Frequently Asked Questions

Trinity School of Medicine FAQs

Is Trinity accredited?
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Yes! Trinity’s accreditation by CAAM-HP, the primary accrediting authority for Caribbean medical schools, enables our graduates to participate in the residency match processes in the United States and Canada, as well as apply for residencies and licensure in both countries.

Do I have to schedule my own rotations?
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All rotations are scheduled by a Trinity clerkship administrator. Students rotate with a low preceptor-to-student ratio and can complete their full 48 weeks of core rotations in one location at our affiliated hospitals and clinics – no moving around from city to city, no waiting for rotations slots to open, and no gaps between rotations.

Can I match if I graduate from Trinity?
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Absolutely. Trinity students have a cumulative residency placement rate of 96%, with many graduates going on to become chief residents within their programs.

What clinical training does Trinity offer?
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Trinity School of Medicine has an exceptionally high volume of clinical training. There are two main phases to Trinity’s formal clinical offering. The first is in St. Vincent, the second is in the United States. Trinity students spend their first five terms in St. Vincent, utilizing the classrooms and labs on campus while also gaining practical experience at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, a 230-bed teaching hospital affiliated with the campus.

The second phase of Trinity School of Medicine’s MD program consists of clinical clerkships in the U.S., conducted in hospitals and medical facilities where students utilize what they’ve learned in the basic science courses and the Introduction to Clinical and Community Medicine courses. Under the supervision of faculty physicians, students participate in 48 weeks of required core clerkships and 27 weeks of elective clerkships. From the different clerkships, students obtain clinical expertise in the basic disciplines in preparation for advanced training during their residencies. There are no waiting lists for core rotations at Trinity School of Medicine. No student is admitted to the school without us knowing there is a slot available for them when they start their rotations.

The 27 weeks of elective clerkships are strategically chosen on an individual basis to strengthen students’ skills and visibility within specialties or geographies of specific interests for their postgraduate education (residency).

Is Trinity approved in California?
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Yes. As of January 1, 2020, graduates of Trinity School of Medicine can match into residencies and obtain medical licenses in California. To read more on the topic, click here.

Are there research opportunities?
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Yes! Ground-breaking medical innovation starts with research. At Trinity, we offer numerous research opportunities to students driven by their desire to solve a problem. Research at Trinity is not limited to a specific area and students are encouraged to partner with professors, peers and preceptors on publications, projects, and presentations in their interest areas of practice.

What is student life like at Trinity?
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As is the case with any medical school, the students are busy. While the students are bright and competitive, the stereotype of the cutthroat medical student is largely absent at Trinity. This is by design. Trinity’s small class size and supportive atmosphere is cultivated to create a safe, distraction-free environment where students can meet their full potential as future doctors.

Trinity’s small class sizes also mean students aren’t just building knowledge – they are building friendships. Building strong and lasting friendships is impossible at most medical schools, where students are in a sea of hundreds. Trinity is proud to provide a setting where students can build friendships and benefit from the constant support only close peer groups provide.

Although the majority of students’ time is focused on their studies, St. Vincent provides a beautiful, tropical background with ecotourism opportunities, beautiful beaches, and wonderfully welcoming people. There are many opportunities to explore the island, participate in group activities, and relax between exams.

For a full list of official student groups and activities, click here.

How do I get to campus?
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The Argyle International Airport is located about fifteen minutes from campus and is serviced by regional carriers, including Liat and SVG Air as well as Caribbean Airlines and Air Canada. Air Canada flies direct from Toronto and Caribbean Airlines flies direct from New York City. Other international flights are routed first through nearby Barbados before making a connection to St. Vincent.

Can I speak to an alum?
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Yes! We frequently host “From an Insider” webinars where we have an alum as a guest. This is a great way to ask questions and have them answered live in a group setting. If you prefer a one-on-one conversation, just reach out to admissions and they will connect you with a graduate.

What is the culture of Trinity’s campus?
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Studies have shown that higher academic results are achieved in an inclusive and diverse campus environment. This type of campus culture promotes the ability to hear and understand someone of a different background and creates a higher level of self-awareness that future doctors need to be successful in their practice.

Trinity School of Medicine continues to build upon the groundwork of our founders and their commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity. We believe educating students in environments that value diversity and inclusion has a positive impact on students’ attitudes regarding access to care. Additionally, these environments produce graduates who are better prepared to practice in a variety of communities. This approach is keeping with our mission to improve access to quality healthcare.

How long do students live on the island?
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Students in Trinity’s MD Program spend their first 4 terms (16 months) at our Basic Science Campus in St. Vincent. As with most medical schools, Trinity students enjoy breaks between terms, during which they can explore the islands or travel home to visit family and friends.

What global volunteer opportunities are available to Trinity students?
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Trinity students have a truly unique opportunity to participate in the pediatric care mission of a remarkable organization, World Pediatrics. World Pediatrics serves at-risk children throughout the Caribbean region through its teams of volunteer physicians and a world-class operating facility in St. Vincent for specialty surgeries. Trinity students may volunteer to serve supporting roles in surgical cases and participate in care discussions with surgical teams.

In addition to World Pediatrics, Trinity students have many other opportunities to serve and learn within the medical community. The Rotary Village Doctor program allows the people of St. Vincent the opportunity to be seen by a number of volunteer specialists on a single day, in a single location. Trinity students triage over 100 patients a day at these scheduled events. Early patient interaction and exposure to clinical situations provide a great benefit to Trinity students and also allow the student the opportunity to give back to the community of St. Vincent.

Participating in these unique opportunities provides not only a sense of personal fulfillment – it also strengthens students’ applications to residency by spotlighting qualities of compassion, humanity, and desire to be a force for good.

What does the networking landscape look like for Trinity students and are there networking opportunities?
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Trinity has a wide variety of student organizations, all of which lead to deep lasting personal and professional relationships. Beyond that, Trinity’s guest lecturers, visiting faculty, and full-time faculty all take special interest in our students. Small class sizes allow for professional relationships to develop early on, offering both mentorship opportunities and a connection to the greater healthcare community.

Trinity students spend their 3rd and 4th years in one location for clerkships, where relationships with program directors, hospital administrators, and physicians can be built and nurtured. The ability to spend 4 terms in the same community with the same medical professionals provides the opportunity to build a strong foundation for lifelong relationships. This experience is unique to Trinity due to our clerkship program structure.

FAQs About Accreditations

Is Trinity School of Medicine’s accreditation valid in the United States and Canada?
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Yes. Trinity School of Medicine carries multiple accreditations, national and international. Trinity is accredited by the Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and other Health Professions (CAAM-HP), the legally-constituted body established to accredit medical programs in the Caribbean. The standards used by CAAM-HP are based on the United States medical school accreditation program as outlined by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME). These standards are also recognized by the U.S. Department of Education’s NCFMEA.

Trinity has also been registered with the National Accreditation Board (NAB) of the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines since 2008. Concurrently, the Government granted Trinity School of Medicine a charter with exclusive rights to use Milton Cato Memorial Hospital for its medical school and the Doctor of Medicine preparatory program.

Trinity School of Medicine is also listed by the Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER) in its World Directory of Medical Schools since September 19, 2008. This listing in FAIMER and the assignment of a code, provides the sanction for Trinity students to register for and take the USMLE Step 1, Step 2, and Step 3 examinations. Students who successfully complete Step 1 and Step 2 CK, and otherwise meet the requirements for graduation from Trinity, are then authorized by the ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates) to register for and participate in the National Residency Match Program (NRMP), as well as the Canadian Resident Matching Matching Service (CaRMS).  

Trinity is the only CAAM-HP accredited medical school in St. Vincent.

What's the difference between approval and accreditation?
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This is a common source of confusion for people considering a Caribbean medical school.

States don’t actually offer accreditation, nor does the United States accredit foreign medical schools. There are, however, federally recognized international accreditation authorities. In that respect, Trinity’s accreditation is valid in all 50 states.

However, in some states, there is the matter of independent medical board approvals. The number of states utilizing this system is shrinking as more and more states recognize ECFMG and NCFMEA decisions as sufficient standards of quality. State independent medical boards do not only offer “approved” or “unapproved” statuses; there is also “unevaluated.” In most states, graduates from an unevaluated school can still obtain a license or match into a residency.

How can I verify Trinity Medical School's accreditation status?
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Trinity Medical School is committed to upholding medical school accreditation standards. It undergoes regular evaluations and self-assessments to ensure compliance with the accrediting body’s requirements. The school continuously improves its curriculum, faculty qualifications, and educational resources to maintain the high standards set by the accrediting organization.

Are all Caribbean medical schools accredited?
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No, not all Caribbean medical schools are accredited. It’s important to note that accreditation varies among institutions. Prospective students should research and verify the accreditation status of Caribbean medical schools they are considering. Look for accreditation from reputable accrediting bodies such as CAAM-HP (Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and other Health Professions) or other recognized regional or national accrediting organizations, such as those listed above.

What does medical school accreditation mean for Trinity?
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Accreditation signifies that Trinity School of Medicine has undergone a comprehensive evaluation process to ensure that it meets established standards for medical education. It assures students, faculty, and the public that the school operates with integrity, provides a robust curriculum, and maintains qualified faculty members.

How does Trinity School of Medicine maintain its accreditation?
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Trinity School of Medicine is committed to upholding medical school accreditation standards. It undergoes regular evaluations and self-assessments to ensure compliance with the accrediting body’s requirements. The school continuously improves its curriculum, faculty qualifications, and educational resources to maintain the high standards set by the accrediting organization.

How can I verify Trinity School of Medicine's accreditation status?
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Trinity School of Medicine's accreditation status can be verified by checking the official website of each accrediting organization. Additionally, you can reach out to Trinity School of Medicine's administration or admissions office for confirmation and further details about its accreditation.

Caribbean Medical School FAQs

Is Trinity School of Medicine’s accreditation valid in the United States and Canada?
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Yes. Trinity School of Medicine carries multiple accreditations, national and international. Trinity is accredited by the Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and other Health Professions (CAAM-HP), the legally-constituted body established to accredit medical programs in the Caribbean. The standards used by CAAM-HP are based on the United States medical school accreditation program as outlined by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME). These standards are also recognized by the U.S. Department of Education’s NCFMEA.

Trinity has also been registered with the National Accreditation Board (NAB) of the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines since 2008. Concurrently, the Government granted Trinity School of Medicine a charter with exclusive rights to use Milton Cato Memorial Hospital for its medical school and the Doctor of Medicine preparatory program.

Trinity School of Medicine is also listed by the Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER) in its World Directory of Medical Schools since September 19, 2008. This listing in FAIMER and the assignment of a code, provides the sanction for Trinity students to register for and take the USMLE Step 1, Step 2, and Step 3 examinations. Students who successfully complete Step 1 and Step 2 CK, and otherwise meet the requirements for graduation from Trinity, are then authorized by the ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates) to register for and participate in the National Residency Match Program (NRMP), as well as the Canadian Resident Matching Matching Service (CaRMS).  

Trinity is the only CAAM-HP accredited medical school in St. Vincent.

What's the difference between approval and accreditation?
Down arrow icon.

This is a common source of confusion for people considering a Caribbean medical school.

States don’t actually offer accreditation, nor does the United States accredit foreign medical schools. There are, however, federally recognized international accreditation authorities. In that respect, Trinity’s accreditation is valid in all 50 states.

However, in some states, there is the matter of independent medical board approvals. The number of states utilizing this system is shrinking as more and more states recognize ECFMG and NCFMEA decisions as sufficient standards of quality. State independent medical boards do not only offer “approved” or “unapproved” statuses; there is also “unevaluated.” In most states, graduates from an unevaluated school can still obtain a license or match into a residency.

How can I verify Trinity Medical School's accreditation status?
Down arrow icon.

Trinity Medical School is committed to upholding medical school accreditation standards. It undergoes regular evaluations and self-assessments to ensure compliance with the accrediting body’s requirements. The school continuously improves its curriculum, faculty qualifications, and educational resources to maintain the high standards set by the accrediting organization.

Are all Caribbean medical schools accredited?
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No, not all Caribbean medical schools are accredited. It’s important to note that accreditation varies among institutions. Prospective students should research and verify the accreditation status of Caribbean medical schools they are considering. Look for accreditation from reputable accrediting bodies such as CAAM-HP (Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and other Health Professions) or other recognized regional or national accrediting organizations, such as those listed above.

What does medical school accreditation mean for Trinity?
Down arrow icon.

Accreditation signifies that Trinity School of Medicine has undergone a comprehensive evaluation process to ensure that it meets established standards for medical education. It assures students, faculty, and the public that the school operates with integrity, provides a robust curriculum, and maintains qualified faculty members.

How does Trinity School of Medicine maintain its accreditation?
Down arrow icon.

Trinity School of Medicine is committed to upholding medical school accreditation standards. It undergoes regular evaluations and self-assessments to ensure compliance with the accrediting body’s requirements. The school continuously improves its curriculum, faculty qualifications, and educational resources to maintain the high standards set by the accrediting organization.

How can I verify Trinity School of Medicine's accreditation status?
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Trinity School of Medicine's accreditation status can be verified by checking the official website of each accrediting organization. Additionally, you can reach out to Trinity School of Medicine's administration or admissions office for confirmation and further details about its accreditation.

MD Program FAQs

What is a Doctor of Medicine?
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A Doctor of Medicine is a professional degree awarded to individuals who have completed the necessary education and training to practice medicine. MD holders are trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent illnesses, as well as provide medical care to individuals and communities.

What can you do with a Doctor of Medicine degree?
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With a Doctor of Medicine degree, individuals can pursue a variety of medical careers, including becoming physicians, surgeons, researchers, educators, or healthcare administrators. The MD degree opens doors to opportunities in various medical specialties and settings, ranging from hospitals and clinics to research institutions and public health organizations.

How does a 4-year doctoral program differ from other medical programs?
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In a 4-year doctoral program, students have a condensed curriculum with a focus on essential medical knowledge and clinical skills. This approach allows students to enter the medical field sooner and begin their residency training earlier.

What are the admissions requirements for the MD Program?
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Prior to matriculation, Trinity’s MD program requires:

  • 90 credit hours (or equivalent) from a regionally-accredited undergraduate institution
  • Verifiable score(s) on the MCAT exam
  • One year each of:some text
    • Biology w/lab
    • General chemistry w/lab
    • Organic chemistry w/lab (one semester may be substituted with biochemistry)
    • Physics (while not required it strongly recommended)
  • And one semester each of:some text
    • Mathematics
    • English
  • Two individual letters of recommendation or one committee letter from your pre-health advising office.
What are the advantages of pursuing a 4-year medical degree?
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Some advantages include a shorter time to completion, reduced tuition costs, and earlier entry into the workforce. Additionally, students may have the opportunity to specialize or enter their desired field sooner.

I have some grades in my past I’m not proud of. Will they affect my admission?
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Academic performance is obviously an important factor. That said, Trinity places a premium on student experience, character, leadership, communication skills, drive, and passion, recognizing that sometimes grades don’t paint the entire picture. While GPA plays a major part in student selection criteria, we consider trajectory and consistency of grades and examine an applicant’s BCPM (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Math) GPA independently of other course work. We are also open to explanations of context and a clear narrative of personal growth.


The reality is that the best doctors aren’t always the best university freshmen. We understand. We think of Trinity as an opportunity to show yourself, and the world, just how great you can be in a focused, supportive environment.

Who should consider our Doctor of Medicine program?
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Our Doctor of Medicine program is suitable for individuals who aspire to become compassionate and skilled physicians. Prospective students with a strong academic background, a passion for healthcare, and a commitment to making a positive impact on patient well-being are encouraged to consider our program.

Does the MD program require MCAT scores?
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The MD program at Trinity School of Medicine requires MCAT scores from U.S. applicants. The admissions committee takes a holistic approach, considering various aspects such as academic achievements, personal experiences, letters of recommendation, and medical school interviews to assess an applicant’s suitability for the program.

Can international students apply to the MD program?
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Absolutely! Trinity School of Medicine welcomes applications from international students, including Canadian medical students. Our MD program values diversity, and we encourage qualified candidates from around the world to apply. International students bring unique perspectives to the learning environment, enriching the overall educational experience.

Can graduates of the MD program practice in the United States?
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Yes, graduates of our MD program are eligible to pursue licensure and practice medicine in the United States. Trinity School of Medicine is a CAAM-HP accredited Caribbean med school, ensuring that our graduates meet the necessary standards for licensure. The school provides support and guidance to help graduates navigate the U.S. and Canadian licensing process.

How can I apply to the MD program at Trinity School of Medicine?
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To apply to our MD program, please navigate to the admissions page. Here, you will find detailed information about the application process, including medical school admission requirements, deadlines, and instructions for submission. If you have specific inquiries or need assistance, feel free to contact our Admissions Office directly. We invite you to apply to Trinity today!

Pre-Med Program FAQs

What can I do with a pre-med degree?
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A pre-med degree opens up a diverse array of career pathways within the healthcare industry and beyond. While the primary goal of a pre-med degree is to prepare students for medical school and a career as a physician, there are several other fulfilling options for graduates to explore, including:

Medical Doctor (Physician): The most common and direct path for pre-med graduates is to attend medical school and become a licensed medical doctor. Physicians can specialize in various fields, such as pediatrics, surgery, cardiology, oncology, and more.

Medical Research: Graduates with a pre-med degree can delve into medical research, exploring new treatments, studying diseases, and contributing to advancements in healthcare.

Healthcare Administration: Some pre-med graduates find their calling in healthcare administration, overseeing the efficient functioning of medical facilities, managing resources, and developing healthcare policies.

Physician Assistant (PA) or Nurse Practitioner (NP): With further education, pre-med graduates can become physician assistants or nurse practitioners, working closely with physicians to diagnose and treat patients.

Public Health Specialist: A pre-med degree provides a solid foundation for a career in public health, focusing on disease prevention, health education, and improving community health outcomes.

Healthcare Consultant: Graduates can utilize their medical knowledge as healthcare consultants, advising organizations on improving patient care and operational efficiency.

Why attend a pre-med Caribbean medical school?
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Attending Trinity School of Medicine, a pre-med Caribbean medical school, presents a host of compelling advantages for prospective medical students. One of the key reasons to consider Trinity is its commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment. The school prides itself on providing personalized attention and small class sizes, ensuring that students receive individualized instruction and ample opportunities for academic growth. Additionally, Trinity boasts a distinguished faculty comprised of experienced healthcare professionals who are dedicated to mentoring and guiding students throughout their medical journey.

What are the Required Courses in the Pre-Med program?
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Our Pre-Med program is designed to cover all essential foundational courses that will prepare you for success in medical school. The required courses include:

  • General Biology 
  • General/Inorganic Chemistry  
  • General Physics 
  • Behavioral Science
  • Mathematics 
  • English 
Why attend an online Pre-Med program?
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Attending our online Pre-Med program offers the flexibility of asynchronous learning, allowing you to study at your own pace. Additionally, it builds a strong foundation that enhances your chances of admission into our prestigious MD program.

How do I apply for Trinity's Pre-Med program?
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To apply for Trinity's 5-6 Year Pre-Med Program, visit our online applicant portal. The user-friendly portal guides you through each step of the application process, making it easy to start your journey towards becoming a successful physician.  If you have specific inquiries or need assistance, feel free to contact our Admissions Office directly. We invite you to apply to Trinity today!

Is pre-health the same as Pre-Med?
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Pre-health and Pre-Med are related but distinct paths in the journey towards a career in medicine or healthcare. While they share some common elements, they have different focuses and goals. Pre-health is a broader term that encompasses all undergraduate students who are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare, which includes fields beyond medicine such as dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, veterinary medicine, and more.

Is acceptance into the MD or Doctor of Medicine program automatic if I pass my undergraduate courses?
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Students who successfully complete all requirements of their undergraduate program (90 credit hours) with a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average will be considered for promotion to Trinity School of Medicine’s Doctor of Medicine degree program.

What is the advantage of Trinity’s Pre-Med to Med Program?
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Enrollment in Trinity School of Medicine’s 5-6 Year Pre-Med to Med Program will prepare you for becoming a successful physician. Undergraduate students attend classes in a year-round format (trimesters), building towards promotion to the MD program in year two. The curriculum was designed with the same prerequisites U.S. students complete, giving students a level playing field for Step 1, Step 2 CK, and residency."

Other advantages include:

  • Instruction from and interaction with the MD faculty and students.
  • Undergraduate classes are held online or in person, with the exception of the final term. The final term is held in person on the basic science campus and is designed to acclimate students to the rigors of the MD program.
  • Testing and preparation beginning in the undergraduate program to better prepare you for a strong score on NBME and USMLE type exams.
  • Opportunities in the final term to shadow faculty and students at the hospital and be mentored by medical students and tutors who have mastered the basic science coursework of the MD program.
  • Ability to determine early in your studies if practicing medicine is the right choice for you.
Can non-English speakers apply to Caribbean Pre-Med programs?
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While English does not need to be your native language, applicants must be proficient in the English language or pass a TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) exam. Students with non-English transcripts must have their credentials evaluated by World Education Services (WES), an accredited member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services.

Fees & Funding FAQs

How much does the MD Program Cost?
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With Trinity, you can enjoy a personalized top-tier education at an affordable price compared to competitor schools. The total MD tuition cost is $168,500. The total cost of tuition and fees for MD is $192,950.

What is the Sallie Mae Medical School Loan?
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This private loan program provides rates and terms that are competitive with Federal PLUS Loans for Graduates, and in many cases offers better rates. The terms of the loans themselves are where this program stands out.

  • 100% coverage of school-certified expenses with no max for all years of medical school.
  • 36-month grace period to support you during the start of your medical career.
  • 48 Months of Deferment: During your residency and fellowship.
  • 20 years to repay your Medical School Loan with no prepayment penalty.
  • 12 interest-only payments for eligible borrowers after the grace period for repayment flexibility.

Sallie Mae is the only loan provider that offers dedicated financial assistance specifically for the residency process. Its Global Residency Application and Relocation Program offers up to $30,000 to assist with board examination fees (Step Exams), residency application fees, interview travel, and moving expenses for your medical residency.

Do I need a cosigner for the Sallie Mae Medical School Loan?
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Students are encouraged to utilize a qualified co-signer to support their loan application as it may result in a better interest rate. Co-signers must meet the income and other credit requirements.

Does Trinity offer grants and scholarships?
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Yes. Trinity offers merit scholarships, financial hardship grants, and public service grants, among others.

I am Canadian, can I use Canadian bank loans?
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As of May 28, 2018, Trinity School of Medicine is listed as a Designated Educational Institution by the Canadian Government (code ZUCF). Canadian citizens may now obtain federal and provincial student loans to aid in the cost of attending Trinity. Trinity is an approved educational institution outside of Canada, meaning tuition and fees are tax deductible.

I am Canadian, are there other options besides federal and provincial funding?
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For students who still need a private loan option beyond federal and provincial funding, we proudly offer additional options: National Bank of Canada, Canada Trust, Royal Bank of Canada, and Bank of Montreal. In addition, there are scholarships and grants available for Canadian students.

Are there any grants or scholarships?
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Yes. Trinity offers merit scholarships, financial hardship grants, and public service grants, among others.

Can I use my GI bill?
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Yes. As a veteran of the armed forces, students may be eligible for benefits that cover tuition, fees, housing, textbooks, and other supplies.

Trinity is proud to participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program, a provision of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008. This program allows degree granting institutions of higher learning to voluntarily enter into an agreement with the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs to fund tuition expenses that exceed the annual VA tuition and fees benefit.

Trinity has established a Yellow Ribbon Fund and each qualifying student-veteran receives $7,500 per academic year towards the cost of their tuition. The VA will then match this amount for the same period, resulting in a total annual funding of $15,000 in addition to other benefits offered through the Post 911 GI Bill Program.

Veterans can check online or at their regional VA office to confirm eligibility requirements before applying.

FAQs from Canadian Students

Can Caribbean medical school graduates practice medicine in Canada?
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Yes, Canadian students can be eligible for residency and licensing in their home country after graduation from a Caribbean med school. The most important consideration here is whether or not the medical school is accredited by the appropriate governing body and adheres to international standards.

At Trinity, we are accredited by the Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and Other Health Professions (CAAM-HP), the leading accrediting authority for Caribbean medical schools, which qualifies our graduates to enter residency and become licensed to practice medicine in any Canadian province.

Upon graduating, our students are eligible to take both the MCCQE (Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Exams) and USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Exam) and apply to residency programs in Canada or the United States.

Additionally, Trinity meets all standards put forth by the Education Committee for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) 2024 Rule that puts additional restrictions on foreign medical school graduates.

Why should Canadian applicants consider Caribbean medical schools?
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Canada is home to 17 medical schools and, as of 2020, over 10,000 medical school applicants. Much like the United States, Canada has also seen an increased demand for physicians due to shortages in key medical specialties, such as family medicine.

However, Canadian medical school applicants may find it difficult to gain admission due to the limited number of available spots in Canada’s medical schools. Canadian schools further complicate the process by reserving matriculant spaces for in-province students, making cross-country admissions even more unlikely. This is where Caribbean medical schools offer a potential solution by providing an opportunity for aspiring physicians to receive their Doctor of Medicine degree and become licensed to practice medicine in North America.

What kind of programs can Canadian applicants expect from Caribbean medical schools?
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Caribbean medical schools can offer a variety of programs and concentrations tailored to the needs of Canadian applicants. These include basic medical sciences, clinical rotations in North America, public health courses, research opportunities, electives, and more.

When researching Caribbean medical schools, look for accredited institutions that offer a curriculum that is comparable to North American schools. You’ll also want to make sure that your medical school of choice provides early, frequent clinical training opportunities to prepare you for residency and beyond. Canadian students at Trinity are eligible to do “away electives” in Canada to gain direct experience working in Canadian hospitals. This type of clinical training will not only help students as they apply for residencies back home, but also prepare them for working as full-time Canadian physicians following their residencies.

Are there any benefits to attending a Caribbean medical school?
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Caribbean medical schools are not all identical. The advantages that Caribbean schools might offer for Canadian applicants will vary based on the quality of the school, its faculty and staff, and the opportunities the school provides.

At Trinity, we offer a variety of unique benefits to Canadian applicants. Our Caribbean medical school offers a more intimate learning environment than many North American schools. In addition, we offer several “away electives” in Canada, allowing you to further your education in your own backyard.

Are there any differences in the curriculum between Canadian and Caribbean medical schools?
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The curriculum of Caribbean medical schools is in many ways similar to those of North American universities. For example, the curriculum at Trinity School of Medicine is modeled on the U.S. medical school educational standards and focuses heavily on early clinical exposure as well as traditional lectures and seminars.

Is it difficult to transfer credits from a Caribbean medical school to a Canadian medical school?
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The transfer of credits from a Caribbean medical school to a Canadian medical school depends on the type of program and institution. In general, most universities will accept course credits from accredited Caribbean medical schools as long as they meet their academic standards. Additionally, many institutions offer special transfer programs that allow students to apply credits earned in one school toward a degree at another. It is important to check with your prospective school for details about their transfer policy before enrolling in a Caribbean medical school, particularly if you plan to transfer at some point.

Which Caribbean medical schools are best for Canadian students?
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All students planning to enter residency in Canada or the United States should first make sure that their Caribbean medical school of choice is appropriately accredited by the CAAM-HP.

However, the best Caribbean medical school for Canadian students depends on the applicant’s individual needs and goals. There are no official Caribbean medical school rankings, so applicants should conduct their own research, including asking Canadian alumni about their experience during and after med school.

At Trinity, we know that the Canadian medical student experience is unique. Our Canadian Advisory Board is here to help. Our Canadian Advisory board is headed by Dr. Paul Cooper who is a Neuro Professor in Western University School of Medicine. Together with other successful alumni, the board helps Canadians match into Canada by giving them an in-depth review and recommendations for their electives to help them match into a Canadian Residency.

How does the cost of tuition compare to other medical schools in Canada?
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The cost of tuition for Caribbean medical schools is generally lower than for other medical schools across Canada and the world. The exact amount depends on the school and program.

When considering your medical school financial plan, look for Caribbean medical schools that are considered Designated Educational Institutions by the Canadian government. This designation qualifies Canadian citizens to receive federal and provincial student loans to attend medical school, making the cost considerably more affordable for many students.

Scholarships are another crucial component of medical school affordability, both internationally and in North America. Before applying to medical school in the Caribbean, discuss all financial options with your admissions counselor and confirm which scholarships and grants may be available to Canadian applicants.

At Trinity, we offer a number of scholarships and grants to Canadian students to help offset the costs of med school. Providing transparent financial information and resources helps students feel confident in their medical school decision; for more information on Trinity’s tuition and fees, read more here or reach out to an admissions counselor.

Admissions FAQs

Can international students apply to Trinity School of Medicine?
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Yes, Trinity School of Medicine warmly welcomes international students to apply. The school values diversity and encourages applications from students across the globe, including the United States and Canada.

What does rolling admissions mean for medical schools?
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Rolling admissions refers to an application process where medical schools have multiple intakes throughout the year. Trinity has 3 start terms every year – January, May and September.

How do I stand out among medical school applicants?
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To distinguish yourself, participate in relevant volunteer work, clinical experiences, or research projects. Craft a personal statement that reflects your genuine passion for medicine and your aspirations. Highlight how your unique experiences make you a strong fit for Trinity’s program.

How do interviews factor into the medical school admissions process?
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Medical school interviews are a crucial part of the admissions process. They help assess applicants’ interpersonal skills, fit with the school’s values, communication abilities, motivation for pursuing medicine, problem-solving skills, and capacity to handle stress. Interviews also allow applicants to showcase personal attributes and address any concerns.

Who should I use as references for my letters of recommendation?
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For letters of recommendation, select individuals who have interacted closely with you and can provide insights into your academic abilities, character, and potential as a medical student. Professors, research supervisors, healthcare professionals, or mentors who know you well are excellent choices.

Does Trinity offer medical school admissions counselors?
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Yes, Trinity School of Medicine offers medical school admissions counseling to support prospective students throughout the application process. Admissions counselors are available to provide guidance, answer questions, and assist you in navigating the various aspects of applying to the school. These counselors can offer insights into admissions requirements, help you understand the application timeline, and provide advice on how to strengthen your application.