Auckland MBChB - Decision Making

[SilentNight]

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Hi,

I would greatly appreciate any constructive input regarding Auckland University's MBChB programme and being an international student. I have been fortunate to have been accepted into the 2012 entry as an international student from the USA.

I have been diligently researching on the finances and future career placement. Here are two major concerns I have:

1) By my calculations, I will have to take out ~350,000$US loans to pay for the 5-year programme. It is only 5-years since I will be entering as a graduate student. With a 25-year loan repayment plan, I will owe close to 600,000$US.
2) It sounds like for international students, it is a huge uphill battle to stay in New Zealand or Australia after medical school. This is also true if I apply for USA residency spots. Seems to be a huge disadvantage both ways.

Put simply, what is your opinion on this situation? Is it worthwhile to invest 600,000$US studying in a great country to become a doctor yet having a huge uncertainty how well you can finance the education after medical school?

This wouldn't be a huge concern if I did have the financial means, but alas I do not. My other plan is to reapply to US MD schools and work for ~2 years, which can alleviate the financial burden when in medical school.

Your thoughts are greatly appreciated!

 

[Canuck455]

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[SilentNight]

To further clarify my situation and answer your questions, Canuck455.

My MCAT has expired as it was taken in 2008. Australian schools require an MCAT no older than 2 years. I must admit that at times I do not want to retake the MCAT again, but it seems like I should instead.

I applied for US MD schools twice and have not been accepted. As much as DO doctors practice the same as MD doctors, I don't like the philosophy and lack of research opportunities for DOs. I have the opportunity to begin my medical career now, but it does come at a high cost...

Right now, I am uncertain where I want to practice. I am looking to immigrate to NZ or AUS and I am thinking that studying abroad will give me a better perspective.

Do you happen to know how easy/difficult it is for international students to get an internship in AUS/NZ? Would I need to be the top of my class to stand a chance? My career goal is to enter the field of Sports Medicine through Orthopedic Surgery.

Thank you for responding as this decision is difficult particularly since I would love to begin my career in medicine yet the finances make it hard to swallow.

 

[Canuck455]

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[SilentNight]

Yes - I meant to say research opportunities while in medical school. I am keen to continue my research interests while studying.

The other information you provided I have been aware of and I appreciate you further solidifying what I have researched about IMGs, internships, and permanent residency in AUS/NZ.

I have decided to decline the offer and spend some time working while retaking the MCAT. Thank you Canuck455 for providing me your advice. I appreciate it.

 

[Canuck455]

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