10 Best Medical Schools in Canada To Study Medicine

Best Medical Schools in Canada

Canada is known for its prestigious reputation for medical education, and aspiring physicians from around the world flock to its top medical colleges. These institutions consistently rank high on international scales and provide a strong foundation for a successful medical career. So, if you're on a journey to find the best medical university in Canada for you, here's a detailed look at the top medical colleges in Canada.

1. McGill University

‍Location: 845 Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Tuition Fees: CA $58,000 - CA $60,000 per year
University Placement Affiliations: McGill University Health Centre, Jewish General Hospital
Standout Programs: Bilingual (English and French) medical curriculum, emphasis on clinical research and training
Courses: Cardiology, Critical Care, Emergency Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism
Student Population: Approximately 39,000 students
Eligibility: A 4-year bachelor's degree (120 credits), MCAT and CASPer scores, TOEFL (100+), IELTS (6.5+), or PTE (65+), plus a Statement of Purpose and CV

Established in 1821, McGill University is one of the oldest and best medical schools in Canada. McGill University's Faculty of Medicine remains a leader in the nation's healthcare landscape. Consistently ranking at the top of national and international scales, McGill offers a bilingual learning environment with over 800 full-time faculty members actively engaged in research that produces over 2300 journal articles annually. This powerhouse of medical education equips future physicians with not only theoretical knowledge but also strong clinical training, graduating over 1150 residents and fellows each year, making it one of the best medical schools in Canada. 

Application Process of McGill University (Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences)

1. Application Platform: Submit applications through McGill’s Minerva system.
2. Timelines: Applications open in September and close on November 1st; interviews are scheduled in January-February.
3. Admission Stats: Acceptance rate ~6-8%; average GPA: 3.8; competitive MCAT score: 510+ (non-Quebec residents).
4. Key Requirements: Submit a Statement of Purpose(SOP), three letters of recommendation, and MCAT scores (for non-Quebec applicants).
5. Additional Tips: Highlight leadership, research, and contributions to healthcare in your application.

2. University of Toronto 

‍Location: 27 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Tuition Fees: CA $90,000 - CA $95,000 per year
University Placement Affiliations: Toronto General Hospital, Mount Sinai Hospital
Standout Programs: MD/PhD combined program, renowned for advancements in transplant research
Courses offered: MD, MD/PhD, Medical Radiation Sciences
Student Population: Approximately 88,766 students
Eligibility: A non-medical bachelor's degree equivalent to a 4-year Canadian degree, GPA of 3.6, MCAT, and IELTS score of 7

Founded in 1843, the University of Toronto is not just seen as a top medical university in Canada, but also considered a global innovator! Being one of the best universities in Canada, this prestigious institution boasts the first-ever successful single-lung transplant performed in 1983, showcasing its cutting-edge approach. U of T's powerhouse status is further cemented by its massive $495 million annual research spend (excluding partners), fueling groundbreaking discoveries that continue to shape medicine today. Here, you'll learn from the brightest minds while contributing to a legacy of excellence. 

Application Process of University of Toronto (Temerty Faculty of Medicine)

1. Application Platform: Use OMSAS (Ontario Medical School Application Service) for submissions.
2. Timelines: Applications open in July and close in early October; interviews held January-February.
3. Admission Stats: Acceptance rate ~8%; average GPA: 3.94; competitive MCAT score: 515+.
4. Key Requirements: Submit MCAT scores, personal essays, and three recommendation letters showcasing leadership and academic excellence.
5. Additional Tips: Focus on demonstrating a diverse set of experiences and alignment with the school’s values.

3. McMaster University

Location: 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
Tuition Fees: CA $95,000 - CA $97,000 per year.
University Placement Affiliations: St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton Health Sciences.
Standout Programs: Problem-based learning (PBL) approach, early clinical exposure in the curriculum.
Courses offered: MD, Bachelor's, Graduate and Doctoral Programs
Fees: CA $96,000
Student Population: Approximately 30,000 students
Eligibility: A 4-year undergraduate degree with a GPA of 3.0 (OMSAS scale), MCAT score of at least 123, Casper test, and a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or TOEFL score of 86

Application Process of McMaster University (Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine)

1. Application Platform: Submit through OMSAS.
2. Timelines: Applications open in July and close in early October; CASPer test required by November.
3. Admission Stats: Acceptance rate ~4%; average GPA: 3.87; competitiveCARS score: 128+.
4. Key Requirements: MCAT CARS section only, CASPer test, and two to three references showcasing qualifications.
5. Additional Tips: Prepare thoroughly for CASPer, focusing on ethics, communication, and problem-solving scenarios.

If you are looking for medical schools in Canada for international students, McMaster University's Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine stands out as a leader in innovative learning. Founded in 1965, it quickly gained a reputation for its groundbreaking "problem-solving" approach. This unique method emphasizes small group learning and early clinical exposure, fostering a collaborative and practical learning environment. McMaster boasts a particularly impressive graduate success rate, with a staggering 98% of graduates matching into residency programs within Canada or abroad.  

4. Queen's University at Kingston

Location: 99 University Avenue, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
Tuition Fees: CA $90,000 - CA $93,000 per year.
University Placement Affiliations: Kingston Health Sciences Centre, Providence Care Hospital.
Standout Programs: Small class sizes for personalized education, strong focus on research opportunities.
Courses offered: MD Program, Postgraduate Medical Education, Biomedical & Molecular Sciences – M.Sc., PhD
Student Population: Approximately 24,000 students
Eligibility: A strong academic record (3.0 GPA on a 4.0 OMSAS scale), MCAT, Casper, and an assessment of personal characteristics suited for studying and practicing medicine at Queen’s University.

Established in 1854, Queen's University at Kingston's School of Medicine has carved a unique niche among the best medical universities in Canada for international students. This prestigious institution boasts a highly selective admissions process, attracting brilliant minds from around the world. Queen's fosters a student-centered learning environment with a focus on research.This translates to smaller class sizes, closer relationships with professors, and ample opportunities for international students to get involved in groundbreaking research projects alongside leading experts. Queen's graduates consistently rank highly on national residency match lists, a testament to the exceptional education and strong foundation they receive.

Application Process of Queen’s University at Kingston (School of Medicine)

1. Application Platform: Use OMSAS for submissions.
2. Timelines: Applications open in July and close in early October; interviews are held between February and March.
3. Admission Stats: Acceptance rate ~5%; average GPA: 3.87; competitive MCAT score: 515+.
4. Key Requirements: Submit MCAT scores, a personal statement aligning with CanMEDS roles, and three recommendation letters.
5. Additional Tips: Emphasize leadership and community engagement in your application.

5. University of Sherbrooke

Location: 2500 Boulevard de l'Université, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada.
Tuition Fees: CA $14,000 - CA $18,000 per year.
University Placement Affiliations: CHUS (Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke), Montreal Children’s Hospital (for collaborative programs).
Standout Programs: Strong emphasis on rural medicine, and French-language medical education.
Courses offered: Undergraduate and Postgraduate medical courses
Student Population: Approximately 31,000 students
Eligibility: Equivalent to a 3-year CEGEP degree from the Quebec Ministry of Education or completion of 2 years in a relevant bachelor's degree)

Located in Quebec, Université de Sherbrooke Faculté De Médecine Et Des Sciences De La Santé (Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences) stands out amongst the best medical schools in Canada for international students. Founded in 1961, Université de Sherbrooke champions a unique philosophy—a strong focus on social responsibility. This translates to a curriculum that emphasizes not just medical expertise but also fostering well-rounded family physicians who are dedicated to serving their communities. Université de Sherbrooke is a haven for international students seeking a French-language medical education, with a supportive learning environment that prepares future doctors to make a positive impact on the world. You can find helpful insights in this guide to intakes in Canada, which breaks down everything you need to plan your academic journey successfully.

Application Process of University of Sherbrooke (Faculté de médecine et des sciences de la santé)

1. Application Platform: Use SRAM (Service régional d'admission du Montréal métropolitain) for applications.
2. Timelines: Applications open in mid-August and close in early September; interviews held in November.
3. Admission Stats: Acceptance rate ~10%; proficiency in French is mandatory.
4. Key Requirements: No MCAT required; submit academic transcripts and proof of French proficiency.
5. Additional Tips: Highlight any community or clinical work, especially in French-speaking regions.

6. University of British Columbia

Location: 2329 West Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Tuition Fees: CA $19,000 - CA $20,000 per year.
University Placement Affiliations: Vancouver General Hospital, BC Children's Hospital.
Standout Programs: Distributed learning model with global affiliations, integrated MD/PhD program.
Courses offered: MD, Integrated MD/Ph.D.
Student Population: Approximately 67,000 student
Eligibility: Applicants need 90 transferable credits and a minimum MCAT score of 124 in each section

Vying for a spot among the best Universities in Canada for medical students, the University of British Columbia's Faculty of Medicine boasts a unique advantage: global reach. Established in 1915, also known for pharmacy courses in Canada, UBC leverages a distinct "distributed learning model". This innovative approach allows students to complete parts of their medical education at affiliated sites around the world, fostering a truly international perspective and cultural competency – valuable assets in today's globalized medical field. Beyond its international focus, UBC is a powerhouse in research, consistently ranking high in national and international research funding.

Application Process of University of British Columbia (UBC) Faculty of Medicine

1. Application Platform: Submit applications via UBC’s Online Application System.
2. Timelines: Applications open early June and close in mid-September; interviews are held in December.
3. Admission Stats: Acceptance rate ~12%; average GPA: 87%; competitive MCAT score: 515+.
4. Key Requirements: Submit MCAT scores, three references (including one clinical), and a personal statement.
5. Additional Tips: Highlight your commitment to rural or underserved communities.

7. University of Calgary

Location: 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Tuition Fees: CA $78,000 - CA $81,000 per year.
University Placement Affiliations: Alberta Children's Hospital, Foothills Medical Centre.
Standout Programs: Focus on global health initiatives and innovative use of technology in medical education.
Courses offered: MD program, Bachelor of Community Rehabilitation
Student Population: Approximately 33,000 students
Eligibility: International seats are limited to students from institutions with formal agreements and require a minimum MCAT CARS score of 127

Among the best medical schools in Canada, founded in 1966, the University of Calgary's Cumming School of Medicine stands out for its unwavering commitment to improving healthcare delivery. This prestigious medical university in Canada boasts a strong focus on research, evident in its impressive ranking for per capita research funding in Canada. The Cumming School of Medicine is a leader in incorporating technology into medical education, preparing graduates to be tech-savvy physicians for the future. 

Moreover, the school champions global health initiatives, offering international students opportunities to participate in projects that make a real difference around the world. This combination of cutting-edge research, innovative teaching methods, and a global perspective makes this a top choice of the best university for medicine in Canada.

Application Process of University of Calgary (Cumming School of Medicine)

1. Application Platform: Submit through the University of Calgary’s online portal.
2. Timelines: Applications open in July and close early October; interviews held in December.
3. Admission Stats: Acceptance rate ~7%; average GPA: 3.85; competitive MCAT score: 510+.
4. Key Requirements: Submit MCAT scores, three recommendation letters, and personal essays.
5. Additional Tips: Focus on your interest in community-based healthcare and leadership.

8. University of Alberta

Location: 116 Street and 85 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

Tuition Fees: CA $14,000 - CA $15,000 per year.

University Placement Affiliations: University of Alberta Hospital, Cross Cancer Institute.

Standout Programs: Strong focus on rural medicine and population health, renowned research programs in immunology.
Courses offered: MD(MBBS) Programs, Dentistry, Dental Hygiene, Medical Laboratory Science
Student Population: Approximately 40,000 students
Eligibility: Canadian citizen or PR, with at least 2 years of transferable undergraduate coursework and a minimum GPA of 3.5

Instituted in 1913, the University of Alberta's Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry is one of the top 10 medical schools in Canada. This is amongst the best medical schools in Canada that offers a variety of MD programs with a strong emphasis on population health and rural medicine, preparing graduates to address the unique needs of diverse communities. The faculty boasts a vibrant research environment, particularly in areas like immunology and infectious diseases. International students at the University of Alberta will find a supportive learning environment with ample opportunities to contribute to groundbreaking research and gain valuable experience in rural and community healthcare settings. 

Application Process of University of Alberta (Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry)

1. Application Platform: Submit applications via the University of Alberta’s online portal.
2. Timelines: Applications open in July and close October 1st; interviews held in December.
3. Admission Stats: Acceptance rate ~11%; average GPA: 3.8; competitive MCAT score: 512+.
4. Key Requirements: Submit MCAT scores, a personal statement, and three letters of recommendation.
5. Additional Tips: Highlight interdisciplinary learning and clinical experiences in your application.

9. University of Ottawa

Location: 75 Laurier Avenue East, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Tuition Fees: CA $8,500 - CA $9,500 per year.
University Placement Affiliations: Ottawa Hospital, Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario.
Standout Programs: Emphasis on bilingual medical education, focus on community and population health.
Courses: Undergraduate Medical Education, Postgraduate Medical Education, Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
Student Population: Approximately 42,000 students
Eligibility: Candidates should have completed at least two years of study in a relevant B.Sc. discipline with a minimum CGPA of 7.7 out of 10 

The University of Ottawa is renowned for its commitment to community health and is consistently ranked among Canada's leading medical schools. Established in 1913, it shapes healthcare professionals for diverse communities with unique MD programs that emphasize population health and rural medicine, preparing graduates to address the needs of underserved populations. The faculty offers a vibrant research environment, especially in immunology and infectious diseases, enabling students to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries. If you're passionate about making a significant impact on community health both locally and globally, the University of Ottawa's Faculty of Medicine provides a compelling path for your medical journey. If you're also considering the financial side of your education, it's worth checking out this guide on the best and most affordable universities in Canada. It provides a great overview of options that balance quality and affordability.

Application Process of University of Ottawa (Faculty of Medicine)

1. Application Platform: Use OMSAS for submissions.
2. Timelines: Applications open in July and close early October; interviews held February-March.
3. Admission Stats: Acceptance rate ≈10%; average GPA: 3.85; bilingual applicants (English/French) preferred.
4. Key Requirements: No MCAT required; submit three recommendation letters and a personal statement emphasizing academic and community contributions.
5. Additional Tips: Highlight your bilingualism and interest in public health initiatives.

10. Memorial University of Newfoundland

Location: 230 Elizabeth Avenue, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.
Tuition Fees: CA $28,000 - CA $32,000 per year.
University Placement Affiliations: Eastern Health, Janeway Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Centre.
Standout Programs: Strong emphasis on rural medicine, and hands-on clinical training with a focus on underserved communities.
Courses offered: Neurology, Gynaecology, Orthopedic Surgery, Paediatrics
Student Population: Approximately 19,000 students
Eligibility: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, successful completion of the MCAT, and the Casper exam

Venture east to Newfoundland and Labrador, where Memorial University's Faculty of Medicine stands as the sole medical school in the province. Founded in 1967, it's the academic heart of healthcare research for the region. Memorial is known for its strong focus on rural medicine, with nearly half of its graduates choosing to practice in these communities. They offer a competitive MD program with a significant emphasis on hands-on clinical training, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to hit the ground running upon entering the workforce. This dedication to serving underserved areas makes Memorial University a compelling choice for aspiring physicians with a passion for rural medicine and a desire to make a significant impact on local communities. 

Application Process of Memorial University of Newfoundland (Faculty of Medicine)

1. Application Platform: Submit applications via Memorial University’s online application portal.
2. Timelines: Applications open in early July and close in mid-September; interviews are held in November.
3. Admission Stats: Acceptance rate ≈11%; preference given to residents of Newfoundland and Labrador.
4. Key Requirements: Submit MCAT scores, three references, and a personal essay highlighting rural and community healthcare interests.
5. Additional Tips: Emphasize your commitment to serving underserved or rural populations.

Popular Scholarships for Medical Schools in Canada‍

Studying internationally can cause financial worry given the tuition fees, living costs, etc. However, there are a number of scholarships students can apply for this. We have listed the top 10 scholarships available for the best medical schools in Canada, along with their prize amount. 

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