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University of Alberta Changes Indigenous Student Policies

medical-students-policy

 

A new admissions policy was placed into effect by the University of Alberta recently. The new policy will eliminate a quota system which put a cap on the number of indigenous students allowed into the university per year. The old policy was in effect for more than three decades, so many are wondering how this shift in policy will affect the medical program overall.

The Old Policy

The thirty-year-old policy that the new one will replace kept five spots specifically for indigenous students who met program requirements. The reason it was put into place was a vast under-representation of said indigenous peoples in secondary schooling. This lack of academic representation was seen most strongly among medical students.

The premise of this old policy was a good one. It ensured a place for indigenous peoples in the medical community and allowed for increased diversity during a period in which there was not much.

Why Change the Policy?

The old indigenous student policy has slowly become irrelevant. As post-secondary enrollment of indigenous peoples has risen steadily over the last thirty years, the policy has become less a blessing and more a burden.

It needed changing for a few years now, but it takes consideration (and research) to ensure such a momentous change in policy is worth it. The University of Alberta did finally decide that it was and instituted a new policy to replace the old one.

The New Policy

The new policy will allow all indigenous students into the medical school, so long as they meet the standard eligibility requirements. The standard requirements for all medical students include applicable academic eligibility, a secondary medicine application, and online assessment.

Indigenous students must undergo a second portion of eligibility, however, according to tradition. Once passing standard requirements, they then undergo an interview with tribal elders and community medicine practitioners. This group will then pass on their recommendations to the standard university board.

Some individuals have stated that there are still not enough indigenous peoples attending medical school, despite a drastic increase in the past three decades. In an effort to continue assisting an increase of indigenous medical practitioners, the University of Alberta has implemented four new scholarships to these students after dispersing their five held slots. These scholarships will cover the full cost of tuition, to ease any financial burden medical school attendance may incur.

The School’s Actual Word on Their Policy Alterations

Due to a small amount of confusion as to how the policy would actually change the medical program (including admissions), the University of Alberta released a clarifying statement. It read as follows:

“The University of Alberta is eliminating a quota system that limited the number of Indigenous students admitted… through the Indigenous Initiatives Program Process (IHIP)… Starting in fall 2019, all Indigenous students who meet all eligibility requirements… will be offered a place in the medical school. The faculty previously held an upper limit of five Indigenous students admitted… per year through the IHIP process…”

 

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5 Ways to Get Ready to Go Back to School After Summer Break

Med Students Back to School

Though medical students don’t get to take entire summers off school, they do have less to do, and they tend to really enjoy their summer breaks when they can. However, as summer ends and the full fall semester looms on the horizon, you might find yourself struggling to get the motivation you need to study and prepare for medical exams. Here are five things you can do to help get in the back-to-school frame of mind.

#1 – Get on a School Day Schedule Early

The number one way to get yourself ready to head back to school for the fall semester involves getting your body used to your daily schedule ahead of time. This means getting to bed early enough to wake up early while still getting a solid seven to nine hours of sleep. Be sure that you have enough time in the mornings to have a cup of coffee and some breakfast so you can get your bearings before heading out to face the day.

#2 – Meal Prep

Though it may seem silly for a college student to worry about meal prep – especially if you’re in a dorm room with no stove or oven for real cooking – there are things you can do that will reduce your stress and save you time (and money!) all throughout the fall semester. Check out sales on things you have the means to prepare and buy your groceries based on those sales. Get enough for an entire week’s worth of meals, take it home, portion it out, precook it (if possible) and store it in your fridge. This way, everything is ready to go and all you need to do is pop a meal in the microwave. It’s cheaper than eating out, and a good diet is key to keeping your comprehension and memory healthy, too.

#3 – Register for (and Set Up) Question Bank Software

If you haven’t already set up your question bank platform, now is the perfect time to do so. All you need to do is register your account and then choose one of the numerous subscription options designed to fit a college student’s budget. You can even ask a school representative whether an institutional discount is available. Once you have it set up, download it to all your devices and familiarize yourself with the interface.

#4 – Find a Study Group

If you take the time to find a group of people to study with even before the fall semester starts, you’ll be that much more prepared, and that is one of the numerous ingredients in the recipe for success. Try putting up notes on message boards in local coffee shops, the school library, and even the school cafeteria, and don’t forget about online message boards, as well. You can take turns quizzing each other with question bank software or you can watch fast, informational YouTube videos to help you absorb more information.

#5 – Get Your Shopping Done

Shopping for things you need for your room can be a pain, as can buying new clothes and school supplies. Although much of your work will be done on a computer or tablet, the basics – pens, paper, highlighters, and index cards for making your own flash cards, if desired – are always a good idea. To get what you need on a budget, try dollar stores for your supplies and thrift stores for gently used clothes. You might even find discount or salvage grocery stores close to campus, and don’t pass up an opportunity to shop at a farmer’s market, either.

Going back to school can be a bummer, especially if you’ve had a wonderful, relaxing summer. However, if you follow these tips, you can reduce the shock to your system, which will help you feel better about the first day of class – and all the consecutive days after that, too.

 

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Helpful Advice for a First Year Medical Student

first-year-medical-students

If you’re about to head off for your first year of medical school, you’re probably a ball of emotions. Excitement, nervousness, and in some cases even fear can all leave you feeling apprehensive about your first year. Below, you will find some advice from physicians and surgeons about how to survive your first year as a medical student – and how to succeed in the process.

Medical School is a Very Important Job

If you convince yourself that medical school is exactly like an important job, you’re far more likely to succeed. Leaving class early to go to a friend’s birthday party or playing hooky because you were up too late are simply unacceptable as they can leave you too far behind in the material to catch up. Treating medical school like a job does require some discipline, so you’ll need to practice before it become second nature.

Get Access to Study Tools and Question Banks on the Very First Day

No matter which exam you’ll need to take at the end of your academic career, you will have a far better chance at success if you get all the tools and question banks you will need starting with the first day of medical school. The more familiar you become with the interface, the better off you will be. Look for customizable questions that you can sort by topic so you can stay up-to-speed with what is happening in the classroom, too.

Eat, Sleep, and Meditate

Medical students around the world do not get enough sleep, and most of them either don’t eat enough or eat too many things that aren’t very good for them. If you want your first year to be as simple as possible, eat a balanced diet, sleep at least seven or eight hours each night, and meditate or find some other way to disconnect your mind and relax. You might try yoga, mindfulness exercises, or a quiet hobby that takes your mind away from school for a while.

Don’t Forget to Have Some Fun

While there’s little doubt that medical school is hard – and we mean really hard at times – you can’t be the best version of yourself if you never get to have any fun. It’s important to balance things appropriately, so just as you make time for studying, you should also make time for fun. Get involved with a group on campus who shares similar interests or take up a hobby that you enjoy. If you’re going to school away from home, consider getting out to see the sights and explore new things.

Your first year as a medical student does not have to be fraught with fear and anxiety. For the most part, it’s all about your mindset and how you choose to approach each day. Looking at classes like a job, taking care of your body and mind, and preparing yourself for your medical licensing exam well in advance will go a long way toward making your experience as a first-year medical school a great one.

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Top Canadian Medical Schools of 2025: Updated Rankings and Insights

canadian-medical-students

The 2025 rankings for the best Canadian medical schools are officially in, and the competition is fiercer than ever. For the first time in years, the University of Toronto has shared the top spot with McGill University, ending McGill’s twelve-year reign at number one. Whether you are a prospective medical student or considering where to continue your studies, this updated list will help you make an informed decision about which school best fits your aspirations and needs.

The Rankings

The following list reflects the schools that stand out not only for their academic rigor but also for their strong emphasis on research. While the top medical schools in Canada all share a focus on excellence, it’s important to note that the programs and specialties they offer may vary, making each institution uniquely suited to different types of medical students. As you look through the rankings, it’s essential to consider your specific academic goals, interests, and financial situation when choosing a medical school.

Why It’s Important to Choose the Right Medical School

Selecting a top-tier medical school is a pivotal decision in your career as a future physician. The right school can significantly influence your education, clinical training, and even your long-term career prospects. Here are a few key factors to consider when evaluating schools:

  • Academic Reputation: How well-known and respected is the institution within both the medical and academic communities?
  • Student Experience & Support: Does the school offer strong mentorship, career guidance, and student resources?
  • Program Diversity: Are there specialized programs and research opportunities that align with your medical interests?
  • Affordability: Does the school provide scholarships, grants, or other financial assistance?

Here are the top-ranked schools for 2025:

1. McGill University / University of Toronto (Tie)

Both McGill University and the University of Toronto share the number one ranking this year. Last year, McGill held the top position, with Toronto securing second place. However, this year, both schools excelled in key categories, including student satisfaction and reputation, making them the joint leaders. McGill and Toronto received an impressive ranking of 3 in student satisfaction and 1 in reputation, respectively.

2. University of British Columbia (UBC)

UBC maintains its strong position in the third spot. It has earned a 7 in student satisfaction and a 2 in reputation, reflecting its continued excellence in both academic and clinical training. UBC is known for its innovative approach to medical education and its diverse student body.

3. McMaster University

McMaster University made significant strides, rising two places this year to land in fourth. It scored a 4 in both student satisfaction and reputation. Known for its problem-based learning approach and emphasis on clinical experience, McMaster remains a highly sought-after choice for prospective students.

4. Queen’s University

Queen’s University dropped one place this year to fifth but continues to shine in various areas. The school scored a 2 in student satisfaction and a 6 in reputation. Queen’s offers a supportive and collaborative learning environment, making it a favorite for many students.

5. University of Alberta

The University of Alberta slipped one spot to sixth this year. With scores of 8 in student satisfaction and 5 in reputation, this university continues to be a leader in medical education, offering strong programs in both research and clinical care.

6. Dalhousie University

Dalhousie University climbed one spot to seventh this year, a notable improvement. The university scored a 10 in both student satisfaction and reputation, offering a well-rounded program with excellent community-based clinical opportunities.

7. Western University

Western University dropped one place to eighth in 2025. With a 6 in student satisfaction and a 7 in reputation, Western remains a top contender for students seeking a robust medical program that emphasizes research and clinical experience.

8. University of Ottawa

The University of Ottawa retains its position at ninth for the second year running. It scored 15 in student satisfaction and 12 in reputation. Known for its bilingual medical program and emphasis on public health, Ottawa continues to be an excellent option for students interested in diverse medical fields.

9. Université de Montréal

Université de Montréal saw an improvement this year, moving up to tenth place. With a 5 in student satisfaction and an 8 in reputation, Montreal offers a strong academic experience and unique research opportunities, particularly in the field of medical sciences.

Runners Up

Although they didn’t make the top ten, several other schools are close contenders and should be considered for their strong programs and reputation in the medical field:

  • University of Calgary and Laval University – Tied for eleventh
  • Sherbrooke University – Close behind at thirteenth
  • University of Manitoba and University of Saskatchewan – Tied for fourteenth

These universities offer excellent programs, often with unique focuses or specialized research opportunities. While they may not have cracked the top ten, they remain some of Canada’s best medical schools.

Final Thoughts

When choosing a medical school, it’s important to consider factors beyond just rankings. Look into each institution’s program offerings, campus culture, and specific areas of research and clinical training. The right medical school will align with your personal goals, learning style, and career aspirations, so take the time to research and make an informed decision.

Good luck with your medical school journey!

 

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How Many Times Should You Take a Mock Exam before the Real Deal?

mock-medical-exam

Mock exams are an unavoidable part of life for medical students. While they can sometimes feel repetitive, stressful, or even unnecessary, mock exams play a critical role in exam success. When used correctly, they help bridge the gap between studying content and performing well under real exam conditions.

In this article, we’ll explore what mock exams are, why they matter, and how many mock exams you should take before sitting for your actual medical licensing exam.

What Is a Mock Exam?

A mock exam is a practice test designed to closely replicate the structure, timing, and difficulty of your real examination. The key difference is that mock exam scores do not impact your career, whereas your actual licensing exam does.

Mock exams may:

  • Be shorter than the real exam
  • Match the real exam length and format
  • Be taken under timed or untimed conditions

The more closely a mock exam mirrors the actual test—including question style, time limits, and environment—the better prepared and more confident you’ll feel on exam day.

What Are the Benefits of a Mock Exam?

Mock exams offer far more than just extra practice questions. Their benefits extend across multiple aspects of exam preparation.

1. Builds Exam-Day Familiarity

Mock exams help you become comfortable with:

  • Exam format
  • Question style
  • Time constraints
  • Testing software

This familiarity reduces anxiety and prevents surprises on exam day.

2. Improves Time Management

Many students struggle not because of knowledge gaps, but because of poor pacing. Mock exams teach you how to:

  • Allocate time per question
  • Avoid spending too long on difficult questions
  • Finish all sections within the allotted time

3. Identifies Weak Areas

Mock exams highlight:

  • Content gaps
  • Weak subjects or systems
  • Recurrent mistakes

This allows you to focus your revision on areas that will yield the biggest score improvements.

4. Strengthens Test-Taking Strategy

Taking multiple mock exams trains you to:

  • Read questions more efficiently
  • Eliminate incorrect answer choices
  • Make educated guesses under pressure

These skills are essential for success in high-stakes medical exams.

5. Builds Mental and Physical Endurance

Medical licensing exams often last 8–9 hours. Mock exams help condition your mind and body to sustain focus, reducing fatigue and burnout on the real exam day.

How Many Mock Exams Should You Take?

There is no single “perfect” number, but most successful candidates follow these general guidelines:

Early Preparation Phase

  • Take 1 diagnostic mock exam
  • Purpose: assess baseline knowledge and identify weaknesses

Mid-Preparation Phase

  • Take 1 mock exam every 1–2 weeks
  • Purpose: track progress and refine study strategy

Final Preparation Phase

  • Take 2–4 full-length mock exams
  • Purpose: simulate exam-day conditions, improve stamina, and fine-tune pacing

In total, most students benefit from taking 4–8 mock exams, depending on:

  • Exam difficulty
  • Time available
  • Individual learning needs

Quality matters more than quantity—thorough review after each mock exam is essential.

How to Use Mock Exams Effectively

To maximize the benefit of mock exams:

  • Take them under realistic exam conditions
  • Avoid distractions
  • Review every question—especially the ones you got wrong
  • Categorize mistakes (knowledge gap vs. strategy error)
  • Adjust your study plan based on performance trends

Platforms like CanadaQBank (CQB) provide mock exams with:

  • Exam-style questions
  • Detailed explanations
  • Performance analytics
  • Simulated exam environments

These features allow you to practice smarter—not just harder.

Conclusion

Mock exams are not just practice tests—they are powerful diagnostic and performance tools. When used correctly, they help you identify weaknesses, improve time management, build endurance, and approach exam day with confidence.

Rather than asking “Do I really need another mock exam?”, a better question is “Have I fully learned from the last one?”

With the right balance of mock exams and quality review—using trusted resources like CQB / CanadaQBank—you can walk into your real exam prepared, confident, and ready to succeed.

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Evolving AI Technology is Keeping Med Students from Pursuing Radiology

Radiology

While most of the world agrees that breakthroughs in artificial intelligence (also known as simply ‘AI’) have made life considerably easier, there are a few drawbacks for certain individuals. One set of individuals who feel at a slight disadvantage are med students.

Reduction in Radiology Demand?

A great number of medical students are under the impression that new breakthroughs in AI have reduced the demand for radiologists. If ongoing trends are to be believed, these students say that demand will continue to drop, thus making radiology a very cut-throat field.

A recent study published in Academic Radiology says that the fear of an AI takeover (so to speak) has gone so far as to discourage some current students from even considering radiology as a possible concentration.

About the Survey

The survey was conducted among the students of seventeen different Canadian schools in March of 2018. Three hundred responses were recorded among the potential student pool, and two incredible statistics stood out.

First, 67% of all respondents stated that evolving AI would generally reduce the demand for radiologists. That’s more than half of people surveyed, which says quite a bit about what the next generation of medical professionals feel.

But that wasn’t even the craziest response. An incredible 29% of all respondents stated that they believed AI would replace the need for radiologists entirely. In other words, AI would replace radiology completely with no more need for an actual person anymore.

Some people were still considering radiology as a possible (or definite) concentration. Among only those who are still considering this career path, almost half of them said that evolving AI has made them feel anxious about their future.

Among those who no longer consider radiology a choice, 14% stated that it would be their top field choice were it not for ever-advancing AI in that particular field.

What the Survey’s Authors Had to Say

Bo Gong, the leading author of the survey, had this to say about the survey’s results: “Our study revealed considerable anxiety among medical students’ interest in radiology, caused by their perception of the impact of artificial intelligence… Such anxiety discouraged a significant number of medical students from considering a radiology specialty.”

The authors stated there are steps the current radiology community could take to help med students understand the true impact artificial intelligence may have on their chosen specialty. In fact, they went as far as to create a list of possible ways current radiologists could help students to understand more on this topic.

Yet despite anxiety regarding their future careers, most responding students did support the idea of collaboration with the IT industry to support the role of AI in radiology and in improving patient care across all medical sectors.

As for whether or not AI will replace radiology all together, most practitioners are doubtful. This isn’t to say it couldn’t happen far into the future, but for now AI is complementary to radiologists and do not displace the need for human care.

 

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Could Cannabis Education Become Core Curriculum for Future Medical Students?

Cannabis Education

Dr. Michael Verbora works at the Canabo Medical Clinic, located in midtown Toronto. He has been giving resident doctors from the nearby University of Toronto with the fundamentals of medicinal cannabis, so they can better care for those who rely heavily on the plant.

Becoming Familiar with Medicinal Marijuana

Doctor Verbora is also the chief medical officer for Aleafia – a medical cannabis company. When students come in to complete their residencies, they have a very limited (if any) education pertaining to the role of cannabis in the treatment and support of diseases. By the time they leave, however, they have a good understanding of:

  • The endocannabinoid system – how it works, what its role is in health and disease
  • The most appropriate way of consumption for medical cannabis, based on the disease or symptoms it is treating
  • The risks and benefits of treating individuals with medical marijuana
  • In what instances it is (or is not) appropriate to prescribe medical marijuana to a patient

Why This is Important

Education is always important, but it is especially so for physicians. The more a physician can know about a wide range of relevant topics, the better. Unfortunately, a great number of physicians do not currently understand how medicinal cannabis works nor how to effectively utilize it in the treatment of patients.

How the Issue is Getting Fixed

With widespread legality of cannabis for medicinal use, more doctors need to become knowledgeable on the subject. This is imperative for safe, practical use – as well as the potential advancement of research into what role cannabis plays in a wide variety of disease (like cancer, fibromyalgia, and Crohn’s Disease, for example).

There was such a gap in education surrounding this subject that the Canadian Federation of Medical Students (also known as the CFMS) have proposed that a new course covering a “longitudinal, evidence-based cannabis course” into all medical undergraduate programs across the country.

The paper states that there is a very large gap surrounding cannabis education. In fact, there are little to no courses currently available for those who would like to become more educated. What is learned is either through independent studies or residencies, like the one mentioned in the beginning of this article.

 Roadblocks and Controversy

Legalizing medicinal marijuana is not a new idea. Many states (US) and provinces (Canada) have allowed cannabis for medicinal usage for a number of years. Yet this has not fully dispelled the reputation of weed as a drug, as set about by the infamous “War on Drugs,” launched decades ago.

Due to misinformation in the decades since, many professionals and patients believe that marijuana is an “evil” substance of the likes of heroine or methamphetamines. Yet this isn’t true. While street weed may, indeed, be contaminated with other substances, marijuana itself is a very natural plant which is primarily non-harmful to humans. The slew of side effects seen in recreational usage are primarily attributed to a high THC content caused by cross-breeding programs exactly for those desired effects. Medicinal cannabis, on the other hand, leans towards a higher CBD content which does not produce as many – or any – unnecessary side effects.

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The 5 Best Medical Test Taking Tips for 2019

Taking Medical Exam

Preparing for an exam is one thing, but actually preparing yourself to sit down and take one of the most intense exams you’ll ever take in your life is something else entirely. Here, you’ll learn five of the best tips from the experts for taking medical exams like a pro.

#1 – Maximize Your Study Time

Making your test day the best it can be all starts with studying. Make sure that you start studying for your exam early on, and to get the most out of your time, use programs and tools that allow you to take mock exams and review your incorrect answers. Not only does this help get you in the right frame of mind for answering the questions on the actual medical exam, but it also puts the information you need most in front of you and helps to ensure your overall success on the real test.

#2 – Get Plenty of Rest the Night Before

Though it may seem beneficial to stay up late and study the things that have been giving you trouble, getting a good night’s sleep is even more important. In fact, studies have proven that better sleep improves academic success. By staying up late and getting fewer than seven to nine hours of sleep, your mind will not be as clear as it could be on test day, which can lead to reading comprehension issues and silly mistakes you may not otherwise make.

#3 – Eat a Good Breakfast (and Plan a Good Lunch)

Food is fuel for the body and the mind, so even if you’re feeling butterflies in your stomach, make sure you eat a well-balanced breakfast. Ideally, it should contain an excellent source of protein such as meat or Greek yogurt, and it should also contain a good source of complex carbohydrates that will help keep you satisfied and energetic until lunch. If your test lasts several hours and you will have a lunch break between, be sure to pack a meal that closely mimics breakfast. Fast food can be tempting, but a balanced meal is far better for your brain.

#4 – Wake Up Early to Prepare

Another excellent tip involves waking yourself up early the day of the test and taking your time to prepare. Rather than giving yourself an hour to get dressed, eat, and travel to the testing area, try to give yourself two or even three. Plan what you’ll eat for breakfast the night before, and perhaps lay out what you will wear before you go to bed, too. This will help reduce the number of decisions you have to make in the morning and may aid your overall focus.

#5 – One Question at a Time

When faced with an important exam, many people feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of questions they must answer in the allotted time. Rather than allowing yourself to stress out and start reading ahead, focus on the question in front of you until you have the right answer. By giving the question or problem on the screen all of your undivided attention, the odds of making a mistake or getting the wrong answer are much, much lower.

Many of the best test-taking tips for 2019 involve the time leading up to the test rather than the test itself. After all, the things you do before the exam will have the biggest impact. Be sure that you’re as prepared as you can be, and make sure that you take care of your body and mind, too. These things will keep your brain sharp and allow you to perform much better on test day.

 

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How Much do Canadian Doctors Earn in a Year?

canadian doctors

Across Canada, the doctor-to-patient ratio has been on the rise since 2011. As of 2015, there were roughly 228 doctors per 100,000 people in the nation. Doctors in Canada earn a handsome living, as well; as of 2018, Canadian doctors earned an average of $307,482 a year. Of course, these earnings vary by specialization, and more importantly, by province.

British Columbia

In British Columbia (BC), the government releases a document each year called the Blue Book that shows the amount of money different specific types of physicians earn based on their specializations. Many doctors in BC earn less than the national average for all specializations, and the average family doctor here earns roughly $273,000 a year.

Alberta

Alberta is one of the better Canadian provinces for anyone interested in working as a physician. It boasts the highest salary for physicians at an average of $384,380 a year. This is well above the national average – and it’s much higher than the other provinces, too. This could by why Alberta’s doctor population is growing more quickly than that of many other provinces.

Saskatchewan

The government in Saskatchewan has a little more control over physician earnings, and they cap the amount doctors can charge for services that insurance companies cover. This means that physicians are limited, but they still earn a handsome salary of $288,995 a year.

Manitoba

Doctors in Manitoba are considered public sector employees, and they are required by law to report their earnings to the public every year. The highest paid doctor in the province is an ER physician who earns $680,000 annually, but the average annual salary for all doctors in Manitoba is much lower at $354,705.

Ontario

Ontario is a highly populated province, but despite this – and despite the limitations placed on medical charges by other provincial governments – these caps do not exist in Ontario. The average doctor here earns right at $360,000 annually, which is slightly more than the national average.  It should be noted that Ontario doctors are not required to disclose their earnings.

Quebec

Doctors in Quebec earn salaries in line with the national average at $325,000 a year, but many feel as if they earn far too much and would like to see part of their salaries appropriated to other areas of the healthcare system in general. Specialists and surgeons earn quite a bit more than general practitioners in Quebec, too.

New Brunswick

Doctors in New Brunswick earn salaries that closely compete with the national average at right around $302,123 a year. This average is much lower than some other provinces, but they still live quite comfortably. Startlingly, more than two dozen doctors across the province earn more than $1 million each year – likely specialists and surgeons.

Nova Scotia

Doctors in Nova Scotia earn well below the country’s national average at just $259,368 a year. Though this is a handsome salary when compared to many other professions, doctors here have expressed their desire to work in other parts of the country for the higher salaries, and many say they would move if they were not already important community figures.

Prince Edward Island

Doctors’ salaries on Prince Edward Island are very similar to those of doctors in New Brunswick. Doctors here earn an average of $305,091 a year. Prince Edward Island is unique in that doctors can simply work more hours via the fee-for-service method – essentially charging for every individual service provided – and earn far more. Many who do earn well over $1 million a year. In fact, one ophthalmologist earned $1.4 million in a single year.

Newfoundland

Newfoundland is right behind Nova Scotia, which has the lowest average salary for doctors in Canada, at $269,646. In the last few years, doctors in Newfoundland have petitioned the government for higher pay, claiming that they earn far too little to cover their costs and employees while still living comfortably.

Keep in mind that these numbers are averages across all specializations and fields of medicine. Though some doctors in Canada do especially well for themselves – especially in higher-paying provinces – others struggle to pay their staff and cover their expenses. Just as some doctors are earning well over $1 million each year (such as that incredibly successful eye doctor), others earn well below the average, too.

 

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Why the MCATs Are So Important for Medical Students

Canadian Medical Students

MCAT stands for the “Medical College Admission Test,” and it’s a major milestone for all premed students. In fact, it can be argued that it is one of the most important (and difficult) exams potential medical school students will ever take. But why is this test so important?

Why the MCAT Matters So Much

The MCAT is the first step in medical school. After a traditional four-year college program in premed, students must pass the MCAT to obtain entrance into medical school. If a student fails their MCAT they will probably not be accepted into any reputable medical school, and their hard work up to that point will be for naught. But why is this single test so very important?

The answer to this question lays within the test’s ability to predict the future, so to speak. Studies have proven that a student’s ability to perform well on the MCAT correlates with their performance on the all-important USMLE.

The USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) is a three-part test which must be taken to receive licensing, prior to obtaining a doctorate. The parts are broken down into steps, and are as follows:

  • Step One: Typically taken after the second year of medical school. This first step assesses basic understanding and application of important concepts regarding basic science and the practice of medicine – including underlying health, modes of therapy, and disease.
  • Step Two: Typically taken in the fourth year of medical school. This second step assess the ability to apply the knowledge and skills accumulated during schooling, with special emphasis placed on physical patient care.
  • Step Three: Typically taken during an internship or during the first year of residency. It is the culmination of everything learned, from book knowledge to patient care and beyond. This final step will also test a student’s knowledge on laws and regulations as it pertains to physicians and patient care.

Keeping this study in mind will make it clear why medical schools place such an emphasis on it. If performance on the MCAT directly correlates to the USMLE, and the USMLE is the most important test towards graduation, then schools who wish to ensure a high graduation rate will want students who have proven they can do well.

Other Variables

The good news is that the MCAT is not the only indicator of how well a student will do on the USMLE. While it definitely factors in, there are a number of other variables which will influence a student’s final score. These might include:

  • What type of test-taker a student is. Those who are naturally better at taking tests will obviously do better than those who do not.
  • How well a student prepares through studying in the days, weeks, and months prior to the examination.
  • How dedicated a student has been in their studies. Those who are more attentive in class and hold higher grades tend towards doing better than those who slack or do not pay attention.