Latest news with #AmericanUniversityofAntigua


Time of India
4 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
The countdown to NEET results: Why medical aspirants should always have a parallel plan
As the NEET UG 2025 results draw near, the tension among lakhs of aspiring medical students in India is palpable. After months and often years of relentless preparation, coaching classes, mock tests, and sacrifices, the next few weeks can feel like the most defining moment of their lives. For most, this period between the exam and the results is filled with anticipation. But beneath the surface, there is also anxiety, uncertainty, and the creeping fear of 'what if?' In this high-stakes scenario, having a parallel plan is not just a safety net but a smart, strategic move. A well-thought-out Plan B ensures students are not forced into last-minute decisions or courses they are not passionate about. It safeguards their time, energy, and mental well-being. For ambitious students, global medical pathways now offer structured, high-quality alternatives that are recognised and respected around the world. From the US and UK to Canada and Australia, international medical schools are welcoming Indian students who are determined to pursue a world-class medical career. Why consider Manipal's American University of Antigua (AUA)? Manipal's AUA is one such globally recognised institution offering a US-modeled MD program tailored for NEET-eligible Indian students. By choosing a globally structured pathway like AUA's, students can save both time and money compared to the traditional Indian route. In India, the typical journey includes 5.5 years of MBBS, often a gap year for NEET PG preparation, and 3 more years for an MD, totalling around 9.5 to 10 years. In contrast, Manipal AUA's program takes just 6 years from Class 12 to MD completion, after which students can begin paid US residencies and start their careers much earlier. Financially, private MBBS and MD education in India can exceed ₹2 to ₹2.5 crore, including coaching fees. AUA's pathway offers a comparable investment but delivers greater long-term value, with global exposure, hands-on clinical training, and earlier financial independence through residency stipends. Manipal AUA graduates 2025 Top reasons to choose Manipal AUA ●USMLE-focused curriculum from the first semester, preparing students for U.S. residency ●Clinical rotations in the U.S., Canada, UK, and India through 35-plus teaching hospital affiliations ●Recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, GMC (UK), and CAAM-HP ●Direct entry after Class 12 with no need for a gap year or pre-med in India ●Personalized academic support through small class sizes, mentoring, and tutoring ●State-of-the-art labs including 3D virtual dissectors, plastinated specimens, and SimMan 3G simulation technology ●Simulation-based learning for real-world clinical readiness ●Education Enhancement Department (EED) offering dedicated academic and career support ●Rolling intakes in January, May, and September giving students flexibility in when to begin Start in Manipal, stay closer to home Through the unique 'Start in Manipal' option, students can begin their pre-medical studies at Manipal's renowned campus in India. This allows them to start in a familiar, supportive environment while benefiting from world-class faculty and infrastructure before transitioning to AUA in Antigua for the next phase of their international medical education. Accelerated by the new trimester system With the introduction of its new trimester intake, Manipal's AUA allows students to begin their medical education sooner. This change reduces the overall program duration to 6 years, helping students graduate earlier, begin clinical rotations faster, and in some cases apply for postgraduate residencies up to a year ahead of schedule. This gives them a competitive edge in launching their medical careers. Hear from our faculty Dr. Ravi Rajput, MBBS, MD, MBA (Medical Education), Professor of Physiology & Course Director – Cardiovascular System (CVS) Manipal's American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine ' With over 19 years of teaching experience in medical education, including two years at Manipal's main campus in India and over 14 years across various international medical schools, I can confidently say that Manipal's AUA College of Medicine stands out. As a Professor in the Department of Physiology at AUA, I've been deeply impressed by our state-of-the-art campus, world-class infrastructure, and the immersive learning environment we offer our students. From our advanced clinical simulation center and high-fidelity mannequins to our VR-powered anatomy tools and extensive online library resources, every element here is designed to enhance learning outcomes. What truly sets AUA apart is its integration of clinical exposure early in the program, students engage in hands-on training through our Clinical Skills Lab and gain a head start through programs like Basic and Advanced Life Support. Coupled with our diverse student body, supportive faculty, and global network of affiliated teaching hospitals, AUA provides an ideal platform for students aspiring to pursue successful medical careers in the US and beyond .' Upcoming webinar: Learn more on June 19 at 4:30 PM To help Indian students and parents explore international medical careers, Manipal's AUA is hosting an exclusive webinar on June 19 at 4:30 PM. The session will feature: ●Senior AUA faculty sharing insights on curriculum, clinical training, and global licensure ●Current Indian students discussing their journey at AUA ●Admission counselors explaining eligibility, timelines, and scholarship opportunities This is a must-attend session for any NEET aspirant or parent seeking clarity, options, and direction. Register here to attend it live. Admissions open for August 2025 intake Applications are now open for the August 2025 intake. Early applicants may qualify for exclusive scholarships. The admission process is holistic and considers academic records, recommendation letters, extracurricular achievements, and a personal interview. To know more about how to apply, click here .


Fashion Value Chain
7 hours ago
- Health
- Fashion Value Chain
Manipal's American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine Launches New Trimester to Expand Entry Options
Manipal's American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine has announced a major academic shift that will offer Indian students greater flexibility and faster pathways to a medical career. Beginning this September, Manipal's AUA will transition to a trimester schedule, enabling new student intakes three times a year-in May, September, and January. Manipal AUA student Group Manipal's AUA offers a comprehensive medical program tailored for students who have completed their 12th grade or equivalent, and aspire to become global doctors, practicing in the USA, Canada, or the UK. Students can opt to begin their academic journey at the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) in Manipal, India. Aerial view of Manipals American University of Antigua Campus at Antigua The introduction of the third intake in May, starting this September, means students no longer have to wait for traditional academic cycles This change not only allows them to begin their medical education sooner but also reduces the overall duration of the MD program from 6.5 years to 6 years. Students can graduate earlier and progress more quickly toward clinical rotations and licensure. With a shorter timeline, students will also incur lower expenses related to housing, travel, and daily living, making medical school more affordable and accessible. 'This new trimester reflects our commitment to meeting students where they are and supporting their academic goals with greater flexibility,' said Dr. Peter Bell, President of AUA. 'By offering an additional start date, we're empowering future physicians to take control of their timelines and move forward with confidence.' The trimester schedule maintains AUA's rigorous academic standards while enhancing overall efficiency. A key benefit is the integration of the Global Health Track, previously a separate program, into the core curriculum. Offered in collaboration with Florida International University (FIU), this track ensures that all students gain exposure to global health systems, community engagement, and public health challenges. Depending on their entry point, students may also become eligible to apply for residency programs up to a year ahead of schedule, giving them a competitive edge and accelerating their medical careers. Apply Now Applications are now open for the August 2025 intake. For more details on admission and eligibility, visit: About Manipal's American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine Established in 2004, the American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine, part of the prestigious Manipal Education and Medical Group, is a fully accredited international medical school offering a rigorous, innovative education designed to prepare students for successful careers in medicine. Manipal's AUA has grown into a hub for international education, operating from a modern, 150,000 sq. ft. technologically advanced campus in Antigua. It follows a US-modeled curriculum that emphasizes hands-on training and personalized learning through small batch sizes. With clinical rotations at over 35+ affiliated teaching hospitals across the United States, UK, and Canada, and a vast network of over 4,000 accomplished alumni practicing worldwide, Manipal's AUA provides a dynamic and nurturing environment for students to develop their medical expertise. The university is recognized by the Medical Board of California (MBC), approved by the New York State Education Department, and accredited by the Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and Other Health Professions (CAAM-HP). Graduates are fully eligible for residencies and medical licensing exams in the USA, Canada, and the UK, opening doors to global opportunities. Backed by Manipal's 70-year legacy in healthcare and education, Manipal's AUA is more than just a medical school. It emphasizes a holistic admissions approach, selecting highly motivated students based on a well-rounded profile that includes 10th and 12th scores, personal interviews, entrance test, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities, rather than relying solely on the NEET score.


NDTV
8 hours ago
- Health
- NDTV
Why Do Indian Students Opt For Medical Education Abroad
With the number of NEET-UG aspirants reaching nearly 23 lakh in 2025 and just around 1.1 lakh MBBS seats available across the country, a growing number of Indian students are turning to medical colleges abroad to fulfil their ambitions. The sharp demand-supply imbalance in India's medical education system is prompting many to seek opportunities in countries across Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean. Out of the total seats, approximately 55,000 are in government medical colleges where tuition fees are subsidised. The intense competition for these limited seats forces many high-scoring candidates to either look at costly private colleges or explore options abroad. This trend, experts say, is driven by necessity rather than choice. "Studying abroad can ease the academic pressure typical of the Indian medical entrance system," said a medical education consultant. "International programmes often offer multiple intakes and more flexible admission criteria, considering a student's overall academic profile, language skills, extracurricular achievements, and interview performance," Arunesh Kumar, Country Head - India & South East Asia, Manipal's American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine. Beyond accessibility, global medical universities are also attracting Indian students with modern infrastructure, integrated curricula, and early clinical exposure. Many Caribbean medical schools, for instance, combine foundational education on island campuses with clinical training in hospitals in the United States. Such programmes allow students to interact with peers from diverse nationalities and gain a global perspective essential for today's healthcare systems. Accreditation is another factor shaping the decision. Many international medical universities are listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS) and are recognised by global bodies such as the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME), Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), and region-specific authorities like the Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and other Health Professions (CAAM-HP). These recognitions enable graduates to pursue licensure in countries such as the US, UK, and Canada, through standardised exams like USMLE or PLAB. For students seeking specialisation and a global career trajectory, international medical education offers a structured path. "While studying medicine abroad comes with challenges such as cultural adaptation and passing foreign licensing exams, it remains a strategic option," the consultant added. "For those unable to secure domestic seats or those aiming for global careers, it's not a fallback - it's a forward-looking decision."


Time of India
09-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Didn't do well in NEET? Here's why your medical dream doesn't have to end
NEET 2025 has just wrapped up, and while lakhs of students finally get a chance to relax, a large number are left with a different feeling– that of uncertainty. After months, or even years, of relentless studying, test series, coaching classes, and sleepless nights, it's natural to worry about your performance. Medical aspirants often stake a great deal on this one examination. Operation Sindoor Blackouts, sirens & Pak's failed attacks: 10 things that happened in the last 36 hrs '1971 war was not remotely as terrifying': Residents of border areas shell-shocked 'Buzdil' PM can't even take Modi's name: Pak MP slams Sharif in national assembly Families rearrange finances, students put their social lives on hold, and entire routines are built around this single goal of cracking NEET and securing a medical seat in India. But with the sheer scale of competition, even the best efforts don't always lead to the expected outcome. The numbers speak for themselves In 2025, more than 23 lakh students appeared for NEET-UG, competing for approximately 1 lakh MBBS seats available across government and private medical colleges in India. That's about 1 seat for every 23 students, making it one of the most competitive exams in the country. While many candidates manage to make the cut, there's an equally large number who don't. But that doesn't mean that their dream ends here. A world beyond NEET: Looking at global medical opportunities The path to becoming a doctor has evolved significantly in the last decade. With globalisation, improved mobility, and internationally recognised accreditation systems, aspiring doctors today have options beyond the conventional route. Several world-class institutions abroad offer alternate medical pathways for Indian students, without the need to lose a year or compromise on the quality of education. These pathways often provide a broader worldview, advanced clinical exposure, and preparation for licensing exams in countries like the USA, UK, and Canada. Whether it's Europe, the Caribbean, or parts of Asia, more students and families are considering global medical education as a smart, future-ready investment in a student's career. What to look for in a global medical program When evaluating international medical options, it's important to consider a few key factors: Accreditation: Is the university recognised by global and local medical boards? Clinical Exposure: Does it offer clinical rotations in reputed hospitals abroad? Licensure Preparation: Will the curriculum prepare you for USMLE, PLAB, or other international exams? Student Support: Are there scholarships, mentoring systems, or academic guidance tailored for Indian students? Graduate Outcomes: What do alumni go on to achieve? How strong is the residency match rate? A closer look: Manipal's American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine One such globally-aligned program that checks all these boxes is Manipal's American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine. Established in 2004 and part of the Manipal Education & Medical Group, AUA has grown into a leading international medical institution that specifically supports Indian students in their ambition to practice medicine abroad. A blended, global learning journey AUA's unique pathway allows students to begin their medical education in Manipal, India, through a pre-medical program at the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE). From there, students continue their pre-clinical studies at the AUA campus in Antigua, a safe and serene island in the Caribbean known for its high standard of education and living. The real differentiator, however, lies in the clinical rotations, which are offered in top hospitals across the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and India. This diverse exposure helps students develop the skills required to adapt to different healthcare systems and patient care models. World-class infrastructure and support The AUA campus in Antigua is equipped with cutting-edge anatomy labs, simulation centres, and digital learning resources. With small class sizes and individualised academic mentoring through its Education Enhancement Department (EED), students receive focused attention throughout their journey. What's more, the program is fully accredited and aligned with global standards. It's approved by the New York State Education Department, recognised by the Medical Board of California, and accredited by the Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and Other Health Sciences (CAAM-HP). Noteworthy student outcomes Over 4,000 successful graduates 94% residency match rate (2025 NRMP cycle) Graduates matched across 137+ residency programs in 35 U.S. states and Canada Alumni placed at leading hospitals including Johns Hopkins, Robert Wood Johnson, Virtua Health, and Jefferson Health 98% USMLE Step 1 and 93% Step 2 CK pass rates (first-time takers, April 2025) Your Medical Dream Starts Here! Hear from those who've done it To help prospective students and families get a first-hand view, AUA is hosting a live webinar on Thursday, 15th May at 4:30 PM IST. In this session, Shraddha and Niveditha, current Med 4 students, will share personal insights into their AUA journey, why they chose this route, how they prepared for USMLE, and what their day-to-day life looks like as international medical students. Register now to watch it live. Holistic admissions approach AUA follows a well-rounded admissions process, assessing candidates not just on NEET scores, but also on academic records (10th and 12th), letters of recommendation, entrance test scores, extracurricular activities, and personal interviews. This opens the door for highly motivated students who might not have scored well in NEET but have the drive and aptitude to succeed in medicine. Applications are now open for the August 2025 intake. Those who apply early may be eligible for exclusive scholarships. To know more about how to apply, click here .


Time of India
30-04-2025
- Health
- Time of India
NEET stress? Discover a global doctor pathway
As NEET 2025 approaches, lakhs of students across India are gearing up for one of the most competitive entrance exams in the world. But with limited MBBS seats in India and high levels of stress and competition, it's smart to have a backup plan. For students determined to become doctors, Manipal's American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine offers a world-class, US-bound alternative that starts right after class 12. Manipal's American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine, part of the renowned Manipal Education & Medical Group offers a comprehensive Doctor of Medicine program tailored for students who have completed their 12th grade or equivalent and aspire to become global doctors. Students can begin their academic journey at the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) in Manipal, India, as early as August 2025. Manipal's AUA is now accepting applications for its August 2025 intake. For more details on admission and eligibility, click . Study in a safe, inclusive, and globally diverse campus at AUA, Antigua Accreditation and recognition Since its establishment in 2004, Manipal's AUA has become a fully accredited international medical school offering a rigorous, innovative education designed to prepare students for successful careers in medicine. Operating from a modern, 150,000 sq. ft. technologically advanced campus in Antigua, the university's graduates are eligible for residencies and medical licensing exams in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, opening doors to global opportunities. AUA is accredited by the Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and Other Health Professions (CAAM-HP), approved by the New York State Education Department, recognised by the Medical Board of California, and licensed by the Commission for Independent Education of the Florida Department of Education. AUA College of Medicine is backed by the 70-year Manipal legacy in Medical Education and Healthcare. Personalised learning and cutting-edge facilities Following a US-modelled curriculum, the program emphasises hands-on learning from day one with small batch sizes for personalised attention. State-of-the-art anatomy labs feature advanced tools like 3D V.H. dissector computer stations, plastinated specimens, and CT & MRI sections to enhance the learning experience. Simulation and Clinical labs provide realistic, practical experiences with sophisticated training simulators such as SimMan 3G®, SimBaby™, Harvey®, and Noelle®. The Education Enhancement Department (EED) is dedicated to empowering students through faculty-led and peer-to-peer tutoring and mentorship programmes designed to boost academic performance. Diverse environment with students from across the globe Global clinical opportunities With over 35 clinical affiliations across the US, UK, Canada and India, students have access to a broad range of international clinical training opportunities. 4000 successful graduates over a 20-year history. AUA graduates have a 94% residency match rate*. (*First-time residency attainment rate is the percent of students attaining a 2024-25 residency position out of all graduates in 2023-24 who were active applicants in the 2025 NRMP match.) AUA has a unique collaboration with Florida International University (FIU) for clinical training at clinical sites affiliated with a US medical school. Transfer program agreements with University of Warwick Medical School (WMS), UK. Vibrant campus life and wellness support Beyond the classroom, students can experience a vibrant campus life with wellness support, diverse student organisations, hands-on community outreach, modern campus amenities, and specialised medical interest groups. Safe and secure on and off-campus housing options are available. Exclusive scholarships are available for Indian students, making education even more accessible. Eligibility & admissions Manipal's AUA follows a holistic admissions approach, selecting highly motivated students based on a well-rounded profile that includes 10th and 12th scores, personal interviews, entrance test scores, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities, rather than relying solely on the NEET score. Ready to explore your path to becoming a global doctor? Apply now and take the first step toward a rewarding medical career. Applications are now accepted for Manipal's AUA August 2025 intake. To find out more about the admission process, click . Disclaimer: This article has been produced on behalf of Manipal's American University of Antigua by the Times Internet's Spotlight team.