Site Navigation
Sponsor Ad
Xavier University Schools of Medicine, BonaireValueMD Sponsor


Caribbean Medical Schools European Medical Schools Foreign Medical Schools Medical Resources
Go Back   ValueMD Medical Schools Forum

Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire
Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire

General Information

A Brief History of the Netherlands Antilles by The World Factbook

Flag of Netherlands Antilles

Once the center of the Caribbean slave trade, the island of Curacao was hard hit by the abolition of slavery in 1863. Its prosperity (and that of neighboring Aruba) was restored in the early 20th century with the construction of oil refineries to service newly discovered Venezuelan oil fields. The island of Saint Martin is shared with France; its southern portion is named Sint Maarten and is part of the Netherlands Antilles; its northern portion, called Saint Martin, is an overseas collectivity of France. Read More.

Map of Netherlands Antilles


About Us

Xavier University School of Medicine (XUSOM), Bonaire is a rapidly-growing Caribbean medical school located in the Netherlands Antilles. The members of the Board of Trustees are primarily American physicians who practice and teach clinical medicine and basic sciences in the United States. As American educators, some of the founders of Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire repeatedly see bright, hopeful American and Canadian medical school candidates being denied admission into North American medical schools simply because of an overwhelmingly large applicant pool. As a result, a large number of extremely capable individuals are left without admission into medical school every academic year. In light of a clearly evident physician shortage in North America, it is not difficult to realize that intelligent individuals, who are willing to go to great extent in order to fulfill their lifelong dream of practicing medicine, should be given a chance to achieve their ultimate career goal. Subsequently, Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire was founded, with the object of granting sound medical education to motivated individuals regardless of their background.

Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire is one of the very few Caribbean medical schools whose members of its Board of Trustees are primarily U.S. physicians. We possess experience, knowledge, and resources that are needed to provide our students with thorough basic medical instruction on our Bonaire campus and clinical rotations in U.S. teaching hospitals.

In addition to the stellar academics that Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire provides, unlike many large academic institutions, we have not forgotten the human element. Our students are treated like family, and our faculty and staff get to know each student on a first-name basis, not just as a number. We recognize the enormous stress associated with moving to a different country- we therefore assist our students with critical issues such as housing, to relatively minor and unforeseen issues such as assisting with initial transportation when first arriving to Bonaire. Our faculty and staff individually coach our students both in the classroom and beyond. We provide continuous guidance on how to prepare for all components of the United States Medical Licensing Examinations, also known as the USMLE Step 1, Step 2 CK, Step 2 CS, and Step 3, clinical rotations, and applying and interviewing for residency.

As a result of the resources and instruction we provide at Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire, our students are well-prepared not only for the USMLE exams, but also for residency training and the practice of medicine in any setting.

Additionally, Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire is the first Caribbean medical school to implement a new technology as a premier teaching tool on its campus, Plastinated Human Organs. These are actual human organs preserved utilizing the technology of plastination yielding accurate, detailed, and durable specimens for use in the classroom and laboratory setting so that crucial anatomical concepts can be taught effectively. Many American medical schools have begun substituting human cadavers with plastinated human organs because of their superiority as teaching tools.

We believe that the pursuit of a career in medicine requires a tremendous amount of sacrifice, patience, and effort to succeed. Students at Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire overcome the constant demands and challenges of medical school by taking time to enjoy vibrant Bonaire island life and culture. Some of the reasons the founders of XUSOM Bonaire chose to establish a medical school in Bonaire include the extremely friendly, outgoing, and supportive nature of Bonaireians, the safety of the island, the abundance of healthy activities available to take a break from studies, and the stable climate of the island (Bonaire is not in the hurricane belt).

If you are passionate about pursuing a continuously challenging, evolving and rewarding career in medicine, we welcome you to consider the unique experience of studying at Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire- a rising leader in international medical education located on a safe and tranquil Caribbean island.

Accreditations

Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research/International Medical Education Directory (FAIMER/IMED)
International Medical Education Directory (IMED) is a division of the United States of America's Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire is recognized by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), so their students and graduates are eligible to apply and sit for any step of the USMLE, in fulfillment of the ECFMG Certification requirements for a U.S. residency position.

World Health Organization (WHO)
Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire has been approved and is listed with World Health Organization (WHO).

Medical Council of Canada (MCC)
Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire is listed with the Medical Council of Canada (MCC).

Mission Statement

At Xavier University School of Medicine (XUSOM), Bonaire, our mission is to educate dedicated students in both the science and the art of medicine. This begins with an environment which promotes growth and learning, and entails dedication, discipline and direction, all of which are fundamental in the development of a skilled physician.


Prospective Students

Dear Prospective Student,

Every year a large number of students apply to medical schools but very few are accepted due to the limited number of available seats in any given school.  Subsequently qualified students of the remaining pool of applicants contemplate pursuing alternative healthcare-related avenues, including those in pharmacology, veterinary medicine, and graduate degrees in the sciences. This is where a Caribbean medical school is considered as an excellent alternative.

At Xavier University School of Medicine (XUSOM), Bonaire, our mission is to educate dedicated students in both the science and the art of medicine. This begins with an environment which promotes growth and learning, and entails dedication, discipline and direction, all of which are fundamental in the development of a skilled physician. We want to help you to become successful in medicine, whether your interest is in caring for patients in a rural, underserved area or pushing the frontiers of medical knowledge in a major academic center.

Programs

We offer two programs at Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire:

  • 5 Year Premed/M.D. Program: This program is designed for highly motivated high school graduates, and provides a thorough premedical background. Once this program is completed, our students are guaranteed admission into our Medical Program.
  • 4 Year M.D. Program: This program is designed for students who have completed college and/or meet the minimum requirements to enter directly into medical school.

We look forward to corresponding with you and helping you decide whether Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire, is where you can begin a satisfying, lifelong journey as a physician.

Selection Factors

Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire seeks students with integrity and maturity who have a concern for others, leadership potential and an aptitude for working with people.

The Admissions Committee evaluates applications based on several factors, including:

  • Academic Records
  • Applicant's essay
  • College Admission Test scores
  • Extracurricular activities
  • Life experiences
  • Work Experience
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Personal Interview (generally done via telephone)

4 Year MD Program:

All applicants applying for the 4 year M.D. Program are required to finish at least 2 academic years (90 credit hours) of undergraduate studies which includes the following subjects:

  • English
  • Biology
  • General Chemistry
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Calculus
  • These requirements are mandated by individual State Medical Boards in the United States and are required for medical licensure in each respective state.

TRANSFER STUDENTS

Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire accepts many transfer students each semester. We believe in students' right to seek education at any academic institution where they feel they will receive the best education possible. Our Admissions Department evaluates transfer applications on a case by case basis.

DIVERSITY COMMITMENT

Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire is committed to the enrollment of a diverse group of individuals to mirror the diverse group of people in America who will look to Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire doctors to tend to their healthcare needs. Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire, creates diversity by selecting individuals with differing backgrounds, race, gender, interests, economic backgrounds, political beliefs, nationality, sexual orientation, age, and skill sets but requires all candidates to have a strong desire to obtain medical education and provide a high level of healthcare to all people regardless of race, gender, and/or ethnicity. These standards are also upheld by the administrative staff and faculty of Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire. Ultimately, we seek to honor and respect the differences between all people and treat all people with respect and understanding.


Premed Program

This is a rewarding program for highly motivated students, which involves four semesters of focused pre-medical studies. This program prepares students for the 4 year MD Program.

Our typical high school graduates tend to be prepared for residency before the age of 23.

Premed coursework done at Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire, allows its students to be qualified candidates for medical licensure in the United States.


BS-Preparatory Medicine / Biology

Eligibility:

  • This Program is only available to students from Asia, Africa and the Middle East.
  • 16 months BS program for those with A level {equivalent}
  • 2 year BS program for those with O levels {equivalent}

Xavier University ­ School of Medicine, Bonaire and its promotion / project management arm, ALLTERE Education Management Company has joined hands striving to provide students affordable medical education by setting up BS Preparatory Medicine / Biology, Training Centers World wide leading to innovative Pathway to study Doctor of Medicine (MD) programs.

These BS Preparatory Medicine / Biology Training Centers are jointly managed by Xavier University ­School of Medicine, Bonaire & ALLTERE Education Management wherein the student will study the BS program in his home country and then join MD programs in Philippines to complete the MD (Doctor of Medicine) degree. The entire program will be conducted under the aegis of Xavier University ­ School of Medicine, Bonaire who will also issue the BS degree.

Student Pathway to Affordable Medical Education in Netherlands Antilles and the Philippines

MD Program

Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire's accelerated program condenses the traditional four year medical school curriculum into 4 years, without compromising the total number of contact hours involved in basic (80 weeks) and clinical (72 weeks) medical science training. This is made possible due to our trimester schedule. Twenty months of pre-clinical courses in biomedical sciences are combined with Clinical Board Series utilizing patient and physician educators to maximize the experience for each student.

This is followed by 72 weeks of clinical opportunities in core and elective clerkships, as well as clinical research. The curriculum has sufficient flexibility for students to do extensive research, pursue advanced degrees, participate in special tracks or explore other avenues of professional growth.

Fifth MD Semester (United States)

The Fifth Semester at Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire serves as a bridge between the Basic Medical Sciences and the Clinical Sciences. This semester has three components: Introduction to Clinical Medicine (ICM), Getting into Residency (GIR), and KAPLAN review. Our Fifth Semester is conducted in Youngstown, Ohio.

The Fifth Semester always begins on the Monday following the start of classes in Bonaire. Credits are awarded as follows:

  • ICM – 8 credit hours
  • GIR - 2 credit hours
  • USMLE Review – 12 credit hours

Below is an Outline of the Fifth Semester schedule:

Day 1 Orientation
Students are to report to the US Admission Office at 10:00 am on the first day. During orientation, students are given an overview of the Fifth Semester schedule, and are given an introduction to the Clinical Sciences by our Clinical Coordinator. Students are advised of Clinical requirements, and are given the Clinical Science Handbook. HIPPA training is given during this time prior to entrance into the hospitals.

In addition, we have a representative on site from KAPLAN to administer a diagnostic exam with all the students. This serves to test the Basic Science knowledge, and provide the students with feedback on strengths/weaknesses in regards to preparation for the USMLE. Students are also given Kaplan materials and login access information for the KAPLAN Web Prep option.

Remainder of Week 1 ICM Introduction
Students are all together with physician preceptor in the office, and are being given instruction on patient interactions. Students are provided with practical experience in History and Physical taking, Charting, and General Office guidelines for patient contact.

Weeks 2-4
Students are divided up into smaller groups with several preceptors to work through actually applying the skills taught in week 1. Preceptor assignments will be discussed at orientation. Preceptors will work with the students individually to evaluate and refine patient contact skills. Hours are assigned by the Precepting physicians. At the conclusion of the course, students are given an evaluation of their performance during ICM, and a grade is awarded.

KAPLAN
Upon the results of the diagnostic exams being provided, students are able to log into the online web based Kaplan system to begin preparing for the USMLE. Included in the Kaplan materials are the following:

  • 80 hours of online lectures
  • Full Length simulated exam
  • 3 month access to Kaplan Qbank
  • Complete set of Kaplan step 1 notes
  • Step 1 QBook with 850 practice questions

Students are required to submit a log of Kaplan time allocated.

Students are able to access the Kaplan materials for a period of three months.

Please direct any questions surrounding Fifth Semester to our Chief Clinical Coordinator, Ms. Kimberly Schultz.

Clinical Medicine (United States)

The Clinical Sciences Program is the next step in your pursuit of a Medical Degree. We are glad to offer you clinical rotations that will help you to integrate the Basic Sciences with practical clinical experience. These rotations can be done in the following locations: West Virginia/Kentucky, Illinois, Ohio, Georgia, Maryland, (Washington DC/Baltimore Area) and Nevada.

Clinical Rotations:

  • Clinical rotations in the US are guaranteed to qualified students
  • Many clinical sites to select from
  • Option of completing clinical rotations in one city

The Clinical Science Program is a 2- part program, composed of both Core Rotations, and Electives. The total curriculum for Clinical rotations is 72 weeks which equates to approximately 18 months. Of that time, 48 weeks is spent in Core Clinical Clerkships, and the remaining 24 weeks are spent completing electives of your choice.

Fourth Year Medical Students are required to complete 24 weeks of elective of their choice. Below is a non-inclusive listing of some available electives: Cardiology, Radiology, Pulmonology, Hematology/Oncology, Orthopedics, Otolaryngology, Gastroenterology, Neurology, and Dermatology.


Admission Process

Why do you want to become a doctor? What experiences have you had that led you to make this challenging career choice? These are important questions and at Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire we take them seriously. At Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire we want to know these things but we also want to know about you as a person. Ultimately, your unique personality is what will determine the kind of doctor you will be. So, in our evaluation process, we give consideration to every student who shows the potential for handling the rigorous academic challenges of an accelerated medical school. We focus as much on life experience and determination of our candidates as on their academic performance.

Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire offers a rolling admission process with no deadline to apply for each semester and students can begin their schooling in any semester. However, seats in each class are competitive and early applicants will have the advantage of securing a place in the semester of their choice. Semesters begin in January, May and September of every year.

In order to apply to Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire, an applicant needs to fill out an application. Applicants can apply via a web-based application or via a hard copy that can be downloaded. Apply Now

To complete the application process, the following must be sent to the Regional Administrative Office in Ohio.

  • Official Transcripts
  • Two Letters of Recommendation
  • Personal Essay
  • Two Recent Passport Photos

Once these documents are received, the Admissions Committee will review your file and a Personal Interview will be conducted via telephone.

The Personal Interview
Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire strongly believes in the value of a personal interview with prospective students. Applicants determined to have met or exceeded the admission criteria will be invited to have a personal interview. Generally within one week after the receipt of the application materials by the administrative staff the student will be contacted for the scheduling of the personal interview. The interview helps assess your overall personal and academic background, maturity, adaptability, character, aptitude, and most importantly, your motivation to become a doctor. However, applicants are advised that being granted an interview is no guarantee of acceptance though the interview itself does play a significant part in the decision by the Admissions Committee.

Please note that upon acceptance into Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire, US and Canadian students must apply for a landing permit for temporary residence in Bonaire. The required documentation is found under the Immigration link. This process usually takes one month to complete.
There are some countries that require a visa before going to Bonaire. If you are a Citizen or Resident of any country outside the U.S and Canada please contact the Ohio Administrative Office for information. The Immigration process can take four to six weeks to complete.

Deferral of Admission
The Admissions Committee is generally supportive of proposals that provide for participation in intellectually rewarding opportunities and service programs during time of deferral from Xavier University School of Medicine, Bonaire.

Accepted students who would like to apply for deferral must write to the Dean stating their reason for requesting deferral and their proposed plans for the duration of the deferral. If approved, the deferral is typically granted for one year, though they are routinely renewed for students provided the student reapplies for continuation on an annual basis.

For written inquiries and telephone inquires, please contact us for contact information.

 

Email XUSOM now

 


All times are GMT -4. The time now is 10:22 PM.

Top

Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.6
Copyright ©2000 - 2010, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.
Search Engine Optimization by vBSEO 3.3.2 ©2009, Crawlability, Inc.
Copyright © 2003-2010 ValueMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
Home About Contact us Disclaimer Site Map Advertise

Site Meter

International Foreign and Caribbean medical schools,
ValueMD provides information on medical education from premed to residency