departments to learn about available opportunities.
• Government scholarships: Some Canadian government agencies and organizations offer scholarships and grants to international students pursuing higher education in Canada, including medical programs.
• Private and non-profit organizations: Various private companies, foundations, and non-profit organizations in Canada provide scholarships and grants to support Indian students who want to study in Canada.
• External scholarships: Indian students may also be eligible for scholarships from international organizations, educational institutions, or cultural exchange programs.
• Research and teaching assistantships: Some Canadian universities offer research or teaching assistantships to graduate students, including those pursuing MD programs.

Job Opportunities After Pursuing MBBS in Canada

Indian students pursuing an MD program in Canada can expect to find a wide range of job opportunities in the healthcare sector upon completing their studies. While the specific career paths may vary depending on specialization, experience, and licensure requirements, Indian students can explore various job opportunities after obtaining their medical degrees in Canada.

• Medical Practitioners: Graduates of MD or MBBS programs in Canada can work as medical practitioners, providing primary care, diagnosis, and treatment to patients in various settings such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They may specialize in family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, or surgery.
• Residency Training: Many Indian students pursue residency training programs in Canada to gain additional clinical experience and specialization in their chosen field of medicine. Residency programs typically last for several years and provide hands-on training under the supervision of experienced physicians.
• Research and Academia: Students interested in research and academia may pursue careers in medical research or academic medicine. They can work as research scientists, medical educators, or faculty members at universities, medical schools, or research institutions, contributing to advancements in medical knowledge and education.
• Specialist Physicians: MD program graduates may choose to pursue specialization in a specific area of medicine, such as cardiology, oncology, neurology, or dermatology. Becoming a specialist physician often requires additional training through fellowship programs and obtaining board certification in their chosen specialty.
• Healthcare Administration: Indian students with strong leadership and organizational skills may pursue healthcare administration or management careers. They can work as hospital administrators, healthcare executives, or healthcare consultants, overseeing operations, managing resources, and implementing policies to improve healthcare delivery.
• Public Health and Policy: MD graduates can also work in public health and policy roles, focusing on disease prevention, health promotion, and healthcare policy development. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or international health organizations, contributing to public health initiatives and policy advocacy efforts.

Study MBBS in Canada

If you want to study MBBS in Canada, book a free consultation with SI-Canada today to speak with our consultants and apply to study in Canada.