All About St. Matthew University School of Medicine
St. Matthew University School of Medicine (SMU) is a well-known US-oriented Caribbean medical school located in Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. Established in 1997, the university was founded with the aim of providing quality medical education to international students seeking a pathway into the United States healthcare system. Although the campus is based in the Caribbean, the curriculum, academic standards, and clinical training are designed in line with US medical education requirements.
St. Matthew University offers a supportive learning environment with small class sizes, experienced faculty, and a structured MD program that focuses on strong foundations in basic sciences followed by extensive clinical training. The university attracts students from various countries who aim to pursue USMLE exams and medical residency in the United States.
Affiliation and Recognition of St. Matthew University School of Medicine
St. Matthew University School of Medicine is chartered by the Government of the Cayman Islands and its medical program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission of Colleges of Medicine (ACCM), which is listed with FAIMER. The university is also included in the World Directory of Medical Schools, making its graduates eligible to apply for international licensing exams subject to local regulations.
Importantly, the university’s accreditor is recognized by the US Department of Education’s NCFMEA as using standards comparable to those applied to medical schools in the United States. The institution is also approved by the New York State Education Department (NYSED) and the Florida Commission for Independent Education, allowing students to complete extended clinical rotations in these US states.
Why Study Medicine in the USA Pathway at St. Matthew University
Studying at St. Matthew University School of Medicine is ideal for students who want a direct pathway toward the United States medical system. The MD curriculum is structured to prepare students for USMLE Step exams, which are essential for securing residency positions in the US. The university provides clinical clerkships primarily in United States hospitals, with additional opportunities in Canada and the United Kingdom.
The English-medium instruction, US-aligned curriculum, and focus on clinical readiness make St. Matthew University a practical choice for students who may not secure direct entry into US medical schools but still want to practice medicine in the United States.
Benefits of Studying at St. Matthew University School of Medicine
One of the biggest benefits of studying at St. Matthew University is its strong US clinical exposure. Approval from NYSED and Florida CIE allows students to complete longer clinical rotations in the US, which significantly improves residency matching prospects. The university also offers personalized academic support due to smaller batch sizes, helping students perform better in examinations.
Another advantage is the comparatively affordable MD program when compared to medical schools in the United States. Students receive focused training, modern learning resources, and dedicated faculty support, making St. Matthew University a reliable and cost-effective route for a medical career in the USA.
Duration of Study at St. Matthew University School of Medicine
The MD program at St. Matthew University generally spans 10 semesters, with 3 semesters per year. The initial semesters focus on basic medical sciences, followed by clinical science semesters consisting of approximately 72 weeks of clinical rotations. This structured approach ensures a smooth transition from classroom learning to real-world hospital training.
Faculties and Departments at St. Matthew University School of Medicine
St. Matthew University School of Medicine provides education in core medical disciplines including Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, and Clinical Medicine. During the clinical phase, students rotate through major specialties such as Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Psychiatry, and Family Medicine at affiliated hospitals.
St. Matthew University School of Medicine Ranking 2026
| Category | Ranking |
| St. Matthew University (Country Rank) | 1 |
| St. Matthew University (World Rank) | 7623 |
Syllabus of St. Matthew University School of Medicine
| Phase | Duration | Subjects |
| Basic Sciences | Semesters 1–5 | Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology |
| Clinical Sciences | Semesters 6–10 | Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, OB-GYN, Psychiatry, Family Medicine |
Hostel and Accommodation at St. Matthew University School of Medicine
St. Matthew University provides dedicated student accommodation near the campus in the Seven Mile Beach area of Grand Cayman. The residence halls offer a safe and comfortable living environment with furnished rooms, high-speed internet, study areas, and transport access to the campus. New students are encouraged to stay in university housing during their initial semesters for easier academic adjustment.
