MEDICAL SCHOOL IN THE CARIBBEAN
There are many medical schools located throughout the Caribbean. These medical schools have become somewhat of a favorite alternative for American students who (for whatever reasons) cannot find acceptance into their choice of medical school in the states. Many students decide to choose a medical school in the Caribbian and graduate, and then enjoy very fine medical careers when they return to America to practice medicine. There are many fine and reputable medical schools outside the United States.
There are some specific advantages to a medical school in the Caribbean. The first advantage is they are less expensive. Most of the time they are more affordable compared to their US counterparts. Be careful to consider the expense of travel when estimating costs however. You must also take into consideration the cost of housing and medical insurance. Sometimes these costs can widely vary from country to country. You must be an informed consumer and do your research and investigation carefully.
The second advantage is a medical school in the Caribbian is usually easier to be accepted for admission than US schools. Requirements, like GPA and MCAT scores are generally lower than most US medical schools. If your record is not up to the standards of a certain school the medical school in the Caribbean may be the right alternative.
Caribbean medical schools also have three application periods in a year. This is unlike American Medical Schools where they normally have only one enrollment deadline. This may be more flexible for your needs and your schedule.
There are three or four major medical schools in the Caribbian with solid reputations. Three of them include the Ross School of Medicine, Saba School of Medicine, and the St. George University. These three are deserving of your research.
There are some disadvantages for the medical school in the Caribbean as well. Keep in mind that not all of the schools that you find will be accredited. This is vital information to know if you plan to come back to the US to practice medicine. You must be sure that your MD will count for something. You might need to know the Spanish language. Again all the medical schools that you find may not teach classes in English. What many students refer to as the “Big Four” medical schools do teach all their classes in English.
You might be at a disadvantage when it comes to strong residencies. There are also a limited number of clinical rotations. Many offer clinical rotations back in the US but you will have to investigate these specific situations. As compared to the opportunities in US medical schools you will be limited. You will also have to take the Clinical Skills Assessment (CSA) in addition to the USMLE tests when you come back to the United States.
There are many things you will have to think about and consider before accepting admissions to a medical school in the Caribbian. It is a “life” changing decision and you want to make sure you have all the facts while you deliberate. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and advice in this process.
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