Bridgetown International University
Shahjalal University of Science and Technology
The Bridgetown International University (BIU) was established in the year 2017 and is located in Barbados in the Caribbean region of North America. It is a medical school and has students from around the world including South Asia and Africa. It is the seventh medical school in Barbados which was a result of the government’s efforts to develop medical education for diversifying the economy. The first batch of 500 students came from India, Sri Lanka, Ghana, Nepal, and South Africa, among others. Many reputed institutions around the world have recognized it. The BIU has been listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (DOMS). It has also been recognized by the Medical Council of India (MCI) and the Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER). The BIU can boast of many USMLE qualified doctors in their panel of visiting faculty, by its proximity to the United States of America. The BIU’s integral team consists of eminent professors and prominent personalities including MDs and Ph.D. holders from the neighboring countries. It provides an optimum student to teacher ratio. The experienced faculty members bring with them a versatile experience to share with the multicultural demography of the institution.
Life at Bridgetown International University
For the holistic development of the students, the university organizes extra-curricular activities. The gymnasium, sports complexes, swimming pool in the premises encourages students to participate in physical activities. The university also encourages sports activities to build team-spirit and sportsmanship among students. The activities help the students focus and develop a better attitude towards life. The cafeteria in the main building offers a wide range of cuisines and delicacies. To provide students with a hassle-free movement within the campus, the security of the premises has been planned and programmed and the entire perimeter has been secured.
Students can also explore the beautiful island country of Barbados, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. The eclectic mix of culture, food, nature, the sea, and climate makes it an ideal place for fun. The literacy rate is 100% in Barbados, and it follows the US education system. The world-class education system comes at a highly affordable price here, and the students do not require an IELTS or TOEFL. With a chance to intern in some of the best multinational companies and medical degrees recognized by WHO and UNESCO that are accepted globally, Barbados is one of the favorite locations to pursue a medical degree.
Courses offered
The BIU offers an MD program with advanced academics and practical training. English is the language of instruction. Designed according to the US Medical Standards, the five and a half years’ program is planned as:
- The first year: Premedical - It is a one year program consisting of four trimesters of 13 weeks each. It is a mandatory part of the MD program. After the completion of this course with good grades, the student advances into the Basic Medical Sciences Program.
- The second and third year: Basic Medical Sciences Program - This is an extended two-year program that emphasizes teaching students with problem-based learning methodology. The curriculum includes enhanced knowledge about basic biomedical sciences, physical exam skills, and problem-solving techniques. Once this program is completed, the student moves into the Clinical Rotation Program.
-
The fourth and fifth year: Clinical Rotation Program - It is a 72-week program of clinical rotation, bifurcated into 48 weeks of the core program and 24 weeks of the optional rotation program. This is done at the top affiliated hospitals chosen based on the performance of the student. After the completion of this program, the students are awarded the degree of Doctor of Medicine (MD).
During the course, the students get to study and practice in the US and Barbados. The university has collaborated with leading reputed hospitals in the Central US and Barbados, where the students can pursue their clinical training and get added exposure in a professional environment.
Admission
The BIU offers three academic session starts in a year: January, May, and September. The duration of the MD program is five and a half years. The applications are accepted based on promising diversities and higher secondary grades. There are no requirements to clear any private exams before admission, and a shortlisted candidate does not have to get through an entrance exam to study at the Bridgetown International University.
Nevertheless, there are some other necessities to apply to the BIU. The applicants need to be of 18 years of age or older during the time of admission. They must have studied and qualified in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as their main subject in their higher secondary level of education, with good grades. They should have completed their Undergraduate degree or its equivalent to apply for the MD program, undergrad courses, Ph. D’s and other specializations.
The cost of tuition fees, accommodation, and meals at the Barbados Campus is USD 13,800. This includes the processing fee of USD 1,500. The processing fee includes documentation, the registration fee for MCI Eligibility meant for NEET Qualified students, books, lab kit, stethoscope, apron, dissection kit, health insurance, USMLE and MCI coaching from the first year within the campus. The fees for the second, third, and fourth years is USD 12,300 each. No fee is charged for the fifth year, although, an additional fee is charged for clinical rotation programs in the US, based on the college and the choice of hospital, subject to obtaining a valid US work permit/visa.