Education · 1 of 4
The path
Long, competitive, and very structured.
- 1
High school
Grades 11 and 12
Top marks in biology, chemistry, math and English. You need a very high average to get into a pre-med undergrad.
- 2
Bachelor's degree
3 to 4 years
Any major works, but most take life sciences. Keep a GPA (grade point average) above 3.8, do research and volunteer. Write the MCAT (medical school admission test).
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Medical school (MD, doctor of medicine)
3 to 4 years
19 schools in Canada, the newest opening in 2026. Acceptance rates are 5 to 15%. Two years of classes, then two years of clinical rotations. McMaster and Calgary run 3-year programs.
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Family medicine residency
2 years
Matched through CaRMS (the national residency matching service). Paid, supervised practice in clinics and hospitals.
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Licensing and certification
During and after residency
Pass the MCCQE Part 1 (the national medical exam) and the CCFP exam (family medicine certification), then register with your provincial College of Physicians and Surgeons.