Top Medical Schools Accepting International Students (Updated)

Do All Medical Schools Welcome International Students?

Unfortunately, no. While there are many excellent medical schools in North America, not all of them accept international students. Two major factors often influence a school’s decision: location and funding. Many public institutions receive state or provincial subsidies and therefore prioritize applicants who are more likely to practice locally post-graduation.

Why Public Schools May Not Admit International Students

Publicly funded medical schools in the US and Canada aim to address physician shortages within their local communities. They do this by prioritizing applicants who are residents of their state or province—those more likely to stay and serve the population after graduating.

Financial Considerations and International Students

Another common barrier for international applicants is tuition. The average cost of medical school in the United States exceeds $53,000 annually. Some universities are reluctant to admit students from abroad if they fear that the student may default on tuition payments, especially if that student returns home after graduation.

Additional Barriers for International Applicants

Beyond cost, international students may face visa complications, limited access to federal loan programs, and fewer institutional funding options. These concerns often discourage some medical schools from opening their doors to international applicants.

Financial Aid for International Medical Students

Types of Financial Aid Offered by Med Schools

Most US and Canadian med schools offer various funding options: federal loans, institutional grants, merit-based scholarships, and need-based aid. However, most of these are reserved for citizens or permanent residents.

Factors Influencing Aid Availability

Residency status
Public vs. private institution
School values and mission
Aid breakdown (grants vs. loans)
Visa requirements and restrictions

Working as an International Student

In the US, student visa holders may work up to 20 hours per week during the school year, typically only for on-campus or school-affiliated positions.

Common Challenges Faced by International Applicants

Limited Spots and High Competition

Most med schools that accept international students reserve only a few seats per class for them. This creates intense competition. For example, McGill University admitted only one international student out of 88 applicants in a recent cycle.

Language and Prerequisite Barriers

International students often need to pass the TOEFL if English isn't their first language. Some schools may require one to two years of study in North America before applying.

Document Translation and Red Tape

Many schools request officially translated transcripts and references. Navigating visa, housing, and immigration documentation also adds significant complexity to the process.

Benefits of Attending Med School Abroad

Access to World-Class Medical Education

International students accepted into US or Canadian medical schools often benefit from learning in top-tier institutions like Harvard, Johns Hopkins, or the University of Toronto.

Exposure to Research and Innovation

North America houses some of the world’s most advanced research and clinical facilities, including the Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins Hospital.

High Earning Potential

Despite the high cost of attendance, international medical graduates enjoy strong returns on investment. Primary care doctors earn around $297K/year, while specialists average $357K/year in the US.

Personal Growth and Career Value

Studying abroad builds independence, global perspective, and language skills. These traits enhance employability and leadership potential in a global healthcare workforce.

How to Improve Your Medical School Application

Tips for International Applicants

Gain clinical or research experience in the country where you want to study
Enroll in a US or Canadian post-bacc or master’s program
Participate in exchange programs
Secure strong letters of recommendation
Write a standout personal statement that highlights your international background
Have a clear financial plan to show schools you are not a financial risk
Tailor your application to each school’s mission and admissions values

List of Medical Schools That Accept International Students

Here's a selection of medical schools in the US and Canada currently accepting international applicants. Always check the official website or MSAR for the most updated information.

Medical School	Median MCAT	Median GPA	Application Deadline
Harvard Medical School	520	3.95	October 15
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine	522	3.95	October 15
Yale School of Medicine	521	3.93	October 15
McGill University	512	3.89	November 1
University of Toronto	125 min/section (124 in one allowed)	3.96	October 1
Columbia University Vagelos College	521	3.93	October 15
Boston University School of Medicine	519	3.86	November 1
Northwestern Feinberg	520	3.92	November 1
Stanford School of Medicine	518	3.89	October 3
UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine	516	3.81	September 30
University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine	517	3.86	October 15
Washington University in St. Louis	521	3.93	November 30

…and many more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Apply to Schools That Don’t Accept International Students?

No. If a school explicitly states that it doesn’t accept international applicants, applying will be a waste of both time and money.

Are Canadian Students Considered International Applicants in the US?

Some US med schools treat Canadian students as out-of-state rather than international, which can be beneficial. These schools are considered “Canadian-friendly.”

Do I Need to Study in the Same Country Where I’m Applying?

Sometimes. Some schools require applicants to complete a portion of their undergraduate education in the host country. All applicants must meet prerequisites and language requirements.

Will I Need Student and Work Visas?

Yes. You will need a student visa for med school and a work visa for residency if you are not yet a citizen or permanent resident by that time.

Are Financial Aid Options Available to International Students?

Yes, but they are limited. Many federal aid programs are unavailable, but private scholarships and institutional grants may still be offered.

Do International Students Pay More?

At public schools—yes. International students often pay significantly more than in-state applicants. At private institutions, tuition tends to be the same across the board.

Does Acceptance Mean a Guaranteed Spot?

No. Even if a school accepts international applicants, competition is fierce, and acceptance is never guaranteed.

How Can I Boost My Chances?

Build a strong CV with clinical or shadowing experience
Attend a post-bacc or SMP
Demonstrate financial readiness
Work with admissions consultants like Go Elective to refine your application
Stand out in your essays by highlighting your global perspective

Final Thoughts

Applying to medical school as an international student presents unique challenges—but also life-changing opportunities. With careful planning, strong academics, and a compelling narrative, your dream of studying medicine abroad is entirely achievable.

For more support, Go Elective offers comprehensive medical school admissions consulting and global pre-med shadowing programs in Kenya and Tanzania. Let us help you take the next step toward a rewarding medical career.

Article Details

Travel with us.
Inquire Today!

Go Elective offers immersive opportunities for medical students, pre-med undergraduates, residents, nursing practitioners, and PAs to gain guided invaluable experience in busy hospitals abroad. Discover the power of study, travel, and impact.