Jamaica Scholarship Pathway
Want to study and work in Jamaica? Here's your step-by-step guide to making it happen
SCHOLARSHIPS
JAMAICA: A Caribbean Jewel with Medical Career Opportunities
Geography and Overview
Jamaica is an island nation located in the Caribbean, with its capital and largest city being Kingston.
It operates as a sovereign nation under a unitary parliamentary constitutional monarchy, with the British monarch (currently King Charles III) recognized as the ceremonial head of state.
People, Language, and Religion
Approximately 90% of the population are Afro-Jamaicans.
The official language is English,
However, Jamaican Patois (a mix of English and West African influences) is widely spoken across the country.
Jamaica is a predominantly Christian country, and it is also the birthplace of the Rastafari religion.
Economy
Jamaica runs a mixed economy, with major industries including:
Tourism (the mainstay)
Mining
Agriculture
Manufacturing
Financial and insurance services
Culture and Global Impact
Jamaica is world-renowned for its culture, especially its music, which has had a strong global influence.
Reggae, Dancehall, and other genres originated in Jamaica
It is home to legends such as:
Usain Bolt – the fastest man in the world
Bob Marley – global reggae icon
The country’s cultural exports also include its cuisine, fashion, and language.
Top Tourist Attractions
Jamaica is filled with exciting destinations for tourists, including:
Mystic Mountain
The Blue Mountains
Bob Marley Museum
Numerous diving and snorkeling sites
Grand beaches such as Seven Mile Beach and Doctor’s Cave Beach
🔗 Click here to explore top tourist destinations in Jamaica
MEDICAL PRACTICE IN JAMAICA
REQUIREMENTS FOR FULL REGISTRATION OF DOCTORS (Medical Council of Jamaica)
To obtain full registration, a doctor must submit:
Proof of medical training from a recognized medical school
Evidence of completion of a 1-year internship in four major disciplines
Original medical degree certificate (MBBS/MD)
Certified copies of postgraduate certificates (DM, Boards, etc.)
Certificate of registration
Certificate of good standing or current/valid license
One passport-size photograph
Two medical references
Registration fee (ranges from J$6,000 – J$11,000, based on year of graduation)
A personal interview with the Registrar
PATHWAYS TO REGISTRATION
Without Examinations (Automatic Full Registration)
Doctors fully licensed in any of the following countries may be registered without further exams:
University of the West Indies (after 1-year approved internship)
University of Guyana (after 1-year approved internship)
USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand
Other mutually agreed countries (as determined by the Jamaican Medical Council)
With Recognized Examinations
Doctors who have passed any of the following:
USMLE Steps 1, 2 & 3
PLAB 1 & 2
CAMC Examinations
Plus a recognized 1-year internship
📌 Note: The decision to grant full registration lies solely with the Medical Council of Jamaica.
📧 For inquiries: medcojam@cwjamaica.com
REMUNERATION
Doctor salaries in Jamaica vary depending on:
Specialty
Years of experience
High-earning specialties include Dermatology, Surgery, and Obstetrics & Gynaecology.
💰 Salaries are paid in Jamaican Dollars (JMD).
🔗 Check current doctor salary scales here
LIVING IN JAMAICA
Cost of Living
With J$173 = £1 (approx.), Jamaica is considered a relatively affordable place to live.
Basic daily living costs are cheaper compared to countries like Canada or the UK.
Costs can vary based on lifestyle and location (urban vs rural).
🔗 Read more about cost of living in Jamaica here
Citizenship
You can apply for Jamaican citizenship after five years of legal residency.
🔗 Read the citizenship application details here
WHY CONSIDER JAMAICA?
-English-speaking
-Rich culture and music
-Friendly and warm people
-Diverse career and business opportunities
-Beautiful beaches and vibrant tourism
-Strategic Caribbean location for onward migration or academic development