What makes Canada one of the top destinations for Indian students aiming for a medical career with global recognition? According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC, 2024), more than 427,000 Indian students are enrolled across Canadian institutions. The best medical colleges in Canada are known for combining strong academic foundations with advanced clinical training.
Top universities like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia rank among the world’s top 50 for medicine (QS World University Rankings 2025). Their programs emphasise practical learning through hospital-based placements and research-driven coursework. All medical schools in Canada operate under the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada (AFMC), ensuring standardised training and supervised clinical exposure..
This blog will help you learn about the top medical universities and how to make the most of your education in Canada.
Top 10 Medical Colleges in Canada in 2026
Canada is ranked the fourth-best country for education, and its medical schools are no exception. If you’re looking to study medicine, you’ll be pleased to know that many of Canada’s top universities offer world-class education.
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Here are the 10 top medical colleges in Canada.
| Best Colleges in Canada Name | QS Rankings Subject 2025 | Annual Fees |
|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto | 14 | CAD 53,000–58,000 (₹33–36 L) |
| McGill University | 28 | CAD 68,000–100,000 (₹42.5–62.6 L) |
| University of British Columbia | 38 | CAD 53,000–61,000 ( ₹33–38 L) |
| McMaster University | 41 | CAD 43,000 (₹26.9 L) |
| University of Montreal | 86 | CAD 20,000–24,000 (₹12.5–15 L) |
| University of Alberta | 86 | CAD 32,000–47,000 (₹20–29.4 L) |
| University of Ottawa | 124 | CAD 43,300 (₹27.1 L) |
| University of Calgary | 132 | CAD 46,700 (₹29.2 L) |
| Queen's University at Kingston | 197 | CAD 97,000 (₹60.7 L) |
| Dalhousie University | 201-250 | CAD 27,000–32,000 (₹16.9–20 L) |
Take a look at the universities in detail below, including information on top medical programs and English language requirements.
Detailed Overview of the Top 10 Medical Colleges in Canada in 2026
Canada is home to some of the top medical colleges in the world, known for their research excellence and advanced healthcare training. This overview highlights the top 10 medical colleges in Canada in 2026, offering exceptional opportunities for aspiring doctors.
1. University of Toronto
The University of Toronto, founded in 1827, is one of the best medical colleges in Canada for international students. Known for its advanced research and academic excellence, it offers you the chance to learn from top leaders in the medical field.
With over 81,000 students, including more than 31,000 from around the world, the university fosters a diverse and dynamic learning environment.
Top Medical Programs:
- MD Program – Doctorate, 4 years
- Master of Public Health (MPH) – Master's, 16–24 months
- Master of Science in Dentistry – Master's, 2 years
Eligibility Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant field for postgraduate programs
- For MD program: Canadian MCAT scores and pre-medical coursework are required.
- Minimum GPA as specified by the faculty (varies by program)
English Language Requirements:
- IELTS: 6.5
- TOEFL: 89
2. McGill University
Founded in 1821, McGill University in Montreal is one of the best medical colleges in Canada for international students. With 30% of its student body from over 150 countries, it offers a truly diverse learning environment.
McGill is the top-ranked research university in Canada and offers competitive tuition, scholarships, and financial aid to international students.
Top Medical Programs:
- MDCM – Doctorate, 4 years
- MSc in Experimental Medicine – Master’s, 2 years
- MSc in Public Health – Master’s, 1–2 years
Eligibility Requirements:
- A relevant bachelor’s degree for postgraduate programs
- For MDCM: MCAT scores and pre-medical prerequisites required
English Language Requirements:
- IELTS: 6.5
- TOEFL: 90
3. University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia (UBC), founded in 1915, is one of the best medical colleges in Canada for Indian students. With over 68,000 students, including 16,000 international students, UBC is known for its world-class teaching and research. Located in Vancouver and Kelowna, UBC offers an inclusive and diverse environment.
Top Medical Programs:
- MD Program – Doctorate, 4 years
- MD/PhD Program – Doctorate, 7 years
- MSc in Occupational Therapy – Master’s, 2 years
Eligibility Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field for postgraduate programs
- MD program: MCAT scores, pre-medical coursework, and GPA criteria.
English Language Requirements:
- IELTS: 6.5
- TOEFL: 90
4. McMaster University
Founded in 1887, McMaster University is one of the best medical colleges in Canada for Indian students. With over 6,000 international students out of a 27,000+ student body and a faculty of 2,800 staff, McMaster offers a diverse and innovative learning environment.
Located just an hour from Toronto, it’s a top research university known for its problem-based learning approach, which prepares students for real-world medical challenges.
Top Medical Programs:
- MD Program – Doctorate, 3 years
- MSc in Health Sciences – Master’s, 2 years
- PhD in Health Policy – Doctorate, 4–6 years
Eligibility Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- MD: MCAT scores, prerequisites, and GPA criteria
English Language Requirements:
- IELTS: 6.5
- TOEFL: 86
5. University of Montreal
Founded in 1878, the University of Montreal is one of the best MBBS colleges in Canada. With 67,000 students, including 8,855 international students, it’s a hub for diverse learning.
Located in the vibrant city of Montreal, it offers a perfect mix of academic excellence and a multicultural experience, making it a strong choice for those pursuing an MBBS degree.
Top Medical Programs:
- MDCM – Doctorate, 4 years
- MSc in Biomedical Sciences – Master’s, 2 years
- PhD in Health Sciences – Doctorate, 4–5 years
Eligibility Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- MDCM: pre-med coursework and GPA requirements
English/French Language Requirements:
- TFI: 785 (for French proficiency)
6. University of Alberta
Founded in 1908, the University of Alberta is one of the best MBBS colleges in Canada, ranking in the top five nationwide. With over 44,000 students, including 8,483 international students, it offers top-tier medical programs.
Known for its diversity and academic excellence, it’s an excellent option for pursuing an MBBS degree.
Top Medical Programs:
- MD Program – Doctorate, 4 years
- MSc in Medical Sciences – Master’s, 2 years
- PhD in Rehabilitation Science – Doctorate, 4–6 years
Eligibility Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- MD: MCAT scores and pre-medical prerequisites
English Language Requirements:
- IELTS: 6.5
- TOEFL: 90
7. University of Calgary
Founded in 1966, the University of Calgary is one of the best medical colleges in Canada. It has over 34,000 students, including nearly 9,000 international students.
Ranked among the top 10 research universities in the country, it offers hands-on experiences and vital academic programs. Located in Calgary, it’s an excellent choice for students seeking top-tier medical education.
Top Medical Programs:
- MD Program – Doctorate, 4 years
- MSc in Nursing – Master’s, 2 years
- PhD in Community Health Sciences – Doctorate, 4–6 years
Eligibility Requirements:
- Relevant bachelor’s degree
- MD program: MCAT and GPA requirements
English Language Requirements:
- IELTS: 6.5
- TOEFL: 86
8. University of Ottawa
Founded in 1848, the University of Ottawa is one of the best medical colleges in Canada. It is known for its research and academic excellence. With over 40,000 students, including nearly 12,000 international students, it offers a rich learning environment.
Located in the nation’s capital, the university provides top-tier education and is committed to addressing societal challenges, making it an excellent choice for medical students.
Top Medical Programs:
- MD Program – Doctorate, 4 years
- MSc in Translational and Molecular Medicine – Master’s, 2 years
- PhD in Epidemiology – Doctorate, 4–6 years
Eligibility Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- MD: MCAT scores and pre-med prerequisites
English Language Requirements:
- IELTS: 6.5
- TOEFL: 86
9. Dalhousie University
Dalhousie University, based in Nova Scotia, offers top-notch education with a strong focus on research. Dalhousie has over 17,500 students, including 4,938 international students and 1,198 faculty members. If you're seeking a diverse and research-driven academic environment, Dalhousie is a great choice.
Top Medical Programs:
- MD Program – Doctorate, 4 years
- MSc in Health Promotion – Master’s, 2 years
- PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies – Doctorate, 4–6 years
Eligibility Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- MD: MCAT scores and prerequisites
English Language Requirements:
- IELTS: 7
- TOEFL: 97
10. Queen's University at Kingston
Queen's University, located in Kingston, Ontario, is one of Canada’s oldest degree-granting universities and a leader in medical research. Queen's University is home to 26,631 students, including 4,135 international students. With 1,379 faculty members, Queen’s fosters a collaborative environment and offers diverse international learning opportunities.
Top Medical Programs:
- MD Program – Doctorate, 4 years
- MSc in Epidemiology – Master’s, 2 years
- PhD in Clinical Psychology – Doctorate, 5–7 years
Eligibility Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- MD: MCAT and pre-med coursework required
English Language Requirements:
- IELTS: 6.5
- TOEFL: 88
Application Process for the Best Medical Colleges in Canada
Canada offers some of the best medical colleges in Canada, along with a high quality of life, ranked 33rd globally in the 2025 Human Development Index (UNDP). For Indian students, pursuing MBBS in Canada is accessible with proper preparation, as student visa acceptance rates are around 50%.
Documents Required
Before you can dive into life in Canada, it's essential to have all your documents in order. Here’s a checklist to help you prepare to apply to the best medical colleges in Canada.
- Academic transcripts for Class 10 & 12
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Academic Resume/CV
- 3 letters of Recommendation (LORs) (especially for those with work experience)
- Certificates for any extra-curricular activities
- Income Tax Return (ITR) papers
- Passport-size photographs
- Scanned passport copy
- Health insurance
- English proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE) as per university requirements
- MCAT or CASPer scores, if required by the university
Required Tests for Admission:
| Test | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6 |
| TOEFL | 80 |
| PTE | 58 |
| MCAT | 125 |
| CASPer | 6 |
Application Process: How to Apply
Getting into universities in Canada with high acceptance rates is straightforward. Here’s how you can begin.
- Shortlist Programs and Universities – Focus on institutions that match your career goals and the MBBS in Canada for Indian students criteria.
- Check Eligibility – Visit official university websites for program-specific requirements, including prerequisites and English proficiency tests.
- Prepare Tests – Take IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE as required. Some universities may also require MCAT or CASPer scores.
- Prepare Documents – Submit SOP, LORs, transcripts, and certificates highlighting academic and extracurricular achievements.
- Submit Application – Apply through the university portal or centralised platforms like OUAC (Ontario Universities Application Centre) for Ontario universities.
- Attend Interviews – Some programs may require online or in-person video interviews.
- Apply for a Study Visa – Once accepted, Indian students can apply for a Canadian Study Visa. The application fee is around CAD 113 (₹7,070).
Following these steps carefully can significantly improve your chances of admission to top medical colleges in Canada for Indian students in 2026-27.
Scholarships to Study at the Best Medical Colleges in Canada
For Indian students planning to pursue MBBS in Canada for Indian students, financial support is available through numerous scholarships. Canada offers over 1,600 scholarships for international students, which can help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs associated with medical studies.
| Scholarship | Average Amount (Per Year) |
|---|---|
| Trudeau Scholarships and Fellowships | CAD 20,000 (₹12.5 L) |
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships | CAD 50,000 (₹31.3 L) |
| Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships | CAD 70,000 (₹43.8 L) |
| Ontario Trillium Scholarship | CAD 40,000 (₹25 L) |
| Quebec Provincial Government Scholarship | CAD 25,000–35,000 (₹15.6–21.9 L) |
Scholarships in Canada are based on grades or leadership. Vanier and similar awards are for graduate research students, while undergraduates can get university or provincial scholarships. Applications can be with the university or separate.
To explore options in detail, check out fully funded scholarships in Canada
Cost of Living for Students at the Best Medical Colleges in Canada
When planning to study at top medical universities in Canada, it’s important to consider living expenses. On average, costs in Canada are only slightly lower than in the USA (about 4.7% less).
Now, let’s examine the costs of other essential utilities and daily expenses in Canada.
| Expense | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (shared) | CAD 400–800 (₹25–50K) |
| Food | CAD 300–400 (₹18.7–25K) |
| Travel | CAD 80–110 (₹5–7K) |
| Entertainment | CAD 150 (₹9.4K) |
| Utilities | CAD 165 (₹10.3K) |
| Internet | CAD 79 (₹4.9K) |
| Health Insurance (BC MSP) | CAD 74 (₹4.6K) |
For a detailed guide on tuition, accommodation, food, and other costs specifically for Indian students, you can read more about Cost of Living in Canada for Indian Students
Job Opportunities After Studying at Best Medical Colleges in Canada
Graduating from the best medical colleges in Canada gives you access to a strong healthcare sector. Canada’s overall employment rate is around 60.7% (StatCan, 2024), and medical graduates are in high demand in hospitals, research institutions, and private practice.
Here are some of the top career paths for medical graduates in Canada.
| Job Role | Average Annual Salary (CAD/INR) |
|---|---|
| General Practitioner (GP) / Family Doctor | CAD 222,000 (₹1.35 Cr) |
| Emergency Physician (ER) | CAD 250,000 (₹1.56 Cr) |
| Dermatologist | CAD 236,000 (₹1.47 Cr) |
| Cardiac Surgeon | CAD 298,000 (₹1.86 Cr) |
| Neurosurgeon | CAD 303,000 (₹1.89 Cr) |
Why Choose Medical Colleges in Canada?
Studying at the best medical colleges in Canada provides you with a world-class education, rich research opportunities, and strong clinical training. These institutions are designed to prepare you for a successful healthcare career, offering several key advantages.
1. Innovative Learning
Canadian medical universities use modern teaching methods. For instance, McMaster University follows a problem-based learning approach, emphasising small group discussions and early clinical exposure. This has resulted in a 98% residency match rate, ensuring graduates gain practical skills alongside in-depth knowledge.
2. Research Opportunities
Universities like McGill University lead in medical research, producing over 2,300 journal articles annually. Students can participate in research projects, contributing to medical advancements while building strong research experience..
3. Global Health Focus
Institutions such as the University of Calgary integrate global health initiatives into their curriculum, preparing students to tackle healthcare challenges internationally.
4. Networking and Community
Choosing a Canadian medical school connects you to a powerful network of professionals. The University of Toronto alone has over 61,000 healthcare professionals in its alumni network. This global community offers you mentorship, collaboration opportunities, and a strong support system throughout your career.
5. Student Resources
Canadian medical schools also prioritise your well-being. They provide extensive support services, including academic advising, mental health resources, and personal development programs. These resources ensure that you can thrive both academically and personally during your studies.
Studying at the best medical colleges in Canada sets you up for a world-class education and a bright future in medicine.
Conclusion
Indian students planning to study MBBS in Canada should focus on choosing universities that match their career goals and strengths. Research programs, prepare your documents carefully, and apply for scholarships to reduce costs. Completing your studies at the best medical colleges in Canada gives you practical clinical experience, research opportunities, and strong career prospects in hospitals, research institutes, and private practice.
Ready to pursue your medical degree in Canada? Let Leap Scholar guide you every step of the way, from choosing the best medical colleges in Canada to visa support and perfecting your SOP. Start your journey today!
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Which university is the best for medicine in Canada?
The University of Toronto is widely considered the top medical university in Canada, followed by McGill University and the University of British Columbia. These universities are known for strong research, clinical training, and high residency placement rates.
-
What is the cost of MBBS in Canada?
Tuition for international students ranges from CAD 20,000 to CAD 100,000 per year (₹12.5–62.5 L) depending on the university. Additional living expenses average CAD 1,200–1,500 per month (₹75K–95K). Scholarships and provincial awards can help offset costs.
-
Is NEET accepted in Canada?
Yes, Indian students applying for MBBS in Canada must have a valid NEET qualification to meet eligibility for medical programs. Other requirements include Class 12 science marks and English proficiency tests (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE).
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Which is the world’s No. 1 medical college?
Globally, Harvard Medical School (USA) is ranked No. 1 in medicine. In Canada, the University of Toronto is the highest-ranked medical school, consistently appearing in the top 20 worldwide (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025).
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How do I apply to the best medical colleges in Canada?
Shortlist universities based on your career goals, check program eligibility, and prepare documents like transcripts, SOP, LORs, and test scores (IELTS/TOEFL, MCAT/CASPer if required). Apply through the university portal or centralised systems like OUAC for Ontario schools. Attend interviews if required, and then apply for a Canadian study visa
-
What are the top 10 medical colleges in Canada?
The top medical colleges in Canada for 2026–27 include:
University of Toronto
McGill University
University of British Columbia
McMaster University
Université de Montréal
University of Alberta
University of Calgary
University of Ottawa
Dalhousie University
Queen’s University at Kingston -
What is the acceptance rate for student visas to Canada?
The Canadian study visa acceptance rate for Indian students is around 50%. Proper documentation, financial proof, and meeting all eligibility criteria improve your chances of approval.
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