Scholarship in CANADA

Canada, also known by its nickname “The Great White North,” is located in the northern part of North America. Its capital is Ottawa, while Toronto is the largest city. The climate in Canada varies based on location and season. It is generally described as having freezing winters—with snow lasting up to six months in some regions—and short summers, making it one of the coldest countries in the world.

Canada is the second-largest country by landmass after Russia and is divided into five major regions:

• Atlantic Provinces

• Central Canada

• Prairie Provinces

• West Coast

• Northern Territories

It is the 39th most populous nation globally, with immigrants making up 22.1% of the population. Canada is bilingual, with English and French as official languages, making it a unique member of both the Anglophone and Francophone communities.

Economic and Social Highlights

Canada is a highly developed nation with a strong, diversified economy. It:

• Holds a large share of global oil reserves, making petroleum a key industry

• Is a leading exporter of solid minerals and metals

• Excels in forestry and resource-based industries

• Ranks high in economic freedom, quality of life, and transparency

The country operates a publicly funded healthcare system called Medicare, and boasts world-class educational institutions. These features make it attractive to economic immigrants, contributing to one of the highest immigration rates globally.

Canada’s multicultural identity is heavily influenced by immigration. It is widely known for ice hockey, maple syrup (producing 70% of the world’s supply), and pop culture contributions, with global stars like Celine Dion and Drake. Canadians are known for their hospitality, tolerance, and artistic impact.

Tourism and Landscape

Canada is a visually stunning country, with some of the world’s most beautiful cities and natural wonders. Key attractions include:

• Banff National Park

• Niagara Falls

• Moraine Lake

• Quebec City’s historic view

• Vancouver – often ranked among the most beautiful cities in the world

Medical Immigration Pathway for Doctors

Medical professionals are on the Priority Occupation List in Canada, easing the immigration process for qualified doctors.

Step-by-Step Immigration Requirements

1. Verify Your Medical Degree

   • Search your school on the World Directory of Medical Schools

2. Create an Account on physiciansapply.ca

   • This is the official portal for all exam applications and credential verification.

   • Get started here

   • See detailed cost breakdown here

3. Pass the MCCQE Part I

   • A one-day, computer-based exam

   • Morning session: 210 multiple-choice questions (4 hours)

   • Afternoon session: Clinical Decision-Making (38 cases)

   • Fee: $1,305 + $290 registration

   • Can be written remotely

4. Meet Language Proficiency Requirements

   • IELTS (English) or TEF (French)

   • A score of IELTS 7+ is often required

5. Register for Express Entry

   • Canada’s points-based system for granting Permanent Residency (PR) to skilled workers

   • You can immigrate first, then begin medical licensure

   • Create a profile here

6. Pass the MCCQE Part II

   • A two-day clinical skills exam

   • Can only be taken in Canada

   • Fee: $2,780

7. Apply for LMCC Certification

   • LMCC = Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada

   • This is needed to apply to a provincial medical authority, which ultimately grants permission to practice

Remuneration (Average Salaries)

As of 2018, the average annual income for doctors in Canada:

• Family Doctors: $281,000

• Medical Specialists: $360,000

• Surgical Specialists: $481,000

• Psychiatrists: $278,000

• Ophthalmologists: $769,000+

Salary ranges depend on province, specialty, and years of experience.
See more on Canadian physician salaries here and here.

Residency / Specialty Training in Canada

Residency in Canada is very competitive, with Canadian citizens and permanent residents given top priority.

Requirements:

• Pass MCCQE Part I

• Pass NAC-OSCE (National Assessment Collaboration Exam)

• IELTS 7+

Application Process:

• Apply via CaRMS (Canadian Resident Matching Service)

• Attend interviews for selected programs

• Rank choices in order of preference

• Match Day assigns candidates to programs

Note: Exams can be taken while abroad, but it’s often easier and more cost-effective to pursue the pathway after immigrating.

Alternative Career Paths for Doctors

The Canadian medical licensing path can be long, expensive, and emotionally challenging. Many international medical graduates (IMGs) consider alternative careers, such as:

• Health Care Aide

• Physician Assistant

• Clinician Assistant

• Research Assistant

• Medical Office Assistant

• Health Administrator

• Addictions Counsellor

Some choose these roles temporarily to fund exams, while others shift careers entirely. Many also opt to pursue a Master’s or PhD in healthcare-related fields and move into academia or public health.