About American International Medical University

American International Medical University (AIM-U) is an offshore medical institution situated on the Caribbean island of St. Lucia. This educational establishment is located within the framework of Saint Lucia, a North American country that falls under the jurisdiction of the British Commonwealth. Positioned centrally in the OECS region, Saint Lucia holds a notable membership within the Organization of American States. AIM-U functions as a comprehensive institution with a dedicated School of Medicine and a School of Nursing. Collaborative partnerships have been forged with reputable universities and medical facilities in the United States, with a notable affiliation with Washington Adventist University (WAU) in Takoma Park, Maryland. This collaboration extends to autonomous support programs and shared academic sessions, including the AIM-U Premedical Science Program conducted at the WAU campus. Envisioned future endeavors at WAU encompass prospective AIM-U initiatives such as the BSN Completion program and Introduction to Clinical Science.

Upon successfully completing the foundational scientific curriculum, students are eligible to undertake Step 1 of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). As they advance through the latter half of the course and engage in 72 weeks of clinical rotations, students proceed to complete Step 2 of the USMLE, including both CK (Clinical Knowledge) and CS (Clinical Skills) components. As a testament to their accomplishments, students who fulfill the program’s requirements are conferred with an MD degree, which holds equivalence to the MBBS qualification recognized in India.

An outstanding aspect of AIM-U’s offerings lies in the prospects it presents for graduates. Those who have completed Step 2 of the USMLE are well-regarded candidates for embarking on residency programs in hospitals across the United States. This pathway to further specialization is notable given the substantial number of residency positions available each year in American medical institutions, ranging from 24,000 to 26,000. This information underscores the promising opportunities that AIM-U graduates can seize as they embark on their postgraduate journeys.

Basic Medical Science

Overview and Course Description Basic Sciences:

The Faculty of Medicine MD Program at AIMU encompasses two fundamental components: the Basic Sciences Program and the Clinical Medicine Program, offering a comprehensive pathway to medical education and practice.

Built upon the framework of the American medical education system, with a blend of European influences, the curriculum is designed to provide students with a well-rounded and immersive learning experience. AIMU’s educational approach calls for students to exhibit motivation and concentration, as the curriculum operates year-round with minimal breaks. The Basic Sciences Program, a cornerstone of the MD curriculum, spans five semesters, each lasting 16 weeks, and is delivered at the St. Lucia campus.

MD 5, a pivotal phase of the program, can be undertaken either at the St. Lucia campus or the US campus. The subsequent Clinical Program extends over six semesters, each spanning 12 weeks, and is administered across both the St. Lucia and United States campuses.

Integral to AIMU’s philosophy is the cultivation of practical skills and direct patient interaction throughout the MD journey. The presence of accessible hospitals and clinics in St. Lucia facilitates the seamless integration of clinical exposure into the curriculum, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to hands-on learning.

A hallmark of AIMU’s approach is the encouragement of creative application of knowledge and skills, whether in the context of health or illness. The program places considerable emphasis on disease prevention and the advancement of holistic health practices, reflecting the institution’s aspiration to mold well-rounded physicians.

Recognizing the significance of a robust foundation in scientific principles for future physicians, AIMU has established a rigorous Basic Sciences Program. This foundation is meticulously laid through a curriculum encompassing approximately 140 credit hours distributed across five semesters, designated MD-1 through MD-5. The program distinguishes itself by incorporating laboratory components alongside traditional lecture formats, fostering visual reinforcement and analytical acumen.

A pivotal milestone on the MD journey is the NBME Step I examination, a critical assessment for aspiring physicians. AIMU’s Basic Sciences Program prepares students robustly for this assessment, as successful completion is a prerequisite for progressing into the subsequent Clinical Medicine Program. This thorough preparation underscores AIMU’s dedication to equipping students with the competencies required to thrive in their medical pursuits.

Doctor of Medicine (MD)

Course Duration: 4 Years

Total Tuition Fees: USD 44,000/-

Eligibility: 10 + 2 (Science stream with PCB 50%)

AIM-U presents an MD (MBBS) program tailored for aspiring medical students aiming to fulfill their aspirations of becoming physicians in America. This program confers a valuable MD/MBBS degree, renowned for its affordability within the North American Region.

As an MCI-approved Foreign Medical University, AIM-U serves as a reliable and secure avenue towards achieving professional success. Enrolling in the MD/MBBS program at American International Medical University (AIM-U) offers a well-established and approved pathway to your desired medical career. This program not only equips you with a respected and fully accredited degree but also serves as a cost-effective entry point into the realm of US medical practice. AIM-U extends the option of US-based Premedical and clinical programs, facilitating a comprehensive and seamless educational journey.

Options Available

Students are provided with the flexibility to opt for the 5th semester at the Takoma Park, Maryland campus (USA).

If students decide on this choice: (Pre-Medical and Medical studies conducted at St. Lucia Campus, while Pre-clinical and Clinical phases take place at WAU – Washington Adventist University, Maryland, Washington).

Through The Maryland Campus (AIMU-WAU Centre for Medical Science)

AIM-U offers a well-established and reliable pathway for aspiring medical professionals seeking to practice in the United States. The curriculum has been meticulously crafted by distinguished leaders in American medical education, ensuring its credibility and effectiveness. This is evident through the recent residency match results, where a significant number of AIM-U graduates have secured sought-after residency positions within the USA. Remarkably, over 80% of these graduates were successfully placed in their first-choice residency programs. A notable achievement occurred in 2011 when five students achieved the remarkable feat of securing a 99th percentile score in the USMLE, setting a record for any emerging medical institution.

In India, numerous students have triumphed in the MCI screening and gained access to internships in prestigious teaching hospitals. AIM-U unequivocally stands as a genuine international medical university. The impact of AIM-U’s education extends globally, as many of its alumni are now practicing in various countries, including the Middle East and South Africa.

AIM-U holds the approvals of esteemed institutions, including ECFMG (US Medical Council for International Medical Graduates), the Medical Council of Canada (MCC), the Medical Council of India (MCI), and the World Health Organization.

Collaborating with Washington Adventist University, AIM-U’s clinical campus and administrative center are strategically situated at Washington Adventist University’s campus in Takoma Park, Maryland, USA. The primary campus of the School of Medicine is nestled on the picturesque and enchanting island of Saint Lucia, aptly named the “Simply Beautiful” island.

Benefits:

• Outstanding clinical exposure at Victoria Hospital, Wellness Centers, and various healthcare institutions in Saint Lucia
• Cutting-edge classrooms, learning resource center, and simulation laboratory facilities
• Superior readiness for the USMLE, with AIM-U School of Medicine graduates consistently surpassing IMGs pass rates and securing prestigious residency positions
• Integrated curriculum highlighting holistic care, diversity, and empathy, while emphasizing critical thinking, communication, leadership, and management principles
• Opportunities for clinical rotations in both Saint Lucia and Maryland, USA

Post MD Program

Course Duration: 1 YEAR (Diploma)

Tuition Fees: USD 39,500/-

The cost for the post-MD Externship (without temporary license) – USD 23,500/-.

The Post MD program is designed for licensed Physicians holding an MBBS degree. This program is tailored to provide International Medical Graduates (IMGs) with practical exposure in their chosen specialty. IMGs will be able to obtain a temporary license through the following choices:

• One-year Post MD Diploma Program
• Six-month Post MD Certificate Program
• Six-month Post MD Externship (Temporary license privileges not available)

Benefits:

• One-year program with temporary license* for clinical experience in various specializations in Chicago, Illinois, USA
• Opportunity for simultaneous preparation for the USMLE alongside the course to apply for NRMP (Residency)
• Hands-on learning experience in the American medical system, crucial for US Residency (PG)
• Comprehensive guidance and counseling for Residency (PG) application
• Offers both general and specialization options
• Issuance of Diploma/Certificate and a recommendation letter upon program completion

Temporary license provided; full licensure requires application through NRMP with ECFMG Certification.

Admission Process to Study MBBS in AIMU

The initiation of your enrollment process at the AIMU will commence by assembling the necessary documentation for the intended program. The following is a compilation of the documents stipulated within the admission protocol of the AIMU::

During the application process, you will need to provide the following documents:

• Mark sheets for 10th, 11th, and 12th grades.
• Proof of identity, such as an Aadhar Card or Passport copy if accessible.
• Completed MOKSH registration form.
• Digital photograph.

Following the personal interview, the subsequent documents will be necessary:

• Three letters of recommendation.
• A statement of purpose or motivation letter.
• Any required university application forms.
• Submission of passport copy, if not furnished during the initial phase.

To ensure a seamless application process and to prevent any potential complications, don’t hesitate to contact any of BMC’s counselors for comprehensive information about the necessary documents. Once you have gathered all the required paperwork, you can submit them to BMC’s team for thorough verification, thus preemptively averting any potential issues.

Upon successful completion of the verification process, BMC will handle the submission of your application to the AIMU. With BMC as your facilitator, you can be confident that your admission journey will proceed without impediments. Once your application has been transmitted to the University by BMC, it generally takes a few weeks to receive the official admission letter. This initial step merely inaugurates the range of services BMC offers you. Throughout the entirety of your educational journey, you can expect multifaceted assistance from us. As the BMC community continues to grow, our commitment to reliability and support remains steadfast.

• Licensed Physician (MBBS or equivalent)
• MBBS holder without a license eligible for Post MD Externship

Classrooms:

• The university’s classrooms are well-equipped with LCD projectors/panels and online teaching facilities.
• The Library boasts an extensive collection of books, journals, and reference materials.
• The Anatomy lab features cadavers, specimens for dissections, anatomy models, and charts.
• Pathology and microbiology slides are available with high-quality microscopes.
• Physiology, Chemistry labs, and a computer center with internet access are notable facilities.

Accommodation:

• On-campus accommodation is mandatory, with a monthly fee of USD 500 that covers utilities.

Off-Campus Housing:

• Off-campus housing is an option for married students, those with children, pets, or special permission from the Housing Office.
• The Housing Office provides a list of university-approved housing options.

Restaurant/Cafeteria:

• AIM-U Restaurant/Cafeteria offers a diverse cuisine, including American, Indian, and Chinese, at affordable prices.
• Open seven days a week from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm.
• The hostel mess provides meals during posted hours.
• Alcohol and smoking are strictly prohibited on the AIM-U campus.

Health Service:

• Immunization is usually not required unless students arrive within 6 days of being in an infected area.
• Several hospitals are available near the campus, including Victoria Hospital, Golden Hope Hospital, Tapion Hospital, St. Jude’s Vieux Fort, Soufriere, and Dennery.

Living on the AIM-U campus offers a comprehensive and supportive environment for students. Classrooms are equipped with modern technology to facilitate effective learning. The university’s Library is a valuable resource, housing an extensive collection of books, journals, and reference materials. The Anatomy lab provides a hands-on learning experience with cadavers, dissection specimens, anatomy models, and charts. Students studying pathology and microbiology have access to quality slides and microscopes.

The campus also prioritizes student accommodation, with on-campus housing being mandatory. For a reasonable fee of USD 500 per month, students enjoy the convenience of living within the university premises, along with covering utilities.

Those who prefer off-campus housing due to specific circumstances, such as marriage, children, or pets, can seek special permission from the Housing Office. This office provides a list of approved housing options to ensure students’ comfort and security.

Dining options are abundant, with the AIM-U Restaurant/Cafeteria offering a variety of cuisines at affordable prices. From American to Indian and Chinese, students have a range of choices. The hostel mess also provides regular meals, and it’s important to note that the campus strictly prohibits alcohol and smoking.

Health and well-being are prioritized through accessible medical facilities. Immunization is generally not required unless students are arriving from infected areas within a short time frame. The proximity of several hospitals, including Victoria Hospital, Golden Hope Hospital, Tapion Hospital, St. Jude’s Vieux Fort, Soufriere, and Dennery, ensures that students have access to healthcare services when needed.

Living on campus is a requirement for all students, and the associated fee is USD 500 per month, encompassing utility expenses. This mandatory arrangement ensures that students have convenient access to campus facilities and a supportive living environment. The monthly fee covers essential utilities, making it a comprehensive and cost-effective option for student accommodation.

By opting for on-campus housing, students can fully immerse themselves in the academic community and take advantage of the university’s resources and activities. This arrangement fosters a sense of belonging, encourages interaction among peers, and provides a seamless integration into campus life.

The inclusive fee structure simplifies financial planning for students, as they don’t need to worry about separate utility payments. This transparent approach enables students to focus on their studies and extracurricular pursuits without the added burden of managing utility expenses.

Living on campus also offers practical advantages such as proximity to classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and other campus facilities. This proximity translates into saved travel time and expenses, allowing students to maximize their engagement in academic and social activities.

Furthermore, the mandatory on-campus accommodation policy promotes safety and security for students. The university can effectively manage and monitor the residential environment, ensuring that students’ well-being is a top priority.

1.Is Saint Lucia good for MBBS?

Yes, it is good for MBBS because it has low and affordable MBBS with a good environment and it has some universities approved by the NMC and WHO.