Careers in medicine are appealing and attractive to many students, but navigating the complexities of different education and healthcare systems can be overwhelming. If you’re a high school student considering a career in medicine, you may be wondering where to start!
One great dilemma in the mind of students targeting a career in medicine is whether to study in the United States or the United Kingdom. Whereas many may not even know that they have an option. Both offer excellent medical education programs and a wealth of specialty areas, but medical systems and education pathways in the US and UK have significant differences too. Specific medical qualifications do not transfer across borders, so you will need to decide in which country you plan to live and practice as a medical doctor.
Research and preparation are vital when considering a career in medicine and starting this process early is the best approach. This article will chart the similarities and differences of studying medicine in the US and UK, so you can make informed decisions about your future.
Why become a medical doctor?
Embarking on a career as a doctor requires significant preparation, education, and dedication, but it can also offer numerous benefits and a rewarding career path. While you may have a strong desire to pursue a career in medicine, it’s imperative that you have a full understanding of the advantages as well as the potential challenges you may face.
Completing introductory summer courses and internships during high school is a great way to explore medicine and work out whether it’s the right career for you. Working with expert medical instructors and covering medicine topics in more depth can solidify your career choices or allow you to adjust your plans so that you’re not wasting valuable time and money.
Here are some of the key benefits of becoming a medical doctor:
Help others. Studying medicine gives you the opportunity to make a real difference by saving people’s lives and improving patient health. How rewarding would it be to restore a patient to full health or significantly improve their well-being?
Delve into science. For students passionate about science, a career in medicine can be the perfect fit. Following completion of undergraduate studies in biology, chemistry, and physics, medical students have the opportunity to study specialty areas such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and neurology.
Intellectual challenge. Medicine attracts bright minds for a good reason. Staying at the forefront in the medical field and continually adapting to new situations (like a pandemic!) is the epitome of intellectual challenge. If you’re looking for a career where every case will be different and where there are continuous opportunities to learn, then becoming a doctor could be your vocation.
Job security. Doctors are in demand across the globe, so there are plenty of opportunities out there and this demand is unlikely to wane. Working as a doctor can open you up to opportunities locally, nationally, and globally in your chosen specialty, followed by options in your later career to work in academia or become a consultant.
Financial rewards. Money isn’t everything, but in return for your investment in education and training in the medical field, it can be a motivating factor. Doctors earn competitive salaries, particularly as a specialist in their chosen field.
Why qualify as a doctor in the US?
If you’re keen to complete your medical studies in the US, you need to bear in mind that it will take longer to become a licensed doctor than most other countries. In general, it can take at least 10 to 12 years to become a fully licensed and practicing physician, but with a specialty this period of time can increase even more.
A medical degree from the US carries global recognition and a certain amount of prestige. Whether you plan to practice medicine in the US or work overseas, the reputation and high standards associated with completing your medical education on US shores can help you land the best career opportunities. As a student in the US, you will also have access to state-of-the-art facilities and leading researchers, providing you with the ability to contribute to the advancement of healthcare.
However, competition can be high as medicine is an extremely popular area of study. This is further magnified for overseas students wishing to study medicine in the US, with fewer than 50 medical schools in the US accepting international students. Maximizing your admission odds is critical. In addition to securing top grades in your high school studies, completing medicine internships, research projects, and securing glowing letters of recommendation from instructors can set you apart from other applicants.
How to become a doctor in the US
Graduating from high school with strong academics is the foundation that will underpin your future medical career as a doctor. Medical schools in the US don’t have specific requirements in terms of high school courses, but clearly science, math, and any medicine-related courses would be looked on favorably.
Participating in summer courses and internships in medicine during high school will strengthen your foundational knowledge and also look impressive on college applications. Another bonus is that you can complete your studies online over the summer, which is both convenient and cost-effective.
Following high school graduation, you’ll be ready to follow your dream of becoming a medical doctor. Here are the 8 steps you need to take if you decide to complete your studies in the United States:
1. Earn your bachelor’s degree
Completing a bachelor’s degree is the first step on the road to becoming a doctor in the US. There is no requirement to select a specific major, but it’s worth bearing in mind that medical schools will have mandatory prerequisite courses you need to complete to gain entry. Clearly a four-year degree in subjects such as biology, chemistry, or neuroscience are good options.
Students from the UK wishing to pursue a bachelor’s degree in the US, will typically need at least five GCSE passes and two A-Levels. Each university will have its own criteria, so check the admission requirements for your target institution.
2. Pass the MCAT examination
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) can be taken in the third year of your undergraduate program. The test consists of multiple-choice questions that assess how prepared you are for medical school, with the score determining whether you get accepted into your chosen medical program. Like any examination, it’s always good to be fully prepared. Courses in the areas of science and medicine as well as MCAT books and online practice tests can help you be exam-ready.
3. Attend medical school
Students usually apply for medical school before their senior year and submit their applications through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). AMCAS offers a streamlined process via a centralized database which allows you to apply for medical schools across the US. If you’re an international student the competition can be high, so research your target medical schools admissions policy.
Medical school typically takes four years to complete, combining both classroom work and on-site clinical work with doctors. This provides the opportunity to learn different specializations in medicine, such as pathology, biochemistry, and anatomy. Remember though, if you start preparing during high school via summer courses, you’ll be ahead of the curve and this can help you succeed in medical school.
4. Pass two sections of the US Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE)
The USMLE is a three-step examination that provides medical licensure in the US. During medical school you will complete the first two parts of the examination, with the final section completed at the end of medical school. The first examination focuses on your knowledge of medical principles, and the second section assesses your skills and knowledge in the field.
5. Complete your residency
Towards the end of medical school, you will select the area of medicine in which you will specialize and, following this, complete a residency in this practice area. During this time you will work as a qualified doctor under the supervision of an experienced physician in your chosen specialty. Residencies can vary in length depending on your practice area, ranging from three to seven years.
6. Pass the final USMLE examination
The final section of the USMLE can be completed during your residency and tests your ability to practice medicine safely and effectively while prioritizing patient care. The exam takes 16 hours to complete and is comprised of multiple-choice questions and case simulations.
7. Secure your state’s medical license
Once you’ve passed your final USMLE test, you can secure your state license. State medical board requirements do vary, so you need to check if there are any additional requirements that need to be completed. This could include one year of postgraduate training or physical and mental health evaluations.
8. Pursue board certification
Many US doctors decide to become Board certified. This is not compulsory, but often a requirement for many organizations, so it can open you up to more job opportunities. Examinations are completed to test knowledge, skills, and expertise in your chosen specialty as well as your ability to deliver optimal patient care.
Costs of studying medicine in the US
Having an awareness of the route to becoming a doctor in the US is one thing, how much it actually costs is another! Remember, it is both more expensive and takes a longer period of time to complete your medical studies in the US, so tuition fees can become expensive. Tuition fees for an in-state student, attending a four-year undergraduate program in a public school can range from approximately $10,000 (£7,500) to $60,000 (£45,000) per year, depending on the school. Public schools have different rates for non-state residents and international students, which can be two to three times higher than the above amounts. While tuition in US private universities averages at $46,000 (£34,300) per year.
Moving on to medical school, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) the average cost of tuition fees is upwards of $41,000 (£30,700) per year for in-state students and $58,000 for out-of-state students. Private medical schools average upwards of $60,000 (£45,000) per year. Medical school would also cover a four-year period, so a minimum of $164,000 (£122,500).
Therefore, the best case scenario in terms of cost for an in-state student pursuing this eight-year course of study would be c. $200,000 (£150,000). Financial aid can help you navigate the challenges of financing your medical studies, whether provided by grants, scholarships, or loans. US residents can secure varying financial aid from the state or the institution they plan to attend, but there is limited financial aid offered to international students. Merit-based aid, such as scholarships, are very competitive, so you need exceptional academics and/or to meet specific financial criteria.
Job outlook and salary for a doctor in the US
Doctors in general are in demand across the world, and the US is no exception. Overall employment of physicians is projected to grow by 4 percent from 2023 to 2033, which is about the average for all occupations. This is attributed to workers transferring to different occupations or leaving the workforce, such as retiring.
Although the path to becoming a doctor in the United States is longer than any other country, physicians in the United States rank highest in terms of earnings. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average salary for a physician is $239,200 per year, which is approximately two to three times more than physicians in the next highest earning countries. In the UK for instance, a newly minted doctor will earn approximately £40,000 ($52,000) as a trainee, and between £60,000 to £90,000 ($79,000 - $119,000) later in their career depending on their experience and specialty
Why study medicine in the UK?
Shifting focus, let’s look at the reasons you might consider studying medicine in the UK over the US or other countries. The UK is home to world-class universities, with over 70 universities securing top places in the QS World University Rankings. Medical students in the UK receive hands-on training from the smartest minds and passionate teachers.
Similar to the US, medical qualifications from the UK are recognized around the world, which opens many doors in terms of global career opportunities. Employers will be impressed by the research experience and high level of practical training you have been exposed to during your medical studies. Students get the chance to choose from over 60 specialisms, from general practice to anesthesiology, psychiatry, surgery, and much more.
Medicine is a highly competitive course in the UK. However, thousands of international students get an opportunity to study in the UK's prestigious medical schools every year. Entry requirements for a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) course in the UK are extremely rigorous though, so you’ll need to ensure you tick all the eligibility boxes,deliver a convincing application, and perform well at interview in order to land a university place.
How to become a doctor in the UK
Qualifying as a doctor in the UK is a quicker process than completing your studies in the US. This is largely due to the fact that you can begin to study medicine at undergraduate level, rather than completing a bachelor’s degree plus medical school. The length of specialty training can of course vary, ranging from three to eight years.
Here are the steps to becoming a doctor in the UK, from high school and beyond:
1. Complete your GCSEs and A-Levels
Most medical schools in the UK will require GCSEs (Year 10-11) and A-Levels (Year 12-13) of a certain standard when shortlisting candidates. Schools will be looking for at least five or six GCSEs, including English, Math, and Sciences at grades 6 to 9.
Moving on to A-Levels, applicants are expected to have three A-Levels with high grades predicted/achieved. Preferred subjects would include Chemistry and Biology, as well as a third science-related subject, such as Physics, Math, or Psychology.
High school graduates from the US, wishing to complete a medical degree in the UK should check the specific entry requirements of the university they wish to attend. For example, if you chose to complete a medical degree at Kings College London, you would need a combination of APs, Honors/Dual Enrolment Classes, SATs, and ACTs. The entry requirements would need to be one of the following:
3 APs at 5 and ACT at 29, or
1 Honors/Dual Enrolment Classes at A+ and 2 at A/A- as well as 1380 in the SAT with a minimum 620 in Math and 650 in evidence-based reading and writing, or
55554 across five APs
2. Enroll on a medical degree
Researching UK medical schools, attending open days, and visiting campus will give you a good sense of whether the university will be a good fit. Many universities use the UCAS tariff system as part of their entry requirements, where they translate your qualifications and grades into a numerical value. This is then used to assess whether you meet the entry requirements.
When applying to study medicine in the UK, you may also be required to complete the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT). This is a two-hour aptitude test that admissions teams use to assess the different skills and abilities that doctors are required to have. You can find UCAT practice tests online. Work experience, internships, and a strong personal statement can also bolster your application.
Medical school programs in the UK typically last for four or five years. Courses involve classroom-based learning, clinical skills training in hospitals and medical centers, work placements, ongoing assessments, and end-of-year exams. More recently, a Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) test has been introduced to assess core knowledge, skills, and behaviors of new doctors. This means that medical students graduating from UK universities from 2024 onwards must pass the MLA as part of their degree before they can join the medical register.
3. Complete foundation training
After graduating, you’ll need to complete a two-year foundation program in order to be eligible to practice medicine in the UK. The first year of the program involves working as a doctor under the supervision of an experienced medical professional across different healthcare settings and medical specialties. In the second year, you’ll continue to work in clinical settings, but with more responsibility and autonomy. This offers more variety than the US where medical residencies are typically restricted to one location, with some including rotations at multiple hospitals.
4. Apply for specialty training
Upon completion of the foundation program, a junior doctor can choose between specializing in a specific area of medicine or continuing training in general practice. There are around 60 specialties available, such as oncology, pediatrics, neurology, and orthopedics. Specialty training programs are equivalent to a residency in the US and range from 3 to 8 years.
Specialty training can be delivered in two ways, as run-through training or uncoupled training:
a) Run-through training. Training covers the whole specialty curriculum, with each year referred to as ST1, ST2, and so on. There are specific specialties that have run-through training, including clinical radiology, general practice, neurosurgery, and pediatrics.
b) Uncoupled training. Involves a two-part process, where core training is completed first and higher specialty training follows. Core training can last 2 or 3 years and is referred to as CT1, CT2, and CT3. Following this doctors apply for specialty training (which starts at ST3 or ST4 depending on the length of core training). For example, a trainee may decide to complete internal medicine as their core training, then complete specialty training in clinical genetics.
Competition can be high for certain specialties. The NHS records the number of students applying for specialty training compared to how many places are available (a.k.a. the competition ratio). For example, pediatrics has a low competition ratio of 2.35. yet neurosurgery ranks highly at 53.00.
5. Registration, licensing, and membership exams
After completing foundation and specialty training, you’ll be eligible to register with the General Medical Council (GMC) and allowed to practice medicine in the UK. In order to advance in your career, you should prepare for membership exams related to your medical specialty. For example, this could involve completing an exam and becoming a member of the Royal College of General Practitioners.
Costs of studying medicine in the UK
Pursuing medical studies in the UK is a lot cheaper than the US, due to the fact that you can complete your medical degree within 4 to 5 years. For the majority of medical students tuition fees are £9,250 ($12,300) per year. Exceptions are for medical students from Scotland or the Republic of Ireland, who can study in Scotland for free! Irish students from Northern Ireland and studying in that location pay roughly half (£4,395 / $5,900 per year).
International students pay higher fees to complete their medical education in the UK, due to the fact that the UK Government subsidizes education for home students. Fees vary considerably between medical schools, ranging from £28,000 ($33,000) to £60,000 ($80,200) per year. There are only a handful of private universities in the UK, such as the University of Buckingham, where annual fees for the four and a half year program equate to £38,000 ($50,800) per year.
Financial aid, such as student loans, bursaries, scholarships, and travel allowances, can be secured to help cover the cost of medical studies in the UK, but they are subject to eligibility and may cover only part of your tuition, fees, and living expenses.
Job outlook and salary for a doctor in the UK
From the government-funded National Health Service to medical research centers and private hospitals, there are plenty of opportunities out there for bright young medicine graduates. The NHS is the largest employer of hospital doctors in the UK, but there are also opportunities to work in the private sector, armed forces, and prison service.
Comparing salaries earlier to the US, shows that doctors in the UK are paid significantly less. However, there are pay enhancements in the NHS for working unsociable hours (37% for working nights and allowances for working weekends and on call). As you advance in your career, you may become a consultant, where you can command a basic salary ranging from circa £105,000 to £140,000 ($139,000 to $185,000) per year, plus the opportunity to work in private practice at the same time to supplement your income.
Key takeaways
The US and the UK both provide the option to study medicine in a rich environment, with world-class instructors, and cutting-edge facilities, thereby opening the door to amazing career opportunities.
When considering studying medicine in the US, bear in mind that the process of qualifying as a doctor will take longer than most countries due to the fact that you must complete your bachelor’s degree, medical school, and specialty training. As a result, it’s also very expensive. Competition can also be high if you’re an international student due to a low allocation of medical school places. However with determination you can succeed and reap the rewards of a worthwhile career, as well as a salary two or three times higher than your counterparts in other countries.
But don’t rule out the UK in your decision-making process. Qualifying as a doctor in the UK is a quicker process, where following completion of your bachelor’s degree you will be shadowing on hospital wards while your US counterparts are still in class. Medical education in the UK is typically less costly and UK universities are also extremely well-respected, with 70 appearing on the QS World University Rankings. While salaries are lower than the US, you will benefit from free healthcare via the National Health Service, bonus payments, and increased salary according to specialty and experience level.
Medicine is one of the most lucrative careers to get into, yet also one of the most challenging subjects to study. If you have the passion and dedication to work and study hard, you should build your knowledge and experience early in life by completing summer courses and internships in medicine. These experiences will bolster your university applications and provide you with an exceptional head start in your studies in medicine.
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