University of Alberta : Admission, Course & Fees 2025-26 &

The University of Alberta offers a highly respected Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, similar to an MBBS and is recognised worldwide for its excellent medical education. This four-year program is taught at the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry in Edmonton, Canada. Admissions for the Fall 2025 intake will begin in July 2024* and close in October 2024*, with classes starting in September 2025*. To apply, students must have a bachelor’s degree with good marks, especially in biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics, all with lab experience. In addition, candidates must take the MCAT exam, with different score requirements depending on whether they are residents of Alberta or applying from elsewhere. English proficiency is essential, so students need to have IELTS (6.5–7.0) or TOEFL (90–100) scores. However, international students may face extra requirements, as preference is usually given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

The tuition fee for the program is about INR 36 lakh per year*, while total yearly costs, including living expenses, can go up to INR 47–48 lakh*. The MD program at the University of Alberta is fully accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools (CACMS), meaning graduates meet global medical education standards. This program prepares students for a successful medical career, giving them the knowledge and skills they need to excel.

University of Alberta Key Highlights

Feature	Details
Degree Offered	Doctor of Medicine (MD), equivalent to MBBS
Eligibility	Completion of a 4-year bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution
Minimum GPA	3.50 on a 4.0 scale (for international students)
Entrance Exams	MCAT (minimum scores: CARS 128, CPBS/BBFL/PSBB 124), CASPer test, and interview
English Proficiency	IELTS Academic: Overall 6.5 (min 6.0 each band); TOEFL iBT: 90 (min 21 each section); Duolingo, CAEL, PTE Academic also accepted
Application Process	Online application submission with transcripts, MCAT scores, English proficiency, CASPer results, references, and interview
Intake	One intake per year – Fall semester (September)
Application Deadlines	Typically, in October of the preceding year, for Fall intake

University of Alberta About

The University of Alberta, founded in 1908, is a prestigious institution located in Edmonton, Canada. It is globally recognised for its high-quality education and research programs, including the Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, which is equivalent to an MBBS. Admissions for the Fall 2025 intake begin on 1 October 2024*, with a final deadline of 1 March 2025*, though some programs may have different timelines. To qualify for the MD program, students must have a bachelor’s degree with strong academic performance in key subjects like biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics, all with lab experience. Applicants must also take the MCAT exam, meeting specific score requirements based on residency status.

Additionally, English proficiency is mandatory, requiring IELTS (6.5–7.0) or TOEFL (90–100) scores. The average tuition fee for the MD program is around INR 36 lakh per year, with total yearly costs, including living expenses, estimated at INR 47–48 lakh. Accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools (CACMS), the University of Alberta ensures its graduates meet international medical education standards, making it an excellent choice for aspiring doctors.

Why Study at MBBSUniversity of Alberta?

The University of Alberta is renowned for its innovative MD program, combining rigorous academic training with early and immersive clinical exposure. Students benefit from world-class faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a curriculum designed to develop compassionate, skilled, and socially responsible physicians ready to serve diverse communities.

Key reasons to study MBBS (MD) at the University of Alberta:

International reputation for excellence in medical education and research.
Early and progressive clinical exposure, starting from the first year.
Emphasis on experiential learning, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Opportunities for specialisation and research across more than 50 residency programs.
Focus on serving rural, northern, and Indigenous communities through dedicated initiatives.
Strong mentorship, networking, and support resources for student success

University of Alberta Admission Guide 2025-26

The University of Alberta offers a Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, equivalent to an MBBS and globally recognised for its high-quality medical education. For the Fall 2025 intake, applications open on 1 October 2024,* and the deadline for submission is 1 March 2025*. Some programs may have different deadlines, so it's best to check the university’s official website for updates.

To be eligible for the MD program, students must have a bachelor’s degree with strong grades in subjects like biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics, all with lab experience. Applicants must also take the MCAT exam, meeting specific score requirements based on residency status. English proficiency is required, with IELTS (6.5–7.0) or TOEFL (90–100) scores.

How to Apply for University of Alberta

Steps to Apply

Go to the University of Alberta's admission portal.
Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria.
Fill out the application form and submit it online.
Submit the necessary documents, such as your mark sheets, MCAT, and NEET scorecards, before the deadline.
If shortlisted, you may need to attend an interview.
If selected, you’ll receive an official admission offer.

University of Alberta Important Dates

Event / Deadline	Dates *
Application opens for admission,	1 October 2024
University Open House	19 October 2024
Entrance Award Application Deadline	10 January 2025
Deadline to submit the Program Change Request form	14 February 2025
Eligible students can submit updated first-semester high school marks	19 February 2025
The deadline to submit the application for most programs	31 March 2025
Deadline to self-report final high school marks	30 April 2025
Deadline to accept admission	1 May 2025
Deadline for post-secondary applicants to submit final transcripts and other requirements	15 June 2025
Deadline to submit outstanding documents for high school students	1 August 2025
Classes begin	September 2025

University of Alberta Eligibility Criteria

To apply for MBBS (MD) in Canada, students must:

Have a bachelor’s degree in science or biology (3–4 years)
Have an MCAT score of at least 500 (for top universities)
Be proficient in English – IELTS (6.5–7.0) or TOEFL (90–100)
Have NEET qualification (mandatory for Indian students)
Be at least 18 years old

University of Alberta Documents Required

Here’s a checklist of documents needed for admission:

MCAT and NEET scorecards
Academic transcripts (10th, 12th, and bachelor’s degree)
English proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL)
Letters of recommendation
Statement of Purpose (SOP) or personal statement
Updated resume/CV
Passport and passport-size photos
Proof of financial support
Medical exam and biometric details (for visa)
Criminal record check (if required)

University of Alberta’s MBBS (MD) Intakes

The University of Alberta’s MD (MBBS equivalent) program has a single annual intake in the Fall semester (September). Applications for Fall 2025 admission open on 1 July 2024*. All application components, including references and MCAT scores, must be submitted by the application deadline of 1 October 2024*. The last acceptable MCAT test date for this cycle is 29 August 2025*

University of Alberta Fee Structure 2025-26

For the 2025–2026 academic year, the total annual tuition for the MD (MBBS equivalent) program at the University of Alberta is approximately :

Fee Component	Per Term (INR)*	Per Year (INR)*
Tuition	INR 304,668	INR 609,336
Program Differential Fee	INR 185,949	INR 371,898
Total	INR 490,617	INR 981,234

University of Alberta Course Fees

The University of Alberta offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. Tuition fees at the university vary depending on the program, level of study, and the student's residency status (domestic or international). Below is an overview of the estimated annual tuition fees for international students:

Course Level

Annual Tuition Fee in INR*

INR 1,630,000 –INR6,204,000

INR 588,000 – INR 52,856,000

University of Alberta Courses Offered

The University of Alberta offers a comprehensive four-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, equivalent to MBBS, featuring a blend of foundational science, clinical skills, problem-based learning, and immersive clinical experiences. Students can also pursue combined or specialised tracks in research and management.

Course/Program	Description
MD (Doctor of Medicine)	Four-year program with foundational sciences, clinical skills, and early and immersive clinical exposure.
MD-MBA	Combined Medicine and Management degree completed in five years.
MD with Special Training in Research	MD with additional research training and recognition (MD-STIR).
MD-PhD	Integrated program for careers in medical research; combines MD and PhD studies.
Medical Laboratory Science	Four-year degree focusing on laboratory medicine, clinical rotations, and research skills.
BSc in Radiation Therapy	Four-year program in radiation therapy, patient care, and clinical experience

University of Alberta Syllabus

The University of Alberta’s MD (MBBS equivalent) program features an integrated, four-year curriculum. The first two years focus on foundational sciences and early clinical exposure, while years three and four provide immersive clinical training and electives to develop well-rounded, practice-ready physicians.

Year	Key Subjects & Components
Year 1	Foundations of Medicine & Dentistry, Endocrine System, Cardiovascular System, Pulmonary System, Professionalism, Early Clinical Exposure, Anatomy Lab
Year 2	Renal System, Gastrointestinal System, Clinical Skills, Evidence-Based Medicine, Communication, Health Systems, Electives
Year 3	Core Clinical Clerkships: Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, Family Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Emergency Medicine
Year 4	Advanced Clinical Rotations, Electives, Transition to Residency, Patient Safety, Professional Development

University of Alberta Rankings

The University of Alberta is widely recognized for its academic excellence, research impact, and global outlook, consistently ranking among the top universities in Canada and worldwide. Its strong performance in international rankings reflects the university’s commitment to high-quality teaching, innovative research, and a diverse campus environment. The institution is also highly regarded for its medical and health sciences programs, making it a top choice for students seeking world-class education and career opportunities in Canada.

Ranking Organization	Global Rank (2025)	National Rank (Canada)	Subject/Notes
QS World University Rankings	96	Top 5	Overall
Times Higher Education (THE)	116	Top 5	Overall

University of Alberta Campus Life

Campus life for MBBS (MD) students at the University of Alberta is vibrant and well-rounded, offering a blend of academic rigor, clinical exposure, community outreach, wellness activities, and leadership opportunities. Students engage in diverse clubs, advocacy, sports, and health initiatives, fostering both professional and personal growth.

Aspect	Details
Student Engagement	Over 50 interest groups, outreach programs (e.g., SHINE Youth Clinic, SMILE Initiative), and youth-centered summer camps.
Community & Global Health	Volunteering, advocacy campaigns, global health initiatives, and community service-learning opportunities.
Political Advocacy	Participation in Provincial Lobby Day, Federal Lobby Day, and advocacy for underserved communities.
Sports & Wellness	Inter-school competitions (Icebowl), intramurals, yoga, running, climbing clubs, and annual charity tournaments.
Health & Wellness	Fundraising events (Run Without Borders, Shinerama, Affair of the Heart), Movember campaign, and wellness workshops.
Experiential Learning	Early clinical exposure, anatomy labs, clinical rotations, and community placements across Alberta.
Support & Mentorship	Access to academic support, peer mentorship, student associations, and wellness resources

University of Alberta Living Cost

The estimated living cost for MBBS (MD) students at the University of Alberta ranges from CAD 1,000 *to 1,800* per month for on-campus housing, with additional expenses for meals, insurance, and personal needs. Graduate and Macdonald Campus housing options, meal plans, and mandatory insurance contribute to the overall cost

Expense Category	Estimated Cost (CAD/month)*	Estimated Cost (INR/month)*
Hostel (On-Campus Single)	1,000 – 1,800	INR 60,770 – INR 1,09,386
Graduate Student Housing	1,000 – 1,800	INR 60,770 – INR 1,09,386
Meal Plan (Mandatory)	300 – 600	INR 18,231 – INR 36,462
Insurance (Mandatory)	200 – 310 (per semester)	INR 12,154 – INR 18,839 (per semester)
Miscellaneous (Personal)	300 – 700	INR 18,231 – INR 42,539

University of Alberta Living coast

Below are some living costs in Canada, described in the table below

Expense Category	Estimated Cost (CAD/month)*	Estimated Cost (INR/month)*	Details
Off-Campus Housing	800 – 1,000	INR 48,616 – INR 60,770	Shared apartment, utilities may be extra.
Food	200 – 300	INR 12,154 – INR 18,231	Groceries or eating out.
Transportation	25 – 35	INR 1,519 – INR 2,127	Local bus pass, U-Pass for students.
Books & Supplies	100	INR 6,077	Per month average.
Personal/Miscellaneous	200 – 400	INR 12,154 – INR 24,308	Clothing, entertainment, phone, etc..

University of Alberta Scholarships for Indian Students

The University of Alberta offers a range of merit-based and need-based scholarships for Indian students pursuing the MD (MBBS equivalent) program. These include entrance awards, academic excellence scholarships, and leadership-based grants, with some requiring a separate application and others offering automatic consideration upon admission.

Scholarship Name	Amount (INR)*	Eligibility
University of Alberta India Centenary Scholarship	INR 12,15,400 (CAD 20,000 over 4 years)	An Indian high school graduate with excellent academic standing
International Entrance Leadership Scholarship	INR 3,03,850 (CAD 5,000)	International UG applicants with an admission average >80%
India First Year Excellence Scholarship	INR 3,03,850 (CAD 5,000)	An Indian student with outstanding academic grades
International Student Scholarship	Up to INR 5,47,000 (Up to CAD 9,000)	International students with strong academics & leadership
Gold Standard Scholarship	Up to INR 3,64,620 (Up to CAD 6,000)	Top 5% of chosen faculty
Alberta Graduate Excellence Scholarship (AGES)	INR 10,12,000	Graduate international students
Graduate Entrance Scholarship	INR 14,76,000 + INR 8,43,000 (tuition)	Graduate international students

University of Alberta Student Testimonials: Real Experience

Ankit Sharma,

An undergraduate student shares, The University of Alberta gave me a $10,000 scholarship. The teaching quality is excellent, and the campus is very safe. I feel supported both academically and personally.

Priya Singh

A graduate student says, The cultural diversity here made it easy to adjust. Indian food is available on and near campus, and public transportation is great, which helped me feel at home quickly.

Rahul Verma,

An international student reflects, Though I missed home initially, the friendly environment and strong Indian community helped me settle quickly. The university encourages involvement in clubs and cultural activities.

Frequently Asked Questions?

Ques: What are the minimum academic requirements for the MD program?
Ans: Applicants must hold or be completing a recognized baccalaureate degree with at least 60 transferable units of course weight. The minimum cumulative GPA is 3.30 for Alberta residents and 3.50 for non-Alberta residents.

Ques: Is the MCAT required, and what are the minimum scores?
Ans: Yes, the MCAT is mandatory. Alberta residents need a minimum score of 124 in all categories (CPBS, CARS, BBFL, PSBB). Non-Alberta residents must score at least 128 in CARS and 124 in the other sections. MCAT results are valid for five years.

Ques: Are there specific prerequisite courses for admission?
Ans: No specific prerequisite courses are required. However, applicants must complete a baccalaureate degree with at least 60 transferable units of course weight. The university does not favor any particular degree or institution.

Ques: Can international students apply to the MD program?
Ans: No, only Canadian citizens and permanent residents are eligible to apply for the MD program at the University of Alberta.

Ques: What additional materials are required for the application?
Ans: Applicants must submit reference letters, a personal activities section, and complete additional testing (such as the CASPer test). Selected applicants are invited for an interview

University of Alberta : Admission, Fees , Course & Ranking