How to Become a Doctor in Canada from Another country | 13 Easy Steps

How Long Does It Take International Students to Become A Doctor In Canada?: Is there a fastest way to become a doctor? Of course, there is. You just need information.

Questions coming from our previous article on how to apply to Harvard medical school, suggest that a lot of international students are interested in knowing how to become a doctor in Canada from other countries.

Nonetheless, With Canada’s excellent standard of living and diverse employment opportunities, Canada has long been a preferred destination for highly qualified professionals such as doctors.

Indeed, Canada welcomes doctors who have already been trained in their country of origin.

It’s also a great place for medical education, with top universities offering medical studies and excellent research and practice centers.

The easiest, most hassle-free way to become a doctor in Canada is to study in the country from medical school or even earlier (ideally at the college level).

You already have excellent knowledge of English and are used to the customs and working methods of the country.

You can also immigrate to Canada and become a doctor if you wish. Here is the best options either way.

Here’s a guide that will show you easy steps on how to become a pediatrician or doctor in Canada. Also, the information in this piece will answer the question “How does medical school work?” And the average cost of medical school in Canada.

With the massive outbreak of COVID19, Canada realized they didn’t have many doctors. What this means is that, as long as you are a doctor, you have a place in Canada.

Let’s show you the fastest way to become a doctor for international students!!!

Becoming a Doctor In Canada

Aside from the advent of COVID19, there are many factors calling out for the need for doctors in Canada. According to statistics, Canada’s population is on the rise.

Currently, about 4.5 million citizens of the country do not have family doctors. This contributes to the massive recruit of doctors. Regardless of their country. The Canadian Health Authorities is in charge of this recruitment.

If you are considering practicing medicine or wondering how to become a doctor in Canada, here’s the fastest way. Because already, there is a vacancy waiting for you in Canada.

Hence, there is an urgent need to know how to become a pediatrician in Canada. Of course, this also extends to other health doctors.

While we focus on showing you the fastest way to become a doctor, we will give you insight into the best medical schools and how long it takes to become a doctor in Canada.

Why Become a Doctor in Canada?

Aside from the long history of working benefits, Canada kinda has preferential treatment for doctors. Almost every year, more than 100 U.S. doctors relocate to Windsor Ontario.

Why?

That could be attributed to many reasons which we are going to let you know below. Here are some major benefits you gain from pursuing your career as a doctor in Canada;

#1. Flexible Working Hours

Doctors want to know how to become a doctor in Canada due to its flexible working hours. In Canada, you can choose to work the regular office hours, on shift, call, or just evening hours.

Also, most Canadian doctors choose to go on contracts only. It all depends on you.

#2. Job Satisfaction

Becoming a doctor in Canada gives maximum satisfaction. Here, doctors choose to specialize. Therefore putting in their best effort. Thereby increasing their productivity.

Hence the reason most international students want to learn the fastest way to become a medical doctor in Canada. Because it’s a little more direct.

#3. Quality of Education

Quality education is the true essence of Canadian schools. Hence the reason most of the Canadian universities rank top in the best acting schools and best aviation colleges in the world.

Also, doctors in Canada gain practical hands-on experience under the medical model. Talking about how long it takes to become a doctor in Canada, it is essentially compressed into 5 years.

In other words, you have 5 years of quality education in the medical profession.

#4. Job Security

Doctors have a surety of getting a job after college. However, BLS has it that between 2016 and 2026, the need for doctors in Canada will increase by 13%.

Of course, this is way higher than other professions.

#5. High Paying Salary

Many doctors want to know how to become a pediatrician in Canada because their salary is mouthwatering. A doctor’s salary in Canada can afford you a luxurious life.

According to Payscale, doctors in Canada earn about C$147,080 monthly. You don’t get that in any other country.

You Can Also Check Out: The Best Automotive Engineering Schools in Canada

What are the Requirements to Become a Doctor in Canada?

You just don’t fly into Canada and become a doctor simply because you are one. To become a doctor in Canada the Canadian Health Authorities have to certify you fit before you commence practice.

Here are some requirements that will aid you to become a pediatrician in Canada;

Note: Medical College Admission Test: MCAT is a test taken by applicants who want to become a doctor in Canada. Kindly note that it takes place various times of the year.

In other not to make mistakes applying with the wrong requirements. Visit the school website. Because most requirements are school-specific.

However, keep in mind that you’re not the only one who migrating to Canada to become a doctor. Many are on this journey with you.

“Who doesn’t want a good life?”

Therefore, an outstanding credential and a high university GPA will work in your favor.

What are the Best Medical Schools in Canada?

Here’s a list of med schools you can train to become a pediatrician or doctor in Canada;

Kindly note that this list comes in no particular order. However, either one you choose to attend, you will get the best out of medical school. Because it’s in Canada!!!

Now you know these, let’s see how to become a doctor or pediatrician in Canada.

How to Become a Doctor in Canada: Step by Step Guide

Becoming a doctor or physician in Canada requires more than passion and finance. A lot of patience and commitment is required.

Below is the fastest way to become a doctor or pediatrician in Canada.

If you follow the process we listed below, you will achieve this feat effortlessly.

“Wanna know how?”

Here’s what to do to become a doctor in Canada;

#1.Obtain Your University Degree

The first step to becoming a doctor in Canada is to get a degree from an accredited university. It must be a bachelor’s degree, and most medical schools will prefer your degree to have Science subjects bases.

While a bachelor’s degree isn’t required as some people think, it does benefit you by improving your basic understanding of concepts such as biology and chemistry.

However, most medical schools in Canada have a list of courses, most of which are science courses. So be sure to take these courses during your studies.

#2. Take an Entrance Exam

Many medical schools across the country require you to take and pass the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) so this is an important step too.

#3. Go to Medical School

Attending medical school is the third step to becoming a doctor in Canada in a shorter time.

In general, Canada has many medical schools to choose from, but most of them require applicants to be residents or citizens of the country to attend.

Basically, medical schools in Canada typically last four years; the first two years take place in the classroom and in the laboratory, the last two years in the medical center. Here you work with patients under the careful supervision of licensed doctors.

#4. Take and Pass Your Licensing Exam

After completing your four-year medical school, the next step is to pass the certification exam. This is to demonstrate your knowledge and skills before you can effectively work as a doctor in Canada.

Basically, the exam is the Medical Council of Canada’s Evaluating Examination (MCCEE), and it is the most difficult exam medical students will ever take during their studies.

Final year students must take exams from the Medical Council of Canada. Without this exam, any medical student can not be licensed in Canada

Therefore, students are advised to start preparing and studying with multiple study methods early on.

#5. Complete Your Residency

After you pass the MCCEE  exam and obtain your license, Canadian law requires you to complete a residency program before you can properly practice.

The aim is to enable newly licensed doctors to learn from the most experienced doctors and to adapt to their new career choices.

For family doctors, the residency lasts for two years, but for specialists, it takes over four years to acquire residency.

In general, it takes 10 years of study and residency to become a doctor in Canada. But with enough dedication and diligence, you can be one of Canada’s next successful doctors.

Voila!!!

You just passed the process of becoming a medical doctor in Canada. You see, it’s easy breezy.

However, the MCCEE sends many quitting.

Therefore, we recommend you prepare well and early for the exam!!!

Where You Can Study to Become a Doctor in Canada?

For the past four years, Canada tops the ranking among the best countries in the world for quality of life. It encompasses everything from housing to education to the environment.

Along with its open spaces to immigrants, chic cities, and an active lifestyle, it is now a popular destination for people looking for new opportunities and a better work experience.

Medical school is a challenging and competitive environment in which students must be well prepared and committed to being successful.

In Canada, Ontario holds the majority of medical schools

How Do I Successfully Relocate To Canada As A Medical Doctor From Another Country?

Here’s what to do;

#1. Ensure you have a Canadian recognised medical qualification.

Here’s how do to do that;

• Go to the World Directory of Medical Schools website.
• Fill in your details. (Country your acquired your certificate from, university name etc)
• If recognised, your results will show.

#2. Get Approval from the Medical Council of Canada (MCC)

To do this and become a doctor, you have to become familiar with the MCC. Also, you will need the Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada qualification.

How do you get that?

• Pass the MCC Qualifying Exams. Usually, they are in two parts; Part 1 and 2
• Then, complete at least 12 months of postgraduate training.

#3. Pay your Fees for Confirmation Of Medical Degree By The MCC.

• ECA report CAD$137
• Degree verification CAD$215
• Translation fee CAD$181 per page
• Application fee for MCCEE CAD$2,365
• Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE) Part I CAD$1,598
• And the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE) Part II CAD$3,340

#4. Submit And Store Your Documents

You can do that at http://physiciansapply.ca.

#5. Language Proficiency Proof

You need to validate your English language proficiency via a test. Basically, you will be tested in speaking, listening, writing, and reading.

#6. Work Experience Proof

It is believed that you must have had some working experiences as a doctor here in Nigeria. If yes, then the following are the documents you will be expected to present.

• Hours worked
• Work responsibilities
• NOC (National Occupational Classification) title
• Current salary
• Contact details of employer
• The letter head of your company

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Become A Doctor In Canada

What High School Courses are Needed to Become a Doctor in Canada?

Whether you went to high school on High School Scholarships or not, you need to have passed the following courses to become a doctor in Canada;

This means that students do not need to major in biology or chemistry to be accepted to medical school. They only need to have completed the prerequisite courses.

Some institutions in Canada do not require any specific prior courses.

However, taking the majority of the subjects indicated above is a smart idea.

How Much Does it Cost to Become a Doctor in Canada?

Without mincing words, the average cost of medical school in Canada is really expensive. Hence the reason many international students usually ask for the cheapest college in Canada.

Though there are other options to finance your study abroad vision like applying for international scholarships such as the MasterCard Foundation Scholarship.

“But how much is the average cost of medical school in Canada?”

This largely depends on the medical school. However, from research, the average cost for medical school in Canada range between $6,000 to $16,000 per year for Canadian residents. But for international students, it costs approximately $20,000 to become a doctor in Canada

The cost of attending medical schools in Canada varies significantly from school to school. Sometimes, the cost can even be influenced by the length of your program.

Here is a list of medical schools in Canada and their cost:

Medical Schools in Canada	Tuition for Canadian Students	Tuition for International	Other Compulsory Fees
Alberta	$11,714	N/A	$1,043
UBC	$15,457	N/A	$208-$865
Calgary	$14,600	N/A	$793
Dalhousie	$13,818	$21,078	$908
Laval	$3,240/$8,879	$25,317	$714
Manitoba	$7,499	N/A	$984
McGill	$4,825/$13,224	$37,705	$2,553
McMaster	$20,831	$108,546	$737
Memorial	$6,250	$30,000	$1,140
Montréal	$3,102/$8,501	$24,239	$1,355
Ottawa	$18,117	N/A	$902
Northern Ontario	$17,200	N/A	$1,750-$2,050
Queen’s	$18,228	N/A	$912
Saskatchewan	$12,276	N/A	$697
Sherbrooke	$3,170*/$9,494	$25,582	$1,081
Toronto	$18,424	$51,051	$1,509
Western	$17,722	N/A	$973

What SkillSet Do I Need to Work as a Doctor in Canada?

Based on your job description, you need the following skills to become efficient:

How Long Does it Take to Be a Doctor in Canada?

Wondering how long it takes to become a doctor in Canada? Well, for such a strategic course, Canada has an exceptional rule for it.

Intending students who want to know how to become a doctor in Canada must first have completed their undergraduate degree. Basically, an undergraduate degree lasts about 3 to 4 years.

This must be completed before enrolling in medical school. And med school lasts for 4 years in Canada. Also, in addition to this is 2 to 5 years of residency.

Hence, in total, to become a doctor in Canada takes about 10 and 13 years. That’s how long it takes to become a doctor in Canada!!!

Where Can I Work as a Canadian Doctor?

Canada has great opportunities and places to work. Whether you want to work in a hospital, become a family doctor or a general practitioner, where you work is entirely up to you.

But whatever you choose, you will always find a job. In contrast to other countries, doctors are one of the most sought-after professions in Canada.

Basically, doctors in Canada typically work in private practices, including group or team practices, hospitals, and clinics.

There are jobs across Canada and in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver, but the greatest demand is in remote or rural areas and outer metropolitan areas. In Alberta, 18% of people do not have a GP and in French-speaking Quebec, the figure is 26%.

Recent research shows that the provinces of Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Quebec have the highest numbers of doctors and doctors, while Saskatchewan and Prince Island Édouard have the lowest numbers.

Therefore, when looking for the right job in Canada, focus on rural areas where the demand for general practitioners and other types of doctors is higher.

As the county’s population continues to grow, the number of doctors in Canada is expected to continue to grow over the next several years.

For a start, here is a list of places you can work once you become a pediatrician or doctor in Canada;

Which City in Canada Needs More Doctors?

Across Canada, doctors are in high demand. But here are the cities that vacancies for doctors are screaming out loud!!! They include;

What is the Average Salary of a Doctor in Canada?

Once you become a pediatrician in Canada, where you work will determine how much you are paid. Other factors affecting the salary of doctors in Canada include;

Number of Patients: The average salary of doctors in Canada comes from different sources.

In this model, the average salary depends on the number of patients they can treat in a day, the service they provide, and the province from which they operate.

According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information, 97% of doctors in Canada work on the fee model.

In this model, a doctor’s hourly wage in Canada differs based on the number of patients they treat per hour, the province they work in, and the amount they can charge for each patient.

according to CIHI, the average cost per service is $47 for a family physician, $82 for a medical specialist, and $89 for a surgical specialist.

Specialization:

Just as the number of patients affects the salary of doctors in Canada, the average salary also depends on your specialization.

Therefore, highly specialized medical areas will require higher salaries, but will also take more hours to complete.

Additionally, there are other factors that affect a doctor’s salary in terms of specialization. These higher-paying specializations require more years of schooling, more hours of work, and a more stressful environment.

But generally, the average salary of a doctor in Canada was estimated to be thus in 2018;

Conclusion: How To Be A Doctor For International Students

Without mincing words, becoming a doctor in Canada is a herculean task. But the benefits outweighs how long it takes to become a doctor in Canada. And basically, that’s how medical school work in Canada.

Although the average cost of medical school in Canada is expensive. The salary at the end of the day augments all the fees.

Therefore, if this field interests you, ditch how long it takes and become a doctor in Canada.

Follow the steps we gave you. And once you make it to Canada as a doctor, do well to send an email.

Go doctor!!!

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