Application Process
First thing you need to do is read each school's admissions webpage and check out their admission requirements! Don't waste your time or money applying to schools where you don't fill their requirements (i.e.: pre-requisite courses, minimum GPA, minimum MCAT scores etc). Make sure you are very organized and get everything in by the due dates!
Applying to medical school is long, tiring and can be stressful. It starts from the moment you take your MCAT and ends with your acceptance letter! Most schools start their applications in the early fall, but every school has different deadlines. Make sure you read the websites for instructions carefully!
Every school has a different application process. Most schools require an essay where you describe yourself and your reasons for wanting to be a doctor. It is important to have someone read over your essay before you send it in (they can check for spelling errors and offer advice on the wording and content). The essay is a great place for you to communicate your passion for health care! It is important to be honest in the essay. If you can't say more than hello in Spanish, don't say you can speak the language. Most admissions committees really value these essays, and your interviewer is likely to have a copy of it with them at the interview so anything you talk about in the essay if fair game at the interview. It's a good idea to re-read your essay prior to the interview to refresh your memory.
All the schools also require you to have reference letters sent on your behalf. The letters don't all have to be from your professors, but usually at least one does. Again, each school is different so check what they want! If a school has something specific they want in the letter, make sure you let your referee know. Good choices for referees are people who know you well. Don't ask the professor from your 1st year biochemistry where you got a 98 but there were 1200 people in the class. If you have played a team sport for years and your coach can comment on your ability to be a team player and your leadership skills and dedication, then this would be a great choice!
When applying to med school it is important to ensure you follow all the deadlines and instructions. The competition is stiff enough. You don't want to have your application thrown out because it was 2 days late. It's a good idea to send things by courier or registered mail. Peace of mind is worth the extra few dollars.
The 5 schools in Ontario work through a common application process whereby you can apply to all 5 schools, or any ones you choose. Visit http://www.ouac.on.ca/omsas/ for more information. Northern Ontario medical school will be taking students as of fall 2005. This website is an excellent resource for answers to all your questions.
In Quebec there are 4 medical schools. McGill is the English school, and there are 3 French schools (at Universit� de Montreal, Universit� de Laval in Quebec City and Universit� de Sherbrooke). McGill's application information is on their website www.med.mcgill.ca and their application is on line. The applications for the French schools can be found on their websites as well:
On the East coast there are 2 medical schools:
Heading West, there are:
If you have any questions related to the application process, most school's admissions offices are very helpful and they can be your best resource. It's their job to help you, so take advantage of their experience and expert advice.
Good luck applying!
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