MEDICAL COLLEGES IN PAKISTAN [Archive] - Page 3 - ValueMD Medical Schools Forum

Smeer

02-07-2006, 07:04 PM

Salam all!

Boy this thread's getting a bit heated! I'd have to kind of agree w/fuzpot tho. A lot of people think that going to Pakistan to become a doctor isn't so bad, especially since many of those who go have family/relatives there. The truth, often times however, is the contrary. We've been away for so long that it's hard to remember exactly what reality it like over there. In fact, many of us just go for visits and live like guests for several weeks, not having to face the challenges of everyday living.

I don't think there's a single person who can honestly say that after living in the West, going back to Pakistan is the greatest thing ever! It's a fact we have to face. Is it bad? No, not necessarily, because for some the enjoyment of family and culture transcends such material bounds. But I think to some extent, for some more than others, there is a degree of discomfort when a person actually lives in Pakistan after living in the West.

I think what fuzpot is trying to say is that saying that you're willing to go to Pakistan and live there for five years is one thing, and living there for five years is another. Everyone (except AssyrianSkipper) loves Pakistan on this thread, and we all wish the best for it, but having been away so long, it is indeed very difficult to adjust after living in the U.S., Canada, or UK.

Let's not bag on fuzpot for being realistic here :wink: , I'm pretty sure he means the best for us all. I'd like to go to Pakistan to become a doctor, but I'm trying to keep it real at the same time. It's not a good idea to think of only the positives and keep out the negatives, because the negatives are a crucial part of that decision. All the same, the negatives don't mean that a person doesn't have to go. It's all about balancing the two, and what it really comes down to is each individual...what kinds of things and how much a person is willing to sacrifice in order to achieve his/her goal.

The worst mistake a person can make is to blindly follow his/her idealism without checking it against reality.

ayesha_87

02-07-2006, 07:48 PM

Well, just like u guys, i was abt to move back to pakistan last year but have changed my mind since and circumstances have changed....Prophet Muhammed (SAW) (PBUH) said 'Travel up to China to educated ureself'. So have that quote in ure minds and Allah shall guide you all...
Wsalam

fuzpot

02-08-2006, 01:10 PM

SMEER-- at least some1 sees what im saying. I guess only the guys think about such important issues!!! relax ladies, im joking.

Ayesha that is a fascinating quote! hows lse these days.

sara00

02-08-2006, 11:24 PM

salam friends,

heeey Dr.Smeer, now ur a philosopher too;) ...ur words are soooo true...u cant compare reality to idealism....and ur right, vacation is not the same as living in pak..

..okay, okay fuzpot...we all see what u mean...I knoww u were talking for the benefit of everyone, thank you!

And ayesha...my father always tells me the same too! ...it sure inspires alot! :)

And just out of curiosity, how many ppl are planning to apply to pak med schools this year? ...I mean ur parents are cool with it? u guys think u'll be fine adapting to pak environment? Any major worries or concerns?...lets hear them...

Sara

kite_runner

02-08-2006, 11:57 PM

ok, so i am new to this and i wanted to hear other peolple's opinion over my situation- hope you guys can help:D .
so here it is...i have a bachelor degree from a college in US. Have pretty good/competitive gpa and MCAT scores and i applied this year but i only got accepted to a DO college. Now, I don't know where i went wrong. I am a pretty easy and interesting person to talk to and my interviews all went well but i am a hijabi so i don't know if that affected anything. Don't know if i am being a bad sport about it but hey, things like this come up when you don't get your wish:rolleyes: !!! Anyways, i am now thinking of applying to med schools in paki b/c i'd prefer an MD degree than a DO. What do you guys think..should i just stick with the Do and stay in US or give it up for an MD from paki? Also, carribean med school is out of question. Thanx 4 helping me you guys!!

zan

02-09-2006, 08:58 AM

I agree with Smeer & sara00, its hard getting adjusted to the environment and the people in Pakistan. First of all It prolly alot easier if you live at a relatives house. I am in Jamshoro, Sindh , and most of my family lives in Punjab, and it is pretty hard getting adjusted, becuase there is no family around me. But I'm getting use to it, I lived in the dorms for 2 weeks, I didn't like it that much, the bathrooms and food wasn't that great. So I found a room with a bathroom in the city Hyderabad (30 min drive from Jamshoro). Everyone said to me , "zan the dorms are the best, every studies in there, and then the library is really close to the dorms." But in a matter of fact, in the dorms someone would be singing a song in the middle of the night, or the student political groupos would be outside in the road chanting "Geo Sindh", or students in the dorms would just in spite make noise or chant something, just to piss other students off. Also the ppl, they ask you a lot of questions, they can tell your foreigner, you can wear a shelwar kameez and just fit in to the environment. But the local students can tell your a foreginer. My mistake was that whatever the students asked I would tell them, "Where are you from?" "Where is your family from in Pakistan" and "what your father does". "are you urdu speaking (is your mother tounge urdu)" and "what is ur caste :shock: ". At first if someone in America asks you these questions, I know ppl in America won't really ask you these qeustions. But at first I would anwser most of the questions, except for the ones where my family is from in Pakistan, and what my caste is (this caste isnt like the caste system in india (like levels), the one in pakistan is for a group of ppl). Well I didn't tell them my parents are from Faisalabad, Punjab and my caste. These ppl in interior sindh don't really like punjabi ppl, and if i told them my caste then they would know im punjabi. I told at first everyone im American, becuase they knew i was a foreginer, big mistke and what my dad did. Everyone over there thinks ohh he;s American he must have a lot of money. Then after a while I starting telling everyone i came from the Phillipines and that my dad worked at a gastation pump even tough he dsoent'. When they would ask me, I taught you came from America i would say I told them Amnercica becuase yoiu ppl dont know where Phillipines is. People just think differently over there. Also the teaching style is totally different, totally self-study, teachers don't even show up to claass or they show up really late. The teachers aren't that reliable and they cant teach. Well when my Muharram vacations are over, Im going to go back and going to go to Tuition for a month just to get use to how ppl study over here and to better develop my concepts.

fuzpot

02-09-2006, 05:51 PM

ZAN-

I am not very familiar with the US system, but do u mean that u have an offer for medicin the US?. If so, then why the hell are you coming to pak, i guess it shorther/cheaper. The fees for you US guys are too high!. If you can afford it, then i would suggest you stay in the US.

sara00

02-09-2006, 09:40 PM

salam friends,

kite_runner: heey salam sister and welcome to the forums, nicee to see u here! :)

So ur thinking weather to go study in pak or US....well from my point of view... I think u should stay in the States and go for DO, and the reason why is cuz u already did ur college degree right? so why spend 5 years at a paki med schoool trying to get ur MBBS, plus need to adjust ur self to the pak environment and the ppl....its not easy... and in the end u would have to stuggle back to the States for residency....thats a looong and hard processs....if I was u... I'll stay in the State with my family and go for DO !

I know sumtimes we dont get what we want in life...but thats how life is...dont be sad and dont think its cuz ur hijabi that maybe thats the reason u didnt get into MD....what ever happens ...always happens for the best....I'm also a hijabi...and allhamdulilah never got jugded by that... So listen friend, the best solution that I as a sister can give u ...that I think is the best for u and ur futrue is that u should stay in the States and dont loose the opportunity that u have right now....and inshalla have faith in Allah and watch everything will work out perfectly for u! :)

Wish u all the best in ur career! May Allah guide u well! (Ameen) ...let me know what u think and decide...

zan: heey zan, its always soooo funnn to read ur post!!!...philliphines..hehe... if I was u, I would tell them I'm from kenya ;) ..hehe...and how my father has retiered and I'm stuggling my way back to pak for higher education, and right now I'm taking loan from my uncle who is supporting my education...hehe.:D ..ur soo right they all know ur a forgeiner by face and the way u talk or act, and ur right about never letting anyone know ur from US/Can/UK cuz then they think ur some mutlimillionaire kid! and then ppl can take advantage of u... they dont know, only few oversea ppl are rich, the rest are average! ;)

Also yeah those washroom, oh man I remeber once i had to use the washroom that's the floor...and I was like "hmm...where's the toliet?".:confused: ..hehe..and my aunt was like "thats the whole washroom" and then I was like "how the heck u use this thing":shock: ...hehe...those washroom sure are sooo hard to use! but good to hear ur living in some other place now....how is it there? much better? hope soo....and yeah its good to get those tutions, its will help u with ur studies....

alrighty friend, wish u all the best, enjoy ur holidays!!! always a pleasure to hear from u! :)

Sara

fuzpot

02-10-2006, 01:19 PM

SARA- i never knew u were a hijabi. WOW, most of u guys here r pretty religious. I havent even done one salah/namaz 2 day. Bad of me!. I keep talking abt medical school. But the almighty is the power behind everything!

kite_runner

02-11-2006, 01:47 PM

Salaam you guys
Thanx Sara and fuzpot for the quick reply. Honestly, i am with you guys about staying in the US except my parents asked me to seriously consider paki med school. Had the chance to med school in paki after high school and at that time I decided against it b/c i really wanted to stay close to family. I don't see the advantage of going to paki now, especially since as Sara rightly pointed out i have a bachelor degree. I dunno, i think i am going to go ahead and apply to Agha Khan as well as accept the DO position here and decide a few months from now. That should give me time to think and hear other people's views:) Sara, as for the wearing scarf, i am going to give it a rest- it's not as if i would not have worn it so why bother thinking about it and thanks for the little pep talk:) But anyways, i really do appreciate your inputs so once again, thanks! Also, good luck to all of you guys in your studies, USMLE and most of all, dealing with the general pakistani population!!!!

Smeer

02-11-2006, 01:58 PM

Salam everyone,

Kite_runner, thx for the good luck, cuz I think everyone here is really gonna need it, especially w/those Pakis:

"good luck to all of you guys in...dealing with the general pakistani population!!!!"

I just had a general question, what's a DO?

--Smeer

Skipper

02-12-2006, 11:13 AM

Chemist_11

02-12-2006, 02:47 PM

Go skipper ;)

Smeer

02-12-2006, 07:48 PM

Salam everyone,

I know I'm not alone in expressing such concerns, but I really don't appreciate your rude comments, AssyrianSkipper, and I'd really like it if you'd stop being so biased.

First of all, this forum is about Medical Schools in Pakistan, not about the Pakistani people or why you hate Pakistanis. I couldn't care less about what you think about its people and traditions. I'd appreciate it if you'd stick to the topic and not use it as an excuse to voice your crude remarks.

I don't care if you voice your concerns in a civilized manner, but I can't help but find it ironic that you talk about people "protesting and burning flags on the main roads of paki-land," when your attitude and tone clearly reflect this mentality at the level you're discrediting Pakistan.

Every place has problems, I agree, even Pakistan. Many of us on this thread could say a lot about Caribbean schools too in the same ridiculous manner as you, but we don't; we have a sense of moral decency and respect, and it wouldn't hurt if you took part in it.

Most importantly, let's stick to the topic. As I said before, this thread is about Medical Schools in Pakistan. Given that to degree, it does deal with Pakistani politics, society, and economics, I would really appreciate it if you didn't use it as an excuse to criticize it in such a rude and disrespectful manner.

Let's all say what we want to say without causing too much trouble, and if if you're here for the trouble, you're in the wrong place.

--Smeer

sara00

02-12-2006, 08:18 PM

salam friends,

kite_runner: nice to hear from u...I'm telling u friend dont go to pak to study...and dont loose the opportuniy that u have in ur hands right now...I mean MD or DO...there isnt much difference...and it will be easier for u to study in US and not be away from paretns too...why u wanna struggle in life if u have a good straight path infront of u? think about it...:)

Smeer: to answer to ur question regarding DO..well there is not a big difference between a DO and MD...both are licenced doctors who can work in hospitals....to me... I find both of them the same...I know there are sum differences...but not that big...

Skipper(anti-paki): ....there shouldnt be a warning on u...ppl like u... should be BANNED! :evil: ...rude..rude...and rude!

Sara

kite_runner

02-13-2006, 01:28 PM

sara00

02-13-2006, 10:30 PM

salam sister,

heey listen kite_runner, I know MD looks better, but look at it like that...with a DO, ur still a qualified licenced doctor, and the whole point of been a doctor is to serve humanity and u get the same respect as a MD. You have no idea how lucky u are to even get this opportunity....why would u wanna loose it over paki med school. Let me tell u sumthing...paki med school is just an ALTERNATIVE path...for ppl who wish u become a doctor rather than going through a bachelor's degree or if u cant make it in the States only than oneshould look at pakistani med schools. Also my friend, lets say u do go to some pak med school, this will mean wasting ur bachelor (all those years + money+ all ur hard work, went all down the drain!!!!) and why would u wanna do that? and lets say u study in pak for 5 years than it take time about 2-3 years to come back and compete for residency!!! my dear, I'm telling u pak is not a wise choice for u....explain that to ur parents too...

Also why would u wanna spend all ur life studying medicine, dont u wanna become a doc asap! and then start ur own life too...and ur south asian and a gurl, that means ur parents will think about marriage too...

So think of all these factors and see which side seems better, staying in the States and going for DO or going to pak....and in the end u'll see ur self which side weighs the more and stick with that...also do pray alot, and if u can do "istikaara" too, and inshalla Allah will giude u always in life (Ameen)

Wish u all the best in ur career my dear sister, :)

Sara

itihad

02-14-2006, 03:36 AM

is it possible to do a md degree in say khyber, ayub or any of private medical colleges?

because i thought in pak they only do mbbs.
plz provide info on this.

what is difference b-w md and mbbs.

fuzpot

02-14-2006, 02:06 PM

ASSYRIAN SKIPPER--

I have read quite a few of ur posts during the last few weeks, and it is very evident that you are a rude, insenstive, intolerant,offensive and annoying.

You come across as someone that has no grasp or understanding of current affairs . You make stupid assumptions and to me u seem like you havent ever read a book.

Smeer was right, this is forum to discuss pakistan medical school issues. Not the chip on ur shoulder.

sara00

02-14-2006, 05:03 PM

is it possible to do a md degree in say khyber, ayub or any of private medical colleges?

because i thought in pak they only do mbbs.
plz provide info on this.

what is difference b-w md and mbbs.

salam friend,

MD is the American system and MBBS is the british system...and all pak med schools are based on british system, in other words, u cant do MD in pakistan. But u know what there are many places in europ that perfer MBBS. Thats why its easier to go to UK after ur done with med school in pak than to the States..also UK except residency done in pakistan as a result u can apply for Senior house officer job (specialization) instead of Junior house officer jobs.

Sara

itihad

02-15-2006, 10:42 AM

salam friend,

MD is the American system and MBBS is the british system...and all pak med schools are based on british system, in other words, u cant do MD in pakistan. But u know what there are many places in europ that perfer MBBS. Thats why its easier to go to UK after ur done with med school in pak than to the States..also UK except residency done in pakistan as a result u can apply for Senior house officer job (specialization) instead of Junior house officer jobs.

Sara

walakium salaam

thanks for you're help.

so basically you're 1 year residency if someone did in pak after finishing 5 years would count in england?

even in the new f1/f2 jobs...or something like that it's called?

so basically it's like the same as doing residency in england??

sara00

02-15-2006, 02:44 PM

rakie

02-15-2006, 04:48 PM

could u put me in the picture,hi everyone,it's rakie

fuzpot

02-15-2006, 08:59 PM

salam,

hey itihad, yes so far they consider residency done in pak in UK...thats why soo many pakistani doc perfer going to UK instead of US, saves them years too...so u can directly get into specialization...

Sara

sara, we must remind people that the UK these days has become hell for graduates from within the UK, forget about overseas graduates. there r so few jobs!. it is no so tough for people such as pakistani grads!!!! do ur research and think about wether all the money u spend on plab, living,travel etc-is goin to lead to a meaningful jon in the UK. as these days, the prospects are grim.

sara00

02-15-2006, 09:45 PM

sara, we must remind people that the UK these days has become hell for graduates from within the UK, forget about overseas graduates. there r so few jobs!. it is no so tough for people such as pakistani grads!!!! do ur research and think about wether all the money u spend on plab, living,travel etc-is goin to lead to a meaningful jon in the UK. as these days, the prospects are grim.

salam,

ur right fuzpot...sooo true...I heard from many ppl how nowdays no jobs in UK ...and impossible for international medical gratuates! :(

rakie: heey welcome friend! so what brings u here? interested in pakistani med schools?

Sara

itihad

02-17-2006, 07:36 AM

what is the rules of transfer?

is transfer possible into the third year of a pakistani university from a recognised university?

what are the requirements?

fuzpot

02-17-2006, 10:28 AM

itihad

02-17-2006, 03:47 PM

As always u should contact admission teams in order to get full confirmation of admissions policies etc.

But i would say that its pretty unlikely to get a transfer into 3rd year. Unless maybe u have great grades from bachelors/ college etc and have proof of excellent medical degree perfomance ( yr 1 and 2). And if you are coming from Oxford/ Harvard etc

Im probably not making much sense, but id be suprised if you were considered. But, if your relative is the dean, then no probs!

I doubt its unlikely to get a transfer into third year. Since this is normally when transfers occur (in 3rd year)

Also, throughout many universities in Europe you can get transfers providing you have completed the subjects, so I dont see whats special about Pak that u cant get a transfer.

Skipper

02-17-2006, 05:17 PM

As always u should contact admission teams in order to get full confirmation of admissions policies etc.

But i would say that its pretty unlikely to get a transfer into 3rd year. Unless maybe u have great grades from bachelors/ college etc and have proof of excellent medical degree perfomance ( yr 1 and 2). And if you are coming from Oxford/ Harvard etc

Im probably not making much sense, but id be suprised if you were considered. But, if your relative is the dean, then no probs!

first i think they will take transfer especially if you drop them a few thousand bucks in their pocket

second no one in their right mind would transfer from harvard and oxford which are both situated in beautiful modern countries to become an FMG from a pakistanian school

skipper

fuzpot

02-17-2006, 06:05 PM

first i think they will take transfer especially if you drop them a few thousand bucks in their pocket

second no one in their right mind would transfer from harvard and oxford which are both situated in beautiful modern countries to become an FMG from a pakistanian school

skipper

if u had a brain, then you would realise that i used oxford/harvard as a way of emphasising that only students from a top calibre would be considered---and therefore-the chances of transfer are very slim.

You really piss me off! and some one with your pathetic views should not even be respected in this sort of forum. Why dont you get a life, and get a grip of your self. I think you just have a subconcious problem with the fact that alot of doctors globally are pakistani!.

Smeer

02-17-2006, 10:41 PM

Hey salam everyone,

AssyrianSkipper, just wanted to say that each time you comment, you seem to dig yourself into a deeper ditch of enmity among many on this thread. You're hurting yourself and your school more than any of us, and even more than you think you're hurting Pakistan's/Pakistani Med. Schools' reputations.

I also had a comment about house jobs/residencies. In the U.S., I've been hearing that it's an excellent time to seek residency, whether you're a locally educated doctor or from abroad! Of course you have to pass the USMLE, but from what I've heard, there are speculations that residencies will be open relatively easily for approximately the next ten years. Anyone else heard similar?

--Smeer

ayesha_87

02-18-2006, 09:28 AM

Skipper...u reallly do chat a load of crap....u must have flopped ure years....u sound sooooooooo dumbb....oh my days....lol.....someone with his views should get beaten up.........v really have had a lot now....lissen....skipper u realllly need to get a life....

Skipper

02-18-2006, 05:11 PM

sam212

02-18-2006, 06:45 PM

Wow...assyrian skipper, pakistan is not that bad. If it was that dangerous no parent would send their child there to study regardless of what the benefits.
Smeer, as Sara said DOs are licenced doctors like the MD but the DO's have a different medical theology than the MDs. DO (doctor of osteopathic medicine) have a more holistic approach and they also teach you how to do manipulative medicine, which is basically manipulating the muscles so the body can naturally heal along with the medicine prescribed. So what's the problem. Generally, it is more easier to get into a DO school than an MD and in the professional world, the MDs look down on the Dos. Also, compared to the MDs, the DOs have a bit of a harder time getting into the residencies they want. My only reason 4 not doing the DO is that if i am going to put my energies, my effort along with my money, i don't want the stigma attached that i am only a DO. I know foreign med students have a stigma attached as well but it is not as longer lasting as the DOs. If you do it, you have to stand behind that name for the rest of your life. Sara, i honestly don't know what to do. Everyone my dad talks to says that i should go to paki, and i honestly don't want to. We'll see what happens but you guys take care!

Hey Kite_Runner, first of all congratulations for med school acceptance. After reading your comments about DOs, I kindly suggest that you visit a hospital and talk to both DOs and MDs, I have. Neither the MDs nor the DOs think that they get a raw deal in hospitals. All MDs I have talked to had good things to say about DOs. It's the general public who rarely knows what a DO is, not the doctors. I think you should re-evaluate why you want to become a doctor. Do you want to be a doctor to practice medicine or for prestige? If former is your answer then by all means accept that DO acceptance. And if later is what you want then re-apply to American MD schools because if you go to a foreign school, you will always be an FMG. And trust me, that will haunt you for rest of your life if you are a prestige sucker. I can assure you that you will have a lot better opportunities coming out from a DO school than a foreign med school. DOs have their own residencies, which include all the top residencies i.e. Derm, Optho, Ortho, Radiology, and all surgical residencies. In addition, you can apply to allopathic residencies and do pretty well depending on your board scores. I am posting some of the residency match lists from some DO schools. I suggest you check them out before stating that DOs don't match very well.

Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine of Midwestern University
2005: http://mwunet.midwestern.edu/academ...zcom05Match.pdf (http://mwunet.midwestern.edu/academic/AZCOM/Docs/azcom05Match.pdf)
2004: http://mwunet.midwestern.edu/academ...zcom04Match.pdf (http://mwunet.midwestern.edu/academic/AZCOM/Docs/azcom04Match.pdf)
2003: http://mwunet.midwestern.edu/academ...zcom03Match.pdf (http://mwunet.midwestern.edu/academic/AZCOM/Docs/azcom03Match.pdf)
2002: http://mwunet.midwestern.edu/academ...zcom02Match.pdf (http://mwunet.midwestern.edu/academic/AZCOM/Docs/azcom02Match.pdf)
2001: http://mwunet.midwestern.edu/academ...zcom01Match.pdf (http://mwunet.midwestern.edu/academic/AZCOM/Docs/azcom01Match.pdf)
2000: http://mwunet.midwestern.edu/academ...zcom00Match.pdf (http://mwunet.midwestern.edu/academic/AZCOM/Docs/azcom00Match.pdf)

Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine of Midwestern University
2005: http://mwunet.midwestern.edu/academ...atches_2005.pdf (http://mwunet.midwestern.edu/academic/CCOMClinEd/clinicalEdDocs/StudentMatches_2005.pdf)
2004: http://mwunet.midwestern.edu/academ...atches_2004.pdf (http://mwunet.midwestern.edu/academic/CCOMClinEd/clinicalEdDocs/StudentMatches_2004.pdf)

Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine of the A.T. Still University of Health Sciences
2004: http://www.kcom.edu/admissns/about/...sitions2004.pdf (http://www.kcom.edu/admissns/about/documents/ResidencyPositions2004.pdf)
2003: http://www.kcom.edu/admissns/pdfs/R...y_Info_2003.pdf (http://www.kcom.edu/admissns/pdfs/Residency_Info_2003.pdf)
2002: http://www.kcom.edu/admissns/pdfs/R...y_Info_2002.pdf (http://www.kcom.edu/admissns/pdfs/Residency_Info_2002.pdf)

Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences- College of Osteopathic Medicine
2005:http://centernet.okstate.edu/commen...raduates-ab.cfm (http://centernet.okstate.edu/commencement2005/graduates-ab.cfm)
2004: http://www.healthsciences.okstate.e...raduates-ab.htm (http://www.healthsciences.okstate.edu/commencement2004/graduates-ab.htm)

University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
2004: http://www.une.edu/com/clinical/pdf/gradsstate04.pdf
2003: http://www.une.edu/com/clinical/pdf/gradsstate03.pdf
2002: http://www.une.edu/com/clinical/pdf/gradsstate02.pdf
2001: http://www.une.edu/com/clinical/pdf/gradsstate01.pdf

As you will see, a ton of DOs match into primary care, usually because DO schools focus on primary care. But that's not to say they can't specialize; the match lists speak for themselves as a ton of the graduates have matched into specialties. Now compare these lists to any foreign med school match list and I bet you that DO schools will win. The bottomline is that you will have a lot better opportunities and job prospects coming out of a DO school. In addition, you are guaranteed a residency spot, something pak med graduates could only dream of.
Finally, if you are a prestige sucker, you should only gun for Harvard or Yale, otherwise, you will always have someone around you who went to a better med school then you did. Try matching into some Ivy league surgical residency program coming out of a your state MD school. You will be looked down upon because you didn't go to an Ivy league med school. My suggestion, take that DO acceptance and run away with it. Good luck!!

sam212

02-18-2006, 07:04 PM

You guys are directly attacking me because I stated that it is a dumb to transfer from Harvard or Oxford to a Pakistanian school. What is wrong with that, that is a valid statement. A Harvard or Oxford grad would get a way better residency than an fmg from pakistan.

Furthermore, it is true that certain schools in pakistan and india will take a large "depoist" to allow for your entrance or basically purchase your degree. I have been told this by serveral Pakistans and Indians, who are doctors or plan on attending schools in that region, they all say if you cannot get in with grades just send them a "large depoist". Also, in most of the schools a student has to pay his professors for his grade. A few hundred bucks to every professor at the end of each semester to allow for them to pass.

The way you guys are responding to me says more than enough about you guys ability to handle criticism from the outside.

Skipper
Assyrianskipper, you underestimate pakistani med schools. They may not be the best med schools, but they are not diploma mills; I think you have confused Manipal as a Pakistani school. All Pakistani med schools have a good reputation amongst medical community (may be with an exception of few new private ones) Thus, you just can't throw a few hundred bucks in professor's pocket and expect to pass. This is just plain ludicrous, just because you thought how it would be doesn't mean that how it really is. Besides, for you living in pakistan may be awful, (something I detect from your comments) but not for foreign Pakistanis. All of us have at some point or time visited pakistan, therefore, we know what to expect once we decide to go back for medical school. I suggest you do some research before stating that "send them a large deposit and they'll take you," or "pay the professor and you'll pass."

sara00

02-18-2006, 10:09 PM

Salam,

Sam212: A big thank you to u sam212...for both of ur well said post!!!! :) ...u should be here...always...we need ppl like YOU!!!!

Skipper: The only reason ppl are attacking u cuz of ur rude comments towards pakistan! and correct me if I'm wrong... but didnt even a moderator had to PM u to edit one of ur post??? That explains everything!

Alright I wont attack u...lets attack ur argument like sam212 did...lets assume what u said is right for a momment....then tell me one thing...how come pakistani doctors have a grreeat reputation around the world?? is it by giving large "deposit" to prof? or is it acctually by hitting the books day and night to earn that great reputation?

I have been told this by serveral Pakistans and Indians, who are doctors or plan on attending schools in that region, they all say if you cannot get in with grades just send them a "large depoist".
Skipper

To answer to that... I'll just use YOUR own words,

that means nothing that you know someone who knows someone and so forth--- Skipper

Next time do ur research and then post! Dont mess with us! ;)

Sara

Smeer

02-19-2006, 02:21 AM

Salam everyone,

Skipper, Skipper, Skipper...you'll never change, will you?

If you've bothered to read any of my previous posts, I don't mind criticism. I do mind disrespect, intolerance, and false information, especially when they seem to show extreme bias.

"You guys are directly attacking me because I stated that it is a dumb to transfer from Harvard or Oxford to a Pakistanian school. What is wrong with that, that is a valid statement. A Harvard or Oxford grad would get a way better residency than an fmg from pakistan."

Only one person criticized you regarding your statement on Oxford and Harvard; not all of us "guys." If you're trying to make a point, don't stretch the truth. Also, your "valid statement" is an opinion. Don't present your opinions as facts.

"Furthermore, it is true that certain schools in pakistan and india will take a large "depoist" to allow for your entrance or basically purchase your degree. I have been told this by serveral Pakistans and Indians, who are doctors or plan on attending schools in that region, they all say if you cannot get in with grades just send them a "large depoist". Also, in most of the schools a student has to pay his professors for his grade. A few hundred bucks to every professor at the end of each semester to allow for them to pass."

You seem to be very, very vague. If you've really done your research and you really know what you're talking about, I don't know why you don't clearly tell us WHICH schools, WHICH individuals, and HOW MANY. You can't make an argument with vague references. You need concrete facts.

Also, this forum is about MEDICAL COLLEGES IN PAKISTAN. I don't have anything against India, and I don't mean to hurt anyone from India, but lets not needlessly expand the boundaries of this discussion. If you're here to "criticize" Indian medical schools, you're in the wrong thread. Please read the thread title and check your posts before you post them.

"The way you guys are responding to me says more than enough about you guys ability to handle criticism from the outside."

The way you're criticizing to us says more than enough about your ability to handle responses from the inside. Believe me Skipper, you've crossed several lines through your stereotypes of Pakistan, and through it all, I've never once said anything so stereotypical or equally as offensive about your school, your background, or you. It's okay to criticize, but what's more important is moral decency and respect. If nothing else, please display those, because I'm really feeling a lack of it from you.

--Smeer

inspired

02-19-2006, 05:35 AM

sam212

02-19-2006, 05:49 AM

You guys are directly attacking me because I stated that it is a dumb to transfer from Harvard or Oxford to a Pakistanian school. What is wrong with that, that is a valid statement. A Harvard or Oxford grad would get a way better residency than an fmg from pakistan.

The whole Harvard/Oxford argument is pointless to begin with because none of the Pakistani med schools take transfer students from other than pakistani med schools. A couple of private schools take students with advanced standings, which is different than transfer.
I will admit that Pakistan med schools are not on the par with American med schools, especially in research; however, they are not diploma mills. They were founded to educate local pakistanis, not foreign students. Therefore, they have pretty high standards and usually get the top students. The rules are pretty strict and are made to accomodate local students, not foreigners. And political correctness doesn't exist in these med schools. If they do admit students for financial reasons (rarely), the students are informed that they were not good enough to make it and school doesn't think they can be doctors; but if the they think they can be doctors, they can pay a higher tuition and get a seat. These schools produce top notch doctors, not second rate doctors who solely attended certain schools because they weren't able to make it in their top choice med schools. You get the jist.

sam212

02-19-2006, 06:08 AM

AoA, I found this site like two days ago and i've seriously read every single post from page 1..lol...thats like a years worth of stuff...n ive learned a lot so to everyone who contributed to this thread, thanks a bunch! i have a few questions i was hoping someone would be able to help me out with..my parents seriously asked me to consider going to pakistan for med school..like aga khan university or king edward medical college...but the thing is for aga khan i need to write my SAT I and submit them before May 30 which is kind of a strict deadline bcuz im not american..i live in mississauga, canada and i have very lil knowledge about the whole SAT process so i guess if i want to consider AKU ill have to step it up and work like crazy...plus i think you also need SAT II scores for bio chem and physics for the 2nd stage of the admission process if im not mistaken..anyhow i was reading about how you dont really save much time going through the pak system...cuz you have to come back and self study for the exams which usually takes a while and in the end its more or less the same as doing it the long way..is that true or what? like for example mcmaster university in hamilton wil accept some select students after 3 years of undergrad provided they have an awesome GPA...and the mac MD program itself is only 3 years...so in 6 years you can become a full fledged doctor ready for residency..so is it really worth going to pak? similarly university of calgary will even accept you after 2 years of undergrad...n their program is 4 years so again within 6 years you complete what you need to..but then like sara said its a risk to find out whether or not you're going to get into med school or not..also, has anyone heard about the canadian gov't keeping aside several seats for students who complete high school in canada but go abroad to do medicine? i've heard that the medical council is well aware of the number of people who go overseas either because they get rejected in canadian schools or they jus want to save time or whatever...so if i do go to pak, will i get any preference over lets say a person who has been in his pak al his life? like i said ive only heard about it, and im having a hard time finding out how true it really is..i know that aga khan is really good for giving rotations in the states and i also know that states are a great place for IMG's..how is the scope in canada? if i WANT to practice in canada...is going abroad a feasible option for me, since i know they are very strict with IMGs and docs end up as security guards here...alsooo...if i start studying for SAT's il be compromising my day school studying jus a tiny bit..IS IT WORTH IT? i mean i dont want my overall gr12 average to drop..but then again lol if i plan to go to aga khan i HAVE to write the SATs...and plus i think their last session for this year is in June...so ill have to write bio/chem/physics in june (right before my high school exams which means significant sacrifice in either SATII or HS average) does anyone have any advice for me, if i dont get residency in US/CAN what is the scope of actually my pakistani MBBS degree to practice in pakistan itself? n ive aga khanians (is that what you call them?? lol) are set for the most part..but i also heard that aga khanians are not competitive for certain select specializations...which residencies are suitable for the pak route? are there certain residencies that if i wnna consider i should never think of going to pak for? KE doesnt have an entrance exam..yayy..but they reduce my avg..nooo...what about aku does that IBCC system work with aku too? sorry if some of my questions have really obvious answers but im a SERIOUS newbie...so im hoping ill be able to get some help from you guys...thanks!!! May Allah SWT help you achieve your goals:)

Inspired

Welcome to the forums inspired. You stated that you want to come back to Canada and practice. Canada does accept FMGs; however, it is virtually impossible to make it their as an FMG. The rules for FMGs are so complicated and the process is so tedious that most just give up. I seriously still don't know anyone who has successfully made it back to Canada. If you do go to Pakistan for med school, your best bet is to practice in USA. As for the specialties, most of the FMGs usually end up in primary care. You might ask what primary care is, primary care includes Family practice, Internal medicine, Pediatrics, Psychiatry and OB/Gyn. The reason for that is there are a lot more residency spots for Primary care than applicants. In fact, even after spots filled by American gradutes and FMGs, there are still plenty of slots left. Matching into specialties could be harder for FMGs, mainly because American graduates compete for those spots and hospitals prefer them over FMGs. But it is not entirely impossible. If you get good grades in med school and do well in your USMLEs, you have a chance of matching into competitive specialties. It's comparing apples and oranges, but getting a competitive residency is easier than getting back to Canada to practice after going to foreign med school.
My suggestion, do not give up on Canadian schools just yet. If you are a good student, go to a college in Canada. Get your B.S and apply to med schools. If you don't get in the first time, improve your application and try again. I am sure you can make it. However, if you still dont make it, then go to a foreign med school as your last resort. But don't give up on your goal yet. If you want it bad enough, you will. Trust me, it's a lot easier to get into Canadian med school than coming back and trying to practice as an FMG in Canada. Good Luck!

sam212

02-19-2006, 06:43 AM

As for preference to Canadian citizens, I don't really know about Canada since it's almost impossible for FMGs to get a spot in Canada, but US hospitals usually give preference to US citizens and permanent residents over foreign citizens. The reason for that is that Hospital doesn't have to sponsor the resident and it cuts a lot of paper work for the hospital.

sara00

02-19-2006, 07:32 PM

salam inspired!

welcome to the thread! Heeey ur from mississagua...awesome!!! :p

Ur right us Canadians we dont have SATI but for Aga Khan u need to write it...And university of toronto (St.george campus) offers it in May...and the test is not that bad its only composed of three parts reading, writing, and math...math is very easy but the reading part is hard and u have to write one essay too...me and egale we both wrote it on jan 28...its was crazzzy cuz we decided to write the SATI the day before...hehe...so we didnt study for it :shock: but allhamdulilah eagle scored sooo high on it cuz eng and math are her favourite!!! ;) and as per me...I didnt do good cuz all my years of high school... english was my worst subject!!! But if eng and math are ur strong subjects then u wont even need to study for SATI..just go over some sample questions... But for SATII... I heard thats hard! :(

And about residency...hmm...like sam said its very very hard to get residency in Canada, I only know one doctor who came from India and made it here but that too she first went to the states first and then came here...

Did u know that the USMLE is now recognized by the Candian government so that means write the USMLE and apply to Canada and US for residency!!!

And about the time...I think its the same but if u can keep up with a really good GPA (over 3.8) than stay in Cnada also if u dont get into Canadian med schools then u can always try for US med schools...all my friends who tried here couldnt make it but some got in the States :) ....but if u cant keep up with a good GPA then dont waste time and money on ur BSc ...only then go to pak...

So its up to u to decide whats best for u...wish u all the best in ur studies...May Allah always help u (Ameen)

Sara

RehanSAlvi

02-19-2006, 09:29 PM

Sara00,

Great to see that Canada is finally recognizing the USMLE!

BTW Sara, are you still in the process of applying to Pakistan?

itihad

02-20-2006, 11:06 AM

what is the rules of transfer?

is transfer possible into the third year of a pakistani university from a recognised university?

what are the requirements?

can someone please provide any information regarding the above.

from some information i was provided, i heard transfer in pak is only possible mainly in third year.

but i want to ask what are the conditions and subjects needed.

thanks.

fuzpot

02-20-2006, 02:16 PM

I see that my reference to oxford/harvard and transfers has mesmorised some people. I used them as a means to highlight that you must be of high calibre to attain a transfer into 3rd year of a decent medical school in pakistan. Some where like Aga khan or King edward would not look at a transfer student with easy assesment.

The admissions people should be contacted, do not rely on every piece of info given on this forum.
Skipper--Your arguments are futile and lack any credibility. Your like a propaganda machine.

eagle

02-20-2006, 03:45 PM

Hello inspired,

Welcome to the forum!

I've read your post and understand your problem. Currently, I'm in first year in UofT. Since I'm not getting a 3.8-4.0 GPA, I decided to have Pakistani med schools as a 2nd option. However, I still think that I have the potential to get a high GPA, maybe not in first year, but for the remaining years.

As for you, you haven't even been to university yet. I suggest that you take a go in Canada before thinking of Pakistan. Once you make it here, you'll be among the stars! Did you know that UTM is opening a medical school in Mississauga by 2007?!! There's new chance and hope. Medical schools just don't look at your marks, they want a whole rounded person - so start volunteering in various places (YMCA, hospitals, clinics etc...).

By the way, you probably cannot take the next SAT 1 since you will miss Aga Khan's deadline. Therefore, don't jepordize your high school marks. Research into Aga Khan and King Edward before applying. For international students in Aga Khan, you have to pay $20,000 US in tuition fees alone! For King Edwards, the tuition fees is $10,000 US, and students have gotten positions in US medical schools.

This is a big decision that you alone can take! Once you've graduated in Pakistan, there's a whole lot of rejection and waiting to get back in Canada. Make your decision based on where you want to work in the future, your family etc...

Feel free to ask for help anytime.

eagle

sara00

02-20-2006, 04:42 PM

salam friends,

Rehan: So after 100 years we met again! ;) U know what happened...I applied last year but my school didnt give me my offical transcript so when I send it to the IBCC ppl they refused to convert my marks and the sad part was I thought my marks were getting converted yet they were not and no one even informed me either... so after several weeks later... I told my uncle to go to Islamabad to check out what happend and later I found out my transcript was not in a sealed enveloppe so I had to re-send everything!!! As a result I wasted so much time and when my marks did fianlly got converted it was tooo late...so the EAD ppl put me in their "waiting list". But u know what my IBCC marks were pretty good too they were in 800's and ppl who had lower marks than I did got in this year! So then I joined university of toronto...I guess...its all part of "kismet" ....maybe there was sumthing good in it... :) But inshalla I'll apply again this year and lets see where I'll end up! ;)

By the way since ur in pak med school why not share ur experience with all of us... I mean when u first went to pak how was it? did u have hard time getting use to the environment, like the heat, insects, food, water, etc.. Also what were some of the challenges u faced? Ur good times? and ur worst momments? things u like and dislike.... And also any advice for us future students who are thinking of pak med schools? and one more thing..most gurls have one thing in mind... "safety"...is it pretty safe down there?

It would be sooo good to hear from u! Wish u all the best in ur studies!

itihad: We kinda forgot about u ;) ...listen friend... from what heard usually a student can transfer after there 2nd year and that transfer is acceptable within the province, and I heard even getting a transfer from one province to another is IMPOSSIBLE... so now the question is regarding international transfer...so u can probably predic the answer to that question, right? But since I'm not 100% sure ...u should go to the king edward website and email them and aks them if is possible to transfer from an international med school to a pakistani med school and the uncle-jee who'll know the answer to this question his name is "Abdul Hmeed" so ask them to give u his email address and talk to him directly...

Hope this help...if u still dont get ur answer PM me and I'll try to contact uncle Hussain, who's in charge of the EAD admissions!

eagle: heeey they opening a new med school at UTM??? woo hoo! why u going then?? stay here and work hard! ;) ...by the way I asked the Aga ppl and they said u can write the SATI on may 6 too and just fax us ur online marks before may 30...so if someone wishes to write in May is still possible! :)

take care,

Sara

docforlife123456789

02-25-2006, 01:19 AM

help me PLZ!

I am a high school student in USA. I got 95 in biology, 95 in chemistry, 90 in physics. (7 in AP biology, 95 in AP chemistry. 90 in almost all the classes I have taken in math. In english i got an 80 and in history 70. What are my chances of getting into ALLAMA IQBAL MEDICAL COLLEGE. I also took ESL classes for 2 years in high school and for the rest of the 2 years I was in regular. Does this have a negative impact on me? PLZ let me know

eagle

02-25-2006, 02:49 PM

Hello docforlife123456789,

Your chances are next to perfect. You could get into King Edward Medical College too (the best government college in Pakistan). I heard people get in with lower marks than yours.

I'm not sure if you know the procedure of applying i.e. IBCC. They make an equivalent certificate for the Pakistani Education System (by cutting your marks off by 10-20%). I don't think that ESL classes for the first 2 years will do you harm because you did have regular English in your senior years. Just in case, here's their website: http://www.ibcc.edu.pk/.

Just out of curiosity, you have incredible marks, why do you want to apply for medical school in Pakistan? A degree from the US can do you wonders!

eagle

docforlife123456789

02-25-2006, 03:05 PM

First of all I just want to thank you for your response. Well you see, Schooling in here is alittle too expensive. This might be one reason. The other is that I want to get close to me country, traditions, and family. One more question, How long does it take for IBCC to give you a certificate?

Smeer

02-25-2006, 03:48 PM

Salam everyone,

Well docforlife, it depends on what time of the year you submit your marks. The closer you get to the deadline to submit your application, the longer it will take them because there is such a rush to get marks convert it. If you do it in between admission periods, you can probably get them converted in about a week. You should ask sara, she knows exactly how long as she has been through the process.

sara00

02-25-2006, 07:31 PM

heeey heey salam friends,

eagle ur getting pretty good! ;) ..and Smeer like usual, very helpful too! That's good...so when I retire u guys can manage this thread! :p

heeey salam doc for life123..., first of all welcome to these forums, I hope u get all ur answers here!!! Also like eagle said ur a genius my friend those are extrmly gooooood marks and I have a feeling u'll definetly get in Allama Iqbal inshalla...u know thats the college I wish u study in too...cuz so far its the best campus in Lahore and I also heard students are very good too and good environment, and their education system is updated too even the King students say all these things about Allama!! I also wanna go cuz my aunt is a prof down there! ;)

And since mashalla u have really good marks u might be able to get into technical assistance that means u'll be paying in pak rupees but for that I have heard that this year the IBCC marks needed to be over 870! so after u convert ur marks (its takes 10 days but mail takes time too) and based on ur IBCC marks they will place u a med school....high and good IBCC marks= ur choice of school! :)

hope this helps, always feel free to post ur questions...

Sara

docforlife123456789

02-25-2006, 10:38 PM

help me PLZ!

I am a high school student in USA. I got 95 in biology, 95 in chemistry, 90 in physics. 95 in AP biology, 95 in AP chemistry. 90 in almost all the classes I have taken in math. In english i got an 80 and in history 70. What are my chances of getting into ALLAMA IQBAL MEDICAL COLLEGE. I also took ESL classes for 2 years in high school and for the rest of the 2 years I was in regular. Does this have a negative impact on me? PLZ let me know. How long will it take for the IBCC to make my certificate

docforlife123456789

02-25-2006, 10:46 PM

SARA according to my grade in high school. Can u give me an approximation on to how much they would be after conversion to PK system. I think 20% deduction is made. By the way what is the name of your aunt. What subject she teaches? IF its Physiology, maybe I can get in touch with her for my research.

docforlife123456789

02-25-2006, 10:51 PM

SARA can u plz tell me an approximation of my grades. In others words, what would they be in PK system? By the way, what is the name of your aunt? what subject she teaches? If she teaches Physiology, maybe I can get in touch with her for my research.

docforlife123456789

02-25-2006, 10:53 PM

My friend, he got his IBCC certificate. His grades are 650 after the conversion. Will he be able to get an admission under self-finance in King EDward or ALLAM Iqbal

docforlife123456789

02-25-2006, 11:36 PM

Sara how do u know that this year the marks are 870? Is there a website for this?

Smeer

02-26-2006, 12:09 AM

Salam everyone!

Docforlife!!!!! SLOW DOWN!!!!!!!

Glad to see you're really enthusiastic and into the whole pak system, but you seem to be repeating yourself a lot!! Don't worry sara can answer all your questions for you :D . Don't worry your marks will be fine. Btw, what grade are you in and what state do you live in?

docforlife123456789

02-26-2006, 12:24 AM

12th NewYrok

Smeer

02-26-2006, 02:29 AM

Salam all!

Hey docforlife, this doesn't really have to do with anything, but what what score did you get on your AP tests for chem and bio?

--Smeer

docforlife123456789

02-26-2006, 12:27 PM

well for bio I got a 4, but for chem I never gave the exam. Will this count againts me? Will they still count my AP chemistry class as one of the science classes taken in 12th grade

Smeer

02-26-2006, 05:12 PM

Salam everyone!

Well docforlife, I'm not 100% sure how or whether or not they consider AP exam scores, but here's my idea of the logic behind it.

If you read the info on the IBCC website regarding mark conversion, it says that they reduce marks by 10% for external examination systems, and 20% for internal examination systems. What they mean by this is that in pretty much every country except the U.S. and Germany, they have board exams that every single student takes, regardless of the school, and thus it serves as a more fair test. This is what is meant by ''external.'' In the U.S., every teacher at every school has his/her own individual exam system; there is no single test that every student at the high school level takes that counts towards their overall grade: it's based on each teacher and how he/she chooses to test students. This is considered "internal."

What throws ''internal" off in the U.S. is this whole AP system. Since with APs, everyone across the nation is taking the same test, it really becomes external. The only way for it to be external is if you have taken the AP test, because your grade in the class may have been easier/more difficult to attain than it may have been for another student at another high school, whose teacher may have been harder/easier than yours.

Again, this is only my view on the issue. I'm not 100% sure if this is how they do it; I'm just going based off what info they give on the IBCC website. I'll find out as much as I can about how they take AP classes and scores into consideration and get back to you as soon as I can, but if I were you, docforlife, I wouldn't worry; even if you do get 20% cut off your marks, they're still REALLY good since you have As in the important classes :D .

--Smeer

sara00

02-26-2006, 08:42 PM

heeey salam docforlife,

hehe...sooo many post...that's okay, I'll answer them all...

Allahamdulilah ur marks are very good...so dont worry too much cuz even if they reduce by 20% u'll be still in the 800's. (I dont know how exaclty the IBCCsystem works...so confusing...cuz its different for every country) And with this mark u'll inshalla definetly get in but cant guarantee of which school, cuz its up to the EAD ppl to decide where to put u...even sumtimes what happens...ppl with low marks can get into good med school like King/Allama and sumtimes ppl with good marks can end up in other med school like rawalpindi etc... it depends sooo much on ur luck tooo...

Let me tell u how their system works...first they pick the students with the highest marks for technical assistance and put u in different med school, cuz every medschool as about one or two seats for technical assistance so lets say ur marks are good but u can still end up in Rawalpindi, Nister, etcc... cuz u'll be payingin pak rupees! So then ppl with not that high marks can get in some good med school like King on self finance based...so do u understand how it works?

Also my aunt is not into physiology...and about ur friend with 650...I can even guarantee if he'll get in! Cuz my IBCC marks are 803 and they put me on waiting list (that was cuz my application wasnt on time)...but tell ur friend to definetly try...cuz like I said...to get into pakistani med school it depends all on ur LUCK!!!! (kismet)

hope this helps, got questions ....keep posting, always a pleasure to reply them! :)

And one more thing....dont worry too much...do pray alot and I hope that all ur wishes come true!

Sara

docforlife123456789

02-26-2006, 09:48 PM

Thanks a lot guys for ur help! May Almighty ALLAH bless you and make ur wishes come ture......
I am worried if that 70 in my history class will have a negative impact on me. Sara which college u wanna go to? And did IBCC took away 20 % or 10 % from ur marks..

sara00

02-26-2006, 10:09 PM

salam,

thank you for u kind wishes docforlife...to be honest with u...ur dreams are my dreams :) ..in other words...any med school in LAHORE!!!! ;)

by the way for this year to get under technical assistance was all students who had their IBCC marks over 870...and all this info is not posted everywhere (no websites)....my uncle went to the EAd place and found out for me... also check ur PM!

Sara

docforlife123456789

02-26-2006, 10:44 PM

docforlife123456789

02-26-2006, 10:45 PM

do u know the marks needed for self finance for this years

docforlife123456789

02-26-2006, 10:47 PM

by the way if u need any help on getting the syllabus for MBBS or any advices on books or website. feel free to ask

docforlife123456789

02-27-2006, 12:24 AM

Sara I read some of the post from page 36 I think. You were talking about a friend of ur got an admission to AIMC. Tell me what was here IBCC score. And does she like it in there?

CarFanatic

02-27-2006, 02:18 AM

joe

02-27-2006, 09:53 AM

does anyone know wether or not if Shifa Medical Graduates can be licensed in the state of California???

thanks yall

sara00

02-27-2006, 06:10 PM

by the way I am going to Pk for a visit. Should I myself go to IBCC office and convert them in front of me. I don't even know if they allow this. Well Sara thats very nice that u also like to go to PK med schools. By the way what is ur favorite subject of medicine

salam docforlife,

if ur going back its soooo much better if u ur self can do it while ur down there so that way they wont give u any problems cuz everything will be done infront of ur eyes...but make sure u take ur sealed transcript (take atleast 2-3 just incase something goes wrong) with u and other documents that are required too...

And this year the students who got into self fianance had marks up to 750, maybe even lower than that...not too sure but it was near there...

And that friend of mine who's currently studying at Allama Iqbal..well his marks were in 900s!!! as a result not only did he got in AIMC but also under technical assistance...and he's pretty happpy down there...ofcourse there are some down sides...but overall...he's happy cuz he said there few American students down there too (10-15)...

by the way, when u get down there and get some new info, feel free to post it on here...wish u all the best!

Sara

sara00

02-27-2006, 06:15 PM

Hi,
I was wondering if someone was to come here after completing 4 years of undergrad in the US, how much time Total would they have to spend? Is it the same as some carribean medical schools of around 16-20 months and then clinicals in the US?

Thanks

hello friend,

Welcome, and regarding ur post....well, pakistani medical colleges are not like carribean med schools. Pakistani med schools are 5 yr program with no clinical rotations in the States and in the end u get ur MBBS not ur MD like caribbean schools. But the education system is really good, all in english!

Sara

sara00

02-27-2006, 06:18 PM

does anyone know wether or not if Shifa Medical Graduates can be licensed in the state of California???

thanks yall

hey joe,

welcome! the answer to ur question is ...NO! Shifa is not recognize by the state of California... and u can check that out here : http://www.medbd.ca.gov/Applicant_Schools_Recognized.htm#P ..just look under "pakistan" ...u wont find Shifa...therefore, its not recognized...:(

Sara

docforlife123456789

02-28-2006, 03:27 AM

Sara I have something very crucail about the deduction of 20% from American student. IBCC have been making mistake by taking 20% off from AMerican student. The reason for this is because in NEW YROK STATE there is something we call the REGENTS EXAMS. These are exams given by the NEW YROK BOARD OF EDUCATION EVERY YEAR. These Board exams are only given in NEW YROK state. Now in order to get the high school Diploma in NEW YORK, one must pass a board exam in Biology, Math, English and 2 history (GLOBAL AND US HISTORY). Well According to all this NEW YROK STATE does have an external examination system and students sould get only 10% off not 20%. I gave my board exam in Chemistry and got a 91. In biology Board exam I got 89. in Math 85 and in English I got an 80. Now this grade is on my transcript on a saparate colum. Do u think that IBCC know anything about this? Do they even take this in consideration?

RehanSAlvi

02-28-2006, 09:35 PM

Joe,

In regards to your question about Shifa College of Medicine being licensed in California, I just wanted to give you a heads up.

Shifa will be recognized by the end of this year. The reason that it had not been recognized earlier was due to the fact that the Internal Medicine department was teaching Family Medicine included in Internal Medicine rather than as a different subject.

The education being imparted was the same, but just had to be under a different name---so yea, Shifa will be approved by this year when the new list is made.

You can find more questions about Shifa and other medical schools in Pakistan at a forum made specifically for Pakistani medical colleges at http://www.***********.com

Take it easy! :)

docforlife123456789

02-28-2006, 10:41 PM

http://www.edusolution.com/regentsexams/scienceindex.htm

Thats the website one may use to see the New York State board examination in Sciences

sara00

03-01-2006, 03:33 PM

salam friends,

docforlife: thats really good observation! Make sure u mention that when u'll send in ur IBCC marks!! I mean they should consider it..dont if they already do or not? Also I heard if ur not satified with ur IBCC conversion u can actually take it in court and that way u'll have chances of decreasing ur reduction %. u said ur going to pak so its better if u personally can go to them...and one more thing dont go to Islamabad , they have one branch in Lahore too...cuz everyone sends their to Islamabad ...so sumtimes they donteven listen to u...

RehanSAlvi: oh thats grrreat news that Shifa will be recognized soooon by the State of California !!! :)

Sara

joe

03-02-2006, 06:12 AM

hey Rehan,

thanks for the info...but doesnt the school need to be in existence for some time before being accepted by the CA board??

just wondering how long has Shifa been operating, and if there are any graduates that are practicing in the USA?

thx bud

Muslimah88

03-02-2006, 01:45 PM

Salams u guys!
im new hear and currently a highschool senior planning to go to pk for med school. i have applied to aku but hav not sent in my SAT results cause they were like horrible. i got a 1620 and my math and critical reading sections totals were like 1070! so i was thinking of retakin it but i really dont want to. plus i am takin my AP exams for chem, psychology and biology in May. my highschool grades are like As basically. and i wanted to kno wat my chances are of getting in there and of getting into Shifa Med college. cause my parents are probably gonna make me go to shifa if i get in because our house is in Rawalpindi. but i really dont wanna take SAT IIs cause im already doin AP. plus i have to send in my grades for that equivlance thing and i was wondering how they would turn out. ohh an im graduating in May.
please help

sara00

03-02-2006, 10:07 PM

heey salam Muslimah88,

Welcome friend! heres the thing, if u want to get admission in Aga Khan or Shifa u need to send in ur SATI and SATII scores (Aga accept AP instead of SATII check thier website for more info) so those are the REQUIREMENTS....u cant get away from that...even Canadians we dont have SATs yet we are required to take them!

by the way its waaay easier to get into Shifa,then Aga...for Shifa u need a minumum of 660 IBCC marks and SATII is also a requirement!

So u can see both require SATs thats a requirement, dont worry study hard and try again inshalla this time u'll do well!

Also regarding ur IBCC marks, ur high school marks are all in or over 80%?? if yesss than they will reduce u 20% if ur a US citizen and 10% if ur a Canadian citizen! So u can kinda guess what IBCC marks u'll be getting....but u can always fight with them and argue with them to increase them...sumtimes it works and sumtimes it doesnt...

wish u all the best , any questions feel free to post them up!:)

Sara

Smeer

03-02-2006, 10:36 PM

Salam everyone,

Hey muslimah, if I were you I'd definitely take the SAT II in bio and chem anyway, especially since you're going to be taking the AP exams in those subjects. From what I've heard, once you're through studying/taking AP exams, the SAT II subject tests in those same areas are much easier, and so you'll probably do better on the SAT II (especially since it's all multiple choice and there are no free response questions ;) ). In fact I'm planning on doing the same, as I am going to be taking the AP Physics B and AP Chemistry exams this coming May (inshallah), I plan on taking the SAT II in those subjects the following June (I wanna give myself a little break ;) ). In fact, there's a date JUST before the AP exams to take SAT IIs as well, May 6, I believe. You might want to take them on that date if you'd like to get them out of the way early. I would seriously recommend that you take them either right before or right after you take your APs.

--Smeer

Muslimah88

03-03-2006, 12:04 AM

hey!
thanks for all the replys
i feel better now that i kno that there r ppl i my situation out there
i also wanted to kno about ppl who are actually goin to these places and have done there APs and SATs and wat they got
so that i can have a realistic idea of if im gettin in or not
because no mattter what happens im goin to pakistan any way and so i wanna go to a good med school not a crappy one
i also wanted to kno wat is the total or maximum number of marks you can get on the FSc system like is it out of a 1000 or some thing else.
Akhhhhhhhhh its not fair how its 20% for americans and 10% for canadians!
i wish i was a canadian rite now.
ahhhhh
salams

sara00

03-03-2006, 05:03 PM

salam Muslimah,

The requirement for Shifa is that ur SATII u needs be over 650 in bio, chem and phy. But for Aga, email them at student.affairs@aku.edu
and aks them and hopefully they will tell u about their minimum score. Also since u really really want to study in pak than I would suggest applying to other private med schools and government med schools too. If u get into government thats soooo much better (by the way u dont SATs, no exam for governemt med schools) also government med schools have been recognized around the world, EVERYWHERE!!!! But majority of the private med schools are fairly but good private one like Aga, Baquai are amoung the old ones!

I believe ur from rawalpindi right? so why not apply to rawalpindi medical college too also Lahore is about 4 hours drive away from rawalpindi so why not apply to private med schools down there tooo? just for ur info...Lahore and Karachi have the best med schools in Pakistan! ;)

Sara

docforlife123456789

03-05-2006, 12:42 AM

Sara when u get ur admission, Plz let us know which college u are going to. May ALLAH make your wishes come ture. U are very kind person. ALLAH will reward u for that ( INSHALLAH)

sara00

03-06-2006, 10:00 PM

hey salam friend,

thank you for ur kind words...may Allah always help u too (Ameen) And regarding admissions...since my IBCC marks werent converted on time so I'm on the "waitinglist'...but inshalla I'll be applying u guys again this year...lets see where kismet take me...

by the way, docforlife...u applying to any private med schools?? also when u get ur IBCC marks converted let us know...I hope they dont reduce u soo much...if they do ...fight with them okay!!!! dont let them go cuz even sumtimes over just ONE mark u can get into a better med school! by the way...www.iqbalians.com, is now running!!! check it out...my really good friend he designed it...amazing webmaster!!!

goood luck!!! :)

Sara

well_wisher88

03-07-2006, 03:21 PM

Salamzzzzzzz to everyone on this forum,

i m new to this site but haf been reading the posts for long time now...
Therefore i haf some questions to ask about the procedure to apply into PAK med colleges.
Well, as all of us r heading towards a point where we haf to fill applications, get them attested, get a application filled by a doctor and pluz get ur photos taken for the application requirement...
I wanted someone (who had gone through all this process or who knows exactly wat we need to do in order to fill applications for admission in govt. med colleges in Pak) to share the documentation procedure cuz i haf heard from some source that they dont even look at ur application if it z not done correctly. So wat i wanted to know was, how many pictures and set of application forms do we need ? who is eligible to attest them? and is this possible to get them attested now? then to wait cuz we will be lil busy in exams during june.
Kindly can anyone help? Allah will give u reward for that. (Inshallah)

Fe Aman Allah
Your Well Wisher

Khan19

03-08-2006, 09:44 AM

Does anybody know exactly if you can transfer from a Pakistan medical school to one in Europe, North America or Middle East w/out penalty? Which schools abroad recognize medical institutions in Pakistan?

I am a 1st year Mbbs student in Pakistan, didn't get into my school of choice just wondering if international transfer is possible!

thank you for ur help!.

Khan19

03-08-2006, 10:08 AM

Hey Sara how are you doing sis? I couldn't find the site earlier. Are you applying this year?

A warning to everyone who is interested in applying to Pakistan make sure you have all the facts!! If you are applying to a Gov't school then you might not get into the college of ur choice, the process is complicated. I think private schools are a very good alternative option b/c theyre admission procedure is very clear and u know where youre going from the beginning.

salaams &
alla hafiz.

sam212

03-08-2006, 10:52 AM

Sara, I hope that you are successful in your endeavors. You know, after talking to one of my younger cousins, I have come to realize that going to Pakistan for med school may not be a bad idea after all. He came to me looking for advise, and I as always encouraged him to first give it a shot here in the US. But this guy seriously lacks the academic luster most of the pre-meds have. On top of that, he is very insecure too. Somehow he convinced me that going to Pakistan to get a medical degree was the best option for him if he wanted to practice medicine. So yeah, hopefully things stay smoother for you and you make a transition from Pakistan to US. Good luck to you. By the way, how did your marks come out in the IBCC certificate? I don't really understand that quite frankly. How does it work for US students? They apparently reduce one's marks by 20%. So say if somene had a 4.0 GPA (which by the way is straight As), They will convert is to 792? Since 90% is an A average and they will reduce it by 20%, the resulting number will be 72%, which becomes 792 out of 1100. If this is how it really works than it is virtually worthless in my opinion. Maintaining a 4.0 is extremely hard and certainly doesn't equal to 72%. A person with a US 4.0 should at the very least get a 80%, which translates to 880 out of 1100. This is pretty whacked if you ask me. Anyway, good luck to you.
p.s Since you are the most active user of this forum, the admins should make you mod.

sam212

03-08-2006, 11:47 AM

Well, it's is impossible to transfer to schools in North America. One, they take transfer only in third year. Second, they are four year programs, in contrast to Pakistan, which is 5 years so they are not compatible. I can't say much about Europe and Middle East, however, I imagine you are in for an uphill battle. I suggest you try to transfer to your first choice school in Pakistan, which may be more feasible than other options.

Skipper

03-08-2006, 01:38 PM

transfer to the USA--LOLOLOLOLOLOLOL---

maybe try to transfer to one of the other great Pakistanian Schools it will be much much much easier

skipper

sara00

03-08-2006, 04:52 PM

salam,

oyeee Khan brother, how are u??? loooooooong time no seee... hey yaar kiya hua?? transfer?? kiyu? where are u studying?? kids teasing u?? what is it that u dont like? pakistan passand nahi aya ...then why need for transfer ? kiya baat hay bhai-jaan... if u dont wanna post..PM me!

And about me...yaar the IBCC ppl screwed me up! my marks were converted late so they put me in "waiting list" and guess what yesterday I got a letter from them saying "u got admission in nawabshah medical college(also known as people's medicical college), in Sindh!!!" ...when I heard that I was shocked!!! I'm a punjabi kuri...and Sindh is tooooooooo far from my releatives...:( ...dont kow what to do...I have two weeks to decide so I'm thinking of going to pak and check out that school and if I like it then bismilla karay churu karay...if not ...then apply this year...

sam: heey nice to see u again! u know, what u say is true one should not give up in US/Can...ur 101% like my big brother...he always tells me the same too...but pak way is not that bad either...but a grrreat struggle...huge struggle...I mean get use to the environemt, ppl , so much change one need to adpt too...and then coming back that a whole new story...

And as per IBCC even I dont understand there system...yup those corrupted ppl, are sooo unfair...my marks were in 80's too but they lowered me to 73%...now my IBCC mark is 803!!! I was sad...my 10% of hard work...down the drain! I couldnt even fight with them cuz at first they wouldnt even convert my marks cuz they were finding some problems in my transcript... oh well...its all part of "kimet"...maybe there was sumthing good in it...:)

P.S...and mod...hehe...no friend, I just come on here to help students, guide them with application and stuff..so the mistakes I made no one should make them....thats all...wanna see everyone succeed in life!

Sara

well_wisher88

03-08-2006, 05:25 PM

Smeer

03-08-2006, 07:09 PM

Salam all,

CONGRATULATIONS SARA!!!

I think out of everyone on this thread, you deserve it the most, both for your hard work in school and your excellent advice and help on this thread!!!

I definitely feel your dilemma though; it's a tough choice...you want to go to Lahore, but you don't want to turn down what you already have...

Whatever choice you make, I'm w/u 100% of the way ;) . I know whatever you do you'll have put a lot of thought and judgment behind it...jo kuch bhi karo gee, soch samaj kay karo gee...and I think that's all that matters!

Again congrats Sara and good luck, this thread wouldn't be where it is w/o your help :D

--Smeer

sara00

03-08-2006, 10:16 PM

heeey salam,

heeey well wisher, first of all welcome and thank you sooo much for ur beautiful wishes and ur kind advice. Actually they gave me two weeks to decide so the best solution I think is to go and check out that school and if everything is fine then study there if not... apply this year cuz I didnt even apply to private med schools last year. You see...its not a good idea to sit here in Canada and say "yess" or "noo"...better to see things ur self first and get ur heart satisfied and then decide...so inshalla in few days I'll be going down there ...to check it out! do remember me in ur prayers...

And regarding ur questions....so u probably know to apply to pak med schools one needs to convert there marks from Inter Board corrupted committee ;) . The best advise as a sister I can give u is ...its better if u can get a releative to help u out with this part, because if one thing is missing or sumthing is wrong...they wont tell u and u wont even know if ur marks are getting convereted or not and on top of that u'll be loosing soo much time! did u check out the IBCC application on their website? at www.ibcc.edu.pk (http://www.ibcc.edu.pk) , basically u need ur transcript (make sure its in a SEALED enveloppe or else they DONT accept it, this happened with me and this other guy) , one photo of ur self, and photocopies of ur passport and one of ur parents, etc... but make sure all the photocopy stuff is ATTESTED , dont know where u live but for Canadian students they can get these paper attested from the pakistani embassy in toronto...maybe u can do that in ur country too...if not get ur family doctor to stamp on every paper!

by the way, ur done with high school ?? and in high school u took all 3 sciences right? if yes, then send in ur marks for conversion NOW..cuz in summer near july,aug it gets busy down there and at that time if there are some problems they are not willing to listen! also IBCC has many location lahore, islamabad, peshawar, so u can send where ever ur releatives live!

Then once u get ur marks then fill in the application regarding med schools check out http://www.pakistan.gov.pk/divisions/economicaffairs-division/media/APFORMFOREIGN.pdf and http://www.pakistan.gov.pk/divisions/economicaffairs-division/media/RULES-FOREIGN-STUDENTS.pdf, and u need to also give a physical test which ur doctor has to fill out.. its in the application, and photocopy of ur passport and one of ur parent's and ur IBCC marks. All this give it to the pak embassy in ur area and tell them to send it to the EAD in Islamabad. Cuz if u sendit directly to them ...they might accept it or they might say "what application? sorry we didnt recieve anything!";)

in other words...its looooong process....but inshalla if u follow well..u'll be fine, and ever need any help feel free to post it or PM me okay friend!

wish u all the best in ur career! :)

Smeer: heey Dr.Smeer, always so kind :p ..thank you! u know what I remember when I first came to these forums...hardly anyone was there and no info too, so I had to stuggle and find everything myself...no one to guide me , no to help me out with application, no one...did soo muchresearch, contacted ppl,etc...but I always had God by my side...so I was always good and happy...so now I learned sooo much, and hope many students are getting their answers from these forums...:)

bythe way do remeber me in ur prayers...Sindh seems too far...I love living in family...or else I'll get depressed...and lonely...but I pray what ever is good for me may Allah give me (Ameen)

Sara

yoboy1982

03-09-2006, 01:43 AM

ayesha_87

03-09-2006, 08:47 AM

Hey well done for getting into a medical college, MashaAllah. :)
Well, if u r still unsure as to what u shud do, I wud advise u to do istakharah....u prob have done that already.;)
Anyways, u wud settle in 2-3 months time and u shud get used to the environment there fairly quickly...u wud become a more stronger person as well!!...
CONGRATULATIONSSS:D :cool: ;) AND WELL DONE...COS IT VERY HARD TO BREAK INTO MEDICINE THERE TOO!

sam212

03-09-2006, 09:38 AM

Congratulations Sara on the acceptance. Now come the hard part, whether to go to people's medical college or not. What I suggest is wait it out to see if you get accepted somewhere else or talk to the officials and try to change. If you still don't get the school you want, apply again next year as early as possible. It's a bummer that they had to accept you to a med school in Nawabshah.

Muslimah88

03-09-2006, 05:17 PM

hey congrats on ur acceptence to med school
im really happy for u!

sara00

03-09-2006, 08:53 PM

heey salam friends,

yoboy1982: heey friend welcome and thank you for ur kind wishes! Well I talked to the EAD ppl and they told me that only if u reject this seat and if there is some seat available in punjab they will put me there but the problem is there's NO guaranteed that I will get a seat, and I'll miss this opportunity too. :(

I researched about the school and everything about it seems perfect i mean recognized around the world even by the State of California, was establish since 1975! And its ALL gurls school with around 800-900 students, and the hostels and the hospital is on the campus too that mean no travelling from one plcae to another. And my uncle knows some gruaduates of that school and he talked to them and they said "its a very safe and good school", infact they know currently prof who are teaching there and they said "if ur daughter has any problems or anything prof will look after her, some of them are our friends". And also my uncle talked to the guy who's incharge of the city and I found out he's my uncle friend too so he also said "send ur daughter, we'll look after her infact two of my daughters are in that school"....so everything about that school is all good so far...only problem I have is LOCATION!!!:( kaash.. I could move that school to punjab! So dont know if I'll be able to survive in Sindh! even if I have many ppl to look after me ...still...family is family to me...but I guess I'll go and check out everything, like hoestels and environment, and if I think I'll be happythere, then I'll except or else I'll just tell them give me in punjab other wise try again this year...and i know transfer is IMPOSSIBLE...dont wanna take that risk...

ayesha: heey gurl, first of all thank you for ur wisehs and grrreat advice! U know I did "istikara" regarding where I should go to pak or study in Canada and guess what... I had a real nice dream, ...how I was running in a pakistani med school's cafetaria with a friend (no idea who) and in the end there was a great wall, and I remeber I was climbing the wall and it was very hard but I remeber I made it over the wall and I was happy....So yeah I'll do for whether if this school is good for me or not...but u know sumtimes u get an answer and sumtimes u dont...but I guess keep praying and inshalla what ever if best u'll get it! :)

sam212: thank you for the good wishes and advice, yeah I was thinking just like YOU, try to change it if not apply again this year. But u know what, remember how I appliedlast year but due to my late IBCC mark conversion they put me on 'waiting list", so at that time EVERYONE lost hope in me...but me, everyday I use to check my mail to see maybe I got accepted but when school started in dec I was like...its over I have NO CHANCE! Now one day all of a sudden I found out I got admission...so now everyone thinks its my luck and my grandmother's prayers that I got in this year...and how I shouldnt loose this opportunity...but LOCATION!! :( ..dont wanna pay money and not be happy...also I'm scared since the competition is soo much nowdays in pak maybe if I applyagain thisyear I might not even get into Sindh or anywhere... oh man... so hard to decide...:(

Muslimah: heey thank you friend for ur sweet wishes! :)

do remeber me in ur prayers...

thank you kindly friends for ur great advices and wishes,

Sara

yoboy1982

03-09-2006, 11:18 PM

saraaa:

Dont trust people who say they will take care of you, there is only so much they can do... not to discourage you or anything but I had the same thing but people have their own lives as well and there is only so much they will do, but if its an all girls school and connected it might not be so bad. My opinion, go and look at it and you'll know right away if you want to go or not. Initially I was placed in Nishtar in Multan, took a drive there from islamabad, after that I was like no way in hell I'd rather wait a year and try again then go to nishtar, even though no guarantees of something better. But thankfully a seat opened up in RMC and I took it. Since you have high marks dont despair though, just take a look at the school in sindh, if u like it go for it, if not dont fret, maybe something will pop up, if not always next year. =_)

RehanSAlvi

03-10-2006, 03:38 AM

Hey Sara, congratulations! All those hours upon hours of research and talking to people and being patient have finally paid off!

Your medical journey is about to begin and insha'Allah you're going to love it! :-)

kite_runner

03-10-2006, 01:20 PM

Woohoo Sara!!!!! Congratulations on getting in med school:) Don't stress too much about the location right now. When you go there and check out the school, you'll know instantly whether or not you want to go there. As for family, i know it would have been better if you had gotten accepted in Punjab but all of our wishes rarely come true at the same time. I know you already did istikhara but do it again, this time on deciding whether going to this school would be better in the long run. Anyways, you are a really sensible person so inshAllah, you'll make the right decision. Keep us posted and if you do decide to go there then tell us about your experience there! Best of luck girl:)

By the way, what's wrong with Nishtar- the school or the location? I from near Multan so I am just curious.

zan

03-10-2006, 01:38 PM

And about me...yaar the IBCC ppl screwed me up! my marks were converted late so they put me in "waiting list" and guess what yesterday I got a letter from them saying "u got admission in nawabshah medical college(also known as people's medicical college), in Sindh!!!" ...when I heard that I was shocked!!! I'm a punjabi kuri...and Sindh is tooooooooo far from my releatives...:( ...dont kow what to do...I have two weeks to decide so I'm thinking of going to pak and check out that school and if I like it then bismilla karay churu karay...if not ...then apply this year...

Tada be admission sindh cha be ho gie ya ha. Ihta ba tora bot Pujabi loga haga. Well people in Sindh are very very polite. They don't really descrimante against Punjabi ppl, but dont go around telling everyone your Punjabi. Well the school im Liaquat Medical in interior sindh also, and all my relatives are Punjab (Faislabad), but there was a girl in 1st yr mbbs in the same year as me, she transfer 2 months after classes started to DOW, and she loves DOW alot. I mean there are Punjabi ppl here, mostly the ones that have migrated from India. Also a postive point you will learn Sindhi, become a Sindhi maruu. Also maybe be4 you submit your fees talk to DOW or Sindh and tell them of ur situation. If your parents have any high contacts in Pakistan, utilize them before submitting your fees. Well im still trying to transfer, my school has a lot boycotts, but since your going to a girls school then I dont think you will have any problem with boycotts. But if you can try to go to Punjab, because im trying to go there. Well Congrats on Peoples Medical college a subsidry of Pujab Medical college, one of my cousins got her degree from there. At least give it a try, who knows after a while you can transfer, becuase thats the only thing thats keeping me running is the hope of transfer. Also talk to the Liaquat Medical Vice Chancellor becuase he's also the head of Nawabshah.

yoboy1982

03-10-2006, 04:38 PM

cmon rehan, no one loves it!!! We might miss it after we're gone and be like "the good old days" haha but right now its a headache!

sara00

03-10-2006, 05:24 PM

salam,

yoboy1982: ur right, everyone has their own life...oneneeds to loook after themself, cant rely on anyone! Yeah I'll go check it out this week...andfrom there I'll see where i should say "yes" or "no" to them andsame time I'll try to talk with the EAd ppl personally. And letssee what the future holds for me...

by the way, u know how Rehan said "its will be a grrreat journey" (by the way bro Rehan, thank you for ur kind wishes)...but for u why is it a headache?? was is it that u dont like?? students? prof? or environment? was is it that u dont like??....u should be happy yaar...why so unhappy?:(

kite_runner: yeh I'll do "istikara" again and see where God guides me...and yeah better to check it out...before I say anything...and thank you for ur advice and ur kind words!

zan: meray bhai, sanu vi Sindh mil giya...kasam say yaar dil nahi kar da punjab chaadan nu..saray authay hay gay...:( Thats good to hear that a gurl got transfered to DOW...what about u bro...how come its not working for u??? go talk to the EAD!! but me I'll go see the place and school only then I'll accept otherwise ...next year cuz its soo hard to get transfer! dont wanna get into that mess...but what ever i decide I'll let u know...

by the way...what should I bring to pak in order to survive there? ;) shampoos, mosquito creams, etc... let me know ...(email or PM me, thanks)

Sara

coolfaisal1987

03-10-2006, 07:23 PM

sara,

by the way where are you going?

I am a medical student from Debrecen, Hungary.

if u need any help them let me know....
salam,

yoboy1982: ur right, everyone has their own life...oneneeds to loook after themself, cant rely on anyone! Yeah I'll go check it out this week...andfrom there I'll see where i should say "yes" or "no" to them andsame time I'll try to talk with the EAd ppl personally. And letssee what the future holds for me...

by the way, u know how Rehan said "its will be a grrreat journey" (by the way bro Rehan, thank you for ur kind wishes)...but for u why is it a headache?? was is it that u dont like?? students? prof? or environment? was is it that u dont like??....u should be happy yaar...why so unhappy?:(

kite_runner: yeh I'll do "istikara" again and see where God guides me...and yeah better to check it out...before I say anything...and thank you for ur advice and ur kind words!

zan: meray bhai, sanu vi Sindh mil giya...kasam say yaar dil nahi kar da punjab chaadan nu..saray authay hay gay...:( Thats good to hear that a gurl got transfered to DOW...what about u bro...how come its not working for u??? go talk to the EAD!! but me I'll go see the place and school only then I'll accept otherwise ...next year cuz its soo hard to get transfer! dont wanna get into that mess...but what ever i decide I'll let u know...

by the way...what should I bring to pak in order to survive there? ;) shampoos, mosquito creams, etc... let me know ...(email or PM me, thanks)

Sara

docforlife123456789

03-10-2006, 08:40 PM

well I sara Have a nice and healthy time in PK. I think just try no to eat anything in there from out side for about 2 weeks. I mean if u will, U might interduce a nice type of pathogen to ur body. But adaptation do occur after a short period of time. Well, I guess GOOD LUCK IN UR CAREER AND INSHALLAH ALL MIGHTY ALLAH WIL STAY WITH U AND ALL OF US. Ok Kiddooo study hard and just study hard.

jaysad

03-11-2006, 03:42 AM

Pakistan Medical School kick *** for one reason, and one reason only: clinicals. Do 3 years of clinical rotations at a Pak med college, and you'll be running the rounds in your American residency.

sara00

03-11-2006, 12:11 PM

heeey salam friends,

I'll be leaving for Pakistan in one or two days....got sooo much to do! But before I leave, just wanna say few words...dont wory I'm not retiring yet;) ...inshalla when ever I'll find a computer I'll come on these forums from time to time, to answer ALL ur questions! Ever need anything just post it up and hopefully sum one will help u out...or just PM /email me and hopefully I'll try my best to help u out!

Also friends keep this thread going!!! I know by now there are many students out there who sure learned sooo much regarding pak way of studying medicine so when ever sumone new comes here, welcome them ...usually they'll be confused, lost, dont know what to do...but try to help them out, inspire them, encourage them, guide them well so that what ever decision they will make... it will be the best for their future! ...if they succeed in life...think of it as if u succeeded! :)

heey worrieddoctobe....I havent forgotten YOU! best poet ever met! ;) A promise made is a promise kept! so right now study very very hard and get those high marks in high school and when ur done in summer (end of june) contact me and I'll help u out with the application and IBCC stuff! happy now! :p

Dr. Smeer: hehe...ur gonna make me cry! ;) Dont worry now I'll be ur part-time co-host..lol...and when ever u get free time do contribute to these forums! thank you for always helping and supporting me...u sure added alot of info too! Friends like u are precious and few! like docforlife would say..."study hard and just study hard!" cuz competition down there is hell nowdays! If u wanna get in a school of ur choice u NEED HIGH MARKS!!!! ...other wise u'll end up ANYWHERE...no guranteed...
P.S. thanks for the early invitation...hehe...so who will it be...American chick ya Punjabi kuri? ;)

Alright friends, I sure enjoyed been here...and will continue to do so, and sure met wonderful people...its a looong list (u guys all know who guys are;) )...but thank you everyone for ur support and good wishes...

I wish u all the best in ur career and may laughter, joy and happiness always dominate YOUR world! May Allah always help and guide u (Ameen)...dont forget this friend of urs in ur prayers...:)

take care, Allah hafis

"We make a living by what we get, however, we make a life by what we give."

your good friend,

Sara

Worrieddoc2be

03-11-2006, 09:13 PM

hey sara.. salamz

thx fo giving me a hope that there is someone out there to help me in time of needs...
thankzzz
BEST OF LUCK IN PAKISTAN....

AHSAN

Smeer

03-15-2006, 12:45 AM

Salam everyone!

Now that sara's gone, this thread seems kind of dead! We need to pick it up here...I'm sure somebody must have some questions/comments/concerns! Feel free to post.

--Smeer

Worrieddoc2be

03-16-2006, 01:26 AM

Salam everyone!

Now that sara's gone, this thread seems kind of dead! We need to pick it up here...I'm sure somebody must have some questions/comments/concerns! Feel free to post.

--Smeer

TRUE...

I TOTALLY AGREE WITH SMEER.. WE HAF TO KEEP IT GOIN GUYZ..
C'MON... KEEP IT UP

AHSAN

Worrieddoc2be

03-16-2006, 01:31 AM

hi does ne body know here? how many photos do we need fo the IBBC Equivalency form n the otha med college forms altogther?
i tried to look fo it but cudnt really found nething helpful.. If ne one knows, juz let me know plzzz..

Ahsan

RehanSAlvi

03-16-2006, 01:33 AM

There is a similar discussion regarding admissions to medical colleges in Pakistan (and other places) going on at the Med Studentz Online Forum (http://***********.com) (http://***********.com%29).

Just in case this thread dies out, you should go there and check it out--we currently have been up and running for one month and already have over 50 members.

I encourage you all to join and ask any questions you have regarding admissions in the Pakistani medical system. Another benefit is that ***********.com (http://***********.com) has a lot of people that are current students at medical colleges in Pakistan which is a big help.

Anyways, I wish you all the best of luck in your career and lives!

Allah Hafiz :p

fuzpot

03-16-2006, 07:27 AM

Hey

Are there any med colleges in pakistan- that do not ask for IBCC...any private ones??. I have a BSc Biology in the UK, but i have crap A-levels!

Muslimah88

03-16-2006, 01:17 PM

hey wats up guys?
im applyin to med schools in pk and gettin by IBCC thing done after i graduate from high school in june
i wanted to ask everyone here if they have done AP or SAT II cause im doin both and so i need som help on studing for the exams
thanks bye

itihad

03-16-2006, 03:41 PM

Hey

Are there any med colleges in pakistan- that do not ask for IBCC...any private ones??. I have a BSc Biology in the UK, but i have crap A-levels!

All medical schools which are recognised, applications have to go via IBCC. that is the rules.

Maybe you could try the newer medical private schools, and ask them what they think.

I think the best thing would be if you visit them personally, like all these universities and tell them about your situation, that you have a BSc in biology e.t.c.

Smeer

03-16-2006, 06:41 PM

Salam everyone!

Muslimah88: Hey I've taken a couple of AP tests last year (European history and Computer Science A) and I'm gonna be taking some more this year (Chem, Physics B, Spanish, English, and U.S. History :cry: ) along with some SAT II's (Chem, Physics, and Math IIC). Here's the deal based on my experience. If you're going to be studying for the same AP and SAT subjects, then study AP hardcore. I've heard that AP tests are much more difficult than SAT II's, and that the corresponding SAT II subject test is much easier. For AP prep. books, I would go online to sites like Amazon or Barnes and Noble and see what types of reviews people have given books to see which ones are best. From my own experience, I found Princeton Review as a really accurate measure of how difficult the AP tests really are. Baron's books are good too, as their tests tend to be more difficult than the actual SAT and AP tests, so your grade will probably end up higher on the real test than on the practice ones you do with Baron's. Which AP/SAT II's are you planning on taking?

fuzpot: I think most Pakistani schools (all government and almost all private colleges) do require IBCC certificates.

--Smeer

miss shah

03-18-2006, 12:18 AM

I m back guys :) well, i think AKU/KE do require only "SAT" i m pretty sure about that..... and u have to have best score in it. Best of luck muslima sisy....
So i wud recommend muslima and fuzpot to apply in KE/ AKU.These r the best med schools in pak.

Asfa

Worrieddoc2be

03-18-2006, 08:50 AM

hey salam ppl...

juz wanted to know how long IBCC takes to convert the marks and what's da deadline fo to submit the actual application including the converted marks?

If anyone know, plz feel free to share.. Any kind of help will be appreciated.

THANKS

Ahsan

zan

03-18-2006, 10:46 AM

King Edwards dosen't require SAT, becuase Economic Affairs of Pakistan is responsible for international students medical school admisisons. All they want is your High School Transcript and if you took APs, the original document that the College board sends you in the mail notifying you of your Ap Scores. Well for when i submitted the application the deadline for submitting your application to Economic Affairs was Sept 1st, and you have to submit a copy of your Converted Mark Sheet (which the ibcc has already converted), Admission Application. It takes a while for the IBCC to convert marks, this is Pakistan, nothing is on time, and when you submit your Transcript to the IBCC I recommend you do it through the embassy or if you have family in Islamabad/ Pindi then give it to them, never mail it directly to them, becuae they will give you excuses they lost it or something happened to it. I recommend as soon as you finish HS or get your final transcript Submit it. This is the guy who is in charge of Foreign Admission in Pakistan 4
Mr. Tassaduq Hussain
AC (F. Students)
tassaduqhussain@ead.gov.pk (tassaduqhussain@ead.gov.pk) 9201868

phone directory for economic affairs http://www.pakistan.gov.pk/divisions/ContentInfo.jsp?DivID=3&cPath=25_27&ContentID=119

Smeer

03-18-2006, 02:18 PM

Anee

03-18-2006, 04:41 PM

Salaam every1,

I've applied to AKU this year, just wanted to know if there are any current AKU students on this forum.

Muslimah88: I've taken the Biology SAT IIs past november, and I am about to take the Chem and Physics SAT subject tests this coming May. For Biology, the books that really helped me were Princeton Review and Kaplan. Actually, I've been out of high school for almost 4 yrs, and these 2 books got me a 700+ on that test. I'm using Barron's for physics, and for chem I have kaplan and PR. Barron's physics is a little hard to understand. So I'm probably going to get PR or Kaplan to supplement it, but, like Sameer said, the AP tests go much more in depth and it would be better if you studied the AP books for any subject that you're taking both tests in. GOOD LUCK!

kite_runner

03-19-2006, 02:59 PM

It's been awhile since i took either AP or SAT II but I agree with the peron that you should study for the AP exams since they go into more detail than the SAT II. When I took them, I studied from my textbook and my teachers helped alot. HAd awesome teachers:) I did rather well on the Ap exams because of that (got 5 and 4 in all the subjects that I took...and I took like 7 total Ap exams my junior and senior year). But use whatever you can and whatever works for you. really do believe that studying for the AP exams will help on SAT II but from experience can't back that up since I had to take SAT II before I took the AP exam. Was applying to a college in US which is why i took the SAT II.

RehanSAlvi

03-19-2006, 10:07 PM

salam all,

Hey zan I hav quick question. I know that you get your high school transcript in June, but AP test scores don't arrive until July. In that case, what would you recommend? Sending just the transcript to the IBCC in June or waiting until July to send them both the transcript and the AP scores?

Thx again for keepin this thread alive!

--Smeer
Smeer,

I would personally recommend that you send them both in at the same time. IBCC is notorious for delaying the processing of your application. If you send them just your high school transcript and didn't tell them anything about your AP scores or told them that they are coming later you risk two terrible things happening to you:

1) IBCC will believe that there are no real AP scores coming later on and will simply create your certificate based ONLY on your transcript resulting in you having a much lower score (remember they like to take 20% off American results)

OR

2) IBCC will not do anything until they do receive your AP scores and in the time being they will simply throw your application off to the side and not process it. When you DO send your AP scores separately, they MAY or MAY NOT be able to find your original high school transcript and realize the AP scores and the transcript go together---the may even just say "Person did not send transcript" and keep sitting on it.

Basically my advice to everyone here dealing with IBCC is pretend that they are 5 year olds---make sure all your correspondence with them is 100% idiot-proof. Don't send documents in two batches---send it all at once, and make photocopies.

The best thing to do is have a family member go there rather than mailing it in, but if you have no other option than simply play it safe and send everything that is required together in one package.

Hope this helps Smeer :p

There's also a thread about IBCC at the Med Studentz (http://***********.com) forum here: http://***********.com/viewtopic.php?t=38

Smeer

03-20-2006, 01:36 AM

Salam everyone!

Thx a bunch Rehan, that really helped.

Btw I really like your *********** website. I check it every once in a while, but I really don't get a chance to post because my questions have either already been asked or the questions that I can answer have already been answered. Even so, it's still an awesome website and I'll keep in touch w/it. You never know I might get my chance to shine one of these days ;) . The rest of you should check it out too!

--Smeer

RehanSAlvi

03-20-2006, 02:08 AM

Hmm looks like ValueMD's administration no longer wants me to put links up to the other pakistani med school forum on here so I won't be posting those links anymore.

Sorry to all of you who can't see the links anymore due to ValueMD blocking them. :(

sara00

03-20-2006, 05:57 PM

heeey salam friends,

I'm back like I promised :) Finally I found a computer! ;) Got sooo much to say...by the way, sooo good to see u guys are keeping this thread alive…:-D

Worried2bedoc: for IBCC u only need one pic, u should download the application on there website and u’ll see on the right hand top corner u need a pic and make sure that pic is also ATTESTED by the photographer. And the deadline to submit to EAD is aug 30 for 2005 and I think it’s the same for 2006.

Anee: heey welcome! Currently there are no AKU students on this forum:( …hope we get sum …sumday…;)

Now my experiences…well…I was in Lahore for two days and there I visited Allama Iqbal medical college…oh man…it was love at first sight!! :p The campus was beautiful and clean and niceee and the prof were soo niceee …my dream to study there…;)

Then I went to rawalpindi and from there I went to Islambad to talk to the IBCC and EAD and saw Al-Shifa medical college.

Guess what? IBCC changed its location in Islamabad, and the funny part is they still have there old info on there application form…so friends I don’t know what to say…but I hope that when ppl are mailing there application they get transfer to their new location, which is behind Al-Shifa medical college. My uncle and I, we went to the old address and then got lost and later on we found out they changed their location!! I was shocked!!! And there I talked to them and told them to re-calculate my marks and for Canadian students I found out they take grade 11 and grade 12 marks for the following courses (chem., bio, phy, eng and ur highest mark in any other course). So friends, even grade 11 marks count!!! Heey u guys wanna now sumthing funny… when I went to IBCC I saw a box out side their office and on that box it said “complaint box” :cool: …hehe…and guess what…it was FULL:p …hehe…there service is soooo bad, I was lucky my uncle knew the ppl there thats why they didn’t give us trouble but students and parent who were there… were suffering…:(

Then I went to the EAD place and there I talked to uncle Hussain personally and I told him that Sindh is too far for me so he was like “if u get lucky and sum student refuses his seat in Punjab then I might have 5% chances of getting in..but no gurantee” so now it all depend on prayers…and kismet…but for now I got books for the entry exams and I’ll try to get in as a Pakistani cuz they rip off forgeiners big time…I mean think about it, ur getting the SAME education as a Pakistani yet ur paying 10x more and in US dollars!!! So wise thing to do is try to get in as a Pakistani but its extremely hard!!!

I saw Shifa medical college from outside, nice big gray building now they are even expending… I saw construction going on there, adding another building…but the only thing I didn’t like was the area…its dusty and clustered…Lahore 10x better!

And regarding pak life…it’s a HUGE change, I would recommend EVERYONE who is interested to come and see it them self and then decide cuz majority of the foreigner students complain in pak! cuz its hard to adapt and stay away from family. But me allhamdulilah I’m very very lucky that I have very loving and caring family who looks after me 24/7, and make sure that I’m happy! Everyone in pak treats me like a princess they don’t even let me pick up a plate from the table! They say “no no, the servents will take care of it” Family was my MAIN reason why I didn’t accept Sindh, cuz I know I’ll be alone and sad there cuz pak it self is soo different I mean washrooms are different, if u eat sumthing wrong u’ll be sick for a week, electricity goes off, etc…so far I’m good, and eating only home made food…also I like to take things positively… that’s why little things like electricity or washrooms etcc..don’t bother me but I know it sure bother many ppl…even my siblings don’t like it…but I enjoy it, like when its “namaz” time u’ll hear “azaan” everywhere, travelling in rikshah, they have a great bus system from one city to another called Dayweao buses…its just like those huge coach buses with AC!! I love traveling in those buses! So if u look at positive side u’ll stay happy other wise…u wont, cuz in pak u wont find the same environment as Can/US/UK! So keep that in mind when u guys are thinking to studying in pak don’t just think about med school ONLY! Also its cheaper to call home from pak in only 100 rupees I get about 40min to Canada! That way I’m always in touch with my parents…its only been few days…but missing them already!

Zan: heey faisalabadi brother, its soo dusty here…but did u noticed how rich ppl are in faisalabad…all textile owners…and teenagers driving Ferraris, Mercedes, sports cars…and the gurls…pure wertern, now a “dupata” is part of fashion and not covering ur head!;)

Sara

sajimar25

03-20-2006, 06:46 PM

Hey assalamualaikum everyone, I have been reading this forum for 1 month now I think....very helpful! Cheers to all of you who come back to check this site and give advice regularly!

I would like specific information on Khyber in Peshawar. I cant find its USMLE passing rate anywhere ( or its plain retention rate either). Is it a bad med school. I've heard that it barely finds enough good teachers, staff, etc. but then agian I've heard many graduates diong fine on the USMLE and getting good residencies too. I guess it depends on how good a student you are.

How are Khyber's hostels, is there a lot of stealing in the dorms, do you have enough room of your own to put stuff, etc. Do they have places where you can access computers, internet, etc?

Also, one thing that has been making me wonder is: can kids straight out of high school handle med. school? I mean i know in Pak. it is a bachelor of medicine but if it equals a doctorate of med. from USA, then it is pretty much the same thing ( same hard work, coursework, etc.). So is it ahrd to get used to or to even stomach? I mean wouldnt you be working with dissecting dead bodies and all that and can 18 and 19 year olds take that at first?

I would love your responses.

Smeer

03-20-2006, 07:02 PM

Salam everyone!

Well sajimar25, my opinion about the age factor in going to Pak. med. schools is this: it isn't too big a deal. The thing is, as far as I know and as far as I can tell you based on my opinion, your first 3-4 years out of high school in the U.S. if you want to become a doctor are to weed out the "good" from the "best." In Pakistan, they do the weeding out right out of high school, so you don't need to spend an additional 4 years of study before you find out whether or not you made it. Also, Pak medical schools are 1 year longer (total of 5 years), which would probably make up for the early age of entry into a Pak. med. schools as opposed to American med. schools which have 4-year programs.

--Smeer

docforlife123456789

03-21-2006, 12:22 AM

hi SARA nice to have u in here.
SAJIMAR--- Well I think it's very possible for a high school student to get adapted to med schools in PK, but there are still some approches that u should get toword. These are, take some AP courses in Chemistry and Biology. Get some books in Anatomy, Biochemistry, and Physiology. Start study some of the principles now. Well Medical school in US/Can don't have very good medical syllabus. Within 4 years they tried to push in all the medical subjects and within ur 2 years u are done with almost every pre-clinical subjects. So this is alittle tooooo much. Well in Pakistan and England, things are alittle better. In there, pre-clinical is done within 3 years. Subjects like Anatomy, Physiology, and Biochemistry are spread out within first 2 years. If u want more info download the syllabus from PMDC website. That syllabus is for King Edward medical college and other that are related to Punjab University. COlleges that are related to Uiversity of Health Sciences, like ALLAMA IQBAL MEDICAL COLLEGE have a very very similar syllabus expect in gross anatomy UHS likes to do Brain, upper and lower limbs. Punjab University likes to do Upper, lower, and thorax. so if u were to do some of these now.... I think u will not have any problems. The first years looks alittle easier then the rest of ur time in MBBS. GOOD LUCK!!!

Muslimah88

03-21-2006, 01:13 PM

hey wats up!
Sara00, its nice to hear that your doin good in pk, by the way my name is Sara too!

i have one question, okay does IBCC look at ap scores along with school transcripts and stuff or does it not really need AP scores cause what if i do not do well on my aps and so do i have the choice of sending it to them or should i just tell them that i did not take ap.
and whats the deal with 11th grade stuff?
cause i took bio my freshman year, chem my 10 sophomore year and now in my senior year im takin physics and ap chem and doin ap bio on my own.
so like do they only look at 12th grade subjects or what?
plus i dont know that much about physics cause our teacher is really slow so im not gonna by doin the SAT II for physics or ap for physics cause i know im not capable of doin it, is this gonna hurt me some how?
bye
thanks
by the way this site is really helpful!

kite_runner

03-21-2006, 01:56 PM

Just to answer the question of whether or not someone can handle med school in paki coming right out of high school. I have three good friends who went to paki right after high school to do medicine. One of them got kicked out after the first year, the second one was put on probabation and held back a year after the second year and the last one decided to come back since her mom was sick here. From talking to them they said that coming from high school you are at a disadvantage b/c the paki students are already exposed to organic chem, biochem and human physiology. As a high school students here in US you have only the very basic knowledge of chem and human physiology, none of organic and biochem. They said that in order to do well in their classes they had to study more and put in more time than the paki student along with getting used to everything in paki (from the environment, to the peolpe and to the school system). Everything I have written is what they told me. I am not sure of how much of this is true so I am hopping that someone on this forum who went to paki right after high school can tell if what they said was correct. Either way, I think people who go after high school overall do really well. It really comes down to how much effort you are willing to put into studying so don't get discouraged.

mak2675

03-22-2006, 02:49 AM

Im a senior in high school right now and am interested in going to Pakistan, as well. From what i've read so far, it seems it takes 5 years to complete medical school then people say it takes another year for technicaliities in coming back to the U.S and the USMLE. BUT, i've been informed that you can take the USMLE WHILE in medical school and don't have to entirely take it after medical school. I've also been told by another friend that you can take it parts at a time. So in this case, you dont have to wait a year for the USMLE as i believe its only once a year. So the 6 year standard that some people say in this forum can be reduced back down to 5 years. America is 8 years right? For me its only worth going to Pakistan if the difference between American and Pakistan is 3 years or more. If its 2 years or less, i think it might be worth it staying.

special_K

03-22-2006, 02:52 AM

random question, but how does aku/dow or any paki med school compare to the carribean programs.. in terms of coming back to the US to practice.
(excluding the cost factor)

special_K

03-22-2006, 02:53 AM

isnt a major factor that the paki students have not been clinically trained in the US, whereas others are

(and paki = shorthand, not offensive)

Smeer

03-22-2006, 03:14 AM

Salam all,

Glad to see this thread is back in action!!

Muslimah88: It's hard to say EXACTLY what the IBCC looks at and what it doesn't. For sure, it looks at your transcript. Other than that, nothing is for sure. Some people I know who have applied have told me to take lots of AP courses, because they do help a lot. The thing is, the IBCC deducts 20% off of marks that are internally graded (like most schools in the U.S. and Germany, where there isn't a nation-wide board exam) and 10% off of marks where there is some sort of external grading system (pretty much every other country in the world). The idea of AP tests is that they're externally graded, so your AP score along with your class grade might help you get less marks reduced. Going off your grade in an AP class would be a less fair/accurate and more susceptible to the 20% mark reduction.

special_k: I've also heard that students who come from Pakistan have more experience working with patients because there are so many more people there in need of medical attention than in the states. I've heard in terms of clinicals, you get more hands-on experience in Pak, and so when you come to the States, you have more practical experience than many U.S.-educated med. students in your position.

--Smeer

kite_runner

03-22-2006, 02:26 PM

mak2675: it is possible to skip a year and do it in 5 years. The USMLE is comprised of three steps (Step I, Step II and Step III) that you take at different times and you need to pass all three of them. THe way you save a year is that once you complete your basic sciences years in med school, you take Step I (which tests you on that) that summer. Same thing of Step II and III. Rather than waiting to complete your 5 years you take the corresponding Step in the summer or the school year. However, that is rare and the reason is that the med school here prepare you to do well on the USMLE since their reputation depends on it (through the residency match list). Schools in paki, however, are based on the British system and the teaching style is not geared towards doing well on the USMLE. Then again it depends on the particular school you attend in paki. AKU has a great USMLE pass rate. I don't know about other schools. My advice is that when you are making the decision of going to paki, keep in mind that even if you shoot for 5 yrs, it might take a year longer. Ask around and talk to someone who has come back from paki after completing 5 yrs. Also, see what sara says...she knows the paki med school system inside and out.

Also, i don't know who asked but I recently talked to a cardiologist who graduated from AKU and he said that when he was doing his residency here in US, he felt that he had more clinical experience than the resident who had studied in US. I think he's right for the same reasons smeer mentioned.

zan

03-25-2006, 08:50 AM

Sara00: Really people driving Mercedes and Ferraris in Faisalabad. The best car I ever saw in Faisalabad was a BMW X5. So I guess your not going to Nawabshah in Interior. You talked to Uncle Hussein, hmm, just start bugging to let you transfer. Becuase even if there is a opening I dunno if he's going to still help you unless you have someone at Economic Affairs or you'll have to give him some Rishvat. LoL Well good luck with your endeavors to get accepted to Med School. Im still trying to transfer. Well Pakistan is getting modern.

Well I had my 11th grade AP Scores and I submitted them to IBCC. Ya IBCC sucks alot, there not really helpful, if you wanna get a good score, I think the only way is to bribe them or something becuae there going to take 20% off from your GPA. I should've argued with them about my score or bribed, I know bribing dosent sound that great. But I think it will work, becuae if you dont bribe them your just another student.

Well Im reading Upper Limp in Anatomy right now we're on the Wrist and Forearm. I hate anatomy, its so much memorization and I have no time management. Im still sort of studying my plan is to go back to the states in the summer and take Human Anatomy/ Physio, Bio 2 and Chem 1 at the University during summer. Biochem and Physio arent that bad.

sara00

03-28-2006, 06:07 PM

hey salam,

Sajimar: heey welcome! If u want info regarding Khybre... I know a guy who is currently studying in 4th year down there, so PM me and I'll give u his email and u can directly ask him any questions to want regarding the campus, hostels, etc...and he'll be glad to help u out. Also the reason why there isnt a USMLE rate for any pak med school ..its because very few go to the States and therefore they are all consider under "IMG" not as individual medical schools. And wheather a high school student can take med school right after high school depends on every individual...cuz dissecting rooms smell like hell! And then cutting human and analysing...its all up to u wheather u have the courage to actually do it and see it ...but in my opinion...high school students can do it as long as they work hard like docforlife said!...I havent experienced it my self but when I'll do inshalla I'll let u know...;)

Muslimah: Let me tell u how this IBCC crap system works... they require the followig subject chem, phy, bio, eng and any other subject where u scored the highest and all these subjects have to be from grade 11 and 12...NOT only grade 12...even I didnt know that until I personally went to the IBCC place and talked to them. and u dont need SATs for governement med schools thats only for private ones... like Aga, Shifa, etc..

mak2675: hey there, to be honest with u..its about the same amount of years from American or pak med school...wise thing to do is to stay and work hard in the States and get into an American med school so that way u wont need to struggle back to the States...its true u can do step 1 of USMLE after ur 3rd year...but students dont recommend it cuz sumthing u learn in 4th and 5th year that will come on USMLE step one...so its better to give after ur done with ur 5yrs of MBBS and take 8months off and then give...cuz remember u need to score over 85% in order to get into residency and over 90% for good specialization fields...so its better if u stay in US and try...okay!

special_k: the difference b/w pak med school and carribean is that...pak med schools have a 5yr program like british med schools so u learn medicine is more depth and pakistani doctors have grrreat clinical experiences and pak med schools are well-know around the world cuz they have been establish ages ago...also u can get in right after high school... where as carribean med schools...only about 4 are consider worth going to...but even regarding those med schools I have heard many negative things, also caribbean med schools have a 3.5 program which means u have to cover soo much in small amount of time and they require BSc or min 3yrs of uni/college and on top of that caribbean med schools dont have that good of a reputation around the world. The only positive thing about caribbean med school is how they have clinicals in the States that way u get American experience in hospitals...good for USMLE!

zan: heey bro..u havnt seen!!! ...u should go check out beaconhouse (high school in faisalabad)...full of rich students and their luxury cars! my cousin also goes there...so I went to check it out and I was shocked...woo hoo...loved their cars! ;) hehe...ur right pak getting modern nowdays...esp lahore...too much ...I went to Saint Marie, to play golf and then ate pizza hut...oh man I had sooooo sooo much funn!!! I'm chilling tooo much nowdays :p

Also I didnt go to Nawabshah...yaar too far...so instead I went personally to EAD...but in pak I dont think just talking works:( ...I'll see what I can do...need prayers... by the way... u said u had contacts...use them and get transfered!!!!...or tell that gurl who got transfered to DOW to help u out...I'm sure its possible...guess what...they made the third list for med school this week...inshalla it will be available Sat-Mon...maybe our names might be in there... keep praying... May Allah help us (Ameen)

Sara

docforlife123456789

03-29-2006, 12:23 AM

Whats up? A question..... IBCC only looks at your grade from 11 and 12th grade? .... what about your grades from 9 th and 10th grade? I do know that some people do take Chemistry in 10th grade rather then in 11th or 12th grade unless they wanna go for AP classes.

Muslimah88

03-29-2006, 12:48 PM

Sara00: thanks for answering my question

okay i have another question, as u said that they only require 11&12 grade grades so what if i only took biology in 9th grade? does it still count?

drj2b

03-29-2006, 01:42 PM

just curious, a while back someone said caribbean school was out of the question.....just wondering why?

thx.

Skipper

03-29-2006, 04:13 PM

I am not welcomed here :)

Smeer

03-29-2006, 06:47 PM

Salam everyone!

Muslimah, if you've taken bio in 9th or 10th grade, it's okay; it will count. Since they receive your entire transcript, the IBCC will be able to see that you had taken bio before 11th and 12th grade. It would be more adviseable, however, to take AP Bio in u're 11th or 12th grade, as it is less susceptible to the 20% lowering of marks because the IBCC knows it is a tougher/more in-depth class. Taking AP Bio, however, is NOT required.

fuzpot

03-30-2006, 01:14 PM

caribbean schools (ross, auc, and sgu) will be better if you are a US citizen and plan on working in the US and taking step 1---these schools are designed to be similar to your counterparts in the US with method of teaching
furthermore, you are less likely to be blown up by a bomb or taken to court if you convert to christianity, but that is a side note
skipper
that was afghanistan

mak2675

03-30-2006, 01:24 PM

yeah thanx sara00 and kite_runner for the help. So it takes 5 years for the basic completion of med school. Sara00 mentioned that its better to wait till completion and wait 8 months. So i'm assuming i have to wait every 8 months to take the test. So if the USMLE is given every 8 months and you can take only 1 part at a time that means 8+8+8=24 months or 2 years in addition to med school for the USMLE so thats 7 years! Or can i just take the entire thing the first time all 3 parts in which case it will be all done in 5 years and 8 months. If the latter (take all 3 parts at once) is true, is it realistic to think i can get a good score on all 3 USMLE's in one go with 8 months of study. Sorry if the question is little bit of a critical thinker but its really important than i find out!

Worrieddoc2be

03-30-2006, 05:39 PM

I always see ppl talkin abt USMLE... Is ne one interested in PLAB??? Does ne 1 know watz da procedure for that? PLEASE SHAREE....

sam212

03-30-2006, 09:19 PM

caribbean schools (ross, auc, and sgu) will be better if you are a US citizen and plan on working in the US and taking step 1---these schools are designed to be similar to your counterparts in the US with method of teaching

furthermore, you are less likely to be blown up by a bomb or taken to court if you convert to christianity, but that is a side note

skipper
Hey skipper, people usually go to Pakistan from highschool, not from college. I am usually against it. One must first try for American med schools and then turn to foreign schools.

sara00

03-31-2006, 04:57 PM

hey salam,

regarding IBCC... here's how it works for CANADIANS...take the avg of the following courses chem, bio, phy, eng, and ur hihest mark from grade 11 and 12... for example lets say in grade 11 u got : chem 80%, phy 75%, bio 85%, eng 86% and business 90% and then in grade 12 u got: chem 82%, phy 70%, bio 87%, eng 72% and business 92%... now take the avg of all these course -10% = ur estimated IBCC mark%! so thats how it works for CANADIANS... but for Americans... I'm not too sure how exactly it tworks but I'm guessing its the same process just replace -10% with -20%! ...I think... but for Canadians ONLY grade 11 and 12 count the rest grade 9 and 10 have NO VALUE!!! :(

mak2675: hmm...seems to me ur more worried about the amount of years it takes in medicine than other factors...look friend, to be honest with u...both ways, either aameriken or pakistani way...its about the SAME...infact pakistani way has waaay more struggle and difficulty than American way. My best suggestion to u is ...if u can work extremly hard in college and make it in an American med school than thats 100x bettter than going to pak...the reason behind this is... first of all ...u wont struggle for residency, cuz remember lets say u do end up completing ur USMLE asap...even less than one year...if u dont have a good mark meaning above 85%...then ur MBBS will have NO VALUE in the States! cuz just passing USMLE wont get u ANYWHERE!! plus whatever mark u get in USMLE, that mark will stay with u for atleast 7 years! so u can call it "one try only"! So my friend, dont look at how many years...cuz once ur in medicine...its a pretty loooong process in order to get into sum good specialization field like cardio, etc.. even specialication takes many years depending on ur chosen field...but the harder u work... the sweeter life gets in the end...;)

worrieddoc: plab is composed of two parts...plab I and plab II...compare to USMLE, plab is much easier...and plus if u choose british way, ur years of residency that u completed in pak will count in UK too...in other word u can directly go for specializtion...but the problem with UK is that currently there are hardly any job in UK for IMG...hope in few years it gets bettter down there!

Sara

sine240

03-31-2006, 11:23 PM

as i saw this website, i was astonished to see so many paki's interested in going to pak med schools, like me..So motivated...

well here it goes..i need HELP Big TIME

currently a senior in a US high school
planning on going to Pak this summer to apply for med schools
i wanted to know what the SAT I minimum requirement was for dow, smc, and ziauddin...although i have emailed them several times, i have not gotten any replies..maybe because they are so ignorant..

i heard baqai is cheap in aspects of studies..or preparing one for USMLE's ....etc..etc.

i have a friend who is also applying to pak med schools..she has a low SAT score like 1010, but a good gpa.3.9, and lots of ec's..she is worried whether she even meets the minimum requirements, if she applies as a foreigner..do they really out emphasis on SAT I scores?
However, if she applies as a local student, she would have to take the entrance exam, which is uncertain that she would get into schools or not, since she doesnt know what they test on.give her some advices

In my situation, i have applied to colleges here, because I am unsure whether i want go to Pak or not..the thing is...colleges start here in early september, but over there, if i apply as a local student (so i wont have to pay in dollars), entrance exams dates are in sept, oct, nov; that means i would have to skip my colleges, practically withdraw from them..having to forsake everything for the entracne exam and the interview...and i m not even sure which college i would get into..so what should i do??help me outtttttttttttttt plz

please give feedback to my situation and my friends..

Skipper

04-01-2006, 12:24 AM

i hurt people's feelings, my bad :)

Scott1981

04-01-2006, 08:47 AM

go to a US school and forget wasting time in Pakistanian Schools---keep that as your absolute last resort

skipper

skipper, what are you doing in pakistan? come back home to st maarten. :lol:

zan

04-01-2006, 05:42 PM

Pakistani students get more experience in Clinical sessions I think Personally, becuase in the USA there supervised alot more and more restricted on what they can & what they cant do. Usually when the Pakistani students go back to the states that lead the rounds during residency.

I dont think Great Britan Accepts anymore Pakistani MBBS students becuase its already compeditive as it is, also the British Students its hard for them to get residency within there own country.

If your an Overseas Pakistan (Both your parents are Pakistan, dosent matter where you were born) please apply for the Overseas Pakistani NIC (Shinkati card) because my parents they just submitted to get theres becasue they had the non-computerized cards and when they make theres then I can make mine.

Smeer

04-01-2006, 07:55 PM

Salam everyone!

sine240: I know exactly what you're going through; you sound exactly like me about 5 months ago! If you don't believe me, just ask sara, she's my witness ;) . Anyway, here's the deal. As you may or may not know, for gov. colleges you don't need SATs (neither SAT I <reasoning test> nor SAT II <subject test>). About the entry test, I can't say for 100% sure because I personally have not taken it, but from what I know here's my advice: don't risk taking it. From what I've heard, it's very tough. I have a cousin who took the entrance exam for med. colleges; she's a really good student (really high marks on her board exams, in the high 800s or low 900s), and she didn't place at all. In terms of American standards, if you haven't taken APs in Bio, Physics, and Chem, I wouldn't risk it. My relatives from Pak. sent me some of the entrance exam books, and they look really tough. It's very comparable to the AP curriculum, but there's a little bit more because with AP classes, the test guidelines always exaggerate the amount you need to know, and so you end up needing to prepare less for AP tests (at least if you have teachers who've know the AP tests inside out ;) ). It's not the same deal w/the Pakistan entry test. You have to know everything inside-out to compete for the entrance exam. If you're a hardcore studier and are EXTREMELY devoted, go for it. It's very risky though, especially if you're American. You'd have to waste one semester, as the entrance exam is around the end of October/beginning of November.

To sum it all up, my best advice would be to apply as a foreigner. It's much easier and less competitive (with regards to competition in Pakistan). If you want to take the entry test, you have to have a really good/solid understanding of college level bio, chem, and physics (english is a joke esp. if you're from canada/U.S./U.K. :) ). Even so, it's pretty risky if you're a typical college-bound student.

sine240

04-01-2006, 08:19 PM

smeer..

thanks for not ignoring my message

anywayz..tell me the procedure of applying as a foreigner..look..if i apply as a foreigner to gov colleges...how will they even judge me be.???obviously through test scores and gpa...if they are not good enough..they will not going to accept me..and interview is thus at the later time..now what should i do..

hey do u have AIM that`i can personally talk to u from

jamalhurrice

04-01-2006, 11:08 PM

Salam
DOes any one know the deadline for Ibcc marks ... secondly does ibcc accept summer school marks. For ex i have a 74 in english and i want to upgrade it but i wont get my mark till end of July... and that mark will be on a seperate report card. If i hand that in with my transcript ... will they accpet the new english mark or no?
Jazakalah
Wassalam

Smeer

04-02-2006, 01:16 AM

Salam all!

sine240: I definitely see your dilemma, sine. If your test scores and/or gpa understates your skills in bio, chem, and physics, then by all means you should go and take the entrance exam. As this is not the case for most students, for most students I wouldn't recommend it. By applying as a foreigner, you don't risk wasting a semester of college, and often your chances are higher applying as a foreigner, because the entrance exam is very tough. If you didn't make it as a foreigner, chances are you wouldn't make it as a local applicant.

There's basically a two-step process when applying as a foreigner, both to gov. and private schools. First you need to get your equivalence certificate made. To do this you must fill out a form from the IBCC website and attest all the required documents. After doing so you must submit the application and documents to one of several IBCC offices in Pakistan (either directly or through your local embassy/consulate). After you get your equivalence certificate (which tells you what your marks would be if you had gone through the Pakistani education system), you turn in your application to government or private colleges. All government colleges have one central application. Each private college has its own. The deadlines for submission of each application vary. The deadline for having your IBCC certificate is at the very end of August/early September of each year. For more info, I would contact sara because she's gone through the whole process and knows it inside out; she's helped me learn the whole process and know how to do everything, but as I myself have not been through the process yet (I'm still a junior in high school), I don't know all the specifics. Best of luck, if you have any more questions, feel free to ask.

jamalhurrice: The deadline for IBCC marks is the very end of August/early September. I'm not sure what it will be this year, but probably very close to the same time. As for your summer school english class, by the time you get your report card, it should be on your transcript. Instead of sending a separate copy of your report card result, I would go back to your high school and get an updated copy of your transcript. All that can be assured is that the IBCC checks your transcript. They may or may not look at your summer school result. Don't take any risks and get an updated transcript, because if you get a report card w/your grade, it's sure to be on your latest transcript too.

jamalhurrice

04-02-2006, 12:39 PM

Salam
Thanks sameer for the reply... do u knw if their website says when the deadline is cuz i looked all over and i couldnt find anything....
wassalam

Smeer

04-02-2006, 05:03 PM

Salam everyone,

jamalhurrice: The deadlines for everything used to be on the King Edward Medical College website (www.kemc.edu), but i guess they're updating their site and they haven't uploaded the deadlines page yet. If I were you I'd check around summer time or call up some relatives in Pakistan and ask em to get all the required info. It's easier for them to get info. than it is for us...although it would be ideal if you went in person, because no on over there knows EXACTLY what you want, but if that's not an option, just see if you can get someone in Pakistan to get the deadlines to you. If I see anything, I'll tell/give you the website.

Raider4Life

04-03-2006, 12:02 AM

hey you guys have any info on the medical schools in Punjab on the Indian side? Is the process similiar to Pakistan? any info would help.
remember dont study hard, study smart! ;)

Irum Khawaja

04-03-2006, 12:40 AM

Hye everyone! I'm new here, i was really releaved to find some great info on Pak Medical colleges here. I'v ebeen searching for all this for months.
Anyways, I am currently in Vietnam and am studying in an International American school. The thing is i can't pay for all the colleges in US. i want to know what do you think my chances are in AKU. I read it's easier for foreign students but i'm an international student not really a foreign resident, i did my 10th grade in Pak the secondary whatever curriculum. So i'm really nervous for my addmission. What do you guys think will it be easy or hard?

Irum Khawaja

04-03-2006, 12:47 AM

hye guys! i just joined this forum and I have the same problem. I really don't want to risk taking the entrance exam but the thing is i am not really a foreign resident and plus i can't pay thousands of dollars. I am a studednt at an American school. i can't really figure out what i should do. ANY SUGGESTIONS????

Irum Khawaja

04-03-2006, 12:58 AM

[quote=sara00]salam friends,

Rehan: So after 100 years we met again! ;) U know what happened...I applied last year but my school didnt give me my offical transcript so when I send it to the IBCC ppl they refused to convert my marks and the sad part was I thought my marks were getting converted yet they were not and no one even informed me either... so after several weeks later... I told my uncle to go to Islamabad to check out what happend and later I found out my transcript was not in a sealed enveloppe so I had to re-send everything!!! As a result I wasted so much time and when my marks did fianlly got converted it was tooo late...so the EAD ppl put me in their "waiting list". But u know what my IBCC marks were pretty good too they were in 800's and ppl who had lower marks than I did got in this year! So then I joined university of toronto...I guess...its all part of "kismet" ....maybe there was sumthing good in it... :) But inshalla I'll apply again this year and lets see where I'll end up! ;)

By the way since ur in pak med school why not share ur experience with all of us... I mean when u first went to pak how was it? did u have hard time getting use to the environment, like the heat, insects, food, water, etc.. Also what were some of the challenges u faced? Ur good times? and ur worst momments? things u like and dislike.... And also any advice for us future students who are thinking of pak med schools? and one more thing..most gurls have one thing in mind... "safety"...is it pretty safe down there?

It would be sooo good to hear from u! Wish u all the best in ur studies!

itihad: We kinda forgot about u ;) ...listen friend... from what heard usually a student can transfer after there 2nd year and that transfer is acceptable within the province, and I heard even getting a transfer from one province to another is IMPOSSIBLE... so now the question is regarding international transfer...so u can probably predic the answer to that question, right? But since I'm not 100% sure ...u should go to the king edward website and email them and aks them if is possible to transfer from an international med school to a pakistani med school and the uncle-jee who'll know the answer to this question his name is "Abdul Hmeed" so ask them to give u his email address and talk to him directly...

Hope this help...if u still dont get ur answer PM me and I'll try to contact uncle Hussain, who's in charge of the EAD admissions!

eagle: heeey they opening a new med school at UTM??? woo hoo! why u going then?? stay here and work hard! ;) ...by the way I asked the Aga ppl and they said u can write the SATI on may 6 too and just fax us ur online marks before may 30...so if someone wishes to write in May is still possible! :)

take care,

Irum: How exactly does the coversion work, say you have 3.5 GPA then what happens next????

Irum Khawaja

04-03-2006, 12:59 AM

[quote=Irum Khawaja][quote=sara00]salam friends,

Rehan: So after 100 years we met again! ;) U know what happened...I applied last year but my school didnt give me my offical transcript so when I send it to the IBCC ppl they refused to convert my marks and the sad part was I thought my marks were getting converted yet they were not and no one even informed me either... so after several weeks later... I told my uncle to go to Islamabad to check out what happend and later I found out my transcript was not in a sealed enveloppe so I had to re-send everything!!! As a result I wasted so much time and when my marks did fianlly got converted it was tooo late...so the EAD ppl put me in their "waiting list". But u know what my IBCC marks were pretty good too they were in 800's and ppl who had lower marks than I did got in this year! So then I joined university of toronto...I guess...its all part of "kismet" ....maybe there was sumthing good in it... :) But inshalla I'll apply again this year and lets see where I'll end up! ;)

By the way since ur in pak med school why not share ur experience with all of us... I mean when u first went to pak how was it? did u have hard time getting use to the environment, like the heat, insects, food, water, etc.. Also what were some of the challenges u faced? Ur good times? and ur worst momments? things u like and dislike.... And also any advice for us future students who are thinking of pak med schools? and one more thing..most gurls have one thing in mind... "safety"...is it pretty safe down there?

It would be sooo good to hear from u! Wish u all the best in ur studies!

itihad: We kinda forgot about u ;) ...listen friend... from what heard usually a student can transfer after there 2nd year and that transfer is acceptable within the province, and I heard even getting a transfer from one province to another is IMPOSSIBLE... so now the question is regarding international transfer...so u can probably predic the answer to that question, right? But since I'm not 100% sure ...u should go to the king edward website and email them and aks them if is possible to transfer from an international med school to a pakistani med school and the uncle-jee who'll know the answer to this question his name is "Abdul Hmeed" so ask them to give u his email address and talk to him directly...

Hope this help...if u still dont get ur answer PM me and I'll try to contact uncle Hussain, who's in charge of the EAD admissions!

eagle: heeey they opening a new med school at UTM??? woo hoo! why u going then?? stay here and work hard! ;) ...by the way I asked the Aga ppl and they said u can write the SATI on may 6 too and just fax us ur online marks before may 30...so if someone wishes to write in May is still possible! :)

take care,

Irum: How exactly does the coversion work, say you have 3.5 GPA then what happens next???? And also does the board require AP classes or SAT 2s and stuff.

sam212

04-03-2006, 01:37 PM

Alright guys, I know a lot about Pakistani med schools but not quite as much as some of you guys. A buddy of mine recently asked me whether Pakistani med schools will accept people with GED certificates. My answer to him was sure if IBCC issues a certificate noting that it's equivalent to a Pakistani Intermediate certificate with a distinction of pre-med. However, I have no clue if in fact IBCC will accept a GED certificate in leiu of a high school diploma. Anyone knows or even have a slightest clue? If they do accept it, it's an external exam thus they must be scoring it differently than high school transcripts. Anyway, if anyone knows please answer this for me.

SAnaA

04-03-2006, 05:16 PM

I am a current high school graduate in TX...i jus wanna know can sumone plz xplain 2 me da difference between applyin as an oversea student and as a foreign. And also what is meant by technical assistance. If sumone in here is 4rm DMC..plz contact me. ThaNKz.

sara00

04-03-2006, 06:13 PM

hey salam friends,

Sine240: hey welcome, regarding SATs and interviews, they are only required for private med schools like Aga and Shifa, etc.. but for government med schools…no need for SAT, no interviews only ur high school transcript which first needs to be converted from IBCC…
And regarding entrance exam…my best advice avoid it! Why ? two reasons… 1) pak education level is so much higher than Can/US 2) competition is hell down here!! Let me tell u how entrance exam works… the mark u get on ur entrance exam+ ur IBCC mark divided by two= ur avg IBCC mark! So the risky part is let say u get 60% on ur entrance exam and 80% on ur IBCC marks… and when u take the avg of both marks it will reduce ur overall IBCC mark (which is required to get in). Best thing apply as a foreigner! But if u really think u can pass entrance exam only then go for it…or best way, what I was planning to do was write the entrance exam and apply as a foreigner…increases ur chances for admission…;)

Also make up ur mind where u wanna study…u see me.. I always wanted to study in pak but since there were problems in my application that’s why I joined university of Toronto, not to waste my year but ended up wasting money…but lucky sum miracle happened my name appeared in the 2nd list for pak med schools…so I got admission in Nawabshah, in Sindh, and everyone told me ur soo lucky u got in now go for it esp my family and all my friends were for it but what I did was I rejected it cuz its tooo far for me and I wanted to stay with family, and at that time I thought I made a mistake …so another HUGE miracle happened that my name appeared on the 3rd list that came out this weekend …and guess what?? one gurl who got in, didn’t come so as a result I got that seat….in Fatimah Jinnah, LAHORE! So inshalla will go to school next week since its spring holidays nowdays but got sooooo much to catch up missed near 4months of study!!!! (do remember me in ur prayers)

Did u guys know in Punjab there are only 4 seats per med school as self finance!! But in Sindh like Liquat has 18 seats!!! No wonder they put everyone in Sindh..cuz to get into Punjab med school is sooo hard esp in Lahore (only 12 seats out of which 4 are ONLY for gurls cuz there are only three govern med schools King, Allama And fatimah! There are others but don’t know if they recognized yet or not) Even if my application was good the first time ..my name on the first list would have been for Multan, or Bahurpur or Sindh…but allhamdulilah Allah always helped me !

Jamal: there is no deadline for IBCC…I mean u can convert ur marks when ever u wish…but there is a deadline for EAD;) …which is end of aug! (hope it’s the same this year..keep checking EAD’s website for updated info) and regarding summer school…they wont look at ur report card…ONLY ur transcript so u better change ur mark ON the transcript okay!

Raider4life: welcome, I believe it’s a similar process for Indian med schools too, the best way to find out is contact or go personally visit the Indian embassy in ur area or country and tell them u wish to study in India and whats the process, I’m sure they will have the application too… all the best!

Irum: if u did grade 11 and 12 out side pak then u will be consider as a forgeiner or international student..same thing! But u wish u pay in rupees…do u have high marks? I mean is u avg above 90% is yes u might have chances of getting in as technical assistance if not…even getting under self finance is very hard… but friend… the tution fee for Lahore medical schools are $10,000 US per year and but for the rest of the pak med schools its $5,000. Also nowdays many ppl went to court to reduce Lahore’s fee to $5,000… maybe by end of this year it might become $5,000 US like the rest of pak med school under self finance…and if u compare this fee with other international med school…pak way is still cheaper… also there are sum international loans, bank loans, etc.. honestly don’t worry about money yet…just getting in, is the toughest part…once u get in then decide whether u can manage it or not…if u can that’s grrreat!:p

Regarding IBCC…if u have 80% avg, and ur American they will reduce ur marks by 20% and therefore ur IBCC converted mark will be 60%!!!! Its verrry unfair…but that’s how it is…I argued with them but its there policies…but always fight with them cuz u never know …maybe u might be able to slighty increase ur marks…cuz even on one mark let say 815, there are over 5 students with the same mark..so let say by fighting they increase only one mark, u have increased ur chances 10x more! For local student..they play on decimals now! Its crazy down here to get into med school!;)

Sam: GED…whats that? More detail plz… maybe then I can answer ur question..

Sana: oversea is when u carry pak identity with u like pak pass port or pak NIC and the advantage with this is that if u have really high marks, over 90% then u have chances of getting under technical assistance which means u only pay in pak rupees as a local Pakistani ..and to apply as a foreinger is when u don’t have ANY pak identity…so even if u have high marks u cant get under technical assistance …they will put u under self finance…by the way there are only about 16 technical assistance seat for overseas in Pakistan and about 63 for self finance! That’s why its soo hard to get into government med schools!

P.S. all those who send me PM… sum how from my computer I cant open my PM, (in pak net is soo slow and donest work sumtimes) …so resend ur msg by going to my name and clicking on “send email” instead of PM… and when ever I get time inshalla will reply!:)

Sara

Smeer

04-03-2006, 07:52 PM

Salam everyone!

Congratulations Sara on making it into Fatimah Jinnah!!!

May Allah SWT keep you happy and enable to you to work hard. Thank you soo much for everything you've done for everyone on this thread. We all really appreciate it and you do really well @ Fatima Jinnah!

Skipper

04-03-2006, 07:52 PM

i bit too harsh on my part---- :)

desai29

04-03-2006, 07:56 PM

any chicago student?

Worrieddoc2be

04-04-2006, 12:44 AM

SARA: Congratulations, Sara for gettin accepted to FATIMA JINNAH.... May U Be SUCCESSFUL... (aamin)

----------------------------------------------------------------------
AssyrianSkipper: yo, u listen to me... juz stop comin on this pakistan medical school thread... iight??? n dont u dare sayin ne shyt abt ma country... U GET WAT U DESERVE...got it? dont make me swear @ u... juz go away... tell me sum, y u so curious to come, read n den comment on this thread.. UR COMMENTS ON ANY TOPIC ARE NOR DESIRED NEITHER REQUIRED!!!!!!!!! hope u gettin ma point...
GOOD BYE FOR GOOD ....

sine240

04-04-2006, 01:30 AM

sara

so r u sure that gov colleges only look at ur gpa???..i have a 3.9..so that means i will def be admitted to dow or smc (places i want to get into)???
i dont really think thats how it goes..there must be something else that admissions committe would judge foreign students on..i mean there u have 50 foreign students with 4.0 gpa..who all want to get into dow..now who will get into the med school if they all have the same 4.0s??? <there is something else hidden perhaps that admission counselors are looking for>?

as far as i am concerned...even SAT II is required.<.hopefully i m wrong.>.but thats what ive heard..u r expericned...u could perhaps tell me.......
even the interviews..are a requirement...thats why we have to go to Pakistan if selected to be a semifinalist for the admissiion in the college....

so again...no SAT in gov colleges..u sure 100%?

some questions right there....

Irum Khawaja

04-04-2006, 04:25 AM

Hey Sarah,
Congrats for getting in. It definitely is a great accomplishment.
By the way what subjects did you take in your highschool, because i read that they require APs in Chem Bio and Phy. I have to figure out what subjects I should take in year 12. And also are you going in as a foreign student or not. And what GPA should I aim for. I hope it's not 4.0.
Anyways do reply if you can and congrats again.

Irum Khawaja

04-04-2006, 04:40 AM

how do things work for foreign students. DO they have a certain number of seats for them or do they apply for self finance. My current GPA is 3.8 if i maintain it is that good enough, also my parents want me to take pre-calc next year but i think all it will do is bring my GPA down, did you take, do you think I should? And if one goes under technical assistance is entry test required? I know that I am asking a lot of questions but i'v been looking for someone who could answer them for be for last 8 months. And i am so grateful that you are taking time to answer them. May God Bless you!

itihad

04-04-2006, 05:35 AM

Also make up ur mind where u wanna study…u see me.. I always wanted to study in pak but since there were problems in my application that’s why I joined university of Toronto, not to waste my year but ended up wasting money…but lucky sum miracle happened my name appeared in the 2nd list for pak med schools…so I got admission in Nawabshah, in Sindh, and everyone told me ur soo lucky u got in now go for it esp my family and all my friends were for it but what I did was I rejected it cuz its tooo far for me and I wanted to stay with family, and at that time I thought I made a mistake …so another HUGE miracle happened that my name appeared on the 3rd list that came out this weekend …and guess what?? one gurl who got in, didn’t come so as a result I got that seat….in Fatimah Jinnah, LAHORE! So inshalla will go to school next week since its spring holidays nowdays but got sooooo much to catch up missed near 4months of study!!!! (do remember me in ur prayers)
Sara

congratulations on getting what you wanted.

do update us on how Pak medical schools are from the education point of view. thanks.

desai29

04-04-2006, 05:57 AM

Sara Fantastic!!

jamalhurrice

04-04-2006, 11:21 AM

Salam
Congrats Sarah....
if u go as a foriegner, do u have to do the entry test? and isthis entry test like SAT II material or harder?
wasssalam

Muslimah88

04-04-2006, 01:12 PM

Desai29: hey i live in milwaukee, wisconsin!
Sara00: congrats! im really happy that you finally got what you deserve!
my parents want me to get into Fatima because its all girls but i dont wanna go there (not that i kno much about the place) i wanna go to shifa or aku or some other private place
oh and could you please post what you think about Fatima jinnnah and every single thing that you find out about it when you come back from the visit cause i need info
thank

I LOVE THIS FORUM!

Smeer

04-04-2006, 06:55 PM

Salam all!

sine240: For sure, 100%, you don't need SAT I or SAT II scroes for GOVERNMENT medical colleges. They are required for private colleges like AKU. Just as a rule of thumb, nothing is ''for sure." As sara has said numerous times on this forum, it has a lot to do w/your ''kismet'' (fate), especially with the government colleges. Having a high gpa will increase your odds, but there no guarantee that you'll make it. That's why it's always good to keep all your options open ;) .

Irum Khawaja: You don't need APs in Bio, Chem, and Physics; just basice (college-prep) bio, chem, and physics will do. Good grades in APs will increase your odds, and they will make you better prepared, as the AP level cirriculum for bio, chem, and physics in America is the equivalent of 11th and 12th grade bio, chem, and physics cirriculum in Pakistan. As for gpa, do the best you can; the higher the better, leave the rest up to Allah SWT ;) . Each year the GPA boundary is different, and each year the competition gets tougher and tougher. Under technical assistance, there is no entry test. I personally contacted the KEMC staff through email and received the reply to this question directly.

jamalhurrice: As a foreigner, you won't take the entrance exam. In general, the entrance is exam is a bit more difficult than the SAT II. My relatives in Pakistan sent me the Pak. Med. College Entrance exam practice books w/100s of questions in each subject, and relating it to American standards, it's the equivalent of AP-level subjects. The questions are more straightforward than those presented on the APs (which is in one sense, good). The only thing is, for the APs, often times the cirriculum guides list more material than is actually covered in an AP course, and you end up needing to know less for the actual AP test. This is not the case with the Pak. entrance exam; you gotta know it all. In this sense, the Pak. exam is a bit harder than the APs, but in general, just view it as a super-AP exam: AP Bio, AP Chem, and AP Physics all in one! (along with English, but if you've studied English in America, Canada, or UK, the English section should be waay easy!)

sine240

04-04-2006, 07:34 PM

hey yall

look i m a so lost...THERE IS the SAT requirement for gov colleges..how do they select the foreigners with 4.0 gpas?? its not primarily LUCK...seriously man..
and do u guys know what is the best gov college in karachi after dow??

as a senior..if i got to PAK this yera in august..and stay there till november..to get the results out..i will end up losing a SEMESTER>>how so LAME!!"
so when do i send in my forms to colleges then?
Guide me ..

Smeer

04-04-2006, 11:25 PM

Salam all,

sine240: if you're going to apply as a foreigner, you don't have to go to Pak. yourself and waste a semester. You can send your application through your local consulate/embassy or have someone in Pakistan submit it for you after you get your equivalence certificate (the deadline to submit it to the EAD in Pakistan is normally at the end of August/early September, it's a little different every year so you have to get in contact with the EAD and find out when that is). The only reason to go to Pak. from August-Nov. is if you want to take the entry test.

As far as SATs....they aren't required; The following is a list of attested school documents that the IBCC requires:

General requirements for cases of U.S.A and Canada
i. Original Grade-9 to 12 transcript duly sealed and embossed by the issuing authority (Ministry of Education) with total required credits and total earned credits report.
ii. Proof of Accreditation of the School.
iii. AP College Board results
iv. Original High School Diploma
v. Attested copy of Passport
vi. Three set copies of each certificates besides sealed transcript.

The whole form is available at the IBCC website, http://www.ibcc.edu.pk/Forms/form.asp

SAT results are not required for gov. colleges. To answer your question, sine, they would more likely look at your AP classes and AP results to weed out applicants, as AP results are required to be attested if you have taken any AP exams. At least, they would look to AP results first since they are explicitly mentioned on the IBCC form, as opposed to SAT scores which are not mentioned at all on the form. Again, this is only for American applicants.

Irum Khawaja

04-05-2006, 01:13 AM

i heard we can submit SAT 2 scores intead of taking entrance exam. Is that true or not??

docforlife123456789

04-05-2006, 01:47 AM

for private colleges it's true

docforlife123456789

04-05-2006, 01:54 AM

I think it's better to stay in USA or Canada if u are doing Medicine...... In college u do have the oppurtunity to take great classes such as physiology, anatomy... and neurobiology..... After ur 3rd yaers u are well prepared to take the MCAT.. ANd the mean score on the MCAT is 30 out of 45.. not bad at all. U also get to do research in colleges uder different departments of science. I mean ur prefessors are great in USA/ Canada... and in Medical school 98% of the students get their MD degree... in PK its 75-80% for givernment colleges and for private its worst..... I think Aga Khan is better.... but still people who do USMLE don't get to specialize in surgery, radiology, and some subspecialty of surgery and internal medicine... Most people coming from PK after doing USMLE, tend to do their residency in Family medicine.

Irum Khawaja

04-05-2006, 03:03 AM

Hey Sara! under what category are you admitted i mean is it tech support. How much will you be paying per year. And also while coverting do they look at the overall GPA, i mean i have a bunch of art classes (Chorus and stuff) do they look at them. And what if you did a science class twice in 11 and 12. i'm doing chem this year and will be doing AP chem next year.
And also can we control what we send to the i mean if i don't get a good grade on my AP chem class next year can i just send the CHem class of this year?
Do they treay AP classes any different. I mean my transcript wil have the grades i got in AP class, which is different from the actual AP exam grade. How do they look at that?

Smeer

04-05-2006, 03:31 AM

Hey salam everyone!

Irum Khawaja: Unfortunately, the IBCC doesn't look at art classes. For double sciences, like lets say basic chem and then AP chem, from what I've heard, they'll do one of two things: Take your AP chem grade/AP test grade or they'll average the score of your AP chem grade and basic chem grade. This is just my guess, as no one knows for sure exactly how they equate American grades to the Pakistani system in light of AP scores, grades in AP classes, and AP classes in general. If anyone does, please share! I'd really like to know what the heck the IBCC does with your AP classes/your AP test scores!

Smeer

04-05-2006, 11:24 PM

Salam everyone.

Just wanted to clarify that the info I supplied above was regarding Medical Colleges in Punjab. It applies if you're interested in going to any of the following schools:

King Edward Medical College, Lahore.
Fatima Jinnah Medical College for Women, Lahore.
Nishtar Medical College, Multan.
Quaid-e-Azam Medical College, Bahawalpur.
Punjab Medical College, Faisalabad.
Rawalpindi Medical College, Rawalpindi.
Allama Iqbal Medical College, Lahore.
Services Institute of Medical Sciences, Lahore.
Sheikh Zayed Medical College, Rahim Yar Khan.

RehanSAlvi

04-06-2006, 04:23 AM

Hey Sara, congratulations on Fathima Jinnah!

Are you joining with this year's class? (Class of 2010?)

I wish you the best of luck!

sam212

04-06-2006, 10:41 AM

Sara, congratulations! you get to stay in Lahore. You'll be a doc in five years and you are only 18, and I am 22 and not even in med school yet, son of a ........Just kidding. Congrats on that acceptance. We know you'll make a superb doctor.

sam212

04-06-2006, 10:48 AM

sam212

04-06-2006, 10:56 AM

so basically, if you fight and argue and maybe bribe them a little you will have higher markers---sounds like a very ethical place

skipper

Skipper, please stop with your irrational posts. No one here has said anything about bribing anyone. As for arguing, if you feel like you have been shafted, you re-present your case to the committee there and if you convince them that in fact you deserved higher marks, they will increase your marks, otherwise it's fruitles. As for ethics, you know you can even get into med school in the US if you know the dean, you don't necessarily have to be on the par with other applicants. Same goes with residency spot, if you know the PD, you will get the spot. In fact I know some one who never applied for the match and started her residency in september because she knew the PD. These things happen all over the world not just in Pakistan or India. Here, it's called networking, over there you call it unethical. Sounds like hypocricy to me. Anyway, what's your problem with pakistani med schools to begin with? Pakistani med schools have a criteria for admission and take reasonably sound applicants. All of the pakistani schools are approved by California medical board because of these higher standards. They are not diploma mills as some of the caribbean schools. May be you should research a little more before you open your mouth man.

stephew

04-06-2006, 11:23 AM

one free reminder: if you have an objection to a post, hit the report post button. TOS apply even to responces to posts that are against tos. No whinging about "he started it" will be considered. this is grownup land folks. Thank you.

jamalhurrice

04-07-2006, 12:25 PM

Salam
SO if u apply under techncial assistance or self finance, u wont have to do entry test?

ayesha_87

04-07-2006, 03:03 PM

Assryian Skipper.....u can be sued under the tort of defamation...for ure immature comments....so I would advise you hush up...

Skipper

04-07-2006, 03:13 PM

my comments have been deleted, i shall no longer visit my this wonderfully entertaining page of information. i guess, a little bit of scarsm and negative feedback is not really welcomed here----

it is a shame---:)

Smeer

04-07-2006, 06:29 PM

Salam everyone!
jamalhurrice: You are correct. If you apply under technical assistance or self-finance you won't have to take the entry test.

well_wisher88

04-09-2006, 05:28 PM

salamz everybody,

letz find out who z applying this year 2006?

juz copy this post n write ur name there!
__________________________________________________ _____________
Ali

sine240

04-09-2006, 10:32 PM

hey i m applying

sine

Muslimah88

04-11-2006, 12:31 PM

hey im applyin this year

saher

04-12-2006, 12:37 PM

who is currently studing or planing on going to KEMC if anyone is plzz can u contact me at this email address addictive86@hotmail.com.... because my sister plans on going there and she is from canada and i need detailed info if some one is willing to help its her second last year in high school and i wanted to know when she should start applying and where to get the applications and stuff like that...plz help...........
thanx
Saher....

jamalhurrice

04-12-2006, 07:24 PM

INshallah i will be applyin this year

sine240

04-12-2006, 10:48 PM

hey is`kemc a government college or a private one?

Worrieddoc2be

04-13-2006, 12:29 AM

KEMC is a government college...

Smeer

04-13-2006, 04:36 PM

Hey salam everyone!

saher: If you have any specific questions, feel free to ask! There's a LOOOOOOOOOOOOT of info about applying, and it might be easier if you ask a little at a time (or go back through some of the old posts) so that you don't get overwhelmed and also so that it's easier for ppl to reply.

sara1922

04-15-2006, 11:30 PM

hey..does anyone know how does graduates from ziauddin medical university perform on usmle..whats the passing rate...

how tough are the studies there... how many hours does medical students actually have to study... does students make study groups or self study....how are the tests and examinations like...

what courses do we take in first year..second..and third..

i heard the first year is the most difficult of all the medical school years and then the second.. last two are just clinical rotations and all...

please tell me about the medical school life and the study hours...etc if anyone knows about it

thanks

zan

04-18-2006, 06:54 AM

Remember when your going to come here and your a Pakistani (your born in pakistan or at least one of your parents is born in pakistan) Please Make your Shinankti card NIC. Right now Im studying at LUMHS that NIC card is important thats your main source of Identfication. My parents had there old shinkati card and in order for me to get a shinkati card (BTW I was born in New York CIty) my parents had to submit the forums to get s new computerized NIC card. THey submitted the forums in April to the pakistani embassy in DC and just got the cards last week. My mom is going to mail me a copy of the cards so I can make my shinkati card. I strongly suggest you make ur Shinakti card. If you make the NICOP or POC then you dont need a visa and you can use those cards as ur visa.

GO here for more info http://www.embassyofpakistan.org/nicop.php

SurgeonIN10years

04-18-2006, 12:06 PM

How is King Edward, ranked amond pakistani med schools?

Worrieddoc2be

04-20-2006, 04:12 AM

As far as i know, most of us want to get into KING EDWARD, which is pretty hard yet not impossible... King Edward is one of the old MED SKOOL in PAKISTAN which makes it recognized by all of the organizations such as WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION etc... If u have ne specific questions, please ask cuz juz askin how is it among otha pak MED SKOOL is a vast sort of question...

Irum Khawaja

04-20-2006, 05:37 AM

Can we apply both in technical support and main stream (entry test)? I mean, I don't want to risk taking entry test but there are v.few seats under tech support to can we apply for the main stream as a back up. S that if we don't get under tech we still have a chance.

asu_tx

04-20-2006, 06:37 AM

I have came across some one from ziauddin medical university doing residency here in U.S, and there is another studend of final year who scored 99. As you may have already know that med schools in Pakistan don't prepare you specifically for USMLE, so you need to plan for it from your first year in school. I also came to know that a studend from Hamdard Medical College (fairly new school) got matched this year in 'RADIOLOGY' program.

Smeer

04-20-2006, 01:59 PM

Salam all!

sara1922: Sorry don't know exactly what the pass rates are for ziauddin, but going by the info that asu_tx provided, I'd say it's pretty high! The deal w/most of the recognized medical colleges in Pakistan (all gov. and many private ones) is that they have very high standards for teaching. Even if they don't specifically prepare you for the USMLE, the coursework is rigorous enough so that when you prepare for the USMLE on your own, it isn't too tough with regards to the whole med. school experience.
Studies in Pakistan, just like in any other country's med. school (even U.S.), is tough. From what I heard, you spend on average several hours a day studying (whether or not you have a test coming up!). Testing at each school varies. At the older schools like KE, they still use the old essay-type tests where you pretty much write as much as you can in a given time period about a certain topic. Other schools like Alama Iqbal have more modern approaches involving multiple-choice tests. It depends on where you end up.

If you would like to know what the course of study is for the government medical colleges is, just go to www.kemc.edu . Look for the prospectus and scroll down to the last few pages where there is an outline telling you the topics covered during each year of med. school.

SurgeonIN10years: I'd have to agree with Worrieddoc2be's answer. In general, King Edward is considered the best med. college in Pakistan, at least among the government colleges. The thing is, some aspects of the college are getting a bit outdated from what I hear, such as the old-fashion essay testing system and lack of updated institutions like say those of Alama Iqbal or AKU. The reason it's still considered the best, however, is because the best of the best go there! That doesn't necessarily make it the best, if you know what I mean. It's really a matter of how you define best. If ''best'' is where all the smarties go, then KE is the best, but if you're looking for updated facilities and up-to-date educational systems, you might consider AKU and Alama Iqbal to be the best. Whatever your opinion, as a whole, they're all really really good.

Irum Khawaja: Yes, Irum, if you want you can apply in both tech. assistance and main stream as a local Pakistani. I would not advise this for several reasons (but again, this is just my opinion). First, if you don't make it under technical assistance, it's not likely that you're going to make it in mainstream. As tough as the foreigner competition may seem, local competition is even tougher. The entry test is no walk in the park, partly due to the extremity of the competition. Also, you would have to waste a semester of your college or university studies to go and take the test, as it is administered late in September or early in October. Unless you feel that your grades are a complete misrepresentation of you knowledge in physics, bio, chem, and english, I wouldn't risk taking the entry test. If you're curious to see how hard it is, have someone you know send you some Pak. Med. College Entrance Exam prep. books to get an idea of the questions.

asu_tx: nice to hear that our fellow Pakis are doing good :) !

sine240

04-20-2006, 06:27 PM

asu_tx
the grad from ziauddin is enrolled in what kind of residency??what speciafiaclly were his smles' scores?

that seems that ziauddin, although fairly new, has some grads in USA..i wonder of they had to do some kind of research first..

asu_tx

04-25-2006, 04:25 AM

You can see her (name's initials are S.K) details in the following link:

http://www.med.wright.edu/im/res/residents.html

She is in internal Medicine of a university program so I think she scored pretty well in her USMLE.

I think her private email is posted on Ziauddin's alumani link you can contact her for more info. Ziauddin is fairly new but it is started by the family of Dr. Ziauddin Ahmed who was the vice chancelor of Aligarh Muslim University and they have hired all the best teachers from all over pakistan.

sine240

04-27-2006, 06:48 PM

so how many foreign seat are there in dow, smc, ziauddin?

does anyone know..?

does anyone know someone who got accepted to one of these colleges above? if so, could u please tell us the ibcc score attained??

(just want to see where my gpa would fall in)

smart99

04-28-2006, 10:06 AM

i need advice regarding medcial school..i got chance in saint petersburg state medcial academy in rusia and another one in dow medcail collge pakistann..which one is best option????????

asu_tx

04-28-2006, 03:02 PM

If you have roots in Pakistan then I will advise you to go to Dow. Dow is one of the best med school with lots of of practicing physicians in US and all over the world. I do know anything about St. Petersburg so can't say anything about it.

smart99

04-28-2006, 05:45 PM

as i have mentioned in my previous request,
sincerely i am now between choosing one of theses 2 medical university either :
1)dow medcail collge in pakistan or
2)saint petersburg state medical academy in russia
pleasely looking for suffiecinet information..:cry: :cry:

Zara_c

04-28-2006, 05:55 PM

I have just come across this forum now but I wish I had discovered it sooner, when I applied to pakistan as it would have helped me a lot. I can relate to many of you have had to put up with the IBCC. There is no organisation what so ever.

I applied to pakistan last year for admission in medicine and had no response until recently. I have been given a seat to study medicine this year. I accepted the offer but I dont know if it is the right thing. The classes started in Jan so I have missed 4 months so far. Can I really catch up and even pass the exams for this year? I would really appreciate your help and advice. Thank you.

smart99

04-28-2006, 08:14 PM

regarding the medical school in pakistan,sincerely i dont know.....
if you would apply for private medical school,i think thre is chance ,but for goverment ..i dont know...
my advice to you is to contact the university directly.....because i am in the same problem...
i have 2 option ,eitehr dow m collge or saint petersburg state medical academy in russia,,,,i dont really what to choose ...i need a help from some one...:cry: :cry:

Smeer

04-28-2006, 11:40 PM

Hey salam guys!

smart99: I can definitely see your dilemma. But getting back to asu_tx's argument, are you or your parents from Pakistan? Or do you have any other ties to the country? The answer to that question is one of the main factors that will probably affect your decision. Also, Pakistani medical schools are pretty well known around the world in the medical community as being among the finest. They definitely have high quality education, and although the coursework and studying might be tough, your ability to perform well on tests like the USMLE to come to America will be really good because of all the Pak. graduates that I know, all who have strived/studied have made it out pretty well.

Zara_c: Congrats on getting accepted! What school did you get into? I think you should just do the best you can in your studies for this year, and maybe take the same classes next year if you don't pass or don't feel very comfortable in those areas. I think it's really cool that you got in though, so don't doubt your decision quite yet! Just do your best, and even if you don't pass this year, don't worry about it. You started 4 months late; that's a looot of time. It's okay if you have to repeat. You can start fresh next year and stay on track from there. If anything, just consider this year a ''warm up'' if you feel u're too far behind or something. But still do the best you can, because the more you try, the more it'll pay off in the end!

Hkhan

04-30-2006, 01:00 PM

I am applying to pakistan medical universities this summer and i am waiting for my results for Physics A-level also to come out in Summer (have taken alevel bio and maths before got A and a B).

So i was wondering what is the exact procedure to apply? I am in UK so do i apply from here or better to go to Pakistan IBCC...Also do i need to take an entry exams for government unis?

asu_tx

04-30-2006, 07:17 PM

Smart99, most of us are in the same boat, and we make decisions after getting all the information about any medical school and especially want to know not only the passing rate for USMLE but also what the score ranges are. I can sacrifice lots of things if I am sure that the education that I am going to get is more than sufficient for not only passing but scoring high in USMLE.

My research has confirmed with first hand experience after personally meeting these American students who are studying in dow, sind, ziauddin, and baqai. I met several students in these medical colleges who have scored 99 in their steps while I was visiting there. I also met a student at sind medical college who has scored 281 in step I.

If you start your school with a plan and don’t take away your eyes from usmle while in early days of your school, and incorporate your studies with some USMLE focused review books then for sure you will do well.

Most of the students told me that they have ‘First Aid’ from the very first day of med school and most of the books that mentioned at the end of first aid for review.

asu_tx

05-01-2006, 12:42 PM

I am going to start 'Medical University of Amercas - Nevis' from Sept. 06. After getting all the information. My first choice was to go to pakistan but since i didn't study premed which is required in pakistan and there is no other option available to remedy this missing piece so I 've decided to go to MUA-Nevis.

sajimar25

05-02-2006, 05:45 PM

Hi everyone, just wanted to let you know that I found out what technical assisstance is.

It is for overseas student going to Pakistan and you get your tuition waivered-you don't have to pay it; all you have to do then is manage your own expenses.

I had thought previously that it was where foreign students pay whatever national students pay( because they pay a bit less). But I guess I was wrong!

Just wanted to let everyone else know also

Hkhan

05-03-2006, 10:55 AM

Anybody can answer that question, which is:

Does a person applying under a foreign seat need to take an entrance exam. I learnt that you dont have to, but then some contacts in Pakistan who have spoken to the govt. universities say you have to? Are they wrong or mistaken, or are they correct...

Hkhan

05-03-2006, 10:56 AM

I have taken 4 a-levels, with mathematics being extra. So would that be of any benefit when i send my results to IBCC....or they dont even regard it?

Smeer

05-04-2006, 05:58 PM

Salam all!

Hkhan: You do NOT have to take the entrance test if you apply under a foreign seat. As for your math class, I don't think it will be of any benefit. What I have heard, however, is that the IBCC does look at one other subject area other than bio/phys/chem/english as a replacement for the Urdu equivalent in Pakistan, which can be made up of any subject that they choose. But at face value, I don't think math classes are considered helpful for the application process of IBCC equivalence certificate. I don't mean to make you feel bad, but I want to answer your question correctly.

Hkhan

05-05-2006, 09:04 AM

Walaikum assalam

Thanks for your reply, i dont feel bad, coz i wasnt expecting them to do anything with the maths.

Are you 100% sure that for this year any new applicants applying on a foreign seat, dont have to take entry exam? Like is there anything on a website showing the rules? coz my relatives in Pakistan said to me you have to and i was like everybody is telling me you dont have to. So i guess maybe they spoke to the wrong people or they never got a correct answer.

Muslimah88

05-05-2006, 03:22 PM

hey guys,
okay im applyin for the fall of 2006 and i will be graduating like this May and im going to pakistan pretty soon. I wanted to ask about how long it takes for the IBCC people to actually convert your grades? will i have time after they have converted my grades to apply for all the places i still need to apply for? or not?
and when is the deadline for applying to government colleges?
and for Shifa?
Thanks alot!
bye

Hkhan

05-05-2006, 06:20 PM

I will have to do the same thing so i cant give an answer for certain as i havent applied through it yet, inshallah in summer. But like results come out in august, so thats when people start applying. It shouldnt take long for them to convert your grades, but you never know with Pakistan. So if you have contacts then maybe they can help you.

The deadline for shifa is on their website

October 02, 2006.

Smeer

05-05-2006, 06:32 PM

Salam all!

Hkhan: Yes, I'm 100% sure Hkhan. I've experienced the same problem as you have in dealing w/relatives. The thing is, in Pakistan everyone has to take the entrance test, and so very few Pakistanis know about technical assistance and foreign seats. I personally emailed the KEMC webmaster and he replied clearly stating that foreigners applying under self-finance or technical assistance do not have to take the entrance exam.

The only way you would have to take the entrance exam would be if you applied as a local Pakistani, which you can if one or both of your parents are from Pakistan. It's definitely an option, but I would not recommend it.

Muslimah88: I wish I could have a solid answer for you, Muslimah, but the trouble, as Hkhan has already mentioned, is that it's Pakistan! I know someone who sent their marks for conversion in early February, and has still not received his marks! I don't understand why, but I'm guessing that around admissions time, the process speeds up (otherwise people wouldn't be able to apply on time). Another friend of mine sent his grades to be convnerted last summer, and he received his rather quickly. All I can say for sure is what I've heard from sara, and that's that you should bug the IBCC people a lot and make frequent visits (or have someone you know make frequent visits) so that they hurry up your conversion, otherwise it'll take forever.

Hkhan

05-09-2006, 09:53 AM

There are two paragraphs on the Khyber Medical website, which are about entry test.

All the candidates seeking admission in NWFP Medical & Dental Colleges, except against technical assistance seats, foreign self Finance sets (who had Pre-Medical education abroad) and reciprocal of Punjab will have to pass the Entrance test conducted by the Govt of NWFP. For reciprocal seat, the candidate must have passed Entrance Test conducted by the Punjab Government.

The foreign candidates applying for the Foreign Self-Finance and Technical Assistance Programme Seats excluding Afghan Refuges will be required, on their nomination for admission, to appear and qualify a standard examination/ Entrance test in the subjects of English, Physics, Chemistry and Biology arranged the concerned institution where he/she is seeking admission and pass the same.

So what does it mean a standard entry test? Is this different to the entry test of Pakistani students?

smart99

05-09-2006, 10:22 AM

itihad

05-09-2006, 01:54 PM

Hello,:confused: :confused:
i have applied for medical school in russia and pakistan medical schools...
at the end i have got in both country for study....i have studied in one of europian country and i have transfered ..so i dont know any data regarding the schools in both country and how is going on....
i have got chance in DOW medical college and i the same time i got chance for study in BAQAI medical college....
so:
1:which of these 2 schools in pakistan is better for me?
2:about russia medical school ,does any one know sincerely about their medical school and if they got good ,qualified medical schools...?!!!:cry:

1) I dont know personally which one is better. But I have heard of both of them, so they must have good reputation in Pak! but maybe someone who knows about it can tell you.
2) Russia is not in the EU, therefore you would have to take PLAB if you want to work in UK. Some of their schools are good, and some aren't. best to ask in the European forum. Also take into consideration where you will be happy.

Smeer

05-09-2006, 07:05 PM

Salam!

Hkhan: Sorry for not making myself clear. The info that I was giving was about med colleges in Punjab. Again, my apologies, I didn't mean to confuse you :( . If you're applying to Pakistani medical colleges in the Punjab province, you do not need to take an entry test if you apply as a foreigner.

smart99: Hmm that's a tough choice there smart99. Both are Baqai and DOW have good reps. I honestly can't say which one is better, but just know that both are really good, so when it comes down to choosing, just remember that it's a win-win situation ;) .

Worrieddoc2be

05-10-2006, 05:03 PM

Salamz everybody,

i have done grade 10 urdu as my third language credit option... so does ne 1 know if IBCC wud consider dat? (by hook or by crook) i mean cuz since itz gr. 10 they prolly wudnt consider buh if i talk to them n kinda force them or w.e da way is.. is there ne possibility that they wud consider it???

PS: do IBCC ppl consider summer upgrade marks for conversion??

AHSAN

sine240

05-14-2006, 09:23 PM

ok so we're all planning on going to pk med school..but haS anyone ever thought about the alternatives that if we study there 5 years, but fail USMLES or get really low scores ..that defeats every single purpose?

now i want to see what are ur plans for so if that happens..
so lets see. give ur views

Smeer

05-15-2006, 01:01 AM

Salam all!

Well, I'll be straightforward and honest with you. In my opinion, don't go if you know you can't handle it. It's another story if something life-threatening or life-altering occurs, because that's not in your control. Only Allah SWT knows what's going to happen. But if you don't have a very good work ethic and you know you don't, I wouldn't risk going. On the other hand, if you're a really good student, work your butt off, and still fail (very very unlikely, but let's just say it does happen), you have one of two options: 1) pass med. school and practice in Pakistan. 2) Come back to the States and start on a new major. Sure you've sacrificed 5 years of your life, but as my English teacher says "life happens"; you just pick up and start fresh with a new major, that's all you can do. Just keep a positive attitude, because that's what's most important in life. You never know where life can take you; only Allah SWT knows. But keeping a positive attitude through it all makes it a whole lot easier.

sine240

05-15-2006, 01:52 PM

hmm..yes anything can happen...God knows our destiny

jamalhurrice

05-16-2006, 04:39 PM

Salam
does anyone know any info on South AFrican medical colleges?

imranhi

05-16-2006, 07:12 PM

Hi This is my first message in this board. As far as government owne medical colleges are concerned i think Karachi Medical Dental College is the best. I myself studdies in Sindh Medical college i also have my friends in Dow medical college as well as in AKU and Karachi medical college. As far as Aku is concerned it is the best but if u ask for second best its Karachi medical Dental College. The only set back for that college is that they dont have big hospital like AKU, Sindh medical COllege aor Dow medical College have. Its a small colege there are 60 seats for MBBS and 30 for BDS. Student teacher interaction is excellent. In my point of view if u r not finnacially strong then go for Karachi medical and Dental College and do your house job In Jinnah Post graduate medical centre.

sine240

05-17-2006, 12:41 PM

imranhi, do u know any forigner, particularly from USA, who is now in Dow, smc, or karachi med dental college, whom i can contact?because i, myself, am in a dilemma, who has one month to decide whether i should go to pk med school or not?
i jsut want to hear the outback from those foreigners...

Also, do u guys know any foreign med school grad, who went to pk to study, and couldnt pass the USMLES>??i wnat to know the stats..

smart99

05-23-2006, 04:36 PM

I AM A MEDICAL STUDENT,I HAVE STUDIED IN ONE EUROPIAN COUNTRY AND I HAVE TRANSFER TO ONE PAKISTAN PRIVATE COLLEGE ,THE POINT IS ?THE MEDICAL AND DENTAL COUNCIL OF PAKISTAN REFUSE MY TRANSFER OR MIGRATION AND DONT ACCEPTED...AND THEY REFUSE TO GUIVE ME ANNOSAY FOR THE UNIVERSITY WHICH I HAVE APPLIED..
NOW THIS MEDICAL SCHOOL ,THEY SAID CAN NOT TAKE ME ,DUE TO pmdc...BUT AT THE END THE MEDICAL SCHOOL ,SAID THAT THEY WILL ACCEPT ME ON MY RESPOSIBILTY..BUT I WILL NOT REGESTERED IN PAKISTAN MEDICAL AND DENTAL COUNCIL..ONLY I WILL TAKE THE DEGREE FROM THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY......
SO I NEED ADVICE AND REPLY FOR YOU ALL GUYS ,REGARDING THIS METTER ...
IF I WILL TAKE THE DEGREE FROM THE UNIVERSITY WITHOPUT INFORMING OR REGESTRATION..IT WILL AFFECT MY ELLIGIBILTY FOR WORK OUT PAKISTAN,SPECIALLY IN MY COUNTRY,,,BECASUE I AM NOT PAKISTANI CITIZEN ,I AM FROM OTHER COUNTRY....
LOOKING TO HEAR FROM YOU ..ANY ONE PLZ SOON ..I DONT HAVE TIME...:cry: :cry: :cry:

sara00

05-25-2006, 02:34 PM

heey salam friends,

its has been ages I didnt post.... so good to see this thread going!

smart99: try contacting EAD (economic affair division) in Islamabad, there are responsible for every forgein student who is studying or wish to study in pak! so send ur application to them and tell them ur problem and maybe they can help u out, if not...then try to get ur releative to get sum coontacts to help u out, cuz u see in pak if u have good relations then u can accomplish many things! ;)

heey Smeer, always helping and guiding ...thats wonderful! :)

Now u guys all wanna hear how's pak med schools right! I'm down in Fatimah Jinnah medical college, Lahore! The studiesare very tough and sooo much to conver and memo! in my college there are sooooo many forgeiners from around the world, and in general the gurls are soo nice down here! Allhamdulilah I met a wonderful gurl who helped me alot and guided me soo much cuz I missed 5 months of school and on top of that not only I didnt know what was going on but paki education system was so different for me! the prof are sooo megative and stricked! I dont like them! they hate forgeiners...cuz majority of forgeiners are weak and on top of that they skip classes thats why! but allhamdulilah in my first exam which was in few days right after I joined my college, I studiesd like crazzy for it and did really good on it so now allahdulilah I made a good image...

But I got sooo mcuh to cover dont how will I do it...nowdays all I do is study 24/7... got no time to chill...cant wait until summer holidays its july for two months!:)

Other then that, Fatimah Jinnah is a good place to study just the education level is hard and prof are hard!!! other than that I'm very happy there... got sooo many cool friends from all over the world down there!

when ever I'll get time I'll try to post here,
wish u guys all the best! do remember me in ur prayers...

Sara