Path to studying medicine in the USA for Canadians?

I'm a Canadian high schooler dreaming of studying medicine in the USA. What steps do I need to take, and are there any particular challenges I should prepare for? Trying to map out my future study plan.

Hello! It's fantastic that you have a clear career goal in mind. I see that you're looking for some guidance about studying medicine in the U.S. as a Canadian high school student.

Firstly, it's important to mention this - in the United States, unlike in some other countries, aspiring doctors don't go directly into medical school right from high school. Instead, they first complete an undergraduate degree (often with a 'pre-med' focus), and then apply to medical schools to earn an MD which typically takes another four years.

Here are the main steps:

1. Undergraduate studies: As a high school student, the first step is to apply to a college or university in the US for your undergraduate degree. Many schools offer "pre-med" tracks which prepare you for future studies in medicine. But keep in mind, you don't have to be a science major to go to medical school. You can major in anything you want, as long as you also complete the prerequisite courses for medical school (usually include biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics).

2. Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): This is a standardized exam that most medical schools require for admission. It tests you on physical and biological sciences, and verbal reasoning. Students usually take it during their junior or senior year of undergraduate studies.

3. Medical school applications: You'd typically apply to medical schools in your final year of undergraduate studies or after you graduate.

As a Canadian student, certain factors are worth considering:

- Application Process: Applying to US universities as an international applicant can be intense. You will be competing with both domestic and international students for a limited number of spots. You should invest time in crafting a high-quality application – highlighting your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and why you're interested in studying medicine.

- Financing Your Education: Studying in the US can be expensive. International students are not eligible for federal aid, and scholarship opportunities at the undergraduate and medical school levels may be limited. Make sure to use resources like Appily for scholarship searches.

- Staying in the US after Graduation: As an international student, if you wish to practice in the US after graduation, you would need to obtain a visa for that purpose. Visa rules can be complex, and you should consider seeking legal advice if you're unsure.

In conclusion, it's a long journey but if you're truly passionate about studying medicine, it can be an incredibly rewarding one. Good luck!