When deciding which university is best for medical study in Canada, what factors should you consider? How do universities differ in terms of curriculum, admission requirements, and clinical training opportunities? Should you look at their reputation, research facilities, or location? What role do cost and student support play in making this decision?
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Thank you for sharing your question and situation with us, we appreciate the interest in this information.
This guide for International Students prepared by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada may be helpful and contains information on how to choose where to study, how to apply to post-secondary schools and more.
You may find helpful information in the Settlement.Org articles How do I choose the right university or college for me? and 6 Tips for Choosing a Post-Secondary School. It may also help to speak with the admissions office to clarify any questions you may have about the program requirements and your eligibility.
Here is an excerpt from the first article:
There are no real “rules” about how to choose a school and a program, but these general guidelines can help make the process easier:
- Program availability
- Type of school - for example, university, college, vocational school or institute
- Type of degree - for example, certificate, diploma, or degree
- Location
- Size of school and how many students are usually in a class
- Reputation of school and job placement rate of graduates
- Quality of facilities and resources - for example, libraries and technical equipment
- Opportunities for work experience - for example, is there a cooperative (“co-op”) program?
- Fees and financial aid options - for example, scholarships and grants
- Admissions requirements
- Faculty, staff
- Ability to accommodate special needs - for example, access to equipment for students with physical disabilities, special arrangements for students with learning disabilities
- Recreational and other activities - for example, sports, clubs or school newspaper
With regards to financial considerations, you can find some detailed information on OSAP and other financial programs in our Settlement.Org articles Who is eligible for the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)? and What kinds of financial help can I get for my education?
As you navigate this process, you may also wish to seek the support of an employment counsellor for help with this transition. Employment counselling can help you find placements/alternative work for while you study, or help you find accreditation programs if you are an internationally trained medical professional.
It may help to connect with a community resource navigator at 211 to narrow your search. 211 Ontario is a free, confidential service. Their phone service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Here is a link to their live chat if you prefer to communicate online. Their live chat service is available Monday to Friday from 7am-9pm ET.
We hope this information is helpful. Please follow up with us if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
Your Settlement.Org Team
It all mainly depends on the exact major you choose as all institutions vary in that aspect.
Personally, I prefer UBC as this school’s app system is the most transparent in terms of letting applicants know where they stand in comparison to the competition, both during the app and also upon rejection. In terms of academics, it is also considered a leading institution.
Your financial situation, university ranking in your specific major, the ROI and average starting salary, and the faculty-to-student ratio.
It should be researched after deciding on everything above.
Definitely.