Becoming a medical doctor can be an incredibly challenging process with many hurdles to overcome. However, there are certain pathways that can open the door to more opportunities than others. For many students, seeking out their medical education abroad provides a solution to funding problems while also delivering a world-class experience. Here’s what you need to know about how to become a doctor abroad.
Why Choose European Medical Schools?
When pursuing medical studies abroad, European medical schools offer high-quality education with improved accessibility compared to many North American options. You’ll find that many schools throughout Europe boast decades or even centuries of academic excellence. They are often on par with or even superior to their North American counterparts.
There are some common misconceptions about European medical schools, saying that they aren’t as prestigious as North American institutions. However, this simply isn’t true. European medical programs adhere to high international standards and provide the foundation to pursue medical careers essentially anywhere in the world. Many such institutions are growing rapidly as more students seek out medical school abroad.
There are benefits beyond the classroom as well. You’ll engage with a network of diverse peers from international backgrounds who bring unique perspectives to the table. Having that global perspective is invaluable in the modern medical landscape and opens the door to a broader range of opportunities.
Studying medicine in Europe is also more accessible in many cases. While you’ll still need reliable preparation to pass entrance exams, the process is often less daunting than for North American institutions. There are less strict prerequisites and a simpler application process. The financial requirements are also significantly different, offering options to students from a broader range of backgrounds.
Comparing European and North American Medical Schools
If you’re considering how to be a doctor abroad, you should know what to expect from European medical schools. Here are some key points to look at when comparing medical schools in Europe to those in North America.
Entry Requirements
European medical schools offer a simple and direct pathway to a medical career. In many cases, you may only need a high school diploma to begin your pre-med education. In North America, students require a complete four-year undergraduate degree in a certain field, along with passing the daunting Medical College Admission Test (MCAT).
Length of Studies
In many cases, European institutions offer six-year medical programs that combine both the undergraduate and medical portions of your education. This stands in contrast to North American standards, where a four-year degree is required to begin another four years in a dedicated medical program.
Medical Education Cost
Many US medical programs are exorbitantly expensive, costing from $140,000 to $240,000, and that doesn’t count your undergraduate degree. This can make education prohibitive for those without the family means to support their education. European medical schools are much more affordable. Depending on the institution, your entire six-year education could cost between $60,000 and $150,000.
European Medical School Admissions Requirements
While the pathway for how to become a doctor abroad can still be challenging, it is much more straightforward than in North American institutions. There are a few key areas you’ll have to keep in mind when planning your education.
Admission Requirements
Many European medical schools only require a high school diploma. To improve your chances of admission, you’ll want to have a strong performance in science subjects on your high school transcript.
Application Process
To apply to a European medical school, you’ll have to complete an application and provide a variety of supporting documents. This typically includes your high school transcript and exam results, along with a personal statement detailing your background and why you’re applying. Letters of recommendation can also be a great asset to include.
Preparing for Entrance Exams
Your entrance exams will determine whether or not you get into the program of your choice. Most students will carry out some kind of preparation, whether working individually or seeking out preparatory courses. Pre-med prep courses can help build a foundation to face your exams confidently.
Entrance Exams
Once you’ve applied, you’ll have to pass entrance exams to attend medical school. These exams cover a variety of topics, including biology, chemistry, physics, and anatomy. While these exams can vary from institution to institution, they typically follow the same general requirements to meet European medical standards.
Starting Out on Your Medical Education Abroad
Getting into a program at one of the many high-quality medical schools abroad can help launch you into a successful medical career. European medical schools have a lot to offer, and you can take steps to ensure you get in with Medical Doctor International Academy’s dedicated prep course. You’ll receive exceptional instruction and resources tailored to the specific requirements of European medical schools.