From 2014, up to 10 places will be offered to international students in the undergraduate pathway for entry in 2015, where two years studying the Bachelor of Clinical Sciences (BCS) will lay the scientific foundation prior to the commencement of the Doctor of Medicine (MD).

The current international sub quota of up to 30 international graduate entry places in the MD will be reduced to 20 places, with the 10 removed places becoming available as international undergraduate places in the BCS/MD.

This represents no change to the overall number of international students in the MD, and therefore honours a current commitment by Flinders to the Medical Deans of Australia and New Zealand to not increase the overall quota of international students it admits into its MD.

International students bring a valued diversity to Flinders medical education, and this change will offer domestic cohorts in the BCD/MD an opportunity to experience increased diversity in their educational experience from their first year rather than delay this until their transition into the MD.

For the incoming international undergraduate students, it will provide an opportunity to acculturate into Australian society, make friends and develop peer relationships prior to commencing the more heavy demands of the MD.

With many potential students worldwide motivated and committed to pursuing medicine, these places represent an opportunity for these individuals and. ultimately. for society.