American University of Antigua (AUA)
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- American University of Antigua (AUA)
Program Structure and Curriculum
AUA offers a 4-Year MD program (for students with undergraduate coursework) and has occasionally provided an integrated pre-med program in collaboration with other institutions for those needing additional preparation.
The main MD program structure comprises:
Preclinical (Basic Sciences) Phase:
2 years (four semesters) on AUA’s campus in Antigua.
Clinical Sciences Phase:
Approximately 2 years (84 weeks of rotations) at affiliated hospitals in the United States (and a few other locations).
Preclinical Curriculum:
AUA follows an organ-system, block-based curriculum similar to U.S. medical schools. The first two years are structured into modules that integrate disciplines. Students learn normal human biology in the beginning (Anatomy, Histology, Physiology, Biochemistry) and then progress to pathology and pharmacology of organ systems. The curriculum emphasizes active learning in small groups and case discussions, rather than rote learning. For example, in AUA’s first year, courses are organized by organ systems (cardiovascular, respiratory, etc.), and in the second year, there are organ-based pathology and therapeutics blocks. A unique feature is Semester 5 (also called Advanced Introduction to Clinical Medicine) – a 15-week block that reinforces and integrates all basic science knowledge in a clinical context, preparing students for Step 1 and the transition to clinical rotations.
AUA provides cutting-edge learning resources: anatomy labs with virtual dissection tables and plastinated specimens, simulation labs for clinical skills, and a skills lab called the “Osler Suites” for small group learning. Teaching is pass/fail to encourage collaboration over competition. In addition, AUA uses high-fidelity patient simulators and computer-based learning tools (like “Medico Skills” and “CARE” apps) to augment learning. This technology-driven approach helps students build clinical reasoning early.
By the end of the preclinical phase, students take a comprehensive basic science exam and are required to pass USMLE Step 1. AUA’s curriculum includes a dedicated Step 1 review period, and the school reports that while historically their Step 1 pass rates have been lower than U.S. schools (recent data showed about 75% first-time pass in 2022), intensive preparation has improved outcomes and almost all students eventually pass before starting clinical rotations.
Clinical Curriculum:
The clinical phase consists of 84 weeks of rotations (approximately 6 semesters). It begins with an 8-week “Introduction to Clinical Medicine” which is a preliminary training often incorporating Family or Internal Medicine exposure to ease students into hospital environments. After that, students complete Core Rotations (44 weeks): Internal Medicine (12 weeks), Surgery (8 weeks), Pediatrics (6 weeks), Obstetrics/Gynecology (6 weeks), Psychiatry (6 weeks), and Family Medicine (6 weeks). These core rotations cover essential medical fields and are mostly done at AUA’s affiliated teaching hospitals in the U.S.
Following cores, students have Elective Rotations (40 weeks) to reach the total of 84 weeks. AUA requires a variety of electives totaling 32 weeks (often including sub-internships in fields like Internal Medicine or Surgery, and other electives of the student’s choice). Students can choose from 30+ specialties for electives, allowing them to explore interests and bolster their residency applications. Examples include Cardiology, Neurology, Emergency Medicine, Radiology, etc. Up to 8 weeks of electives can be research or international electives if approved.
AUA’s clinical rotations are primarily in the United States across AUA’s clinical network. The school has affiliations in major metropolitan areas and other regions – for instance, AUA has a notable clinical partnership with Florida International University (FIU) in Florida, where some students can do rotations through the FIU-affiliated hospitals (this is part of AUA’s Global Health Track). AUA is also affiliated with teaching hospitals in New York, New Jersey, Illinois (including Chicago), California, among others. During clinicals, AUA students must also take and pass USMLE Step 2 CK (Clinical Knowledge) and an internal clinical comprehensive exam. AUA’s Step 2 CK pass rate is high (around 96% in 2022), reflecting the strength of their clinical training.
Overall, AUA’s curriculum is designed to mirror the training of U.S. medical schools, with an emphasis on preparing students for the USMLE and clinical practice in North America. The academic schedule is trimester-based for Year 1 (allowing three entry points per year – February, June, and August for new classes) and then semester-based from Year 2 onward. This flexibility can be advantageous for international students who may finish prior schooling at different times.
Entry Requirements and Admissions
AUA’s admissions approach is holistic, looking beyond numbers. Key requirements include:
Education:
A minimum of 90 credit hours of college courses is required for admission. In practice, most successful applicants have a bachelor’s degree. The coursework must include pre-medical science classes: one year of General Biology with lab, one year of General or Inorganic Chemistry with lab, one year of Organic Chemistry with lab, one semester of Physics with lab, one semester of Math (Calculus or Statistics), and English. Strong performance in these subjects is expected.
GPA:
AUA doesn’t set an official cut-off, but a minimum GPA around 3.0 (on 4.0) is recommended. The average GPA of admitted students is often slightly lower than U.S. med schools, but AUA is willing to consider students with varied academic histories, especially if they show upward trends or other strengths.
MCAT:
AUA requires the MCAT for U.S. citizens and permanent residents as part of the application (to comply with U.S. Dept of Education regulations). However, AUA has stated that while MCAT scores are required from Americans, they are not heavily weighted in the decision and the school focuses on a holistic view. For international students (non-U.S./Canadian), AUA does not require the MCAT. For example, a Nigerian applicant can apply without an MCAT. If an international applicant has taken the MCAT or other entrance exams, they can submit the scores optionally.
English Proficiency:
Since the medium of instruction is English and Antigua is an English-speaking country, AUA expects applicants to have strong English skills. Applicants from non-English speaking countries may need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Applicants from Nigeria (where English is the official language of education) typically would not need to provide TOEFL/IELTS; AUA’s international admissions guidelines (for countries like India, etc.) say if prior instruction was in English, no test is needed.
Holistic Factors:
AUA values clinical experience, volunteer work, leadership, and life experiences. Letters of recommendation (at least 2 are required, often 1 academic and 1 professional/character reference) are important. A personal statement is required, where the applicant explains their motivation for medicine and why AUA. AUA explicitly mentions considering attributes beyond GPA/MCAT: motivation, compassion, resilience, etc., are weighed in admissions.
Admissions Process:
Application:
AUA uses an online application. Students can apply directly or via services like MedApply. The application requires personal info, academic history, test scores, personal statement, and recommendations. There is an application fee (often waived during certain recruitment events).
Admissions Interview:
Qualified applicants are invited to interview (often over Zoom or in person at various locations). AUA’s interview is typically with a member of the admissions committee or an alumnus. The interview assesses interpersonal skills, maturity, and reasons for pursuing medicine. It is relatively conversational, but applicants should be prepared to discuss any challenges in their academic history (e.g., why a low grade, etc.).
Decision:
AUA has rolling admissions and usually provides a decision within a few weeks of the interview. Decisions can be Acceptance, Denial, or Waitlist. Sometimes AUA offers a “conditional acceptance” (for instance, requiring the completion of a degree or a certain grade in a pending course).
Seat Deposit:
Admitted students pay a seat deposit to secure their place.
Visa Process:
International students (like those from Africa) will receive guidance to obtain an Antiguan student visa. Antigua allows students from many countries to enter without a prior visa (e.g., Nigerians get visa on arrival or a quick process since Antigua is Commonwealth). AUA’s student services help with necessary documentation for the student residence permit.
Matriculation:
Before matriculating, students must meet AUA’s health requirements (immunizations, etc.) and financial arrangements (tuition payment plans, etc.).
AUA’s admissions is competitive, but it is known to give chances to students who might have been overlooked by U.S. med schools, provided they show potential to succeed. For instance, AUA’s entering classes often include students with GPAs around 3.2-3.3 and a range of MCAT scores for Americans. The school’s philosophy is to produce capable physicians by looking at the “whole picture” of an applicant, not just stats. This can benefit African students who have strong academic ability but maybe lacked opportunities or had to complete education in different systems.
For African and other international applicants, AUA requires certified copies of transcripts and any diplomas. If the grading system is non-US, an evaluation (like WES credential evaluation) may be requested. The admissions department has specialists for various regions to assist applicants through these steps.
Tuition, Financial Aid, and Cost of Living
Tuition:
AUA’s tuition is comparable to other top-tier Caribbean medical schools, though slightly less than SGU. According to AUA’s published 2025-2026 fees, the total direct tuition cost for the MD program is about $287,570 USD (Basic Sciences + Clinical Sciences tuition and fees).
For a breakdown:
• Basic Sciences (5 semesters): Tuition per semester ranges from around $20,000 to $25,500. In the first semester (Med 1), tuition was $20,335 and in Med 2-4 about $25,500 each, with Med 5 around $20,000 (as Med 5 is a shorter semester focused on review).
• Clinical Sciences (6 semesters of rotations): Tuition is approximately $32,000 per semester for each of the 6 clinical semesters. So clinical tuition totals roughly $192,000. There are also clinical fees but AUA includes many educational resource fees in tuition.
• Fees: AUA charges fees such as Administrative fees, lab fees, and health insurance. For example, fees in Basic Sciences were ~$4,000-$5,000 per semester. In total, AUA’s fees over the program are about $42,735 (this includes all semesters).
Thus, the total cost of attendance (including estimated living expenses and loan fees) for all four years at AUA is around $469,000 according to AUA’s estimates. This includes tuition, fees, housing, food, transportation, health insurance, and exam fees over the years. It’s important to note that AUA’s cost of attendance includes loan origination fees for those using U.S. loans, which inflates that number. If not borrowing, the out-of-pocket cost including living might be somewhat less.
Financial Aid:
AUA is one of the few Caribbean schools approved for U.S. Federal Direct Loans (Title IV). This is because the U.S. Dept of Education recognized Antigua’s CAAM-HP process as equivalent to LCME. So, American students at AUA can fund their education with federal loans (Stafford, Grad PLUS). For international students (Africans), U.S. loans aren’t available, but AUA does offer some scholarships:
• Academic Excellence Scholarships: for high MCAT/GPA students (mostly targeted to US applicants, merit-based, up to 50% tuition).
• Alumni Referral Grants: if referred by an alumnus, small grants may apply.
• International Grants/Scholarships: AUA periodically offers scholarships for students from specific regions, like a scholarship for Indian students (since AUA has many Indian partnerships). African students may inquire if any regional or Commonwealth scholarships exist.
• International Grants/Scholarships: AUA periodically offers scholarships for students from specific regions, like a scholarship for Indian students (since AUA has many Indian partnerships). African students may inquire if any regional or Commonwealth scholarships exist.
It’s crucial for African students to plan finances: total tuition ~$290k plus living ~ $80-100k over 4 years. Many students rely on family support or loans from home-country banks (if available for education abroad). AUA might help by allowing payment plans each semester.
Cost of Living in Antigua:
Antigua’s cost of living is moderate. Many AUA students live in university-arranged off-campus housing or private apartments near campus (in the Coolidge area or Jolly Harbour, etc.).
• Housing:
AUA’s estimated room (housing) cost is about $8,500 per semester in basic sciences (roughly $1,500-$2,000 per month). This is for a nice apartment; students can find less expensive options by sharing. It’s reasonable to budget ~$1,000/month if sharing a two-bedroom with a roommate, more if alone.
• Food:
Groceries in Antigua (many items are imported) can be a bit pricey. AUA estimates ~$700-$800 per month for food. Students often cook at home to save money. Local produce and products are affordable, but eating out frequently can increase costs.
• Transportation:
The campus is adjacent to the airport and about 15-20 minutes from St. John’s city. Many students walk or bike if they live close, or use car rentals/car-pools. AUA’s estimate for transportation was around $2,300 per semester (about $150/week) in basic sciences (including possibly one flight home). Owning a car is optional; some students do purchase used cars or scooters.
• Miscellaneous:
Utilities, phone, personal expenses might be around $300 a month. Antigua offers student discounts in some cases (AUA ID can get local sim deals, etc.).
In sum, students might spend ~$1,500/month on living expenses if budget-conscious, which over 4 years (basic sci in Antigua, then clinicals in the US which might have higher cost) averages out.
Clinical Rotations Costs:
During clinical rotations, students often move to the U.S. and cost of living can rise (rent near hospital, etc.). AUA’s cost of attendance accounts for that with a bump in living expenses in clinical semesters. Some rotations might be in more affordable locations, others in big cities.
AUA tries to offset costs via some scholarships. Additionally, due to Title IV eligibility, American students can utilize U.S. federal loans which cover living expenses. International students may need to secure funding for clinical years when they’re in the U.S. (they may not be eligible to work jobs due to visa restrictions – although during basic sciences in Antigua, students on student visas also generally cannot work, so full funding is needed).
A key point: AUA has a refund policy (as required) if students withdraw early in a term and even has a unique New Student tuition refund (full refund if a student withdraws within first 14 weeks of first term) – SGU had that, not sure if AUA does similarly; either way, understanding the financial commitment is vital.
Clinical Rotations and Affiliations
AUB's clinical rotations take place at affiliated teaching hospitals in the US and Caribbean, giving students exposure to diverse patient populations and healthcare systems. During the clinical years, students rotate through hospitals primarily in the United States.
New York:
AUA was approved by the NY State Education Department in 2006 for clinical rotations beyond 12 weeks. This means AUA students can do extensive rotations in NY. AUA has affiliations with hospitals in Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, and upstate New York (for example, Nassau University Medical Center, Richmond University Medical Center, etc.).
Florida:
AUA has a partnership with Florida International University (FIU) Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, which allows a certain number of AUA students to do core rotations as a cohort in Florida alongside FIU’s program. Hospitals in Miami, Broward, and other parts of Florida (like Jackson Health System, Cleveland Clinic Florida, etc.) have taken AUA students. AUA is also licensed by the Florida Department of Education’s Commission for Independent Education, which is an extra state approval.
Other States:
AUA is recognized by the Medical Board of California (since 2011), so graduates don’t need individual California evaluations. AUA is also recognized in Massachusetts without the need for “substantial equivalence” waiver, which is significant (Massachusetts has a strict board; AUA is one of few that get automatic acceptance). Clinical rotation sites are also in Illinois (e.g., Chicago – Mt. Sinai Hospital, etc.), Georgia, Maryland/DC area, Michigan, among others.
During Core Rotations (third year), AUA students typically are assigned to a hospital for a block of rotations (often a “track” where they do several cores at one site). This provides continuity and mentoring. For Elective Rotations (fourth year), students have flexibility to go to different hospitals that specialize in certain fields. AUA’s clinical department assists with scheduling but students also have some agency in selecting electives, including away electives at unaffiliated hospitals if approved.
AUA ensures that all clinical sites meet the requirements for U.S. residencies (ACGME-accredited hospitals, etc.). Students must log their clinical experiences and are evaluated by attending physicians. There are also NBME shelf exams for core subjects.
Clinical Training Quality:
AUA emphasizes that its curriculum aligns with USMLE standards and that by clinical years, students are well-prepared. The evidence is in their USMLE Step 2 CK pass rate of over 96%, indicating that by the time they finish rotations, AUA students perform comparably to U.S. med students on this exam. The clinical education includes a lot of hands-on patient interaction, with AUA requiring students to perform certain procedures and patient encounters logged.
One unique aspect: AUA students can join the Global Health Track which offers some rotation or internship opportunities abroad (like in Canada, India, or South America) as electives. Also, AUA encourages research electives; they have a research office that helps interested students find short-term research projects, which can strengthen residency applications.
Residency Match and Graduate Outcomes
AUA has a solid record of residency placements in the U.S. and some in Canada. Every year, hundreds of AUA students match into residency programs across a variety of specialties. For example, in 2023, 172 AUA students matched into residencies across the US and Canada. Many of these are in primary care fields (Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics) which are the most common for international graduates. However, AUA has also seen graduates enter specialties like Anesthesiology, Neurology, Psychiatry, Emergency Medicine, and a few into competitive fields like General Surgery and Radiology.
AUA boasts that its graduates have obtained residencies at prestigious teaching hospitals (for instance, some in university programs or large community programs). Alumni have become chief residents and fellows. A significant achievement: AUA grads can obtain licensure in all 50 states – a milestone reached after key approvals (California, NY, etc.) were secured. Notably, AUA is one of the few Caribbean schools recognized by the Massachusetts Board of Registration, which means AUA grads don’t have to prove “equivalency” for a MA license.
Residency Match Rate:
AUA publishes that 99% of eligible graduates (those who passed USMLE and applied) obtained a residency by their second attempt if not first. In the 2025 Match, AUA reported a very high match success rate for their graduates actively seeking residency. Keep in mind some students take additional time or pursue home country options, so official “match rate” is tricky to calculate. But effectively, the vast majority of AUA graduates who clear exams and want U.S. residency do secure one.
For African graduates, this means attending AUA can indeed lead to a U.S. residency. There are AUA alumni from Nigeria and other African countries practicing in the U.S. now. Alternatively, some graduates choose to practice in other countries: AUA has alumni in Canada (those who passed MCC exams) and a few in the UK (AUA is recognized by the GMC as meeting criteria, likely via its CAAM-HP accreditation).
After residency, AUA MDs become board-certified physicians. Many pursue fellowships; for example, an AUA grad might do Internal Medicine then Cardiology fellowship in the U.S. The school’s alumni network (over 2,500 by mid-2020s) is growing and often helps new graduates with advice and connections.
It’s worth noting that AUA’s USMLE Step 1 pass rate was 75% in 2022, which is lower than the ~96% U.S. med school average. This indicates that some students struggle with Step 1. However, by Step 2 CK, AUA’s pass rate jumps to 96%, equal to U.S. med grads, implying that those who make it to clinicals are well-prepared. The attrition (students who don’t pass Step 1 or drop out) is a factor to consider. AUA’s on-time graduation rate was ~69% (within 4 years) for the cohort entering 2018 – some students take longer or don’t complete. AUA has been working to improve academic support to raise these metrics.
For students returning to Africa: AUA’s MD, being internationally accredited, allows graduates to sit for licensing exams like Nigeria’s MDCN exam or other national board exams. There are AUA graduates who have returned and practiced in their home countries after completing training. Also, Antigua is a friendly location for African students – as fellow Commonwealth citizens, cultural adaptation is smoother, and networks made at AUA (e.g., with American peers) can be professionally advantageous.
Accreditation and Licensure
AUB is licensed by and registered with the Barbados Accreditation Council and Ministry of Education. This means the school is fully recognized nationally in Barbados, authorized to confer the MD degree.
CAAM-HP Accreditation:
AUA’s MD program is Accredited with Conditions (2024-2028) by CAAM-HP. This regional accreditation was hard-won – AUA had an initial provisional accreditation in 2018, then secured a full 4-year accreditation in 2024. CAAM-HP accreditation is recognized by WFME, satisfying the 2024 ECFMG requirement.
U.S. Department of Education & NCFMEA:
In 2013, the U.S. NCFMEA (Dept of Ed committee) determined Antigua’s (CAAM-HP’s) standards are comparable to LCME. This recognition allows AUA to participate in U.S. federal loans and confirms AUA’s quality in the U.S. educational context.
New York Approval:
AUA was approved by New York State in 2006 (renewed multiple times; as of 2024 renewed for 7 years) for clinical rotations and licensure. Only a handful of Caribbean schools have this full approval.
California Recognition:
The California Medical Board approved AUA in 2011, meaning AUA is on their list of recognized schools. This is critical for licensure in California and facilitates licensure in other states that piggyback on California’s list.
Florida Licensure:
AUA is licensed by Florida’s Commission for Independent Education, which allows clinical rotations and later licensure in Florida.
Others:
Approved by Georgia Composite Board for clinicals, recognized by Medical Board of Massachusetts (AUA grads do not need to prove equivalency) – a strong endorsement, and recognized in Texas (as Texas now accepts any WFME-accredited school).
All 50 States License:
With California, New York, Florida, etc. in hand, AUA states its graduates can practice in all 50 states (after residency and necessary exams). One particular brag: AUA grads do not require the “Fifth Pathway” or extra steps for licensure anywhere in the U.S., unlike some schools that lack certain state approvals.
International Recognition:
AUA is listed in WDOMS, and its accreditation by CAAM-HP (WFME-recognized) means graduates are eligible for licensure in the UK, EU, and so on. In fact, the GMC of UK has noted AUA on their list of acceptable overseas schools (as of recent updates, likely yes since CAAM-HP is in their acceptable accreditation list). AUA is also recognized by the Medical Council of India (the new NMC’s rules consider schools listed in WDOMS with an acceptable accreditation – AUA qualifies, and historically AUA was on MCI’s list). AUA specifically mentions recognition in Canada (graduates can get ECFMG which is needed for Canada too, and AUA is listed in the Canadian accreditor’s list, allowing grads to take MCCQE).
In summary, AUA’s accreditation status is solid. An AUA student from Africa can be confident that the MD degree will be recognized for pursuing USMLE, residency, and licensure in the US, which is a primary goal for many. If the plan is to return to Africa, AUA’s credentials (accredited, listed, English curriculum) typically satisfy home country requirements, with the graduate only needing to pass the local licensing exams or undertake required internship.
Student Support and Campus Life in Antigua
Campus Facilities:
AUA’s campus, located near Jabberwock Beach in Antigua, is modern and purpose-built. It features air-conditioned lecture halls with AV technology, simulation labs, anatomy lab with cadavers and virtual dissection, a large library and learning resource center, computer labs, and student lounges. There is an on-campus health clinic for basic medical needs. The campus also has a cafeteria and recreational facilities (exercise gym, basketball/volleyball court, etc.). High-speed internet is available throughout. The environment is conducive to studying – quiet, scenic, and secure.
Housing:
AUA offers university-arranged housing primarily for new students. These are apartment-style accommodations with furnished units, Wi-Fi, and security. Many students, especially after first semester, move to off-campus housing in areas like Woods, Marble Hill, or Jolly Harbour. AUA’s Housing Department assists students in finding safe and convenient housing, often connecting roommates. There is a free shuttle service from popular housing areas to campus. Living with roommates not only saves cost but provides peer support (study groups often form among roommates).
Transportation:
Antigua is a small island; many locations are within 20-30 minutes of campus. AUA shuttles make it feasible to live without a car, although some students rent or buy cars for convenience. Taxis are also common (though can be pricey without sharing). The campus is close to the international airport, which is convenient for flying in/out (for example, there are nonstop flights to NYC, Miami, London). Students from Africa usually connect via London, New York, or Miami to reach Antigua.
Food and Daily Life:
There are grocery stores (Epicurean, First Choice) where students shop; prices are higher than in the U.S. because of imports, but cooking at home is still affordable. There’s a campus cafeteria and nearby eateries for days when students don’t cook. Antigua’s cuisine is a mix of Caribbean flavors; students can enjoy local dishes like jerk chicken, roti, and seafood. For those missing home cuisine, the international student community often shares and cooks their foods, and occasional shipments of African foodstuffs can be obtained through markets or personal supply.
Student Organizations:
AUA has a range of student clubs: a Student Government Association (SGA), AMSA chapter, specialty interest groups (e.g., Surgery Interest Group, Pediatrics Interest Group), religious groups (Christian fellowship, Muslim Students Association), cultural groups (Southeast Asian Medical Society, etc.). An African students group might exist informally if not officially – given the presence of students from Nigeria, Ghana, etc., they often connect for social support. Clubs organize events like health fairs, cultural nights, and sports tournaments.
Support Services:
AUA’s Office of Student Affairs provides academic advising, tutoring (upperclassmen and faculty tutors for tough subjects), and counseling services. They monitor student performance closely, especially in first semester, and reach out if someone struggles – offering remediation or extra help (for instance, AUA has mandatory NBME exams and help sessions for students performing low). There’s also a Mentor-Mentee program pairing new students with older students for guidance.
Health & Wellness:
Students must have health insurance (AUA offers a plan if needed). The campus clinic handles minor illnesses; for more serious issues, Mount St. John’s Medical Center is the main hospital in Antigua, about 15-20 minutes away. The island has qualified doctors and even some AUA faculty are practicing physicians. Mental health support is available – AUA has counselors; the tight-knit campus also means it’s easier for faculty or friends to notice and help a student under stress.
Safety:
Antigua is relatively safe; violent crime is low. Petty theft can happen as in any place, but campus security and housing security mitigate this. The island people are friendly and used to tourists and international students (AUA and another med school, UHSA, are there). The school advises common-sense precautions (don’t leave belongings unattended on the beach, etc.). The campus itself is gated and requires ID for entry.
International Community:
AUA’s student body is primarily American and Canadian, but there is a significant international contingent: Indians, Africans, Middle Eastern, etc. This diversity means an African student will find peers who share similar experiences transitioning to a new country. English being the language of instruction and daily life is a major convenience. Locals speak English (with a Caribbean accent) and are welcoming – many locals work at AUA or have relatives who studied abroad, so they treat med students with respect.
Weather:
: Antigua’s climate is warm year-round (~25-30°C) with a wet season from June to November (hurricane season). The campus is built to withstand storms and AUA has contingency plans (they’ve weathered hurricanes in the past by sheltering on campus or adjusting schedules). Most African students adapt well to the tropical climate since it’s similar to much of sub-Saharan Africa.
In summary, campus life at AUA is a blend of intensive study and island living. Students have the support of a close community and faculty while enjoying an environment that can reduce the stress of med school with its natural beauty. For an African student, AUA offers a welcoming home away from home – English-speaking, friendly, and with others who understand the journey you’re on.
Leisure and Culture:
Despite rigorous studies, AUA students find time to relax. Antigua offers beautiful beaches (365 beaches, as the saying goes – one for each day). Many popular beaches (Dickenson Bay, Jolly Beach) are a short drive away. Students often study during weekdays and use a bit of weekend time to unwind by swimming, snorkeling, or even learning sailing (Antigua is famous for sailing regattas). There are hiking trails (like Mount Obama peak) and historical sites (Nelson’s Dockyard). For social life, AUA students might gather for dinner in St. John’s or attend a beach barbecue. The island’s nightlife isn’t extensive but there are a few clubs/bars where med students hang out occasionally. Also, AUA organizes events: an annual White Coat Ceremony, campus bazaars, cultural showcases (Diwali celebration by Indian students, Eid by Muslim students, etc.), and sporting events (soccer matches, cricket games – cricket is big in Antigua, so some students enjoy local matches).
Application Process: How to Apply to AUA
Applying to AUA is a multi-step process but straightforward. Follow these steps:
Instructions
Prerequisite Check
Ensure you meet AUA’s entry requirements. You should have completed at least 90 semester credits (about 3 years of undergraduate coursework) including the core sciences (with labs) and English. If you’re in a bachelor’s program, you can apply before graduating, but you’ll need to complete your degree prior to matriculation. If your undergraduate education is outside the U.S./Canada, be prepared to provide a course-by-course evaluation (via WES or similar) to translate your grades/credits.
MCAT Exam (if applicable)
If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, schedule the MCAT and have the score ready. While AUA has a holistic view on the MCAT, it’s required to have attempted it for American applicants. International students (e.g., from Africa) are not required to take the MCAT, but if you have taken it or another medical entry exam, you may submit the scores optionally.
Online Application:
Complete AUA’s online application form (available on the AUA website). You’ll create an account and fill in personal information, academic history, list of prerequisites completed, etc. You’ll also upload or send:
- Personal Statement: AUA requires an essay (around 500 words) explaining why you want to become a physician and why you are interested in AUA. Highlight genuine experiences that shaped your interest in medicine (e.g., clinic volunteering, personal or family health challenges). You may also explain any academic difficulties and how you overcame them.
- Letters of Recommendation: Arrange two letters of recommendation. One should be academic (science professor or academic advisor). The second can be professional or character-based (e.g., a physician you shadowed or a volunteer supervisor). Letters should be on official letterhead, signed, and sent directly to AUA.
- Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended. U.S./Canadian transcripts should be sent directly to AUA. African university transcripts may require certified copies and notarized English translations. A WES evaluation may be required for GPA standardization.
- Passport Copy: International applicants must submit a copy of the passport ID page to help expedite the visa process.
- Application Fee: Pay the application fee unless you have a waiver code from an information seminar or similar event.
Admissions Interview:
If your application meets initial criteria, AUA will contact you to schedule an interview (in person if feasible, or via Skype/Zoom). AUA often has admissions representatives or alumni in various countries who can conduct interviews, or you may be interviewed by faculty via video call. Prepare for the interview by reviewing common medical school interview questions: expect “Why medicine? Why AUA? Tell us about a challenge you overcame. How do you handle stress? Ethical scenarios like what you’d do if you saw a classmate cheating,” etc. Also be ready to discuss anything on your application (they might ask about research you did or an extracurricular activity). Dress professionally (even if it’s via video) and ensure you’re in a quiet, well-lit environment. The interview is usually friendly; AUA wants to gauge your communication skills, maturity, and motivation. For international students, they may also subtly assess your English proficiency and how you’d adjust to a new environment.
Admissions Decision:
Typically within 1-2 weeks after the interview, AUA will inform you of the decision. If accepted, you’ll receive an acceptance package via email (and mail) outlining the next steps. If your application is strong but they want something more, you might get a conditional acceptance (e.g., condition on finishing your degree or improving English skills, etc.). If not accepted, they sometimes allow reapplication or offer guidance on how to improve for a future application.
Acceptance and Seat Deposit:
Upon acceptance, you’ll be asked to sign an acceptance agreement and pay a seat deposit (several thousand USD, which goes toward your tuition). This deposit secures your spot in the class and is often due within a few weeks of acceptance (deadline will be in the acceptance letter). For international students, paying this deposit early is also useful for starting visa paperwork.
Financial Planning:
After depositing, work on finalizing your finances. If you’re a U.S. student, complete FAFSA for loans. If you’re international, arrange loans or funds transfer. AUA might need proof of finances for visa purposes – often, Antigua immigration or AUA will want to see that you have funds to cover at least the first year of tuition and living expenses.
Student Visa for Antigua:
AUA will guide you through the Antigua student visa process. In many cases, you don’t need to obtain a visa prior to arrival; students often enter Antigua as visitors and then AUA helps convert that to a student residence permit. For Nigerian or other African students, check if you need a travel visa to enter Antigua – many Commonwealth citizens do not need a visa for short entry. Regardless, AUA will provide documents like: enrollment letter, financial support letter, and will coordinate with Antigua’s immigration. You will need: a valid passport, police clearance certificate (sometimes required for residence permit), and medical clearance (TB test, etc., if requested). AUA’s student services typically collects needed documents during orientation to process your student permit.
Travel and Housing Arrangements:
Once visa guidance is in order, book your flight to Antigua (ANU airport). Take note of AUA’s orientation date and try to arrive a few days early. AUA often provides airport pickup for new incoming students on designated days – check with student services and provide your flight details. Coordinate housing: if using AUA-arranged housing, you’ll get details on your unit assignment. If renting privately, finalize your lease (AUA’s housing office can assist with recommendations).
Orientation and Registration:
Attend the mandatory orientation program at AUA. This will include campus tours, meeting key faculty and staff, information on healthcare, safety, and an introduction to life in Antigua. You’ll finalize administrative tasks: submit any remaining documents, get your student ID card, and register for classes. Orientation is also where you meet classmates – AUA classes have lots of social mixers so new students can bond.
Start of Classes:
After orientation, you’ll begin classes as scheduled (typically mid-February for Spring, mid-August for Fall, or a Summer start). Be ready for an intensive schedule and take advantage of the support offered (tutoring, peer mentoring, etc.) from day one.
