Medical school linkages

The UC Santa Cruz Postbacc Program offers linkages to medical schools for qualifying students who meet program requirements, with priority given to those enrolled in a cohort program.

If you are an enrolled student in our program and are interested in linkage opportunities, please email us for more information (postbacc@ucsc.edu).

American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine

Students who Successfully complete the UC Santa Cruz Premed Postbacc Program and meet AUA’s academic requirements are guaranteed admission into AUA’s MD program. This opportunity includes benefits such as waived application fees, an expedited admissions process, and the possibility of receiving a $5,000 Preferred Program Grant. AUA has clinical affiliations with teaching hospitals in the United States, including five in California.

SABA University School of Medicine

Students who complete the UC Santa Cruz Premed Postbacc Program are guaranteed an interview with SABA. Additionally, SABA has clinical affiliations with teaching hospitals across the United States.

Medical University of the Americas (MUA)

Students who complete the UC Santa Cruz Premed Postbacc Program are guaranteed an interview with MUA. MUA also has clinical affiliations with teaching hospitals across the United States.

To learn more about these opportunities, contact postbacc@ucsc.edu

Caribbean medical schools: An alternative pathway to an MD

For students who may not have gained admission to U.S. medical schools due to GPA, MCAT scores, or other factors, Caribbean medical schools offer a viable alternative. These institutions provide an opportunity to earn an MD degree through a more flexible admissions process.

Program structure

• Basic Sciences (Preclinical Years 1-2)
  Students spend the first two years on the Caribbean island, completing rigorous preclinical coursework akin to that of U.S. medical schools.
• Clinical Rotations (Years 3-4)
  Students transition to the U.S. or other international locations to complete core and elective rotations at affiliated hospitals, gaining valuable hands-on experience.

Pathway to residency

Comprehensive USMLE preparation

Caribbean medical schools provide structured support to help students excel in the USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 exams, which are essential for securing residency placements. Through dedicated review courses, practice exams, and faculty mentorship, students receive the guidance needed to master these critical licensing exams.

Clinical rotations in the U.S.

Many Caribbean institutions have established affiliations with U.S. hospitals, allowing students to complete core and elective rotations in clinical settings across the country. This hands-on experience not only enhances clinical proficiency but also strengthens residency applications for U.S. placements by providing opportunities to network with faculty and program directors.

Pathway for students with bachelor’s degrees from foreign institutions

While some U.S. medical schools require applicants to hold a bachelor's degree from a domestic institution, our established pathway agreements with select accredited international medical schools offer a compelling alternative. These partnerships grant qualified students guaranteed interviews and admissions into medical school. By creating a seamless bridge into the American healthcare system, these invaluable opportunities empower international students and career changers to navigate competitive U.S. residencies with confidence and support.