Avalon University School of Medicine (AUSOM), established in 2003, is a private medical institution located in Willemstad, Curaçao. Originally founded as Xavier University School of Medicine in Bonaire, the university relocated to Curaçao in 2010 and adopted its current name to distinguish itself from another institution with a similar designation.

Academic Programs

AUSOM offers a comprehensive medical education through various programs:

• 6-Year BS/MD Program: This accelerated program begins with a two-year Bachelor of Science degree, with the first year conducted online and the second year on-campus in Curaçao. Successful completion guarantees automatic admission into the MD program. avalonu.org
• 5-Year PreMed/MD Program: Designed for high school graduates, this program includes a 16-month premedical phase, after which students progress directly into the MD curriculum. avalonu.org
• 4-Year MD Program: Focused on developing the knowledge and skills essential for medical practice, this program emphasizes both the art and science of medicine, preparing students to become competent and well-rounded physicians. avalonu.org

Accreditation and Recognition

AUSOM has achieved significant milestones in accreditation:

• Accreditation Commission on Colleges of Medicine (ACCM): In May 2022, AUSOM received a six-year accreditation from ACCM, an internationally recognized accrediting body listed by the National Committee on Foreign Medical Education and Accreditation (NCFMEA) as using standards comparable to those in the United States. en.wikipedia.org
• Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and other Health Professions (CAAM-HP): In August 2023, AUSOM was granted a four-year accreditation by CAAM-HP, further endorsing the university’s commitment to maintaining high educational standards. en.wikipedia.org

These accreditations enable AUSOM graduates to apply for residency and medical practice in various regions, including the state of California, as the Medical Board of California recognizes foreign medical schools accredited by agencies like ACCM and CAAM-HP.

Clinical Training and Facilities

AUSOM provides clinical training through affiliations with hospitals in the United States, offering students practical experience in diverse medical environments. The university’s state-of-the-art campus in Curaçao includes on-campus housing, creating a conducive learning atmosphere.

Student and Alumni Success

With over 500 alumni in postgraduate training and medical practice, AUSOM graduates have secured competitive residency and fellowship positions across various specialties in the United States, Canada, and worldwide.

Life in Curaçao

Located on the picturesque island of Curaçao, AUSOM offers students a unique blend of rigorous medical education and vibrant island life. The safe and developed environment provides an ideal backdrop for academic pursuits and personal growth.