Eligibility Requirements for Sri Lankan Students
- Completed a 4-year bachelor’s degree in a science or health field
- High GPA (85%+)
- MCAT score (varies by university, average 510+)
- English proficiency test
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) & Letters of Recommendation
- Strong CV with volunteering or healthcare exposure
Some programs may exempt the MCAT under special pathways, but a strong GPA and relevant background are still crucial
Educational Pathway:
| Stage | Details |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 3–4 years in science (e.g., Biology, Chemistry) — mandatory before medicine |
| MCAT Exam | Medical College Admission Test — required by most schools |
| MD Program (Medicine) | 3–4 years at a medical university |
| Residency | A specialised clinical training period of 2–5 years follows the MD. |
Note: Unlike Sri Lanka, Canada does not offer direct entry into medicine after high school. A pre-medical bachelor’s degree is required.
Most Canadian medical schools allocate very few international student seats — typically under 10 per intake.
Cost of Studying Medicine in Canada
| Expense | Estimated Annual Cost (CAD) |
| MD Program Tuition | $25,000 – $65,000 |
| Living Expenses | $12,000 – $18,000 |
| Insurance, Supplies, Travel | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| Total (per year) | $40,000 – $85,000 |
Scholarships for international students are limited. However, selected institutions may offer need-based aid or external funding options.
Step-by-Step Process for Sri Lankan Applicants
- Complete a bachelor’s degree in life sciences
- Take the MCAT
- Apply to medical universities
- Prepare SOP, LORs, transcripts, and English Language Proficiency test
- Apply for a Canada Study Permit
- On admission, complete the 3–4 year MD program
- Apply for residency training in a hospital
- Pass the licensing exams (MCCQE and NAC OSCE) to practice medicine in Canada
Studying medicine in Canada is a rewarding opportunity for international students, but it requires early planning, excellent academic performance, and a highly competitive application profile to succeed.
Should you require any assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to AIA Study Abroad
