This application process applies to Canadian medical students who are enrolled in accredited Canadian medical schools and are preparing to sit the MCCQE Part I. The steps are defined by the Medical Council of Canada and must be completed in sequence before an exam date can be scheduled.

This article explains how to apply for MCCQE Part I as a Canadian medical student in a clear and structured way.

Eligibility for Canadian Medical Students

Before applying, you must meet the eligibility requirements.

You are eligible if you are:

  • A graduate from a medical school accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools
  • A medical student who is expected to complete all requirements to graduate from a medical school accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools

You may apply up to fifteen months before your expected date of graduation.

Overview of the Application Process

The application process involves three main stages:

  1. Preparing your account and documents
  2. Submitting the MCCQE Part I application
  3. Waiting for acceptance before scheduling the exam

Each stage must be completed before moving to the next.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for MCCQE Part I as a Canadian Medical Student

Step 1: Prepare Your physiciansapply.ca Account

All applications are submitted through a physiciansapply.ca account.

  • If you do not already have an account, you must create one
  • You can apply for the MCCQE Part I at any time through this account

Step 2: Prepare Identity Documents

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

Key requirements include:

  • Primary identity documents must be certified according to certification requirements
  • Documents must be prepared according to the upload guidelines

Reviewing document preparation guidelines ensures documents are ready for submission.

Step 3: Submit the MCCQE Part I Application

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

  1. Log in to your physiciansapply.ca account
  2. Select Examinations from the main menu
  3. Click Apply for an exam
  4. Follow the steps shown on each page to complete the application
  5. Upload the required documents as instructed
  6. Submit payment for the MCCQE Part I application fee

Your application is not complete until payment is submitted.

Application Review and Acceptance

After submission, your application is reviewed.

Important points to note:

  • You cannot schedule an exam date until your application has been accepted
  • Acceptance confirms that your eligibility and documents have been reviewed

Eligibility Window and Exam Scheduling

Once your application is accepted:

  • Your eligibility window begins twelve months before your expected date of graduation
  • You can only schedule an exam appointment during this eligibility window
  • Scheduling for an exam session opens approximately five months before the session start date

Exam appointments become available on a session basis.

Timing Considerations for Residency Applications

If you intend to apply to the 2026 Canadian Resident Matching Service R 1 Main Residency Match:

  • You must submit your MCCQE Part I application and required documents no later than October 17 2025

How This Process Differs From International Applicants

The application steps for Canadian medical students differ from those for international medical students and graduates.

Key differences include:

  • Canadian medical students do not submit a student attestation form
  • Canadian medical students do not submit a source verification request for their medical degree
  • Source verification requests apply only when a student later becomes a graduate in specific situations

Summary of the Application Process

To apply successfully:

  • Confirm eligibility as a Canadian medical student
  • Prepare a physiciansapply.ca account and identity documents
  • Submit the MCCQE Part I application and payment
  • Wait for acceptance before scheduling the exam

All application steps and requirements are established by the Medical Council of Canada and apply to Canadian medical students as outlined above.