How to Become a Doctor in Toronto

The path to becoming a doctor in Toronto is similar to that in other parts of the world.

To become a doctor in Toronto, or wherever you intend to practice medicine, you must obtain an advanced medical degree and get first-hand experience in the medical field via residency programs. You will then be required to successfully pass medical examinations and other licensing requirements.

Instructions

1. Obtain your undergraduate degree--preferably in science. However, not all medical schools in Toronto will require that your undergraduate degree be in the science field.

2. Choose a medical school in Toronto to attend. Understand that most medical schools in Toronto will require that you become a resident of Ontario prior to being accepted.

3. Request information from your preferred medical school regarding entrance requirements. For example, some schools may ask that you complete the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT), though not all will.

4. Apply via the Ontario Medical School Application Service or through another commonly used application system.

5. Complete the medical school classroom portions. Here, you will learn about pharmacology, medical terminology and the human body.

6. Complete your clerkship. This is the Canadian equivalent of a residency program in the United States. A clerkship will give you first-hand experience caring for patients for two years.

7. Successfully pass the medical licensing exams offered to new doctors by the Medical Council of Canada.

References

• IMGO: How to Become a Doctor in Ontario (PDF)
• Athabasca University: How to become a Physician
• Canada: What it takes to become a doctor

Resources

• Ontario Medical School Application