Undergraduate Medical Education (UME) Indigenous Admission Pathways
Ontario medical schools recognize the underrepresentation of Indigenous students in medical school and shortage of Indigenous physicians in Ontario. As of 2025, all seven ontario medical schools have developed Indigenous Admission Pathways (IAP) to address this need and to address the health care needs of Indigenous people of Canada. The applications submitted through the IAP are reviewed and considered by a diverse Committee of Indigenous People, including the interview process.
To apply through the Indigenous Admission Pathway, you must still meet the same minimum admission requirements and prerequisites as outlined by the MD program of your choice. Some schools reserve a specific number of seats for IAP applicants while others do not have a designated quota for admission. You must read and review the details of your specific application carefully and provide all required admission materials by stated deadlines.
In addition to submitting the core MD requirements as outlined per school, you must typically:
1. Self-declare your Indigenous status via your OMSAS application.
2. Provide proof of Indigenous ancestry (acceptable documentation varies by school. See schools under our Documentation tab for more info!)
3. Submit a personal statement/essay/letter describing your background and personal connection to your Indigenous community.
4. Some schools may require a Recommendation letter that attests your connection to the Indigenous community (such as from a First Nation Band Council, Métis Community Council, recognized Indigenous leader, community Elder, Indigenous academic scholar, school counsellor, or Indigenous organization).