Study MBBS in the Caribbean: A complete guide

Introduction

Studying MBBS abroad has become a popular option for many international students due to the intense competition and limited seats in their home country. Among many international destinations, the caribbean islands, particularly caribbean medical schools have appeared as a promising choice for medical education. The region is a perfect blend of quality, exposure, and a cost-effective study program.

The medical programs in the Caribbean focus on an American-style curriculum, worldwide recognition, and English medium instruction, which is attracting students aiming for a medical career. The program focuses on high quality medical education, which ensures quality education with modern infrastructure and experienced faculty. In this article, you will discover all the factors that make the Caribbean an ideal place for aspiring doctors, including information about top medical universities.

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Why choose MBBS in the Caribbean?

There are many factors that make the Caribbean a perfect choice for quality medical education and health professions for medical students, including –

Clinical rotations in the USA

The students get a lot of chances to do international clinical rotations in the top hospitals across the United States. This offers real-world experience to the medical professionals.

Affordable & hassle–free admission

MBBS in the Caribbean is much affordable at an affordable cost than many private medical colleges in India, the U.S. and the Philippines. The simple eligibility criteria and no donation fees for admission attract students globally.

Maximum USMLE success rate

The USMLE Step 1 pass rate is very high among Caribbean medical students and foreign medical graduates , indicating their world class education which helps in boosting their chances for a prosperous mbbs degree and medical career in the United States.

Student-friendly atmosphere

The Caribbean, surrounded by the caribbean sea, has a warm, safe, and welcoming environment rich in diverse cultures for the international student community. It helps students stay focused and stress-free while pursuing their degree.

Globally accredited medical degree

The medical institutions and universities in the Caribbean are globally recognised by ECFMG, NMC, WDOMS, and the Caribbean Accreditation Authority. It increases students' trust and reliability in the program and also ensures worldwide acceptance of a medical degree, as recognized by relevant medical councils .

Top-ranking universities for MBBS in the Caribbean

There are many medical universities in the Caribbean which offer high-quality education with extensive global exposure. Some of them include –

Victoria University of Barbados

• Victoria University of Barbados was founded in the year 2017, offering the best of medicine, patient and critical care with top-notch educational infrastructure to its students.

• It has the accreditation by MCI listed in WHO’s WDOMS AMEE. The USP of the university is its dedicated theory classes led by experienced faculty members and practical learning in the form of clinical rotations and internships.

St. George’s University, Grenada

• It is counted as one of the most prestigious Caribbean medical Universities, founded in the year, 1976. It is established under its parent organisation, Medforth Global Healthcare Education, which focuses on medical sciences.

• Its extensive campus is spread over 42 acres in 65 buildings and offers world-class quality medical infrastructure facilities.

Saba University School of Medicine, Saba Island

• Saba University School of Medicine was established in 1992 as a private medical institution. It's highly known for its affordable education and USMLE success.

• Its strong US-based curriculum, accreditation by ACCM, and focus on basic sciences curriculum make a supportive learning environment for the students.

Ross University School of Medicine, Barbados

• Ross University of School of Medicine is a private medical University in Barbados, founded in the year 1978.

• The university’s affiliation with Adtalem Global Education, a wide network of practising alumni, and exposure to clinical experiences make it a preferred choice for medical aspirants.

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MBBS course

Pre Med & MD program

Most of the medical schools in the Caribbean offer an integrated Pre Med & MD program, which ranges around 5.5 to 6 years. The students without a science background can also go for these programs, beginning with 1.5 years of Pre Med, which further followed by 4 years of MD.

Basic sciences

The starting years of the course mainly focus on classroom-based learning. The major emphasis is on subjects like anatomy, physiology, pathology, and biochemistry.

Clinical rotations

After completion of the foundation course, students get a chance to gain real-world healthcare system exposure in the affiliated hospitals.

Integration with USMLE

The MBBS curriculum in the Caribbean is aligned with the USMLE Step 1 and 2 exams. It ensures that students pursuing health sciences are well-trained for licensing in the U.S.

Eligibility criteria

The eligibility for admission varies from university to university. Here are the general criteria for all the international students –

Academic qualification

Applicants must have a 10+2 or equivalent with a minimum 50% in the subjects including Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

MCAT & NEET requirements

MCAT is required by some of the Caribbean medical colleges, especially in the case of direct MD entry or U.S. applications; on the other hand, NEET score is mandatory for Indian students.

Age limitations

An applicant who wishes to study MBBS in the Caribbean must be at age of minimum 17 years by December 31 of the admission year.

English proficiency

As the curriculum is taught in English, nonnative speakers may be required to demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).

MBBS admission procedure

If you wish to get into any of the medical schools in the Caribbean, you must need to follow the step-by-step admission guide, important deadlines, assemble the key documents, and many other things, including –

Admission steps to follow

• Visit the official university website to fill out the online application.

• Once you fill out the form, submit your official academic transcripts, NEET/MCAT scores, and relevant documents as requested by the University.

• As a final step, you either call for an interview (if required), otherwise you will receive your admission letter.

 Documents required

• 10th & 12th official transcripts

• NEET/MCAT scorecard

• Passport copy & photographs

• Statement of Purpose

• Letters of Recommendation

• English proficiency proof (if needed)

Admission timelines and intakes

• There are 3 major intakes, including January, May, and September

• Applications open 4–6 months before intake

• Early submission of the applications is recommended due to limited seats

MBBS study expenditure

An international student needs to arrange the funds for their program fees, living expenses, and personal expenses. The study cost in the Caribbean is affordable, and some financial aid is also available for students worldwide, which can provide support in minimising the study cost.

MBBS tuition cost

Caribbean medical universities' charges are typically between INR 10 Lacs - INR 30 Lacs per year. The cost of the fees depends on the colleges and program structure.

Cost of living

Students can choose either to stay in the campus hostels or off-campus rentals. The expenses of rental options in the Barbados & Saba range between INR 65,000 to INR 1 Lacs per month. The cost includes the accommodation, food, personal expenses, and transportation.

Scholarship & financial aid

Many Caribbean medical universities offer merit scholarships or need-based scholarships for international students. Also, several payment plans are provided by some schools, which further ease the financial burden for students.

Student life of medical students in the Caribbean

The student's life in the Caribbean is warm, vibrant, and multicultural. The Caribbean welcomes the international student community from around the world. From the well-equipped campuses and modern labs to recreational facilities like gyms, sports areas, and student lounges are available for the students.

English as a primary medium of communication makes it easy for international students to adapt and communicate with the locals. The campuses of all caribbean countries' universities are safe, and there are dedicated international student offices to help students with mentorship, student visa and housing support, and other types of necessities.

Licensing exams & medical career options

Medical graduates from the Caribbean move forward to follow an organised path to practice globally. The USMLE enables residency students to get residencies and medical services as well as career opportunities in the US. While FMGE is mandatory for licensees who want to return to India. MBBS in the Caribbean open the success path for students in securing postgraduate positions as well as options to practice medicine across continents.

Career options

MBBS graduates from Caribbean medical schools are well-prepared for an international medical career, especially in the United States, Europe, and Canada, because of their USMLE-based curriculum and clinical expertise.

Career paths & average salaries

 Top hospitals for employment globally

Are there any disadvantages of choosing MBBS in the Caribbean?

While the MBBS program’s affordability attracts many medical students, MBBS in the Caribbean comes with certain disadvantages that can’t be ignored. These disadvantages include –

• The quality of education is delivered by only the top-tier medical college; others have an inconsistent quality of medical education.

• The curriculum is completely USMLE-centric, which makes students go for the US residency. Because of the high competition, it becomes challenging for the students.

• The clinical rotation opportunities are very limited in comparison to other universities, like European medical schools.

• The unpredictable visa and immigration policies and changes can create a situation worse for international students.

What’s the solution?

To give you a better picture, we are here presenting a comparison of MBBS in the Caribbean to MBBS in Europe, which is considered the best choice by medical professionals. It will give you a better idea to make a wise decision –

Conclusion

Choosing to study MBBS in the Caribbean provides a special blend of world-class medical course education, global recognition, USMLE-based curriculum, and culturally enhanced student life. Caribbean medical institutions have developed their basic learning infrastructure to the next level, and experienced faculty provide valuable theoretical medical education to the students. But it is essential to evaluate the pros and cons before freezing an option.

MBBS in Europe offers the best results in providing world class medical education. It prides itself on reliability and future security. If you are finding it hard to choose the right fit, then you can connect with our expert coaches at futureMBBS for personalised guidance on university selection, admission process, scholarship, and many more. Don’t waste your time thinking too much; start your journey towards becoming a doctor now!

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