Webinar – Inside ACSOM’s Medical School Foundation Program
Posted onYour Pathway to Medical School Success
Getting into medical school has never been more competitive. If you’re passionate about becoming a doctor but need to strengthen your academic foundation, the American Canadian School of Medicine (ACSOM) offers a unique solution that other programs simply can’t match.
Want the complete inside story? Watch our detailed webinar featuring program faculty, current students, and admissions staff discussing everything you need to know about this pathway to medical school.
A Different Kind of Preparatory Program
ACSOM’s 19-week Foundation Program stands apart from traditional post-baccalaureate programs in one crucial way: guaranteed medical school admission. While other prep programs only help strengthen your application, ACSOM’s program provides automatic acceptance into their MD program when you successfully complete the coursework.
Located on the Caribbean island of Dominica, ACSOM is the region’s first private nonprofit medical school. Founded by Dr. Arvin Bagherpour, who himself attended medical school in the Caribbean, the program was designed by educators who understand the challenges of medical school preparation firsthand. Therefore, they created a supportive environment where students build the skills they need to succeed.
How the Program Works
The Foundation Program mirrors the structure and rigor of medical school while providing extra support and extended time to master the material. You’ll spend 19 weeks covering the same content as the first semester of medical school. However, you’ll receive additional resources and faculty guidance.
The curriculum includes two main components:
Foundations of Medicine covers molecular biology, biochemistry, and pharmacology.
Pre-Attack and Defense focuses on immunology and microbiology.
All learning happens in small groups of no more than 10 students, using real patient cases to connect scientific concepts with clinical practice.
As Dr. Esther Sanchez de Leon, the program’s faculty leader, explains in our webinar: “It is challenging. It is as challenging as the first semester but we try to give you more resources, more support.” This approach ensures you’re truly prepared for the demands of medical school.
Watch her detailed explanation of what this support looks like day-to-day.
Who Should Consider This Program
The Foundation Program serves students from various backgrounds who share a common goal: becoming successful physicians. You might be a strong candidate if you:
- Haven’t taken the MCAT yet or didn’t achieve your target score
- Have been out of school for several years and need to refresh your scientific knowledge
- Have a GPA below typical medical school requirements
- Want to strengthen your academic foundation before starting medical school
- Need time to adapt to studying in an international setting
The program looks for students who have the academic potential to succeed but may need additional preparation or support. It’s designed for motivated individuals who are ready to work hard and engage actively in their learning.
Real Student Success
Audri Carter graduated from the Foundation Program and is now thriving in medical school. He scored in the 93rd percentile on his standardized medical exam. This score compares favorably with students across North America.
“I felt like it was almost like a seamless transition,” Audri shares in our webinar. “I’m accustomed to my environment. I know what I’m doing every day.” He also discusses the practical aspects of student life, from daily study routines to living in Dominica. Hear his complete experience and advice for prospective students.
An Affordable Investment in Your Future
Unlike many medical preparation programs, ACSOM’s Foundation Program is heavily subsidized, with tuition of just $1,000. Housing costs range from $600-700 monthly for fully furnished apartments. This makes the total investment remarkably affordable compared to similar programs.
This pricing structure reflects ACSOM’s commitment to giving students a genuine opportunity to prove themselves without accumulating overwhelming debt. If the program isn’t the right fit, you can make that determination without the financial burden that comes with traditional medical school expenses.
Your Next Steps
ACSOM accepts applications throughout the year, with classes starting in July and January. The application process is straightforward. You’ll need your transcripts, a resume or CV, and a personal statement. MCAT scores aren’t required, though they’ll be considered if you’ve taken the exam.
Most applicants who meet the basic requirements receive an interview invitation. Admission decisions are typically made within one week of your interview. The admissions team takes a comprehensive approach, looking at your potential for success rather than focusing solely on test scores or grades.
For complete details about the application process and what the admissions committee looks for, watch our full webinar discussion where admissions director Mason Philpot answers common questions and walks through each step.
Why Dominica Makes Sense
Recently named the top destination for 2025 by BBC, Dominica offers an ideal environment for focused study. Known as the “nature island of the Caribbean,” it provides a peaceful setting with reliable infrastructure, modern internet connectivity, and affordable living costs. The island’s natural beauty also offers healthy outlets for stress relief during your intensive studies.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
The Foundation Program represents more than just academic preparation. It’s your direct pathway to medical school. While this article covers the key highlights, our comprehensive webinar provides the complete picture with detailed discussions, student perspectives, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Watch the full webinar presentation to get all the details you need to make an informed decision about your medical school preparation.
Ready to take the next step toward your medical career?
