<p>I'm an American student considering going somewhere in Canada (mainly UBC, U of T, McGill) for undergrad, but I'm concerned that I won't be as competitive an applicant for med/grad schools in America. My plan is to major in biology (maybe microbiology) and then apply to med school, probably coming back to the US. </p>
<p>I've heard some things about not having opportunities to do research as an undergrad, very large classes (at all levels), little to no advising, grade deflation that will make my transcript less competitive, etc. It seems to me that many of these things would not be concerns at similarly sized American public schools. </p>
<p>Does anyone have any input or experience with this? Would I be at a disadvantage as an applicant from a Canadian university?</p>
<p>Very large classes would be an issue at state flagships as well… and McGill has subpar pre-professional advising (especially since many of the locals actually go on to law or med school as undergraduates) when compared to other American universities of similar pedigree.</p>
<p>Yet there are some McGill grads who end up at med schools like Vanderbilt.</p>
<p>As for grade deflation, if it is that big a concern for you, avoid UofT…</p>
<p>My friend attends Mcgill and skipped 1st year because of AP credits. She’s also a Loran Scholar and finds McGill a really easy school. She’s also involved in research as a 1st year (granted, she’s done research in high school). It’s up to you to make opportunities.</p>
<p>I can’t say anything about marks, but I know a few kids maintaing 4.0s at UT in hard majors. However, they’re crazy types and I don’t think they’re the norm. I would avoid UT if that’s your main concern. However, someone has said average mark for the class is listed on the transcript. </p>
<p>Medical school in Canada, I feel is a bit different because as Catria alluded to - you can apply and get in without finishing undergrad. The competition for pre-med is very intense due to the small number of spots. </p>
<p>I think it really depends on you. UBC has a really good science program.</p>
<p>I knew some Canadian med schools allowed students to get into med without being in a position to complete undergrad prior to matriculation (Alberta) but Quebec med schools are another bag of beans, given their atypical system…</p>