Quick Facts
Programs Offered: Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Language of Instruction: English
Location: The Bottom, Saba, Caribbean Netherlands
Campus Type: Island-based, serene environment
Accreditation: Accredited by the Accreditation Organization of the Netherlands and Flanders (NVAO), recognized globally
Residency Placement Rate (2020–2024): 97% of graduates secured residencies in the U.S. and Canada
Intakes: January, May, September
Top Programs
Doctor of Medicine (MD):
A 10-semester program divided into –
- Basic Sciences (Semesters 1–5): Conducted on Saba campus, focusing on foundational medical sciences
- Clinical Rotations (Semesters 6–10): 72 weeks of clinical training in affiliated hospitals across the U.S. and Canada
Pre-Medical Master’s Program: An 8-month program for students lacking traditional pre-med backgrounds, leading to
eligibility for the MD program
Gateway Medical Program: A 15-week preparatory course for conditionally accepted students to strengthen foundational
knowledge before entering the MD program
Here’s a structured and well-formatted version of the Admission Requirements section using an <h3>, bold headings, and bullet/numbered lists for clarity and readability:
Admission Requirements
For MD Program
Academic Credentials:
- Bachelor’s degree with requisite pre-medical coursework
Standardized Tests:
- MCAT scores required for U.S. applicants
Additional Requirements:
- Minimum of 50 hours of direct patient care experience
- Personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- TOEFL scores (for non-native English speakers)
Pre-Medical Master’s Program
Academic Background:
- Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution
- Some foundational science coursework is recommended but not mandatory
English Proficiency:
- TOEFL score may be required for non-native English speakers
Application Materials:
- Completed application form
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- Personal statement outlining motivation and goals
- Two letters of recommendation (preferably one academic and one professional)
Gateway Medical Program
Conditional Acceptance:
- Must have received conditional acceptance to Saba University School of Medicine
Academic Background:
- Minimum of three years of undergraduate studies
(equivalent to 90 semester hours or 135 quarter hours) from an accredited college or university - Completion of the following prerequisite courses:
- General Biology: One academic year with lab
- General Chemistry: One academic year with lab
- Organic Chemistry or Biochemistry: One academic year with lab
- English: One year of college-level English literature or composition
English Proficiency:
- TOEFL score may be required for non-native English speakers
Application Materials:
- Completed application form
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- Personal statement outlining motivation and goals
- Two letters of recommendation (preferably one academic and one professional)
Tuition & Scholarships
Additional Costs (Estimated Annual):
- Books and Medical Supplies: USD $2,000 – $3,000
- Housing (On or Off-Campus): USD $7,000 – $10,000
- Living Expenses (Food, Transportation, Personal): USD $6,000 – $8,000
- Health Insurance and Miscellaneous Fees: USD $1,500 – $2,500
Total Annual Cost Estimate (Including Living):
Approximately USD $65,000 – $80,000, depending on lifestyle and semester type.
Financial Aid & Scholarships:
- International Student Scholarship
- Value: USD $75,000 total
- Eligibility: Open to students who are not citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. or Canada
- Distribution: Awarded across all 10 semesters as tuition credit
- U.S. Federal Financial Aid (Title IV)
- Available to: U.S. citizens and permanent residents
- Includes: Stafford Loans and Grad PLUS Loans
- Requirement: FAFSA application required for consideration
- Canadian Financial Aid
- Saba is recognized by most provincial student loan programs across Canada
- Eligible for:
- Canada Student Loans
- Provincial loans and grants (e.g., OSAP)
- RRSP Lifelong Learning Plan
Campus Life
Housing:
- First-semester students are encouraged to reside in on-campus dormitories
- In later semesters, students may choose off-campus housing options such as apartments or private rentals
Student Organizations:
- Student Government Association (SGA)
- Women’s Medical Student Association
- South Asian Student Society
- Muslim Students Association
- Christian Students Organization
- Jewish Students Association
- African Diaspora Association
Facilities:
- Modern classrooms and laboratories
- Anatomy lab with cadavers
- Clinical Skills Training Center
- Medical library
- Fitness center
- Wellness and counseling services
Recreational Activities:
- Opportunities for hiking, diving, and exploring the natural beauty of Saba
Pre-Departure Support
Once accepted, Trust Study Abroad will assist you with:
Study visa preparation
Booking flights and accommodation
Pre-departure orientation
Cultural adaptation tips