Nucleus University School of Medicine is renowned for its rigorous academic program and commitment to producing skilled, compassionate medical professionals. Admission to this prestigious institution is highly competitive, with a comprehensive application process designed to identify candidates with exceptional academic backgrounds, strong personal qualities, and a dedication to the medical profession. This article outlines the key admission requirements for prospective students.
Founded in 2021, chartered by the government of Aruba, and authorized by the Ministry of Education of Aruba, Nucleus University School of Medicine offers a medical education program that is carefully designed to prepare the future physicians for ever evolving field of medicine and patient care. Located in Aruba, which is a picturesque island outside the Hurricane belt. Students complete their basic sciences in peaceful, serene and beautiful environment of Aruba and pursue their clinical rotations in renowned Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore.
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Nucleus University School of Medicine Admission Requirements
Main Requirements
- Completed Application (online or download)
- Resume / CV (Curriculum Vitae)
- Personal Essay
- Official transcripts from high school or college.
- Two letters of recommendation
- Three passport sized color photographs (2″x2″)
- MCAT score, if available
- TOEFL score, if applicable
Academic Requirements
Undergraduate Education
Applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. While there is no specific major required, a strong foundation in the sciences is essential. Recommended coursework includes:
- Biology: At least two semesters with lab experience.
- Chemistry: Two semesters of general chemistry and two semesters of organic chemistry, both with lab components.
- Physics: Two semesters with lab experience.
- Mathematics: One to two semesters, including calculus and statistics.
- Humanities and Social Sciences: Courses in psychology, sociology, and English to develop well-rounded communication and analytical skills.
GPA Requirements
A competitive GPA is crucial for admission. While the minimum required GPA is 3.0, successful applicants typically have a GPA of 3.5 or higher. The admissions committee places significant emphasis on science GPA, which reflects the applicant’s performance in biology, chemistry, physics, and math courses.
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Standardized Test Scores
MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)
All applicants must submit MCAT scores. The MCAT assesses knowledge of scientific concepts, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Competitive candidates usually score in the 85th percentile or higher. Scores must be from within the past three years to be considered valid.
Clinical and Research Experience
Clinical Experience
Hands-on clinical experience is a critical component of the application. This can include volunteering or working in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare settings. The admissions committee looks for candidates who have demonstrated a genuine commitment to patient care and an understanding of the medical profession.
Research Experience
Research experience, particularly in the biomedical sciences, is highly valued. Applicants should be able to demonstrate their involvement in research projects, including their contributions and any resulting publications or presentations. This experience highlights the applicant’s ability to engage in scientific inquiry and contribute to medical knowledge.
Personal Statement and Essays
Personal Statement
The personal statement is a vital part of the application, providing insight into the applicant’s motivations for pursuing a career in medicine, personal experiences, and qualities that make them a suitable candidate. It should be well-written, reflective, and compelling.
Secondary Essays
Applicants invited to submit secondary applications will need to respond to additional essay prompts. These essays typically explore specific experiences, challenges, and aspirations related to the applicant’s medical journey.
Letters of Recommendation
Number and Type
Applicants must submit three to five letters of recommendation. These should include:
- Academic References: At least two letters from science faculty members who can attest to the applicant’s academic abilities and potential for success in medical school.
- Clinical References: Letters from healthcare professionals who have supervised the applicant’s clinical work.
- Research References: If applicable, letters from research mentors.
Content
The letters should provide detailed, specific examples of the applicant’s skills, character, and suitability for a medical career. They should highlight the applicant’s strengths, accomplishments, and potential for growth.
Interview Process
Invitation to Interview
Applicants who meet the initial screening criteria will be invited for an interview. The interview process assesses the applicant’s interpersonal skills, maturity, ethical reasoning, and overall fit for the program.
Interview Format
The interviews may be conducted in multiple formats, including:
- Traditional Interviews: One-on-one or panel interviews with faculty members and admissions committee representatives.
- Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI): A series of short, structured interviews designed to assess various competencies and qualities.
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Technical Standards
Essential Abilities
Nucleus University School of Medicine requires all applicants to meet certain technical standards necessary to complete the medical curriculum and perform as a practicing physician. These include:
- Observation: The ability to observe demonstrations and experiments in the basic sciences and accurately observe patients both at a distance and close at hand.
- Communication: Effective verbal and written communication skills to interact with patients, families, and healthcare team members.
- Motor Skills: Sufficient motor function to perform diagnostic maneuvers, basic laboratory tests, and emergency procedures.
- Intellectual Abilities: Problem-solving skills, including the ability to measure, calculate, reason, analyze, and synthesize.
- Behavioral and Social Attributes: Emotional health and stability, maturity, and the ability to handle stress, adapt to change, and display compassion and integrity.
How to Apply to Nucleus University School of Medicine
There are rolling admissions three times a year for sessions in January, May and September. The admission committee’s decision will be communicated within 2 to 3 working weeks from the day of receipt of the completed application. The following materials are required:
- Completed Application Form
- Personal Essay outlining why you would like to become a doctor
- Official transcripts from high school, college or university
- Two letters of recommendation
- Three passport sized color photographs (2″x2″)
- MCAT score, if available
- TOEFL score, if applicable
- US $100 application fee
Nucleus University School of Medicine Tuition and Fees
NUSOM University offers an affordable choice for medical education. Applicants are encouraged to compare the total cost of the 4 or 5-Year MD program at NUSOM with other offshore or US medical schools. Students discover that NUSOM can provide them with the highest quality medical education at a truly affordable rate. In a comprehensive survey of US medical schools NUSOM tuition is ranked 50% lower than the average cost of US medical schools.
4 Year MD Degree Program
The breakdown of fees for the 4 Year MD Degree program is outlined below. Please note that all fees are in US$ Dollars.
Basic Sciences
| Session: | Duration: | Fees: |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | 16 Weeks | $9950 |
| Semester 2 | 16 Weeks | $9950 |
| Semester 3 | 16 Weeks | $9950 |
| Semester 4 | 16 Weeks | $9950 |
| Semester 5 | 16 Weeks | $9950 |
| Total for Basic Sciences | $49,750 | |
Clinical Sciences
| Session: | Duration: | Fees: |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 6 | 12 Weeks | $14,950 |
| Semester 7 | 12 Weeks | $14,950 |
| Semester 8 | 12 Weeks | $14,950 |
| Semester 9 | 12 Weeks | $14,950 |
| Semester 10 | 12 Weeks | $14,950 |
| Semester 11 | 12 Weeks | $14,950 |
| Total for Clinical Sciences | $89,700 | |
5 Year MD Degree Program
The breakdown of fees for the 5 Year MD Degree program is outlined below. Please note that all fees are in US$ Dollars.
Pre-med (For International Students)
| Session: | Duration: | Fees: |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | 16 Weeks | $6950 |
| Semester 2 | 16 Weeks | $6950 |
| Semester 3 | 16 Weeks | $6950 |
| Total for Pre-med (International) | $20,850 | |
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Pre-med
| Session: | Duration: | Fees: |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | 16 Weeks | $6950 |
| Semester 2 | 16 Weeks | $6950 |
| Semester 3 | 16 Weeks | $6950 |
| Total for Pre-med | $20,850 | |
Basic Sciences
| Session: | Duration: | Fees: |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | 16 Weeks | $9950 |
| Semester 2 | 16 Weeks | $9950 |
| Semester 3 | 16 Weeks | $9950 |
| Semester 4 | 16 Weeks | $9950 |
| Semester 5 | 16 Weeks | $9950 |
| Total for Basic Sciences | $49,750 | |
Clinical Sciences
| Session: | Duration: | Fees: |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 6 | 12 Weeks | $14,950 |
| Semester 7 | 12 Weeks | $14,950 |
| Semester 8 | 12 Weeks | $14,950 |
| Semester 9 | 12 Weeks | $14,950 |
| Semester 10 | 12 Weeks | $14,950 |
| Semester 11 | 12 Weeks | $14,950 |
| Total for Clinical Sciences | $89,700 | |
Fee Structure
At the beginning of their course of study, all NUSOM students are required to pay a one-time, non-refundable enrollment/administrative fee of USD $500.00 and no charges for application fee.
Tuition fees are due on the first of the month prior to the month of commencement of the semester (i.e. December 1st, April 1st, and August 1st). If fees are not paid on time, cancellation of enrollment may occur and a USD $100 late fee will be applied upon reinstatement.
Citizens of Aruba are awarded a 50% tuition scholarship (Basic Sciences Only) as approved by the Government of Aruba.
Fees should be paid to the university’s Canadian admissions office by certified check, bank draft, money order, or wire transfer made payable to NUSOM, in US dollars.
Additional General Costs – Food and Lodging
Food and lodging can range from $800 to $1000 per month depending on individual habits and preferences. Housing expenses usually vary depending on the type of apartment preferred and whether or not you are sharing with roommates. When sharing an apartment with roommates rental rates can be brought down to as low as $500 per month. Food expenses vary, once again, depending on individual taste and habit. Please note that all fees are in US Dollars. Arrangement of housing for new students can be done by the University.
STUDENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR TRANSPORTATION AND LIVING EXPENSES.
Health Insurance
The government of Aruba requires that all new students obtain health insurance before they are enrolled into the Aruba Health Care System. There are no exceptions to this requirement. Once the student VISA is secured general medical insurance is provided by the Government of Aruba. The approximate cost is US$400.00-$600.00.
Indemnity/Malpractice Insurance during Clinical Rotations
All students are required to obtain malpractice insurance prior to the commencement of their clinical rotations. NUSOM University will assist students with information concerning insurance companies that provide this service. Please note that the cost of malpractice insurance is not included in the tuition fees, and usually ranges from US$ 800-1200 per year during their clinical years in the United States.
Other Fees
– Graduation Fee: $500
Tuition Refund Policy
A request for withdrawal must be submitted in writing, authorized by the Director of Administration. The amount of refund for new students who withdraw from the school is:
- 75% refund if enrolled for two weeks or less
- 50% refund if enrolled for three weeks or less
- 25% refund if enrolled for four weeks or less and no refund thereafter
The date of withdrawal is counted from the date of receipt of the withdrawal letter.
No refund will be given to any current student after registration is completed.
Conclusion
The admission requirements for Nucleus University School of Medicine are designed to identify candidates who are not only academically excellent but also possess the personal qualities and experiences necessary for a successful career in medicine. By meeting these rigorous standards, applicants demonstrate their readiness to embark on the challenging and rewarding journey of medical education and practice.
