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Located in: Caribbean
University motto: Dedita Scientiae Medendi - Dedicated to the Science of Healing
Sun, Sea, & Studying Medicine - the Caribbean Med School's ethos, showcasing the blend of a serene tropical setting and first-tier medical education.
Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM) is located on the beautiful Caribbean island of Barbados. It was founded in 1978 and has since been dedicated to providing high-quality medical education to a diverse group of students. The university has a rich tradition of preparing students for their life's work as physicians, with more than 15,000 successful alumni who are practising across the United States and Canada.
With a focus on early hands-on learning, students at Ross University are given the opportunity to work with patients within weeks, not months. The university believes that early hands-on learning provides students with the experience and confidence they need to succeed.
The university is committed to creating an inclusive academic environment that promotes intellectual curiosity, empathy, critical thinking, and a global perspective. RUSM fosters a positive and motivating culture of care by providing excellent support to its students, faculty, staff, and alumni, who stay connected far beyond their academic journey.
The Ross Medical School's official message to its students is: “Our mission is to educate and empower a truly diverse and dedicated population of students who are determined to make an undeniable impact on the communities they serve.”
The university offers a comprehensive 4-year graduate entry MD programme, which includes 5 semesters of Basic Medical Sciences and 6 semesters of clinical rotations in accredited teaching hospitals in the U.S. This comprehensive medicine course is designed for students who hold a Bachelor’s Degree in a science-related discipline.
Ross University School of Medicine also welcomes students who want to transfer to the MD programme from a different medical school.
True to their motto, “Dedicated to the Science of Healing”, the curriculum of Ross University School of Medicine aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the medical sciences and their application in clinical care.
The curriculum is rigorous and demanding but also supportive and student-centred. By adopting this approach, the university equips its graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the dynamic and rapidly evolving field of medicine.
RUSM thoroughly prepares its students for the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). The curriculum is designed to align with the content of the USMLE, and the university provides a variety of resources to help students prepare for the exam.
The university uses a comprehensive evaluation system that assesses student performance using fair and transparent criteria while providing feedback to help students in areas where they may be lacking.
Ross University School of Medicine is committed to providing its students with the best possible medical education not just in the Caribbean but on a global scale.
Ross University School of Medicine's core values, relevant to prospective applicants, include:
The academic journey at RUSM is divided into two main parts:
The two-year Basic Sciences phase at RUSM sets a strong theoretical foundation for its students. The phase is divided into 5 semesters, and each semester lasts 15 weeks.
This part of the programme is conducted in Barbados and lasts for approximately 20 months. It is divided into five semesters, each of which is 15 weeks long. This part of the curriculum is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the basic medical sciences.
It includes courses in anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, microbiology, immunology, pathology, pharmacology, and behavioural sciences. The curriculum also includes an introduction to clinical medicine.
This part of the programme is conducted in the United States and includes 48 weeks of required core clerkships and 42 weeks of clinical electives in various medical specialities.
The core clerkships include internal medicine, surgery, paediatrics, obstetrics and gynaecology, psychiatry, and family medicine. The clinical electives allow students to explore their own areas of interest, which can help them choose their specialities.
Here’s a list of all the affiliated teaching hospitals associated with Ross University School of Medicine, where students can carry out their clinical training:
Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM) employs a variety of high-tech teaching technologies to enhance the learning experience of its students. Here are some key points:
The dedicated Simulation Center at RUSM provides students with a safe and controlled environment in which to practise clinical skills. The centre is equipped with high-fidelity mannequins that can simulate a wide range of medical conditions.
The CSTC provides students with opportunities to develop their clinical skills. It includes a Standardised Patient Program, where students interact with trained individuals who simulate a variety of clinical scenarios.
RUSM uses a learning platform that allows students to access course materials, assignments, and assessments online. This platform also facilitates communication between students and faculty.
RUSM provides students with access to a wide range of e-books, which can be read online through the integrated learning platform.
Lectures at RUSM are recorded and made available to students through the learning platform. This allows students to review the lectures at their own pace.
These modules allow students to engage in clinical reasoning exercises in a virtual environment.
RUSM uses computer-based learning in several courses, including Biochemistry, Physiology, and Microbiology.
The tuition fees at Ross University School of Medicine are as follows:
Basic Sciences Phase (2 years): per year.
Clinical Sciences Phase (2 years): per year.
There is no written entrance exam for this university, but candidates need to participate in an interview in order to apply to RUSM. The admissions committee of Ross University School of Medicine assesses each applicant based on a combination of the following criteria:
Ross's current premedical coursework prerequisites are:
Substitutions and exceptions to these prerequisites are considered by Ross on a case-by-case basis.
The Ross University School of Medicine acceptance rate hovers around 43%. The average MCAT score to get accepted into this prestigious medical school is 493.
*Canadian and international students are not required to submit MCAT scores, but are strongly encourages to take the test
To significantly improve your chances of getting accepted at Ross University School of Medicine, we strongly recommend scheduling a free consultation with one of our expert advisors. We possess a deep understanding of what RUSM looks for in an ideal applicant, as well as the entirety of the application process. We can take care of the admission process from start to finish, guaranteeing that you submit an exceptional application that will let you stand out from the competition. Additionally, we will provide you with amazing resources that will help you excel in your interview. With Medlink Students by your side, you can sidestep the exhausting part of applying to a medical school abroad and focus on what’s important - preparing for the interview and your future medical studies
Don’t hesitate to take advantage of our extensive knowledge and expertise in the field of medical education by scheduling a free consultation with one of our expert advisors.
Ross does not publish a minimum MCAT score. For directly admitted 2025-2026 students, the average MCAT score was 493, the average undergraduate GPA was 3.32, and the average prerequisite GPA was 3.18.
US citizens, nationals and eligible permanent residents must submit MCAT scores. Canadian and other international applicants are not required to submit MCAT scores, but Ross strongly encourages them to do so.
Medlink Students can support applicants with eligibility assessment, document preparation, application submission and interview preparation. Final admission decisions are made by Ross University School of Medicine.
Don't hesitate to take advantage of our expertise in the field of medical education by scheduling a free consultation with one of our expert advisors.
RUSM has rolling admissions, which means it accepts candidates throughout the year, but there are still deadlines. The medical university operates on a tri-semester model, and students can start their education at any of the following months:
RUSM recommends applying early so that you may be accepted a minimum of six weeks before the semester starts.
RUSM is a prestigious, reputable, and well-respected medical school with the qualifications to provide it:
Ross University School of Medicine is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS RUSM). Graduates are eligible for ECFMG certification, subject to the applicable certification requirements in place at the time of application. Check ECFMG Sponsor notes tab in WDOMS for more information.
Professional licensing depends on the regulator in the country where the graduate intends to practise. Ross University School of Medicine graduates are eligible to apply for licensure in all 50 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, and Canada, and have state-specific recognition and/or approval from the states of Florida, California, New Jersey, Indiana, and New York. RUSM is also recognised by the U.S. Department of Education through the National Committee on Foreign Medical Education and Accreditation (NCFMEA), allowing students to participate in the U.S. Federal Direct Student Loan Programme, and by the General Medical Council (GMC) in the UK.
Starting from the first semester, every student is required to engage in community-based research, which is integrated into all five semesters of the Medical Sciences curriculum.
The Ross Academic Research Society is a student organisation that promotes research and evidence-based medicine within the university community, giving students the opportunity to take part in research areas ranging from clinical studies to medical education innovations. An annual Research Day gives students the opportunity to showcase their work and see what opportunities may be open to them.
Research is an integral aspect of the commitment of RUSM to advancing medical knowledge and healthcare practices. Starting from the first semester, every student is required to engage in community-based research, which is seamlessly integrated into all five semesters of the Medical Sciences curriculum.
At the heart of student research lies the Ross Academic Research Society, a student organisation that promotes research and evidence-based medicine within the university community. Through this society, aspiring medical professionals can contribute to the advancement of medical science by having the opportunity to dive into a diverse range of research areas, from clinical studies to medical education innovations.
The Ross Academic Research Society strives to be a place where "Future Doctors Learn to be Better Doctors”.
A fun annual event at RUSM is Research Day, which serves as an important opportunity for researchers to showcase their efforts and for students to see what opportunities may be open to them if they wish to take part.
Ross University School of Medicine Barbados emphasises providing support for its students, both during their studies and post-graduation. The list of support services includes, but is not limited to:
The list can go on and on. It is safe to say that Ross University School of Medicine truly cares about its students and gives them everything they need in order to achieve success on a global scale.
RUSM provides a rich range of housing options both on-campus within the Ross Med Housing at The Villages of Coverley, as well as the flexibility to choose an off-campus home that suits your preferences and needs during your time on the island.
There are 4 tiers for a single student per semester pricing (BR = bedroom):
The price of rent includes a wide range of amenities, including property management, exterior and interior maintenance, personal property insurance, deep cleaning between each semester, Wi-Fi, trash pickup, monthly utility allotment (water, electric, and sewer), parking, and a gym membership.
Naturally, as a technologically advanced medical university, RUSM also has incorporated a virtual tour of their campus on their site.
Barbados is a small, well-developed island nation with a high standard of living. In fact, Barbados is the 52nd richest country in the world in terms of GDP despite being a small island with about 270,000 inhabitants.
On average, you can expect to spend between per month on living expenses per month in Barbados. Renting a single studio apartment costs about in Bridgetown, but RUSM also has available dormitories which cost between per semester.
The locals of Barbados, often referred to as Bajans (BAY-jun), are known for their warm and friendly nature. They are proud of their cultural heritage, have a strong sense of community and are eager to share their customs and traditions with visitors. Bajans are generally laid-back and enjoy a relaxed pace of life.
And, of course, during your free time you will be able to visit 1 of the many beautiful beaches and tourist attractions to relax and take some time off.
Barbados is a captivating island nation in the Caribbean, offering a unique blend of West African, Portuguese, Creole, Indian and British cultures. This diverse fusion creates an exceptional multicultural environment which warmly welcomes students and travellers from all corners of the world.
Thanks to its rich cultural heritage, Barbados offers a wide array of culinary choices to accommodate a variety of dietary needs and preferences, including halal, kosher, vegetarian and vegan options. As a testament to its cultural inclusivity, the island nation is also home to a diverse range of religious facilities, such as mosques, churches and a restored historic synagogue, facilitating the spiritual needs of its diverse population.
Ross University School of Medicine, true to the islands’ spirit, places great emphasis on leading a diverse community. The university is committed to addressing racism and bias, supporting the inclusion of underrepresented and marginalised groups in education and the medical field.
Embracing the TEACH values (Teamwork, Energy, Accountability, Community, and Heart), RUSM embarks on a journey to achieve cultural diversity in medical care. By advocating for social justice, confronting systemic bias, and expanding diversity in the medical workforce, the medical university is dedicated to fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and providing an enriching educational experience in Barbados that unifies individuals from a rich set of backgrounds.
Ross University School of Medicine Barbados is an exceptional destination that delivers world-class medical education in an enriching and supportive environment. The university prioritises the success and growth of each student, both professionally and personally.
With the support of Medink Students, you can drastically increase your chances of getting accepted. We will handle the application process from start to finish, including providing amazing resources that will help you ace your interview. We will make sure that you submit an exceptional application that will make you stand out in the face of competition.
Make use of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity by signing up for a free consultation as your first step toward a promising career in healthcare.
The Ross University School of Medicine location is in Bridgetown, the capital of the beautiful Caribbean island of Barbados. The Ross University School of Medicine address is Two Mile Hill St. Michael, BB11093, Barbados.
Tuition fees at RUSM are:
Basic Sciences Phase (2 years): per year.
Clinical Sciences Phase (2 years): per year.
Yes, transfer students are accepted at RUSM.
Yes, the medicine course is entirely taught in English.
RUSM has rolling admissions and accepts students throughout the year. The university follows a trimester system, providing students with the flexibility to select their preferred enrollment time during the academic year. The semesters start in: • January • May • September *This information is for guidance only. Program availability is subject to change; contact your advisor to confirm. The medical recommends applying in advance so that you may be accepted at least 6 weeks before the start of the semester.
Ross University School of Medicine is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS RUSM). A WDOMS listing is a directory entry rather than an accreditation. Separately, graduates may be eligible for ECFMG certification, subject to the applicable certification requirements. Professional licensing is a separate matter again, and depends on the regulator in the country where the graduate intends to practise.
There is no written entrance exam to apply to RUSM; however, you will need to participate in an interview.
Currently, no. RUSM requires applicants to hold a Bachelor's degree or higher, or an international equivalent, along with the required premedical coursework.
The clinical rotations at RUSM are carried out in accredited teaching hospitals in the U.S.
Ross University School of Medicine uses a holistic admissions process and does not publish a minimum GPA or MCAT score. Current directly admitted 2025-2026 students had an average undergraduate GPA of 3.32, prerequisite GPA of 3.18, and MCAT score of 493.
On outcomes, RUSM reports a 96% first-time residency attainment rate for its 2025-2026 graduates. Graduates are eligible to apply for licensure in all 50 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, and Canada, leading to a strong overall reputation.
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