Parents
The Saint James School of Medicine understands how complicated and stressful it can be for a family to select a medical school. With this in mind, we have created this website for you, the parent. Here you will find useful information and answers to many of the questions that may arise during your child’s selection process.
PARENTS’ FAQ
Q) Does the school accept non American or Canadian students?
A) The Saint James School of Medicine only accepts students who are US citizens or permanent residents or Canadian citizens. This ensures that all our graduates can attend residency in US or Canadian hospitals.
Q) Is the island a safe place for my son or daughter to live?
A)Both Anguilla and Bonaire have a very low crime rate. There are local police stations your son or daughter can contact in case of an emergency, but just like home your son or daughter should practice good safety precautions.
Q) If I send my son or daughter to a medical school in the Caribbean, will they ever get a job?
A) Saint James School of Medicine has a 76% residency match rate, which means that 76% of our graduates are currently working in US and Canadian hospitals.
Q) Can I come and visit my son or daughter while they are at medical school in the Caribbean?
A) You are able to stay on the island with your son or daughter for a period of 90 days, after that point you will have to obtain a temporary resident permit on your own.
Q) Where is my son or daughter going to eat?
A) There are grocery stores, markets, restaurants, and even fast food restaurants on the island.
Q) Who are they going to live with?
A) Students have the option of living with a roommate or staying by themselves.
Q) Will my son or daughter be able to speak the local languages?
A) English is spoken on both Anguilla & Bonaire. English is the official language spoken in Anguilla. English, Spanish, Dutch, and the native language of Papiamentu are all spoken in Bonaire.
Q) Are the local people friendly?
A) All of the locals are very respectful and helpful to the medical school students.
Q) Should my son or daughter be vaccinated before they start at the medical school?
A) There are no vaccinations required for either island.
Q) Can my son or daughter drink water on the island?
A) Yes the water is drinkable on the islands, but there is also bottled water available throughout the island for purchase.
Q) Can I attend orientation with my son or daughter?
A) Of course you can! We encourage all parents to attend orientation with their son or daughter.
Q) Where will my son or daughter go in case of a medical emergency?
A) There is a local hospital on the island, and also a pharmacy where students can obtain prescription medication.
Q) How can I send my son or daughter money?
A) The island of Bonaire and Anguilla both accept US currencies. There are ATMs throughout the island and major credit cards are accepted. There are also banks throughout the island that students can access.
