Education · 1 of 4

The path

One of the most competitive matches in Canada, for one of the most varied surgical jobs.

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%. Plastic surgery electives and research in your final year decide the match.

4. 4

   Plastic surgery residency

   5 years

   Matched through CaRMS (the residency matching service). Paid, supervised. Burns, hand, breast reconstruction, facial fractures, cleft lip and palate, skin cancer.

5. 5

   Royal College exam, licence, often a 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. Most add a 1 year fellowship.