Becoming a doctor is a commitment. You must invest your time and energy. “How long is medical school? is one of the most commonly asked by medical students.” so, let’s clear this confusion today!

Medical School Duration

While thinking How long is medical school? So,it is important to understand that there is no constant answer to this. It depends on the various factors. 

For example; if you are becoming a physician, it will take 8 years of post-secondary education. This includes a few additional years of residency and maybe even fellowship training.

Medical School Timeline: How Long Is It?

Let’s understand the school timeline first:

1. Undergraduate Education (4 years)

First of all, You should have your undergraduate degree for 4 years. This is a pre-requirement. Usually students take sciences like biology, chemistry, or biochemistry in that. Although this is not a strict requirement.

2. Medical School (4 years)

Our primary query at this point is: How long is medical school? So, the core is for 4 years. It as two main phases:

Pre-Clinical Years (Years 1-2): 

For the first two years student’s study the fundamentals.You must study in the classes here. They research the fundamentals of all medical sciences, including as,

• Anatomy, 
• Physiology, 
• Biochemistry, 
• Pharmacology, and 
• Pathology.

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Clinical Years (Years 3-4): 

Next is the clinical phase. The clinical rotations take up the last two years.Here, they get hands-on training in a range of medical specializations. This is carried out under the guidance of knowledgeable medical professionals.

3. Residency Training (3-7 years)

Students begin residency training following their graduation from medical school. It’s time line varies according to your field.

• Family Medicine, Pediatrics is for 3 years.
• Internal Medicine, Emergency Medicine takes 3-4 years.
• Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology is of 4-5 years.
• Neurosurgery, Plastic Surgery can be of 6-7 years.

4. Fellowship (1-3 years)

If you are further doing any sub-specialization, then there is additional fellowship training. This is usually 1 to 3 years. Again, it depends on your field.

So, in short the time needed to become a licensed and practising doctor is not constant. It depends on the field you choose. 

Now you should be clear about how long is medical school. As told above there is no constant time. It all depends on the specialisations. If you need other resources and guidance about academics, visit WillGetYouIn for more information. Have a happy journey of becoming a doctor!

FAQs

Q1. How long is medical school if I already have a degree?

The medical will still take 4 years. You can save time by completing your pre-medical courses during your undergraduate studies.

Q2. Can I complete my medical school faster?

Yes, there are some accelerated programs. There you can complete it in 3 years. But it is more intense and rare.

Q3. How long is medical school for international students?

It is the same 4 years for international students as well. International students will need some additional steps like: 

• Obtaining a visa, and 
• Completing additional exams (e.g., TOEFL, USMLE).

Q4. What are the factors that can extend the time of medical school?

The factors that can extend the time of school are:

1. Any personal circumstances,
2. Need for additional courseworks,
3. Taking time for research or other opportunities, and 
4. Selecting the more extended speciality or fellowship.