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University of Health Sciences School of Medicine in Antigua & Barbuda

Located in: Caribbean

  • A renowned medical school with over 40 years of experience in educational excellence 
  • Affiliated with over 30 prominent universities, hospitals and clinics worldwide, including in the UK, The US, Canada, and more
  • Medlink Students provides exclusive scholarships that can significantly reduce the cost of education 

Quick Facts

Location
Antigua, Caribbean
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Courses
Medicine, Pre-med
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Graduate Entry
Yes
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Entrance Exam
No
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Living Costs
/month
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Recognised by:

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About The University of Health Sciences Antigua

Sun, Sea, & Studying Medicine – the Caribbean med school mantra for achieving your dreams of becoming a doctor in a tropical paradise.

The University of Health Sciences Antigua (UHSA) is a private university that was founded in 1982 in Antigua & Barbuda. The medical school is located in Dow’s Hill, Piccadilly, Antigua, just 19 km away from the capital of St. John’s.

The university is known for training exceptional doctors and researchers with the highest international standards. UHSA emphasises primary care and prepares healthcare professionals for global success in medicine with excellence, compassion, and cultural sensitivity.

Additionally, UHSA is a prominent part of the global medical scene. It has formed strong international partnerships, including affiliations with nearly 30 hospitals and clinics worldwide, providing students with extensive clinical opportunities, flexible second degree options, and more.

Courses Offered at The University of Health Sciences Antigua

The University of Health Sciences Antigua offers 2 key courses for medicine.

The first is a 4-year graduate entry MD programme for students with a Bachelor’s Degree. This course features a comprehensive curriculum that completely prepare students to become competent and knowledgeable doctors. UHSA achieves this by providing thorough training in the Basic Medical Sciences with extensive hands-on experience through clinical rotations with international opportunities.

The 2nd option is an online Pre-Medical programme that thoroughly prepares students for medical school. This course is designed for high-school graduates and covers all the needed prerequisites to grant entry to the main programme. Successfully completing the pre-med programme guarantees acceptance to the Doctor of Medicine course at UHSA.

Additionally, the University of Health Sciences in Antigua welcomes student transfers.

uhsa-sky-view-campus

Tuition Fees at The University of Health Sciences Antigua

Here’s the breakdown of the tuition fees at the University of Health Sciences Antigua:

The Pre-Medical Programme Tuition Fees

The pre-med course is typically 3 semesters; however, by applying with Medlink Students, you get access to an exclusive 1-year condensed edition. 

Typically, the pre-med programme costs per term for 3 semesters, adding up to total.

But by applying through Medlink Students, you can sign up for the streamlined 1-year pre-medical course with exclusive tuition fees of only total.

Doctor of Medicine (MD) Programme Tuition Fees

The Doctor of Medicine course is divided into 2 phases - Basic Sciences and Clinical Sciences. The tuition fees for them typically cost:

  • Basic Sciences (Terms 1-5): per term. 
  • Basic Sciences Review Term (Term 6): per term

    The Basic Sciences phase has 3 terms per year, which adds up to about per year
  • Clinical Sciences (Terms 1-4): per term.

    This phase of the curriculum has 2 terms per year, which means that the yearly tuition fee is about per year

Medlink Students offers exclusive scholarship opportunities, which can significantly reduce your tuition fees to just per year.

Type of courseStandard Tuition FeesFees with Exclusive Medlink Students Scholarship
Pre-Med Course
📅 Medlink Students get access to an exclusive 1-year condensed edition instead of 3 semesters
Typically the programme costs totalOnly total
MD Programme Basic Sciences Phase

📅 2 years (6 Terms)
3 terms per year, which adds up to ~ per yearJust per year
MD Course Clinical Sciences Phase
📅 2 years (4 Terms)
Yearly tuition fee is ~ per yearOnly per year

We believe that high-quality medical education should be accessible to everyone, which is why we offer exclusive scholarships to hard-working students and diligent students. To see if you qualify for the Medlink Students scholarship, sign up for a free evaluation with one of our academic advisors. It’s easy, fast and completely free.

Admission Requirements for the Medicine Programme at The University of Health Sciences Antigua

Admissions Requirements for the 4-Year MD Course

Here are the admission requirements for the 4-year MD programme at The University of Health Sciences Antigua:

  • A Bachelor’s Degree or at least 3 years of study (worth a minimum of 90 credits)
  • Students need to have gone through the required coursework* with official transcripts.
  • US-based candidates need to submit a Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) score.
  • Personal statement.
  • Two letters of recommendation.

*The required coursework includes the following undergraduate courses:

  1. General Biology with lab
  2. General or Inorganic Chemistry with lab
  3. Organic Chemistry with lab
  4. General Physics with lab
  5. College-level Mathematics
  6. College-level English

Admission requirements for the Pre-Medicine course

To get accepted to the pre-medical programme at UHSA, students need to have:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent
  • A minimum grade of C in English, Mathematics, and Chemistry
  • A minimum overall GPA of 2.0 or equivalent
admission process infographic

The University of Health Sciences Antigua is one of the top choices for medical education in the Caribbean, known for its beautiful island setting and flexible admissions process. Since UHSA does not require entrance exams, the competition is very fierce. To be accepted, students need a strong academic record and, most importantly, a well-crafted application. However, there’s no need to worry because we have one of the best admissions teams in Europe. We completely understand what UHSA is looking for in the ideal candidate, and we can take care of the entire application process. With Medlink Students by your side, you can rest assured that you will submit a very strong application that will let you stand out from the competition and increase your chances of getting accepted to this prestigious medical school. The best part is that when you apply with us, you will also receive a free evaluation to see if you qualify for the exclusive Medlink Students scholarship opportunities.

The University of Health Sciences Antigua uses rolling admissions throughout the year until all spots have been filled. We recommend applying as early as possible to have the highest chances of getting accepted.

The University of Health Sciences Antigua Accreditation and International Recognition

The University of Health Sciences Antigua is accredited and internationally recognised by several prestigious establishments:

  • Accredited by the Antigua & Barbuda National Accreditation Board (ABNAB)
  • Approved by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). This approval enables UHSA graduates to take the USMLE and obtain residency placements in the United States.
  • Compliant with the standards set by the General Medical Council in the UK. This allows graduates to take the UK Medical Licensing exam and apply for licensure in the UK.
  • Recognised by the Medical Council of Canada. This gives graduates the ability to take MCC exams to practise medicine in Canada.
  • Listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS UHSA)

Upon graduation, students receive an internationally recognised diploma that allows them to become successful doctors in many countries around the world, including the UK, the US, Canada, and many more.

The Academic Experience at The University of Health Sciences Antigua

UHSA White Coat Ceremony 2

The university is committed to maintaining a supportive learning environment with a personalised approach to education in state-of-the-art facilities. Another priority of UHSA is providing diverse clinical experience that completely prepares students for global success in their medical careers.

About the Pre-Medical Programme at The University of Health Sciences Antigua

The 90-credit Premedical programme covers all course and lab requirements needed for a smooth transition into the main MD course. Also known as a foundation year, it allows students to acquire the essential knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in medicine. 

The pre-med course is entirely online and guarantees entry into UHSA’s Doctor of Medicine programme if completed successfully.

About The English Medicine Programme at The University of Health Sciences Antigua

The 4-year MD programme at UHSA offers a rigorous and fulfilling medical education that is taught entirely in English. The course lasts for 4 years and is divided into 2 phases:

  • The Basic Sciences Phase lasts for 2 years and is subdivided into 6 semesters. This part of the curriculum is taught at the main Antigua campus and covers essential medical subjects through an integrated curriculum with early exposure to clinical settings. 
  • The Clinical Sciences Phase is also 2 years but is divided into 4 semesters, which include core and elective clinical rotations. In this part of the curriculum, students receive world-class clinical training in affiliated hospitals and clinics in Antigua or across the UK, US, Canada, and other global locations.

The programme has a student-centred approach with an emphasis on critical thinking, ethical practice, and a deep understanding of patient care. UHSA students develop a strong theoretical foundation, along with the clinical skills needed to become successful doctors.

The students of The University of Health Sciences Antigua graduate as skilled professionals who are ready to pursue medical licensure and residency opportunities worldwide. Additionally, the programme completely prepares students for the United States Medical Licensing Exam, ensuring a smooth transition for those looking to join the US healthcare system.

Innovative Curriculum and Advanced Teaching Technology

One of the highlights of studying medicine at The University of Health Sciences Antigua is the  Standardised Patient (SP) Programme. It is a core component of the curriculum that offers students real-life experience in clinical settings by interacting with professionally trained staff to take on the roles of standardised patients.

Starting in the very 1st year, students learn to perform physical exams, take medical histories, and communicate effectively with a diverse set of patients thanks to the SP programme. The best part is that students get direct & detailed feedback, ensuring that they are well-prepared for their clinical rotations in real-world settings.

Additionally, the medicine course at UHSA features state-of-the-art simulation labs, comprehensive digital resources, and interactive learning platforms that allow students to develop their skills in a controlled environment. These tools provide realistic patient scenarios and immediate feedback, ensuring that students gain confidence and competence before working with real patients in UHSA’s affiliated hospitals and clinics throughout the world.

Intentionally Small Classroom-Sizes

Teaching at UHSA is carried out in intentionally small groups to ensure that each student gets direct attention from their professors and lecturers. This approach guarantees that the course is covered thoroughly and that students can ask as many questions as necessary until they’ve completely understood the material.

Additionally, this creates a supportive learning environment where students receive personal guidance, build strong relationships with their instructors, and actively engage in their studies.

Second Degree Options

The University of Health Sciences Antigua also offers flexible second degree options and additional qualifications alongside their MD, such as a Master of Public Health (MPH). This is made possible through UHSA’s partnership with Walden University, a regionally accredited university that is located in the U.S.

Secondary degree options are taught online along with the MD course, and students get a 25% tuition fee reduction for their 2nd degree.

UHSA Inside Clinic

Methods of Assessment at the University of Health Sciences Antigua

UHSA uses a variety of assessment methods to guarantee fair and transparent evaluation of students. These methods include:

  • Standardised Patient (SP) Examinations
  • Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs)
  • Comprehensive Clinical Skills Assessments (CSAs) and Clinical Performance Examinations (CPXs)
  • Computer-Based Case Examinations
  • Simulated Recall/Video Performance Reviews
  • Community-Based Preceptorships
  • Multiple-Choice Question Assessments
  • Self-Assessment Tools

The Mission and Goals of The University of Health Sciences Antigua

Mission of UHSA

To educate and train competent, compassionate, and ethical healthcare professionals who are prepared to meet the global healthcare challenges of the 21st century.

Goals of UHSA

  • Provide a high-quality, student-centred educational experience.
  • Maintain an environment of academic excellence and innovation.
  • Promote research, community service, and lifelong learning.
  • Foster leadership and ethical behaviour in healthcare.
  • Prepare culturally sensitive graduates to serve diverse populations.

University of Health Sciences Antigua Affiliated Hospitals & Clinics

UHSA-clinic

UHSA is affiliated with the following hospitals and clinics, where students can receive world-class clinical training:

Antigua & Barbuda

  • Mount St. John’s Medical Centre

United Kingdom

  • Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust
  • Sheepcot Medical Centre

Canada

  • Labrador-Grenfell Regional Health Authority

Nigeria

  • Babcock University Teaching Hospital
  • DIFF Medical Center

The United States of America

Colorado

  • Advent Health Avista
  • Advent Health Castle Rock
  • Advent Health Littleton
  • Advent Health Parker
  • Advent Health Porter

Illinois

  • Harrisburg Medical Center
  • Southern Illinois Hospital Services
  • Southern Illinois Medical Services

Puerto Rico

  • Bayamon Medical Center
  • Costa Salud Community Health Center
  • Hospital Auxilio Mutuo
  • Hospital Metropolitano – Guaynabo
  • Hospital Metropolitano de la Montaña
  • Hospital Pavía – Hato Rey
  • Hospital Pavía – Santurce
  • Hospital Perea – Mayagüez
  • Hospital Psiquiátrico Metropolitano
  • Manati Medical Center
  • Metro Pavia Health System/Perea Hospital
  • Neo Med Center
  • Puerto Rico Women’s and Children’s Hospital Bayamon
  • San Juan Municipal Hospital
  • University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine

Student Housing at the University of Health Sciences Antigua

UHSA Student Housing

UHSA offers a range of comfortable and convenient student housing options on and near the campus. Housing options include fully furnished rooms with essential amenities, internet access, and easy access to campus facilities. The university ensures a safe and secure environment with 24/7 security and support services available to all residents.

On-campus student housing options include:

  • Double occupancy in a 1-bedroom apartment with kitchenette:
  • Single occupancy in a 1-bedroom apartment with kitchenette:
  • Double occupancy in a studio apartment with kitchenette:
  • Single occupancy in a studio apartment with kitchenette:
  • Double occupancy in a studio apartment without kitchenette:
  • Single occupancy in a studio apartment without kitchenette:


Additionally, affordable housing options are available in the community surrounding the UHSA medical school campus, offering students the opportunity to rent apartments, houses and even villas.

Student Life in Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda is a multi-island nation that offers a fulfilling student experience in a paradise-like setting. The country maintains a high standard of living thanks to its thriving tourism industry, which attracts visitors with its luxury resorts, pristine beaches, and interesting culture.

island of Antigua

In fact, Antigua and Barbuda are so nice and welcoming that more than half of the country's GDP is driven entirely by tourism. The best part is that you don’t have to worry about language barriers because the official working language of the country is English, and the local dialect, Antiguan and Barbudan Creole, is based on English.

Additionally, while studying medicine at UHSA, you will be able to enjoy:

Stunning natural beauty

Antigua is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. The island boasts 365 pristine beaches - one for every day of the year, where students can relax and unwind after a hard day of studying.

Among the most popular spots are Dickenson Bay, Half Moon Bay, and the secluded Rendezvous Bay. In addition to its beaches, Antigua offers several hills and hiking trails, and must-see locations include Nelson’s Dockyard National Park and Shirley Heights, where you can see panoramic views of the island.

UHSA students beach


Easy Travel
Getting around Antigua and Barbuda is both simple and convenient. The main island, Antigua, is relatively small and easy to travel around in, with reliable public transportation, taxis, and car rentals available. For students who want to explore the surrounding islands, ferries and small boats provide quick connections to Barbuda and other nearby destinations so that you can enjoy even more beaches.

International travel is also a breeze. Antigua's V.C. Bird International Airport offers direct flights to major cities in Europe, the United States, Canada, and other Caribbean islands, making it easy for students to travel home or explore new places during breaks.

Warm and friendly locals

The local people are known for their warm hospitality and open friendliness. They are proud of their cultural heritage and are always ready to share their traditions, music, dance, and food that give the islands their charm. You will be able to enjoy a truly laid-back lifestyle, surrounded by friendly people and beautiful beaches.

Festivals and events

Antigua is an exciting, lively, and fun island with many local festivals and events throughout the year. Make sure to visit the massive 10-day Antigua Carnival, also known as "The Caribbean's Greatest Summer Festival".

Other exciting events include the “Antigua Sailing Week”, one of the largest sailing events in the world, and the Antigua and Barbuda Independence Festival. 

High quality of life with reasonable living costs:

In Antigua, students are able to enjoy a high quality of life with reasonable living costs. On average, you can expect to spend between - per month.

A Diverse and Welcoming Learning Experience in Antigua and Barbuda

Diversity and inclusion are integral values of both Antigua and Barbuda and the University of Health Sciences Antigua. The island nation is renowned for being a peaceful place where students from all backgrounds are treated with kindness and respect. This creates a positive and enjoyable environment for everyone, including hijabi women.

There are various places of worship on the island, including churches and mosques, allowing students to practice their religion freely. The local community in Picadilly and the surrounding area also cater to a variety of dietary needs, which includes halal, kosher, vegetarian, and vegan options.

In Antigua, UHSA provides a supportive and enriching experience for students from around the world, helping them feel right at home while they pursue their dreams of becoming successful doctors.

Apply for the University of Health Sciences Antigua Through Medlink Students

The University of Health Sciences Antigua is an excellent option for aspiring students looking to become globally successful doctors. Here you will get personalised lessons from highly-qualified professionals who will make sure that you've learned everything you can. The best part is that you will also get access to world-class clinical training from the leading healthcare providers in the world.

Apply for UHSA through Medlink Students to significantly increase your chances of getting accepted and kickstart your medical journey. Don't forget to get your free evaluation to see if you qualify for the exclusive Medlink Students scholarship that can significantly reduce your tuition fees.

UHSA-Clinic-Studentsuhsa-studentsUHSA-doctor-students-campus-signUHSA-Student HousingUHSA-Student HousingUHSA-Student HousingUHSA GymUHSA Building entranceUHSA HousingUHSA BuldingUHSA RestoUHSA Inside ClinicUHSA Housinguhsa-sky-view-campusUHSA Learning CenterUHSA Student HousingUHSA-clinicUHSA-class-students-doctorUHSA-trainingUHSA-GraduationUHSA student-labUHSA White Coat CeremonyUHSA-campusFree Clinic at English Harbour in Antigua. It's a two-story building with a cream-colored facade and a ramp leading up to the entrance. There's a sign on the building that reads "Free Clinic at English Harbour" with a logo and contact information. The clinic is surrounded by lush greenery and flowers. There's another, smaller building with a red roof visible in the background. The sky is blue with some wispy clouds.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is The University of Health Sciences Antigua located?

The University of Health Sciences Antigua (UHSA) is located in Dow’s Hill, Piccadilly, Antigua, which is just 19 km from the capital, St. John’s.

How much does it cost to study medicine at The University of Health Sciences Antigua?

The typical tuition fees for the Doctor of Medicine programme at UHSA are approximately per year for Basic Sciences and per year for Clinical Sciences.
However, you can apply for a Medlink Students exclusive scholarship that can reduce your tuition fees to just per year.

Can you transfer to The University of Health Sciences Antigua?

Yes, you can transfer to The University of Health Sciences Antigua.

Can you study medicine in English at The University of Health Sciences Antigua?

Yes, you can study medicine in English at The University of Health Sciences Antigua.  The MD programme is taught entirely in English.

What are the application requirements at The University of Health Sciences Antigua?

The application requirements for the 4-Year MD Programme at the University of Health Sciences Antigua (UHSA) include:

  • A Bachelor's Degree or at least 3 years of study with a minimum of 90 credits.
  • Completion of required coursework (General Biology, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and English) with official transcripts.
  • MCAT score for US-based applicants.
  • Personal statement.
  • Two letters of recommendation.

For the Pre-Medical course, the requirements are:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum grade of C in English, Mathematics, and Chemistry.
  • Minimum overall GPA of 2.0.
Where is The University of Health Sciences Antigua recognised?

The University of Health Sciences Antigua is accredited by the Antigua & Barbuda National Accreditation Board (ABNAB) and recognised by prominent international bodies, including the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), and the Medical Council of Canada. Additionally, it is fully compliant with the guidelines set by the General Medical Council (GMC) in the UK.

Is there an entrance exam for studying at The University of Health Sciences Antigua?

No, there’s no entrance exam to study at The University of Health Sciences Antigua.

Can I study at The University of Health Sciences Antigua without a Bachelor’s Degree?

Yes, you can study at The University of Health Sciences Antigua without a Bachelor’s Degree. Students can sign up for the online pre-medical programme, which guarantees entry into the MD course if completed successfully. This pre-med course is typically 3 semesters and costs total.

However, you can get access to a streamlined 1-year pre-medical course by applying through Medlink Students. This shorter edition is exclusive to students who apply with us and comes with reduced tuition fees of only total.

Where can I carry out my clinical rotations?

UHSA students can complete their clinical rotations at affiliated hospitals and clinics in Antigua, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and other global locations.

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