Study Medicine in the Caribbean
A complete guide to Caribbean medical schools. Understand the Big Four, clinical rotations in the US/UK, MCAT requirements and USMLE match rates.
Caribbean Medical School Graduate & US Hospitalist • Updated: March 8, 2026
Overview
Caribbean medical schools are unique in that they primarily cater to North American students who missed out on MD/DO spots in the US or Canada but still want to practice there. The typical structure involves 2 years of Basic Sciences on the Caribbean island, followed by 2 years of Clinical Rotations in affiliated teaching hospitals in the US, UK, or Canada.
Key Fact
Not all Caribbean medical schools are created equal. It is critical to attend one of the "Big Four" (St. George’s, Ross, AUC, or Saba) to ensure you are eligible for US federal loans and to maximize your chances of matching into a US residency.
Entry Requirements
Academic Standards
- A completed bachelor's degree with pre-med prerequisites (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, etc.).
- Minimum GPA thresholds are significantly lower than US schools (often ~3.0 - 3.2 is acceptable).
- MCAT is required for US citizens/permanent residents, but sometimes optional for international applicants.
- Extracurriculars are encouraged but carry less weight compared to US admissions.
Admissions Tests
US applicants must submit an MCAT score, though the average accepted score is much lower than mainland US schools (around 495-500). Non-US applicants can often waive the MCAT.
Application Process
1. School Selection
Strictly research accreditation. Ensure the school is recognised by the ECFMG and preferably approved by states like New York and California.
2. Rolling Admissions
Apply directly through the school’s portal. Caribbean schools operate on rolling admissions with multiple start dates (January, May, September).
3. Basic Sciences (Years 1-2)
Relocate to the Caribbean island to complete intense preclinical coursework.
4. USMLE & Clinicals (Years 3-4)
Pass USMLE Step 1, then complete clinical rotations in US/UK hospitals.
Costs & Tuition
| Expense Type | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees (Basic Sciences) | $15,000 - $25,000 USD / semester |
| Tuition Fees (Clinical Rotations) | $18,000 - $30,000 USD / semester |
| Living Expenses (Island) | $10,000 - $15,000 USD / year |
Note: Costs vary significantly depending on the specific university, state/province and individual lifestyle. Always check official university websites for exact figures.
Pros & Cons of Studying in the Caribbean
Pros
- • A viable second chance for students who didn't get into US/Canadian schools
- • Clinical rotations take place in actual US/UK hospitals
- • Multiple intake dates per year (no waiting a full year to reapply)
Cons
- • Very high attrition/dropout rates during the first two years
- • Matching into competitive US specialties (Surgery, Dermatology) is exceptionally difficult
- • Expensive tuition with high interest rates on private loans
Notable Medical Schools in the Caribbean
St. George's University (SGU)
Located in Grenada, one of the largest and most established Caribbean medical schools.
Ross University School of Medicine
Located in Barbados, known for a large alumni network in the US and Canada.
American University of the Caribbean (AUC)
Located in Sint Maarten, offering strong clinical affiliations.
Saba University School of Medicine
A smaller school in the Dutch Caribbean known for strong USMLE pass rates.
Interactive Directory
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