SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA - Media OutReach Newswire - 10 July 2024 - Aspiring medical students from Korea aiming to study and practice medicine in English-speaking countries face a crucial step: demonstrating proficiency in English. St. George’s University (SGU), School of Medicine (SOM) in Grenada, West Indies, emphasizes the significance of English language proficiency, particularly through tests like the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), for international medical education.

IELTS is a standardized test recognized worldwide for assessing English language abilities. It covers listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills and is widely accepted by universities and healthcare organizations in English-speaking countries.

For admission to SGU SOM, students need to achieve a minimum overall score of 7.0 on the IELTS, with 7.0 on all bands. This indicates operational command of the language, which is crucial for success in medical education and practice.

Effective communication is essential in medical practice. SGU recognizes the required dynamic and complex communication skills and offers programs to develop students’ abilities beyond language proficiency. SGU offers support programs, such as Pre-sessional English programs, the English for Medicine Pathway (EMP), and Medical Academic Communication (MAC), to assist students who don’t meet direct entry English requirements.

Kasey Larson, Director of the Specialized English Language Programs (SELP) Unit at SGU, says: "Medical students need to synthesize evidence, document patient records, show empathy, and collaborate effectively—all of which require high-level English competence.

“The IELTS is a critical step for foreign students aspiring to practice medicine in English-speaking countries. It ensures they have the necessary language skills to succeed in their educational and professional endeavors.”

As the largest provider of new doctors to the US healthcare system*, SGU provides a comprehensive medical education designed to meet the criteria essential for practicing medicine in the US, including US residency placements, access to clinical rotations, and recognized accreditation.

For more information on the programs and tracks available through St. George’s University School of Medicine, visit SGU’s website.

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About St. George’s University School of Medicine

Founded in 1976, St. George's University (SGU) is a centre for academic excellence worldwide. With students and faculty drawn from more than 150 countries, SGU is truly an international institution, with a uniquely global perspective. The SGU School of Medicine is accredited by the Grenada Medical and Dental Council which has been recognized by the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME). The school offers a four-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree program. Students can also enter the MD degree program from any education system around the world via the five-, six-, or seven-year tracks. SGU has a large network of 75+ affiliated hospitals and health centres in the US and UK, with the unique opportunity for students to begin their medical career in Grenada or the UK.