For prospective medical students seeking a personalized education, several Caribbean institutions stand out for their small class sizes and impressive residency match outcomes. Schools with smaller class sizes often provide a more tailored learning environment, fostering close interactions between students and faculty. This personalized approach enhances individual academic support, facilitates deeper mentorship opportunities, and allows for more hands-on experiences during the critical early years of medical education. Studies have shown that smaller class sizes can contribute to better academic performance, higher engagement levels, and improved clinical skills development, all of which are vital for success in the rigorous journey toward becoming a physician.
The following schools, each accepting fewer than 300 students annually and maintaining class sizes between 30 and 100, are ranked based on the number of residency matches achieved during the 2024 match cycle. These institutions exemplify the benefits of small-scale, student-focused medical education while maintaining high standards of accreditation and global recognition. Below is an overview of these top-tier schools, providing key insights into what makes each unique.
- Xavier University School of Medicine (XUSOM)– 120 Matched Students
Established in 2004, Xavier University School of Medicine is located in Oranjestad, Aruba. The university offers a comprehensive medical curriculum and emphasizes a holistic approach in its admissions process, considering not only academic achievements but also life experiences and personal attributes. XUSOM is accredited by the Accreditation Commission on Colleges of Medicine (ACCM) and is recognized by the New York State Education Department, allowing students to complete clinical clerkships in New York State. - Saint James School of Medicine (SJSM)– 117 Matched Students
Founded in 2000, Saint James School of Medicine operates campuses in Anguilla and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. SJSM focuses on providing affordable medical education and is accredited by the Accreditation Commission on Colleges of Medicine (ACCM). The school offers a curriculum designed to prepare students for the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) and subsequent residency placements. - Saba University School of Medicine– 82 Matched Students
Established in 1992, Saba University School of Medicine is situated on the island of Saba in the Caribbean Netherlands. With over 30 years of history, Saba has a strong track record of residency placements and USMLE success. The university is accredited by the Accreditation Organization of the Netherlands and Flanders (NVAO), recognized by the World Federation of Medical Education (WFME), enabling graduates to practice medicine in various countries, including all 50 U.S. states and Canada. - Trinity School of Medicine– 80 Matched Students
Founded in 2008, Trinity School of Medicine is located in Kingstown, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The institution offers a U.S.-modeled medical curriculum and places a strong emphasis on early clinical experience. Trinity is accredited by the Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and other Health Professions (CAAM-HP) and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education’s National Committee on Foreign Medical Education and Accreditation (NCFMEA). - Avalon University School of Medicine (AUSOM)– 43 Matched Students
Established in 2003 as Xavier University School of Medicine in Bonaire, the institution relocated to Willemstad, Curaçao, in 2010 and was renamed Avalon University School of Medicine. AUSOM offers a four-year Doctor of Medicine program with a focus on preparing students for the USMLE. The university is chartered by the Government of Curaçao to offer an MD degree and is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools. - Matthew’s University School of Medicine– 33 Matched Students
Founded in 1997, St. Matthew’s University is located in the Cayman Islands. The university offers a Doctor of Medicine program with a focus on small class sizes and personalized education. St. Matthew’s is accredited by the Accreditation Commission on Colleges of Medicine (ACCM) and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, allowing students to participate in federal student loan programs.
These institutions provide robust medical education with the advantage of small class sizes, fostering a more personalized learning environment. Their success in the 2024 residency match cycle underscores their commitment to producing competent medical professionals.