CIMT College & Avalon University Host Seminar on Practicing Medicine in Canada and USA
On November 22, 2025, Avalon University School of Medicine and CIMT College jointly hosted a highly informative hybrid seminar titled “Exploring Pathways to a Medical Career in the United States.” Designed specifically for Canadian high school graduates, college students, and recent university graduates, the event addressed the increasing interest in Caribbean medical schools among Canadians seeking alternative pathways to an MD degree.
With medical school admission in Canada becoming increasingly competitive, many students are turning toward accredited Caribbean institutions in the Caribbean.These schools offer accessible entry requirements, high-quality education, and clear pathways to complete U.S. clinical rotations, secure residency positions, and obtain licensure in both the United States (USMLE) and Canada (MCCQE).
CIMT College is proud to partner with multiple accredited Caribbean medical schools to offer Canadian students a clear, structured, and affordable pathway to becoming physicians. Through these partnerships, students can begin their journey in Canada by completing a Pre-Med Diploma at CIMT College, designed to build a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, anatomy, and other core medical sciences. After successfully completing the program, students can seamlessly transition to our partner Caribbean institutions to continue the remaining stages of their MD pathway, including basic sciences, clinical rotations in the United States, and eventual residency preparation. This collaborative model ensures that aspiring doctors receive the support, academic readiness, and international opportunities they need to pursue an MD degree and advance toward medical licensure in the USA or Canada.
Expert Presenters and Engaged Participants
The seminar featured engaging presentations and a highly interactive Q&A session led by:
Dr. Shokat Fatteh – Chancellor, Avalon University School of Medicine
Dr. Samir Fatteh – President, Avalon University School of Medicine
Students from across Canada and abroad participated, gaining valuable
insights into the journey of becoming a physician through the Caribbean medical school route.
Attendees, both in-person and virtual, posed thoughtful questions regarding the MD curriculum, U.S. and Canadian licensure, clinical rotation sites, and the unique benefits of studying at Avalon University. The conversation offered clarity and guidance to prospective medical students evaluating their options. The collaborative session highlights CIMT College’s ongoing commitment to supporting Canadian students in exploring diverse, accessible, and internationally-recognized education pathways. By partnering with leading Caribbean medical schools, CIMT College enables students to begin their pre-medical studies locally through a comprehensive diploma program and seamlessly continue their medical education abroad. This approach not only broadens students’ academic and professional opportunities but also provides a clear, structured pathway toward earning an MD degree, completing clinical rotations in the U.S., and ultimately pursuing residency and licensure in Canada or the United States.
Why Canadian Students Are Choosing Caribbean Medical Schools for an MD Degree - Top FAQs Answered
Q: Do Caribbean medical schools require the MCAT for Canadian applicants?
A: No. Many accredited Caribbean medical schools, including Avalon University, do not require the MCAT for Canadian students who have a strong academic profile.
Q: When can Canadian students start medical school in the Caribbean?
A: Unlike Canadian schools that start only in September, Caribbean medical schools offer multiple start dates every year - January, May, and September, so you don’t have to wait a full year if you miss the September intake.
Q: Will I get clinical rotations in the United States as a Canadian student?
A: Yes. Avalon University provides U.S. clinical rotations in ACGME-approved hospitals.
Q: Can I return to Canada for residency after attending a Caribbean medical school?
A: Absolutely. Graduates from CAAM-HP-accredited Caribbean schools like Avalon are fully eligible to apply for residency in Canada through CaRMS and in the United States through the NRMP Match.
Q: Is it easier to get accepted into a Caribbean medical school compared to Canadian universities?
A: Yes, significantly. Accredited Caribbean medical schools have higher acceptance rates (often 50–70%) compared to Canadian medical schools (usually under 10%), while still maintaining high academic standards and producing practice-ready physicians.