Can you study medicine abroad and still become a licensed US physician?
Yes you can, and hundreds have done it successfully through The University of Queensland – Ochsner Doctor of Medicine (MD) program.
This international MD program is a unique opportunity to study medicine abroad while staying on track for a medical career in the United States. With a United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) focused curriculum, integrated clinical training, and high Match rate through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), it’s a proven pathway to becoming a doctor in the US.
Study in Australia and train in the US
Years 1 and 2 in Brisbane, Australia
Your medical journey begins at The University of Queensland in Brisbane, one of Australia’s top-ranked research universities, and a global Top 40 institution. You’ll study foundational medical sciences through an integrated, US-style curriculum, that is tailored to support your future steps in the US medical system.
Years 3 and 4 in New Orleans, Louisiana
After two years, you’ll return to the US to complete your clinical rotations at the Ochsner Clinical School, part of Ochsner Health, Louisiana’s leading healthcare system. This means you get US clinical experience while learning in a hospital system that’s deeply involved in teaching and residency preparation.
Pathway to residency in the US
ECFMG certification and eligibility
Graduates of the UQ-Ochsner MD program are eligible for ECFMG certification and can apply for residency through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). You’ll take the USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 exams, just like students from US medical schools.
Support for the Match process
Throughout your training, you’ll receive tailored support for residency applications, including personal advising, mock interviews, and help with letters of recommendation. Our students are well-prepared to compete in the Match each year and our high match rates support this.
Match success stories
Where our graduates match
Graduates have successfully matched into competitive specialties across the US, including:
- Internal Medicine
- Emergency Medicine
- General Surgery
- Psychiatry
- Pediatrics
- Diagnostic Radiology
Australia was an amazing experience, with diverse patient populations and incredible staff to learn from. Ochsner also provided some of the best clinical training. You work with an underserved population, and the patients are incredibly grateful. My experiences in Australia and New Orleans have prepared me to treat any patient who walks into the emergency department.
Benefits of this dual-country approach
Cultural competency
Living and studying in two different countries helps you become a more adaptable and empathetic physician, both are key traits in today’s diverse healthcare environments.
Understanding two healthcare systems
You’ll gain insight into both the Australian and US healthcare systems, giving you a broader understanding of patient care, policy, and medical practice.
A competitive edge
Our students stand out in residency applications for their international MD program background, USMLE preparation, and real-world US clinical experience.
Ready to study medicine abroad and Match in the US?
The UQ-Ochsner MD Program is more than just an international adventure—it’s a direct pathway to a US medical career. With high NRMP match rates, a US-style curriculum, and clinical training in both Australia and the US, it’s a unique option for future doctors who think globally. Don’t wait, start your MD adventure today!
Learn more about our international MD program with US match potential.
