International Academic Program
The International Academic Program is a clinical and research based medical and dental program for international medical students, dental students and medical residents with University of Alberta partner universities. If you are unsure if your university is our partner email iaprog@ualberta.ca prior to applying. We also accept government sponsored international students. Though we will take medical and dental students at any stage of their program, it will be of greatest benefit for later year students and early to later year medical residents. (Physicians please register for your respective program on the Physician Enhancement Program webpage). There are 2 tracks: research, or a mix of research and clinical observation track. The clinical observation track includes clinical observation/shadowing opportunities, exposure to health care practitioner-patient relationship models within the context of our teaching hospitals and clinics; and may include participation in professional meetings. Research and clinical observation tracks are currently limited to the following areas:
- cardiology
- dentistry
- endocrinology & metabolism
- gastroenterology
- general internal medicine
- general surgery
- geriatric medicine
- infectious diseases
- neurology
- obstetrics/gynecology
- pediatric surgery
- psychiatry
- radiology/nuclear medicine
- thoracic surgery
- urology surgery
More areas of study will be added as this program expands. This program is offered by the International Relations Office, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry at the University of Alberta. Apply early since visa processing times can be lengthy.
Program Content
- Clinical observation
- Access to training program resources
- Exposure to basic and clinical research training methods
- Familiarity with the Canadian healthcare and dental care system
- Understanding of physician/dentist-patient relationship models in Canada
- Experience Canadian society and culture
- Observe medical and dental practice in Canada in different settings
- Enhance English communication skills with patients and colleagues
Program Curriculum
- Clinical
- Academic
- Research
Program Requirements
- Must be a medical student, dental student or medical resident currently attending a University of Alberta partner university
- Adequate English comprehension and speaking skills
- Canadian entry visa
- Cell phone
Program Fees
The program fee per trainee are as follows (does not include accommodations or meals):
- Research track: $2,000 CAD/4 weeks
- Combined research & clinical track: $3,000/4 weeks
- For other lengths of time, fees will be prorated.
The program fees include:
- Clinical observership
- Structured clinical/basic research lab experience
- Personal emergency health insurance
Program participants may attend this program from 4 weeks, 8 weeks and 12 weeks between May and August, in the specialties listed above, as capacity permits. If participants depart prior to completing their program, the full fees for that period apply and no refunds are offered. Refunds less a $75 administration fee are provided up to 2 weeks prior to the first day of the program.
Programming is individualized according to each participant. Program participants will visit the University of Alberta and our partners at the University of Alberta Hospital (UAH), the Royal Alexandra Hospital (RAH), Grey Nuns Hospital (GNH), Misericordia Hospital (MH) and Alberta Hospital Edmonton (AHE).
For those applying during the summer, it is highly recommended that they integrate their experience with our 4-week Global Health Science Program (GHSP), either as part of or in addition to their overall stay at the University of Alberta.
We require completion of the IAP application form and a signed letter written on the candidate’s home institution's letterhead stating the candidate's credentials i.e. current program, type of program, years completed, and degrees awarded if applicable. Send the credentials letter to iaep@ualberta.ca. We are unable to process applications until these requirements are met. Once students complete these requirements, we will search for a supervisor for you. Once a supervisor is found, we will issue an invitation letter to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). Check out processing times for your country here. Once you receive your TRV, proceed to pay for your program.
The International Academic Program (IAP) is now open and receiving applications. Questions? Contact iaprog@ualberta.ca
Payment Information: Go to this link and look for "7. IAP (25IEP)-Fees". Use 9999999 as your student ID. Enter the amount listed above under Program Fees. If you choosing a program that is more than 4 weeks, multiply the amount listed above by the number of weeks you are staying. Deadline for payment is the first day you are scheduled to start your program. It is highly recommended that you not pay your fees until you receive your visa. If participants depart prior to completing the program, the full fees for that period apply and no refunds are offered.
The cost of accommodations and food for all lengths of stay are in addition to the above fees. Candidates are responsible for arranging and paying for their own accommodations. Single rooms may be available in Lister Residence located on North Campus at 11613 - 87 Ave. depending upon what time of year you are on campus. Lister Residence is available to our International Programs guests from mid May to mid August. To reserve a room at Lister Residence email groupbookings@ualberta.ca and put "Booking for IAP" in the subject line.
Other options are:
St. Joseph's College Residence which is on North Campus very close to the classroom. Availability from May to August. Contact sjcres@ualberta.ca and put "Booking for IAP" in the subject line. Group rates are available for 10 or more students.
Campus Towers, is a 5 minute walk from the classroom
Varscona Hotel is a 25 minute walk or 10 minute bus ride away.
More options can be found on the University of Alberta International webpage here.
Updated Sept. 3, 2026.