Although a relatively small nation, Singapore is the economic and cultural hub of Asia. Because of its geographical position, it has become a point at which different religions, traditions, and ways of life intertwine. As a result, Singapore has one of the highest qualities of life in the world.
Every year, more and more people decide to relocate to Singapore. With that in mind, one of the most sought-after professions in recent years has been that of medical practitioners. As the number of residents rises, so does the need for medical doctors, both foreign and domestic. This article lays out the necessary steps to become a doctor in Singapore.
How to Become a Doctor in Singapore
Step 1. All Practitioners Are Required to Have a Medical Degree
As mentioned, Singapore is known as the melting pot of Asia. Because of its unique cultural profile, many students decide to pursue their higher education here, and for medical students, this would only be a plus. Once they have spent a couple of years in Singapore, they come to understand the inner workings of the community they will come to treat one day.
Another reason for choosing a medical university in Singapore would have to be its highly-equipped laboratories and internationally renowned teaching staff. Currently, Singapore has three medical schools: Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine at the National University of Singapore, the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine at Nanyang Technological University, and the Duke-NUS Medical School.
In the case of the first two, applicants will need a stellar GPA and a high school curriculum focused on natural sciences such as chemistry, mathematics, and biology. The medical program is known as the MBBS – Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Science and will take five years to complete.
On the other hand, students also have the option to apply to Duke-NUS Medical School. The programs here are structured following American institutions. In other words, students are required to obtain a bachelor’s degree and pass the MCAT admissions test before applying to the medical program. After they are admitted into the program, they have to complete a three-year medical training program. Although this may sound complicated, it has the advantage of an internationally recognized diploma, which is excellent for students who want to pursue medical careers outside of Singapore.
See Also: Free Medical Schools
Step 2. Language Proficiency
Since obtaining a medical degree in Singapore is highly recommended, it would make sense that it comes with the necessary language requirements. As the three aforementioned medical programs are taught entirely in English, this is the language students will need to be proficient in. Of course, for those coming from English-speaking countries, this should not be a problem. However, other foreign students will be required to provide proof of language proficiency in the form of an IELTS or other similar exam as part of becoming a doctor in Singapore.
Those coming to practice rather than study medicine in Singapore will also need to speak Malay, Singapore’s official language. This will help them communicate with Singapore citizens who are not fluent in English but require medical assistance nevertheless.
Check out: How to Study for Free in Singapore
Step 3. Obtain a Medical License
After completing a medical program, the next step to becoming a doctor in Singapore is obtaining a medical license. In Singapore, all medical graduates are required to complete housemanship after graduation. This means they need to work as junior doctors in hospitals or medical centers, depending on their chosen specializations.
After completing their housemanship, Singapore medical graduates are ready to register with the Singapore Medical Council and receive their medical licenses. This includes applying with all the necessary credentials and documents, including your medical degree and certificate of completed housemanship. Once licensed, medical doctors will be known as House Officers in Singapore.
Step 4. Foreign Medical Workers will Need to Meet Several Other Requirements
Those coming to Singapore to practice medicine will need to meet a few more requirements before becoming licensed medical doctors. In addition to proof of English proficiency and a valid medical degree, one more necessity is a job offer from a healthcare institution approved by the Singapore Medical Council. The most soundproof way of securing a job offer is with the help of a job search agency. They will already be versed in the application process and make sure you provide all the required documentation.
Upon receiving an offer, foreign practitioners will need to apply for a Singapore work visa as well to become doctors in Singapore. This document is known as the Employment Pass and is equivalent to a highly-skilled migrant visa. In addition to the aforementioned, it will require participants to have an outstanding academic record, meet Singapore’s minimum wage requirement, and actively participate in clinical practice at the moment of application.
FAQs: How to Become a Doctor in Singapore
Is Singapore a Good Destination for International Students?
In essence, Singapore is a very good destination for international students, as it is a quite developed country that tends to focus on its field of education and economic development. International students choose Singapore for their studies as the universities that are located there tend to be ranked among the best in the world, and they offer unique opportunities for progress in their careers.
Is Singapore Known for Its Medical Programs?
Yes, Singapore is quite a well-known country when it comes to programs in the field of medicine. One of the main reasons Singapore is known in this field is because the experts are part of some of the best universities that guide students on how to become the best they can be. If you want to become a doctor in Singapore, the opportunities are limitless, and the best thing is that they offer various financial opportunities for both domestic and international students who show promising talent.
In conclusion, there are quite some steps needed to become a medical doctor in Singapore, but the journey is well worth it as it tends to lead to a prospective career. This country offers great value to both domestic and international students, and they tend to also give governmental scholarships for them so that they can have an easier journey.
We hope that you found this article on the steps to becoming a doctor in Singapore informative and helpful. To learn more information on studying abroad, check out the Study in Singapore Page and more Available Programs for International Students.
