Studying Medicine in the Caribbean for U.S. Students
Discover how U.S. students benefit from joining our supportive and enriching medical education community.
Why Choose the Caribbean for Your Medical Studies?
Cost-Effective Tuition
MUA is committed to supporting health systems by helping meet the need for more doctors. One important way we do this is by offering a medical education that is financially accessible for aspiring students from across the U.S.
Our 4-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, which runs over 10 semesters, is notably cost-effective, and help with tuition and fees is available for eligible United States students via both MUA financial support and federal government student loans.
Annual Admissions Cycle with Multiple Intakes
MUA operates a rolling admissions cycle, with start dates in January, May or September. Interested students can apply throughout the year and enroll shortly thereafter. This reduces wait times and accelerates the process for future MD program participants.
Please note that applications are evaluated holistically, meaning we want to get to know you as both a student and person. Be sure to highlight what individual attributes and passions will help you achieve success, in both your personal statement and admissions interview (if eligible).
Academic and Personal Support
At MUA, our committed faculty members and helpful support services are consistently available to help students overcome any difficulties they may be facing. This includes personal challenges, such as maintaining wellness and managing exam stress, and academic challenges, such as studying effectively and taking quality notes. Remember, at MUA, our team of educators and administrators care about student outcomes and are always there to help you achieve success.
U.S.-Style Curriculum Delivered in English
Our 4-year MD program curriculum was developed by U.S.-trained faculty and provides a foundation for successful outcomes in USMLE examinations, Clinical Medicine rotations, residency placements and career practice.
Aligned with leading medical schools in the United States, our MD program encompasses in-person academic studies on our Basic Science campus (semesters 1-5), and Clinical Medicine rotation opportunities in the U.S. (semesters 6-10). Successful students take the USMLE Step 1 after completing Basic Science and the USMLE Step 2 CK after Clinical Medicine. Step 3 occurs during residency, after graduating from MUA.
English is our language of instruction, and applicants must be prepared to understand and communicate effectively, both in the classroom and with their peers. English is also the official language on Nevis, our island home, and is widely used within the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis – another great reason for U.S. students to choose our Caribbean medical school.
Interested in Learning More?
Contact our admissions advisors to ask questions and explore MD program benefits.
Why Choose Medical University of the Americas?
Accreditation Details
Importantly for aspiring med students who wish to train and practice in the U.S., our MD program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission on Colleges of Medicine (ACCM). The ACCM is recognized by the World Federation of Medical Education (WFME) and WFME standards have been deemed comparable to the standards used to accredit medical schools in the United States by the U.S. Department of Education’s National Committee on Foreign Medical Education and Accreditation (NCFMEA). Successful MUA students can undertake clerkships and pursue licensure throughout the United States.
USMLE Outcomes
At MUA, preparing students to achieve success on the USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK is a top priority. Exam prep and support is a foundational part of the curriculum, and there are many Student Support Services available to share personal and academic exam success strategies.
In 2024, our MD program students achieved 85% USMLE Step 11 and 96% USMLE Step 2 CK2 first-time pass rates.
Residency Placements
We know that earning your dream residency placement in the United States is often top-of-mind for aspiring med students, which is why we are pleased to share that our MD program graduates have achieved a 94% Three-Year Residency Placement Rate.3
Graduate residency placements are earned at medical centers and hospitals across the U.S., and specialties range from Internal Medicine and Emergency Medicine to competitive placements such as Anesthesiology and General Surgery.
U.S. Rotations
The MUA MD program includes five semesters of Clinical Medicine rotations at affiliated teaching sites in the United States. This period includes 42 weeks of core rotations and 30 weeks of electives (available in both the U.S. and Canada). Core rotations include:
- Internal Medicine – 12 Weeks
- Surgery – 12 Weeks
- OB/GYN – 6 Weeks
- Pediatrics – 6 Weeks
- Psychiatry – 6 Weeks
See our hospital affiliations to learn where you can secure rotation opportunities in the United States.
85%
USMLE Step 1 First-Time Pass Rate in 20241
96%
USMLE Step 2 CK First-Time Pass Rate in 20242
94%
Three-Year Residency Placement Rate3
ACCM
Recognized Accreditation
Medical Programs
Discover our Caribbean MD program and pre-medical programs for U.S. participants.
Doctor of Medicine (MD)
1,800+ MD program graduates have experienced our supportive education and hands-on training. Alumni practice in the U.S., Canada and internationally.
- Four years (10 semesters) of full-time, in-person learning.
- Basic Science (semesters 1-5) on the island of Nevis.
- Clinical Medicine rotations (semesters 6-10) in North America.
Pre-Med Master’s
Experience an accelerated medical education program for career changers with an undergraduate-level degree and some foundational science coursework.
- 8 months (2 semesters) of full-time studies, or part-time over a longer timeline.
- In-person or online attendance options.
- In-person attendees will join us on our academic campus (on Nevis).
Gateway Medical
Prepare for the MD program with the Gateway Medical Program, a preparatory course for students who have received conditional MD acceptance.
- 15 weeks of full-time studies or 30 weeks of part-time studies.
- In-person or online attendance options are available.
- In-person attendees will join us on our academic campus (on Nevis).
5-Year MSc/MD Program
Earn a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biomedical Science degree and a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree in five years (13 semesters).
- One year (3 semesters) of full-time pre-med studies.
- In-person or online attendance options for the pre-med portion.
- Successful students then progress into our 4-year MD program.
6-Year MSc/MD Program
Achieve a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biomedical Science degree and a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree in six years (16 semesters).
- Two years (6 semesters) of full-time pre-med studies.
- In-person or online attendance options for the pre-med portion.
- Successful students then progress into our 4-year MD program.
Admissions for U.S Students
Application Submission
We encourage aspiring physicians from the U.S. to explore our Caribbean medical school admissions process by reading our application requirements. Please note, you can submit an incomplete application and upload outstanding documents (e.g., official transcripts) as they become available. This helps get you a decision sooner by accelerating the review process.
Beneficially, you have two app submission options: apply via our portal or by submitting a verified copy of your AMCAS, AACOMAS or TMDSAS application via our common app form.
Support Documents
Importantly, all required documents must be submitted before an official Medical University of the Americas offer can be tendered. As part of the process, successful applicants will also need to complete an admissions interview.
- MCAT scores
- Official transcript(s)
- Two letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
Personal Statement and Letters of Recommendation
Your personal statement should clearly describe what you think will make you a good fit at MUA and why you’re inspired to become a physician (500 words max.). Highlight your passion for medicine, what drives you, your interpersonal skills and what you hope to accomplish as a medical doctor
Regarding your letters of recommendation, it is strongly recommended that at least one come from a professional acquaintance (medical work and volunteerism) and the other be academic related (from your pre-med experience). We also advise that the letters come from contacts who know you well enough to speak knowledgeably about your capabilities and experience.
Admissions Help
The MUA team of admissions advisors is ready to answer questions and support your application efforts. They can provide key insights and guidance regarding your submission, preparing for an admissions interview, developing travel and housing plans, and more!
Connect with them to begin today: admissions@mua.edu.
Student Life in the Caribbean
Campus Support
The health and wellness of our students is always a key focus of our faculty, administrators and support staff. There is no doubt that succeeding in medical school requires hard work, long periods of focus and managing stress. However, maintaining your mental and physical health is the only way to make it through successfully.
To help with these efforts, we offer access to student services like the Stay Healthy at School Program, which supports mental health, and academic counseling that can help with a range of challenges. Our student clubs are also a great way to participate in sports and physical enhancement activities, and our campus fitness center is the place to burn off stress and get your heart pumping.
Remember, there is always someone to talk to if you need support or fun activities to join if you want to unwind – in our close-knit community, students do not journey alone.
Island Experience
The island of Nevis derives its name from the Spanish phrase, Nuestra Señora de las Nieves, which means Our Lady of the Snows, in reference to the snow capped Nevis Peak. Much of Nevis slopes gently down from this 3,000-foot peak to the palm fringed, silver sand beaches, coconut groves and turquoise sea.
The island’s peaceful, safe and welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal location to study medicine. It is also a wonderful place to discover a true Caribbean lifestyle, with beaches to enjoy, tropical hiking to experience and many historical edifices to explore. Learn more about Nevis from the Honorable Mark Brantley:
Student Community
As mentioned, there are a variety of clubs to join if you’re interested in sports, hiking or other outdoor activities. But that’s not all, there are also many student organizations to join for cultural or medical exploration. Participating is a great way to connect with fellow students, share your passions, learn about different ways of life and further develop your skills in medicine.
Living on Nevis
There are many rental options on Nevis for MUA students, ranging from single room apartments to multi-room residences. Many are within walking distance of campus and school vans provide transportation for those that are a little further afield. Explore our housing guide for full details, and to learn about living expenses and travel options.
Students are responsible for choosing accommodations that fit their budget and needs, however our campus Housing Coordinator is always available to provide recommendations and support. Contact them for more information: housing@mua.edu.
Alumni Achievement
Check out our testimonial videos to learn about the success of U.S. graduates, including insights about our campus community, clinical rotations, career options and more:
FAQs About Studying Medicine in the Caribbean
Yes, MUA is authorized to participate in United States federal student loan programs, meaning U.S. students in the MD program are eligible to apply for government financial aid. MUA also offers merit scholarships and the Opportunity Grant for eligible MD participants.
Yes, successful MD program students at MUA undertake rotations in the United States. Our 42 weeks of core rotations happen entirely in the U.S., and the 30 weeks of elective rotations feature opportunities in the United States and Canada.
There are many reasons why U.S. students choose Caribbean medical schools, including more accessible Doctor of Medicine programs, affordable costs, North American clerkship opportunities, and clear pathways to residency and practice back home.
Yes, MUA alumni regularly secure residency placements within a range of medical specialties after graduation. These include Family Medicine, Internal Medicine and Emergency Medicine, as well as competitive placements like Surgery, Neurology and Pediatrics.
Ready to Apply For Medical School?
Start your medical school journey today – apply to Medical University of the Americas and study medicine in the Caribbean, with a clear path back to the United States.
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1. First-time pass rate defined as total number of students passing the USMLE Step 1 on their first attempt divided by the total number of students taking USMLE Step 1 for the first time in calendar year 2024. In order to sit for the USMLE Step 1 exam, the student must successfully complete the Basic Science curriculum and such other prerequisites as the school may establish at its discretion.
2. First-time pass rate defined as total number of students passing the USMLE Step 2 CK on their first attempt divided by the total number of students taking USMLE Step 2 CK for the first time in calendar year 2024. In order to sit for the USMLE Step 2 CK exam, the student must successfully complete the Clinical Medicine curriculum and such other prerequisites as the school may establish at its discretion.394% Three-Year Residency Placement Rate is the percent of students attaining a residency position out of all graduates or expected graduates in 2022-2023, 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 who were active applicants in the NRMP match or attained a residency outside the NRMP match.
3. 94% Three-Year Residency Placement Rate is the percent of students attaining a residency position out of all graduates or expected graduates in 2022-2023, 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 who were active applicants in the NRMP match or attained a residency outside the NRMP match.