Canada is a popular goal for doctors trained abroad, but each province has its own licensing body. The national part of the route is run by the Medical Council of Canada (MCC). Here is what a graduate from Ukraine, Georgia or Poland needs to do.
Is your university acceptable?
To use MCC services and sit its exams, you need an acceptable medical degree from an acceptable medical school:
- the school is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools, and its listing has a Canada Sponsor Note;
- your graduation date falls within the years given in the school’s ECFMG Sponsor Note;
- the title of your degree is listed in the Reference Guide for Medical Education Credentials.
This means that the same check as for the USA matters in Canada too. We look at it together before you choose a university.
Route to a licence in Canada
- Account on physiciansapply.ca This is where you apply for MCC services and exams.
- Source verification The MCC verifies your diploma with the university that issued it. If you plan to work in Ontario, check the rules of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario.
- MCCQE Part I The national exam at the level of a student about to graduate from a Canadian medical school.
- NAC examination It checks your readiness to enter supervised training in Canada and is required to apply for residency through CaRMS.
- Residency or practice-ready assessment Without a specialty, you apply for a Canadian residency programme through CaRMS. If you have already completed residency and worked independently abroad, some provinces offer a practice-ready assessment, a 12-week clinical assessment at the workplace.
- Licence You receive your licence from the medical regulatory authority of your province or territory, which sets its own requirements.
LMCC
The Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC) is an important part of the Canadian standard for a full licence. Ask us how to plan your exams so they fit with your residency applications.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to pass USMLE for Canada?
No. Canada has its own exams (MCCQE Part I and NAC). However, the Canadian check of the medical school uses the same World Directory and ECFMG Sponsor Note.
Is Canada also open to a degree from Poland?
Yes, on the same terms as other international degrees: an acceptable school and degree, MCC exams and a provincial licence.
How can Edumetric help?
We help you choose a university whose listing meets the Canadian requirements and prepare your documents for verification. Book a free consultation.
Read also: Studying medicine in Ukraine: is it a good idea?, Studying medicine in Georgia: admission, costs and recognition in the UK and Studying medicine in Poland in English: admission, tuition and what comes next. You will find all universities in the university directory.
Have questions about studying abroad?
An Edumetric adviser will answer your questions and put together a list of universities with their costs. The consultation is free.