Caribbean Higher Education System
Generally, the Caribbean Education System resembles that of the US. Students can choose between two-year community colleges, technical schools that offer associate degrees and vocational courses, and typical four-year universities offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees and courses. Typically, US and international students move to the Caribbean to get their medical degrees. The Caribbean is home to a large number of medical schools that students often apply to because their admissions criteria is significantly more relaxed than that of a US medical school. While many of these schools are notorious for having high attrition rates, there are a few accredited medical schools in the Caribbean that are reliable, and will allow their graduates to practice in any US state.
Visa Requirements
In the Caribbean, visa requirements vary from country to country. Make sure that you check the details from the specific embassy, and do all the necessary research. A few common items will include your passport, immunization and medical exam records, proof of funds, birth certificate, processing fees, two passport photos, and health insurance documents- just to name a few.
Additionally, student visas for the Caribbean need to be renewed annually. The documents you will typically be required to present for renewal are your criminal record certificate, medical certificate, photocopy of your National ID, and certificate of acceptance from the university you’ll be attending. Typically, your visa will take anywhere from a week to a month to process, but this can also vary depending on which country you’re considering studying in.
Every year, thousands of students get their medical degrees from a school in the Caribbean. While some of these schools are proven to be risky investments, there are a few Caribbean medical schools that are worth considering if you want to become a physician. Find out if a Caribbean medical school may be right for you.
Medical school is a huge commitment, and funding your medical education can be difficult. Many Caribbean medical schools have high tuition rates, and aren’t eligible for federal loans due to high attrition rates. However, if you pick a school that is eligible, there are a number of ways that you can fund your journey through medical school in the Caribbean.