Did you miss out on Ontario Med School? Here’s Your Best Backup Plan!
The recent news of Ontario’s plan to bar international students from its medical schools starting in 2026 might have disrupted your plans.
This change addresses Ontario’s shortage of family doctors and leaves international students searching for alternatives.
But don’t worry—there are several other excellent options for pursuing your medical education in Canada and beyond.
In this article, we’ll explore top alternatives for international students, focusing on other provinces in Canada with open medical school policies and scholarships designed to ease the financial burden.
Related: Guide for Ontario Students Applying to Medical Schools in 2026
Understanding the 2026
Ontario Medical Schools Application
In October 2023, Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced a policy reserving 95% of medical school spots for Ontario residents and 5% for other Canadians, leaving no spots for international students by 2026.
This move addresses the province’s shortage of family doctors. While beneficial for local students, it forces international students to seek medical education elsewhere.
Read more in this blog: What You Need to Know About Ontario Med School 2026
Alternatives Within Canada: Other Provinces with Open Medical School Policies
Although Ontario is closing its doors to international medical students, other provinces in Canada still welcome them.
Several highly regarded medical schools across Canada offer international students the chance to pursue their medical education, providing excellent programs and research opportunities.
Here are a few notable institutions:
University of Toronto
Ranked 9th globally for medicine, the University of Toronto offers a top-tier medical education.
Though it comes with a hefty price tag—international tuition is CAD 91,760 per year—it is one of Canada’s most prestigious medical schools.
McGill University
Located in Quebec, McGill is another world-class institution that admits a limited number of international students.
McGill’s medical program is highly competitive, with an international tuition fee of approximately CAD 59,778 per year. The university’s global reputation and strong emphasis on research make it a compelling option.
University of Manitoba
For students seeking a more affordable option, the University of Manitoba offers medical programs with tuition fees of CAD 12,200 for international students.
This school provides a high-quality education at a lower cost compared to many others.
University of British Columbia (UBC)
UBC, located in British Columbia, offers a highly competitive medical program with a large number of available spots.
Though it primarily reserves seats for Canadian citizens and permanent residents, it is renowned for its research facilities and clinical programs. UBC’s global ranking in medicine is 34th, and while it does not typically admit international students, it’s a key option for Canadian permanent residents.
Dalhousie University
Situated in Nova Scotia, Dalhousie University offers a competitive medical program with international student tuition fees of CAD 24,575.
Dalhousie strongly focuses on clinical training, providing opportunities to work in diverse healthcare environments.
For international students looking to study in Canada, these schools offer various options with different price points, competitive programs, and excellent reputations.
Check this out: Compensation & Work-Life Balance: 5 Countries for Doctors
Scholarships and Funding for International Medical Students in Canada
Studying medicine in Canada can be costly, but there are numerous scholarships and funding opportunities available for international students.
Many Canadian universities and government organizations offer scholarships that can help reduce the financial burden.
Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Scholarship
This scholarship offers CAD 500–1,000 and is available for students pursuing degrees at Canadian universities, making it a good option for research-focused international students.
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
Although this scholarship is only available to international students studying in Ontario-based universities, it provides up to CAD 5,000 per session and could be an excellent funding option for the next few years before the 2026 ban takes effect.
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
One of the most prestigious scholarships in Canada, the Vanier Scholarship offers CAD 50,000 per year for three years to outstanding international doctoral candidates, including those in the field of medicine.
Quebec Provincial Government Scholarship
This scholarship is available to international students pursuing doctoral studies in Quebec. It provides CAD 25,000 per year for up to three years, making it an excellent option for students who choose McGill or other Quebec-based universities.
These scholarships can significantly lower the cost of medical education for international students, making Canada a more accessible option despite high tuition fees.
Global Alternatives: Medical Schools Outside Canada
If you’re seeking options beyond Canada, many prestigious medical schools around the world are open to international students:
United States
Around 48 U.S. medical schools accept international students, though competition is fierce. In 2019, out of 1,890 international applicants, 325 were accepted.
Australia
Australia is becoming a popular destination for international medical students due to its rigorous academic standards and respected medical programs. Schools such as the University of Melbourne and the University of Sydney rank highly globally, and both offer undergraduate and graduate entry options.
United Kingdom
The UK offers several renowned medical schools, including the University of Oxford and University College London. Many of these institutions accept international students and offer well-established pathways to medical careers.
Caribbean Medical Schools
Institutions like St. George’s University in Grenada are popular among international students, offering U.S.-based residencies and a high success rate for licensing exams.
Would any of these destinations suit your academic and career aspirations?
International Medical Residency Programs
International medical students must also consider residency pathways, which vary significantly by country. Before you go on, check this out: What is the Best Country to Practice Medicine
U.S. Residency Programs
The U.S. offers an extensive range of residency programs through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS).
International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are eligible for most U.S. residency programs after passing the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination).
Australia’s Internship and Residency
After graduation, international students can apply for internships leading to full registration as medical practitioners.
Many Australian universities offer provisional entry programs for international students, allowing smoother transitions to postgraduate studies and internships.
UK Foundation Programs
The UK offers a two-year Foundation Program after medical school, which international students can apply for.
These programs prepare graduates for specialty training and are critical for gaining licensure in the UK.
Visa and Work Permit Considerations for Medical Graduates
Countries like the U.S. and Australia have specific visa categories for international medical graduates:
U.S. Visa Options
The J-1 visa is commonly used for residency training, but some students opt for the H-1B visa for longer-term employment options.
Australia’s Visa
Graduates can apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), which allows them to stay in the country to complete internships or work as medical professionals.
How to Prepare for Alternative Medical School Options
The shift to seeking medical education outside of Canada requires careful planning. Here’s how to ensure you’re well-prepared:
Research and Planning for Medical School Applications
Explore Entrance Exams
Different countries require research entrance exams, such as the MCAT for U.S. schools, UCAT for Australian schools, and GAMSAT for graduate-entry programs in Australia and the UK.
Check Application Deadlines
Start early and stay on top of deadlines. International student application processes can be complex and involve multiple steps, such as transcript evaluations, proof of language proficiency, and MCAT scores.
Want to ace the MCAT? Read this: Studying for the MCAT – 5 Tips for Success
Networking and Seeking Support
Join international student forums and medical student groups on platforms like LinkedIn to get advice from others who’ve experienced similar processes.
Many institutions provide resources specifically for international applicants. Schools may offer admissions counseling and financial aid advice to help navigate the complexities of applying from abroad.
Challenges to Consider When Applying to International Medical Schools
Cost and Financial Planning
Studying medicine internationally can be expensive, especially when tuition fees vary significantly by country.
For example, medical tuition for international students in Canada can reach up to $95,000 CAD annually at schools like McMaster University or $91,760 CAD at the University of Toronto.
Additionally, funding options may be limited. Unlike domestic students, international students often rely on private or institutional loans, as government financial aid and loans may not be available.
Scholarships can help offset costs, but competition is fierce. Popular scholarships include the Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program and the Trillium Scholarship, which are worth $40,000 CAD annually.
Adjusting to Different Healthcare Systems
International students must also adapt to healthcare systems that may be vastly different from their home countries.
For instance, healthcare delivery in the U.S. differs significantly from Canada, with private healthcare systems predominating over public ones.
Navigating these differences can be challenging but rewarding, providing a broader perspective on global healthcare.
It’s important to research the healthcare system of the country you plan to study in, as this will influence your clinical experience and training.
Read also: Real Talk: How Long Does Nursing School Really Take?
Navigating New Paths!
The 2026 Ontario medical school ban on international students may seem like a setback, but it’s also an opportunity to explore new options.
With outstanding medical programs in other Canadian provinces, scholarships to ease financial strain, and global opportunities from Australia to the U.S., your dream of becoming a doctor is still within reach.
By researching these alternatives, you can find the perfect fit for your academic and career goals. Ready to embark on a new path? The world is full of possibilities!
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