Can I study medicine in Canada after A/Ls (Sri Lanka)?
No. You must complete a bachelor's degree before applying to medical school.
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Can I Study Medicine in Canada as an International Student? (2025 Guide)
Yes — international students, including those from Sri Lanka, can study medicine in Canada.
However, the process is highly competitive, and medical education in Canada is structured as a second-entry program, not a direct undergraduate course.
However, the process is highly competitive, and medical education in Canada is structured as a second-entry program, not a direct undergraduate course.
How Medical Education Works in Canada
| Stage | Description |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 3–4 years in science (e.g., Biology, Chemistry) — mandatory before medicine |
| MCAT Exam | Medical College Admission Test — required by most schools |
| MD Program (Medicine) | 3–4 years at a medical university |
| Residency | 2–5 years specialized clinical training |
Direct entry after high school is not available — unlike in Sri Lanka, Canada requires a pre-med degree first.
Top Medical Universities in Canada for International Students
| University | Location | Entry Route |
| University of Toronto | Ontario | After bachelor’s |
| McGill University | Quebec | Some seats for intl students |
| University of British Columbia | Vancouver | Highly competitive |
| University of Alberta | Alberta | Requires MCAT + degree |
| Dalhousie University | Nova Scotia | Regional preference applies |
Most schools reserve only a limited number of seats for international students, often under 10 per intake.
Eligibility Requirements for Sri Lankan Students
- Completed 4-year bachelor's degree in science or health field
- High GPA (85%+)
- MCAT score (varies by university, avg. 510+)
- IELTS/TOEFL for English proficiency
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) & Letters of Recommendation
- Strong CV with volunteering or healthcare exposure
Some universities waive MCAT in specific pathways, but GPA and experience remain essential.
Tuition Fees to Study Medicine in Canada
| Expense | Estimated Cost (CAD/year) |
| MD Program Tuition | $25,000 – $65,000 |
| Living Expenses | $12,000 – $18,000 |
| Insurance, Supplies, Travel | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| Total (per year) | $40,000 – $85,000 |
Scholarships for international medical students are limited. However, some universities offer need-based aid or external funding options.
Step-by-Step: How to Study Medicine in Canada from Sri Lanka
Conclusion
Studying medicine in Canada is possible, but requires long-term planning, top grades, and competitive scores.
AECC Sri Lanka can help you:
- Choose the right bachelor's + medical path
- Prepare for MCAT and documentation
- Apply to top Canadian universities with expert support
Speak with our counsellors today — your medical journey starts here.
