How do I study medicine and surgery in the US?

I'm really interested in studying medicine and surgery in the US. What are the steps to get into medical school there, especially for an international student like me? Any advice on prerequisites or exams would be great!

The process of getting into a medical school in the U.S. is quite rigorous and gradual and typically involves these steps:

1. Undergraduate Degree: Most U.S. medical schools require a bachelor's degree. This degree doesn't necessarily need to be in a science discipline, but it is essential that you complete certain prerequisite courses. Commonly required courses often include biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and math. You should verify the prerequisites for each of the medical schools you’re interested in since they can slightly differ.

2. MCAT: The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized exam required by virtually all U.S. medical schools. It tests students’ understanding of natural, behavioral, and social science concepts and principles prerequisite to the study of medicine.

3. Medical School Application: The most commonly used application service is the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS), though some medical schools might have their own application process. When filling out your application, you’ll list your coursework, extracurricular activities, and write a personal statement. You should also aim to gain experiences including shadowing physicians or doing research in medical labs, both of which can beautifully complement your application.

4. Letters of Recommendation: Letters of Recommendation are crucial for applying to medical schools. They can come from your professors, employers, volunteer supervisors, or research mentors. For international students, it is preferable to have U.S. clinical experience, and for that reason, getting a letter of recommendation from a US practicing physician is beneficial.

5. Interviews: If your initial application impresses the admissions committee, they'll invite you for an interview. The interview format can vary from one school to another, but it's generally a time to showcase your personality and demonstrate your fit for the school.

6. Medical School: Once accepted, you'll then complete four years of medical education, usually composed of two years of foundational biomedical courses, followed by two years of clinical rotations.

As an international student, you can consider completing your undergraduate studies in the U.S. This not only helps you tick off the prerequisite courses for medical school, but also allows you to establish a strong foundation in English, immerse in the culture, and build connections. Also, keep in mind that studying medicine in the U.S. can be quite expensive, particularly for international students, as many medical schools limit the financial aid available for these students.

Overall, it's a lengthy, but rewarding journey. It requires stellar academic credentials, robust test scores, and a demonstrated commitment to medicine.