List of medical schools in the Caribbean

Medical schools in the Caribbean have been popular choices for many international students, particularly those from the United States and Canada. The region offers a number of medical schools that provide quality education, with several institutions recognized for their ability to prepare students for medical licensure in the United States, Canada, and beyond. This article provides an overview of medical education in the Caribbean, focusing on schools notable for international students.

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American University of Barbados Campus Building

Overview[edit | edit source]

The Caribbean is home to a diverse range of medical schools, including both regional and offshore institutions. Offshore medical schools, in particular, cater primarily to international students, offering programs based on the American medical education model. These schools often provide pathways for students to complete clinical rotations in the United States or Canada and prepare for licensure exams in those countries.

St.George's University

Atlantic University School Of Medicine

American University of the Caribbean

International American University, campus St.Lucia

Accreditation and Recognition[edit | edit source]

Accreditation is a critical factor for prospective medical students to consider when choosing a school. Notable accrediting bodies in the Caribbean include the Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and other Health Professions (CAAM-HP) and the Accreditation Commission on Colleges of Medicine (ACCM). Additionally, prospective students should look for schools listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools and those eligible for Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) certification, which is required to take the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE).

Notable Medical Schools for International Students[edit | edit source]

Several Caribbean medical schools have established strong reputations among international students:

St. George's University School of Medicine (Grenada): Established in 1977, St. George's University has a large network of alumni working as physicians across the world. The school is accredited by CAAM-HP and offers a variety of pathways into medicine, including a seven-year program that combines a Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine.

American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine (Sint Maarten): AUC offers a US-modeled curriculum and is committed to preparing students for the USMLE. The school is accredited by ACCM and has a track record of successful residency placements in the United States.

Ross University School of Medicine (Barbados): Ross University moved to Barbados in 2018 and offers an integrated curriculum designed to prepare students for the USMLE and a career in medicine in the U.S. It is accredited by CAAM-HP with conditions.

Saba University School of Medicine (Saba, NL): Known for its smaller class sizes and personalized education, Saba University is recognized by CAAM-HP and allows graduates to practice in the United States and Canada.

Clinical Rotations and Residency[edit | edit source]

One of the advantages of attending a Caribbean medical school is the opportunity to complete clinical rotations in the United States or Canada. This exposure is invaluable for international students aiming to enter the residency match in those countries. Schools with strong clinical rotation networks often boast higher residency match rates for their graduates.

Challenges and Considerations[edit | edit source]

While Caribbean medical schools offer many opportunities, there are also challenges to consider. The quality of education can vary significantly between schools, and some students may find the environment and adjustment to a new country challenging. Additionally, the cost of attending medical school in the Caribbean can be high, with tuition fees often comparable to those of private medical schools in the United States.