Indian students will have greater flexibility and faster pathways to a medical career
Manipal’s American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine has announced a significant academic shift, offering 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’s AUA offers a comprehensive medical programme tailored for students who have completed their 12th grade or equivalent, and aspire to become global doctors, practicing in the US, Canada, or the UK. Students can opt to begin their academic journey at the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) in Manipal, India.
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 six 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.
