Australian Med School vs. Canada
Hello!
I recently graduated with my Bachelor’s degree and have received a few interview offers from Australia. Canada has always been my first choice, but I’ve already applied twice.
During my first application cycle (third year), I only applied to Ottawa. I received an interview and was waitlisted, but ultimately didn’t get in. During my second cycle (fourth year), I applied to TMU and Ottawa but unfortunately didn’t receive any interviews. I couldn't apply to any other schools cause of low CARS (121 then 123). I was averaging 514, 510, and 515 for my last three full lengths the second time around. Idk what happened on test day and I got a 506 second time (previous attempt was 505).
Now I’m trying to decide between going to Australia or retaking the MCAT for a third time so I can apply to more Canadian schools. My main concern is the timing and financial commitment. Tuition in Australia is very expensive, although many students say they eventually make the money back.
For anyone familiar with the University of Notre Dame in Australia, is it considered a well-ranked university? Also, how difficult is it for international students in Australia to secure residency positions afterward? Since the loans would be very large, I want to make sure there’s a realistic path to employment and training opportunities afterward.
What would you recommend? Should I wait and continue trying for Canada, or should I take the opportunity in Australia instead of spending more years reapplying? In Canada, there’s no guarantee of when you’ll get in and it could take one year or even five. The career is already really long, and I am 21 right now so.