Student support and networks
You’re not alone on your journey.
Moving overseas to study medicine is a big step. At UQ-Ochsner, you’ll be supported by a strong network of faculty, advisors, and peers who will guide you every step of the way from your first day in Brisbane, to your final clinical rotation in New Orleans.
Whether you need help adjusting to life in a new country, preparing for the USMLE, or planning your medical career, we’re here to make sure you thrive both personally and academically.
We understand how important the United States Medical Licensing Exams (USMLE) are for your future. That’s why the UQ-Ochsner program includes structured support to help you succeed in the Step 1 and Step 2 CK exams, both key milestones on your path to U.S. residency.
UQ-Ochsner students must attempt the USMLE Step 1 examination before commencing Year 3 of the program and must pass USMLE Step 1 to progress to Year 4.
You’ll complete a dedicated Preparation for Step 1 course in the second half of Year 2, giving you access to gold-standard learning resources and expert guidance from both UQ and Ochsner faculty.
As part of your preparation, you’ll receive:
- Access to UWorld Step 1 and Step 2 CK QBank subscriptions and Boards & Beyond resources
- The First Aid for the USMLE Step 1 textbook
- Two NBME Comprehensive Basic Science Exams to benchmark your readiness
- Peer tutorials and student-created question banks
- A Step 1 Study Guide, updated annually with input from top-performing students and faculty
- Opportunities to seek advice and mentorship through the Ochsner Society Head network
The strong scientific foundation you build in Phase 1 at UQ is closely aligned with USMLE content, ensuring you’re well prepared to succeed.
From your first semester, you’ll join one of five Ochsner Medical Societies, each named in honor of a pioneering Ochsner physician:
- Alton Ochsner Society
- Curtis Tyrone Society
- Edgar Burns Society
- Francis LeJeune Society, and
- Guy Caldwell Society.
Each society connects you with a Society Head, an experienced faculty mentor, and a community of peers who provide both academic guidance and social support.
Through your society, you’ll participate in group activities, peer learning, and events that help you build lifelong friendships and professional networks.
Studying medicine is demanding but you’ll never have to face those challenges alone.
Our dedicated Medical Student Support Team offers personalized assistance for every aspect of your wellbeing, academic success, and adjustment to life abroad.
Support includes:
- Practical advice on time management, study habits, work-life balance, and adjustment to living away from home
- Pastoral and psychological support
- Disability support and individualized learning plans
- Workshops to promote wellbeing, resilience, and performance
- Learning support for exams, assignments, and mental preparedness
- Referrals to UQ services for accommodation, counselling, and academic skills
If you have a pre-existing condition or anticipate needing additional support, our team can work with you before you arrive in Australia to ensure you’re set up for success.
Remember — medicine is a marathon, not a sprint. Support is always available when you need it.
To complement your Ochsner Society support, you’ll also be paired with a Personal Advisor, a senior colleague associated with the Medical Program — through the Personal Advisor Network (PAN).
From your first year, you’ll meet regularly with your advisor to discuss your goals, academic progress, and wellbeing. These conversations are designed to help you feel connected, confident, and supported throughout your journey.
Your advisor will also guide you toward resources, networks, and opportunities that align with your personal and professional growth.
Your career in medicine begins here and our team is committed to helping you plan every step.
Through career workshops, networking events, and mentorship, you’ll explore different specialties, understand your residency options, and learn what it takes to succeed in the U.S. Match.
We’ll help you identify your strengths, build your professional profile, and navigate the diverse and evolving world of modern healthcare.
Bringing your family with you to Brisbane? UQ offers a family friendly guide for international students, designed to help you settle in with confidence.
The guide includes:
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Visa and relocation information
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Details on schooling and childcare options
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Family-friendly activities in Brisbane
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Tips for balancing study and family life
Many UQ-Ochsner students choose to bring partners and children and our community makes sure everyone feels welcome.
Founded in 2011, the Ochsner Medical Student Association (OMSA) represents the UQ-Ochsner student body in all aspects of academic, social, and community life.
From research to outreach to social events, OMSA helps students connect, collaborate, and prepare for U.S. residency.
The University of Queensland Medical Society (UQMS) represents more than 1,800 UQ medical students. This non-profit organization runs academic, sporting, and social events throughout the year to help you build skills, friendships, and memories that last a lifetime.