Orthopedic Surgeon

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Education · 1 of 4

The path

Same road as every surgeon, with a match that is hard to win.

  1. 1

    High school

    Grades 11 and 12

    Top marks in biology, chemistry, math and English. A very high average is the entry ticket.

  2. 2

    Bachelor's degree

    3 to 4 years

    Any major, usually life sciences. High GPA, research, volunteering. Write the MCAT (medical school admission test).

  3. 3

    Medical school, the MD (doctor of medicine)

    3 to 4 years

    Acceptance rates are 5 to 15%. Orthopedic electives and research in your final year matter a lot for the match.

  4. 4

    Orthopedic surgery residency

    5 years

    Matched through CaRMS (the residency matching service). Paid, supervised. Trauma call, fracture clinics, joint replacements, kids, spine, sports.

  5. 5

    Royal College exam, licence, fellowship

    1 to 2 years

    Pass the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada exam, register with your provincial College of Physicians and Surgeons. Almost everyone does at least one fellowship.