My apologies in advance for the length. I am a 37 year old non traditional student married with 3 children. My original plan was to do a diy post bacc, take the MCAT and apply in the US.
For a number of reasons surrounding the current environment in the US, I would like to relocate my family out of the US, but potentially leave the door open to return. I am looking into international medical schools in countries where it is easier to bring your family. I would not be opposed to staying and practicing in another country, but it seems as though the post medical training spots are slimmer and more difficult to land for foreigners in the countries. I am thinking that perhaps schools that have US linkages might be better for me even though it means returning for residency. I am well aware of residency match rates for IMGs and am ok with the odds. I am not looking to get into a highly competitive field: peds then into neonatology. Due to my age, I’m not interested in postponing school further.
Current Stats
Undergrad cGPA 3.3 sGPA AMCAS 2.69 AACOMAS 2.75
Post Bacc 8 of 20 credits taken so far 4.0
No MCAT yet until I figure out where applying and if additional exams are needed
I have so far looked into:
Australia: (originally top choice and we wanted to stay permanently, but after further research believe the cons would likely disallow this).
Pros: Australia allows family to join on a study visa and my partner could work. We also wouldn’t mind staying permanently.
Cons: Post graduate issues with obtaining internships and specialist training. Australia not known for being welcoming to those with special needs. Very expensive with additional expenses for schools for children
Potential Schools:
University of Queensland-Ochsner
Atlantic Bridge Program for Ireland
Pros: cheaper compared to Australia, has ties to US locations. If decided to stay to conplete education, similar post graduate education timeline for specialty training.
Cons: family cannot come on study visa unless ability to support family is shown. Work visa cannot be obtained by partner. Additional fees for schools for children. Still expensive.
SGUL at Nicosia in Cyprus
Pros: same program as reputable SGUL. US clinical rotations for 3rd and 4th year at Baltimore Washington Medical Center which is close to home in US and part of the University of Maryland Hospital system which is well regarded. Also links to Swedish covenant hospital in Chicago. Cheaper tuition and cost of living. Can apply for family reunification for family to join.
Cons: little info online from current and past students. Negative reviews due to lack of available spots for number of US students that want them lessening chances of a residency match.
SGUL in London
Pros: INTO program (edited to add, this program is no longer partnering with SGUL, now unclear if us rotations available). Possibility for family to join on visa.
Cons: Cost of living in London expensive. Would need to take GAMSAT instead of MCAT. Long post graduate education path to becoming a specialist.
I readily welcome other suggestions to look into and thoughts on the programs I listed. I hope this thread could end up being helpful for those in a similar situation.
For a number of reasons surrounding the current environment in the US, I would like to relocate my family out of the US, but potentially leave the door open to return. I am looking into international medical schools in countries where it is easier to bring your family. I would not be opposed to staying and practicing in another country, but it seems as though the post medical training spots are slimmer and more difficult to land for foreigners in the countries. I am thinking that perhaps schools that have US linkages might be better for me even though it means returning for residency. I am well aware of residency match rates for IMGs and am ok with the odds. I am not looking to get into a highly competitive field: peds then into neonatology. Due to my age, I’m not interested in postponing school further.
Current Stats
Undergrad cGPA 3.3 sGPA AMCAS 2.69 AACOMAS 2.75
Post Bacc 8 of 20 credits taken so far 4.0
No MCAT yet until I figure out where applying and if additional exams are needed
I have so far looked into:
Australia: (originally top choice and we wanted to stay permanently, but after further research believe the cons would likely disallow this).
Pros: Australia allows family to join on a study visa and my partner could work. We also wouldn’t mind staying permanently.
Cons: Post graduate issues with obtaining internships and specialist training. Australia not known for being welcoming to those with special needs. Very expensive with additional expenses for schools for children
Potential Schools:
University of Queensland-Ochsner
Atlantic Bridge Program for Ireland
Pros: cheaper compared to Australia, has ties to US locations. If decided to stay to conplete education, similar post graduate education timeline for specialty training.
Cons: family cannot come on study visa unless ability to support family is shown. Work visa cannot be obtained by partner. Additional fees for schools for children. Still expensive.
SGUL at Nicosia in Cyprus
Pros: same program as reputable SGUL. US clinical rotations for 3rd and 4th year at Baltimore Washington Medical Center which is close to home in US and part of the University of Maryland Hospital system which is well regarded. Also links to Swedish covenant hospital in Chicago. Cheaper tuition and cost of living. Can apply for family reunification for family to join.
Cons: little info online from current and past students. Negative reviews due to lack of available spots for number of US students that want them lessening chances of a residency match.
SGUL in London
Pros: INTO program (edited to add, this program is no longer partnering with SGUL, now unclear if us rotations available). Possibility for family to join on visa.
Cons: Cost of living in London expensive. Would need to take GAMSAT instead of MCAT. Long post graduate education path to becoming a specialist.
I readily welcome other suggestions to look into and thoughts on the programs I listed. I hope this thread could end up being helpful for those in a similar situation.
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