31Jan

International student studying medicine in Canada at a top medical university
Updated on: 16/12/2025

General Requirements to Study Medicine in Canada

General Requirements to Study Medicine in Canada

To enroll in a medical program in Canada, international students must meet specific eligibility criteria. These include:

Academic Requirements: A minimum of 75% to 80% in higher secondary education, preferably in biology or science-related streams.

Bachelor’s Degree: Unlike other countries, where students can enroll in MBBS programs directly after high school, Canada requires applicants to complete a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field before applying to medical schools.

Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): Most Canadian medical schools require an MCAT score, though some universities may have different admission tests.

Letter of Recommendation (LOR): A strong LOR from teachers or professionals in the medical field.

English Language Proficiency: International students must provide proof of proficiency in English through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL.

Statement of Purpose (SOP): A well-written SOP explaining why you want to study medicine in Canada.

NEET Exam: Indian students must clear the NEET exam to be eligible for MBBS programs in Canada.

Top 10 Universities to Study Medicine in Canada

Canada is home to several world-renowned medical institutions. Below are the top universities ranked globally for their medical programs:


Name of the UniversityQS World University Rankings 2023
McGill University31
University of Toronto 34
University of British Columbia47
University of Alberta110
University de Montréal116
McMaster University152
University of Waterloo154
Western University172
University of Ottawa237
University of Calgary242

Top 10 Medical Diploma Courses to Study in Canada After 12th

For students who want to explore medical diploma programs after high school, Canada offers multiple short-term courses. Below are some popular options:

Name of the Diploma CourseFees (in CAD)
Diploma in Pharmacy Technician$14,600 - $32,000
Diploma in Holistic Nutrition$6,170 - $8,000
Diploma in Paramedic$17,000 - $34,000
Diploma in Acupuncture$20,000 - $33,000
Cardiology Technologist$14,000 - $32,000

Short-Term Medical Courses in Canada

Students who wish to gain specialized skills in a short duration can opt for medical certificate programs. These programs provide hands-on experience in different medical fields:

Name of the Short-Term CourseFees (in CAD)
Dental Assistant Program$4,000 - $11,000
Human Psychology Program$10,000 - $50,000
Medical Device Reprocessing Technician Program$2,000 - $10,000
Animal Care Aid Certificate Program$2,750 - $2,933
Hospital Unit Coordinator Program$6,000 - $50,000

Why Study Medicine in Canada?

Global Recognition: Canadian medical degrees are internationally recognized, ensuring career opportunities worldwide.
Quality Education: Medical schools in Canada offer advanced curricula, innovative research, and top-tier faculty.
High Demand for Healthcare Professionals: Canada’s aging population and growing healthcare needs create ample job opportunities for medical graduates.
Pathway to Permanent Residency: Many students transition to permanent residency in Canada after completing their medical studies.

Conclusion

Pursuing medicine in Canada requires fulfilling academic and language proficiency requirements, along with clearing competitive entrance exams. With a variety of diplomas and short-term courses also available, students have numerous pathways to build a successful medical career in Canada.
For personalized assistance with your application process, LEAMSS provides expert guidance on admissions, visas, and university shortlisting. Contact us today to make your dream of studying medicine in Canada a reality!