Pursuing a career as a doctor is a big decision. Some people choose the profession in high school while others wait until university. No matter when the decision is made the road to medical school is a long one. Below is a brief roadmap of the route to navigate to become a doctor:

During high school

• Take courses necessary for acceptance at a university. An undergraduate degree is needed to apply to medical school.
• Keep options open and apply to several universities.
• There’s no such thing as “pre-med.”

During university

• Choose a field of study you find interesting, not something you think medical schools want to see.
• If you study something you enjoy you are more likely to earn good marks thereby gaining acceptance at medical school.

First-year university

• Learn how to live with freedom.
• Treat studying like a part-time job.
• Moderation in all things such as partying and studying.
• Establish supports and ask for help when needed.

Use time wisely

• Know pre-requisites for courses.
• Volunteer with groups that interest you.
• Develop good study habits.
• Manage time effectively.

Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)

• The MCAT must be taken in order to apply for medical school.
• The exam is normally taken after completing university level chemistry (organic and inorganic), biology and physics.

Applying to medical school

• After taking the MCAT and earning an undergraduate degree, students can begin applying for medical school.
• A student’s MCAT score, university transcripts and written application requirements affect the success of the application.
• After the paperwork is submitted a few select individuals will be contacted for an interview. This is the final stage of the application process.

Medical school

• The medical school program is four years.
• The first two years are spent in classrooms and lectures.
• The final two years are spent learning in a hospital setting.
• Two to seven years of residency or specialization will follow.