St. Matthew's University
School of Medicine
A modern, ACCM-accredited MD program on one of the safest and most developed islands in the Caribbean — with a 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio, three start dates per year, and clinical rotations across the U.S., Canada, and the UK.
SMUSOM at a Glance
A Modern Campus on a Safe Island
Studying on Grand Cayman
St. Matthew's academic campus is located on Grand Cayman, an English-speaking British Overseas Territory known for its safety, modern infrastructure, and high standard of living. The island is less than an hour's flight from Miami, with direct flights from major cities including New York, Toronto, Chicago, and Atlanta.
The campus features air-conditioned classrooms, laboratories, a medical library, and student lounges, all supported by high-speed wireless technology. Grand Cayman itself offers hundreds of restaurants, world-class healthcare facilities, and a low crime rate — making it one of the most comfortable Caribbean locations for medical study.
New students are encouraged to live in the Residence Hall, located two miles from campus, which offers furnished single and double rooms. Off-campus housing is also plentiful, with most units coming furnished and within easy reach of the campus.
The MD Program Structure
Basic Sciences — Grand Cayman
Twenty months of foundational medical study on the island campus. The curriculum covers anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, and pharmacology, with a unique first-semester Student Development Course focused on study skills, exam strategies, and stress management. A 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures personalized attention throughout.
Clinical Medicine — U.S., Canada & UK
Clinical training begins in semester six, comprising 42 weeks of core rotations followed by 30 weeks of electives. Students complete rotations at teaching hospitals and medical centers in the United States (including ACGME-approved locations), with select opportunities in Canada and the UK. This hands-on experience prepares graduates for residency application and professional practice.
Admissions Essentials
Prerequisites
Required coursework includes biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, and English. A bachelor's degree is expected, though pathways exist for qualified applicants.
MCAT Policy
The MCAT is required for U.S. citizens, nationals, and permanent residents. International applicants are not required to submit MCAT scores, though it is recommended.
Supporting Documents
Two letters of recommendation, a personal statement (500 words), official transcripts, and passport-sized photographs. Student-issued transcripts may be accepted initially.
English Proficiency
Applicants whose first language is not English may be required to submit TOEFL or an equivalent recognized English-language assessment.
MBBS to MD Pathway
St. Matthew's offers a dedicated pathway for graduates holding a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) who wish to earn an MD degree. This advanced-standing program is designed to broaden options for global medical practice, with clinical rotations available in the U.S., Canada, and the UK.
Applicants must have completed their MBBS from an accredited medical school within five years of application, unless they have been licensed and practicing medicine since graduation. The pathway leads to the same MD credential and provides access to SMUSOM's residency placement support.
Tuition for the MBBS to MD pathway is structured over six semesters, with an International Grant of $6,000 per semester available for eligible applicants who are citizens and permanent residents of countries outside the United States or Canada.
Life on Grand Cayman
Grand Cayman is not just a study destination — it is one of the most modern and safe islands in the Caribbean. With a highly developed infrastructure comparable to the U.S., students from North America quickly feel at home. The island boasts one of the lowest crime rates in the region and a world-class healthcare system.
Outside of study, students can enjoy snorkeling, diving, horseback riding, and exploring the island's many restaurants and beaches. The island's popularity as a vacation destination means family and friends are often eager to visit.
The climate is warm year-round, with temperatures ranging from the 70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. Pack light clothing, business casual attire for professional events like the White Coat Ceremony, and an umbrella for occasional rain showers.
Considering St. Matthew's for Your MD?
LQES can help you review your qualifications, understand the application requirements, and determine whether St. Matthew's University School of Medicine — or its MBBS to MD pathway — aligns with your academic background and career goals.
Contact LQES