Understanding how to apply for MCCQE Part I as an international medical graduate is important because passing this exam is required for entry into Canadian residency programs. The application process follows a defined sequence set by the Medical Council of Canada and must be completed correctly before an exam date can be scheduled.

This article explains the application process step by step, providing clear, factual guidance.

Overview of the MCCQE Part I Application Process

International medical graduates apply for MCCQE Part I through an online account. The process involves verifying medical credentials, submitting required documents, completing the exam application, and waiting for approval before scheduling the exam.

Eligibility Requirements for International Medical Graduates

Before applying, you must meet the following requirements:

  • You must be a graduate of a medical school listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools
  • The medical school must include a Canada Sponsor Note indicating it is acceptable in Canada
  • You must apply through a physiciansapply.ca account
  • Your medical degree must be submitted for source verification

Passing the MCCQE Part I is required for international medical graduates applying to Canadian residency programs.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for MCCQE Part I as an International Medical Graduate

Step 1: Create a physiciansapply.ca Account

To begin the process, you must have a physiciansapply.ca account. If you do not already have one, you must create it before proceeding with any exam-related steps.

Step 2: Submit a Source Verification Request for Your Medical Degree

International medical graduates must submit a source verification request for their medical degree through their physiciansapply.ca account.

Important points to note:

  • You may proceed with the exam application as soon as you have submitted and paid for the source verification request
  • If you previously applied as a graduate and already submitted your final medical degree diploma for verification, you do not need to resubmit it
  • If you previously applied as a student and are now a graduate, you must submit a new source verification request for your medical degree

Step 3: Prepare Your Identity Documents

If required, you must prepare copies of acceptable identity documents.

Requirements include:

  • Primary identity documents must be certified according to certification requirements
  • Documents must meet the preparation guidelines before uploading

Reviewing document preparation guidelines ensures your application is not delayed.

Step 4: Submit the MCCQE Part I Application

Once your documents are ready, complete the exam application by following these steps:

  1. Log in to your physiciansapply.ca account
  2. Click on Examinations in the main menu
  3. Select Apply for an exam
  4. Follow the on-screen steps and upload all required documents
  5. Submit payment for the MCCQE Part I application fee

Your application is not considered complete until payment is submitted.

Application Review and Approval

After submission, your application enters a review process.

Key points include:

  • You cannot schedule an exam date until your application is accepted
  • Document and application processing can take up to four weeks
  • Once your medical degree and documents are reviewed and accepted, you will receive confirmation that your application is complete

Only after approval can you proceed to scheduling the exam.

Exam Scheduling and Eligibility Window

After your application is accepted:

  • You receive a twelve-month eligibility window to schedule and write the MCCQE Part I
  • Scheduling for an exam session opens approximately five months before the session start date
  • Exam appointments are offered on a first come first served basis
  • The exam can be taken at a Prometric test centre or through remote proctoring

The MCCQE Part I is offered during four exam sessions each year and is a one-day computer-based exam delivered in Canada and over seventy countries.

Limits on Attempts and Retakes

There are clear rules regarding exam attempts:

  • You cannot retake the exam if you have a passing result
  • You may attempt the MCCQE Part I a maximum of four times
  • After the third attempt, you must wait one year from the date you receive your result before applying for a fourth attempt

Key Outcomes of the Application Process

Once all steps are completed successfully:

  • Your application is approved
  • You gain access to exam scheduling
  • You are eligible to sit the MCCQE Part I within your eligibility window

All application steps and eligibility rules are established by the Medical Council of Canada and must be followed exactly as outlined.