Study Medicine in the USA for International Students

Medicine study in the US is very difficult in terms of time, fees, and intellectual effort. The criteria for admission are strict and education is also very dense. However, after graduation, students have the skills to help those in need and make a real difference in people’s lives.

Requirements to study medicine in the USA

Unlike the study of medicine in Europe, the study of medicine in the United States generally begins after completing four years of undergraduate study. These include meeting the pre-university course requirements, as well as obtaining a bachelor’s degree in any subject. That’s why most students in medicine in the US, choose beforehand to earn an undergraduate degree in Biology or Chemistry. 

Indeed, the basic requirements for studying medicine in America vary from one university to another. However, in most cases, they include biology, general chemistry, and organic chemistry as major curriculums of science. But to be sure, before you even choose your pre-med majors, always check the requirements of the medical school you intend to apply to.

For example, at the University of California, medicine candidates need a previous background in chemistry, physics and general biology. The biology program also must include vertebrae zoology courses.

Learn here about the benefits of studying in America as an international student.

Medicine Study Program in the US: How many years does it take to study medicine in USA?

Basically, the duration of the course is 4 years, and it is divided into almost two equal stages: pre-clinical (consisting of educational courses in basic science), and clinical (clerkship consists of courses through different ambergris in an educational hospital).

Furthermore, this program leads to obtaining the title of Doctor in Orthopedic (D.O.), or Doctor in Medicine (M.D.) depending on the medical school. Likewise, both degrees allow the holder to practice medicine after completing the accredited residency program. The main requirement is to have a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or any other medical field.

As a matter of fact, some medical colleges offer limited programs starting after high school that combine university studies with medical education. Afterward, students are temporarily admitted to these programs based on high school credentials.

This in case their performance is satisfactory and allowed them to advance to the MD degree. This program generally takes six or seven years. Being that, the admission is very competitive for international students.

MCAT test to study medicine in America

A student applying to study medicine in America will also need to complete the MCAT test, which represents the medical admission test. Basically, this test determines the ability to think critically, solve problems, and write clearly.

In addition to measuring the student’s knowledge of different scientific concepts. Certainly, a good degree at MCAT is the key to accessing a good medical school.

Admission of International Students to Study Medicine in America

There are very few opportunities for international students to obtain a Doctor of Medicine degree in America. International students applying to medical universities in the United States should bear in mind that publicly funded colleges are required to assign part or all of their state funds for students residing in the school’s jurisdiction.

This is to ensure that there are enough doctors for the area. However, it is not in the interest of international students when it comes to the selection process.

Don’t forget that you can always apply to private universities. However, of course, it will be more expensive. Each student will need to weigh the pros and cons of each available choice and apply to the appropriate school.

Application for studying medicine in America

To enroll in the United States Medical School, aninternational student must meet the following criteria:

Undoubtedly, most medical schools allow internationalstudents to enroll through the American Medical School Application Service(AMCAS) if they are pursuing a doctorate in medicine or the AmericanAssociation of Colleges of Orthopedic Medicine (AACOMAS). Besides, if they arepursuing a doctorate in orthopedics.

These services are highly recommended, as they will save youa lot of time. Moreover, keep in mind that some public medical schools do notaccept international students.

Read also our guide on how to apply to US universities for international students.

Tuition fees for medicine study in America

As shown above, studying medicine in the United States is among the most expensive in the world. Given that there is not much financial aid available to international students, a potential candidate must prove that he or she can spend about $25,000 a year.

Also, most medical undergraduate schools that accept international students are private schools, and their annual fees maybe around $40,000.

At last, the student must have a good annual income to cover the cost of living in America as well.