SHIFA COLLEGE OF MEDICINE in Islamabad, Pakistan

Okay, now that mostly everyone has gotten the hang of how to apply(I think!), I was wondering, how is the actual environment in Islamabad. I have been there but I haven't experienced it as you guys may, as a 'student life' I mean. So, was it easy getting adapted to everything? How long did it take you to get used to it, because I heard the studies there are really different than the studies here. And just to make sure, do you need Physics, Biology, and Chemistry on the SAT Subject Tests? Is there any other subject you can substitute any of those for? Thanks.

Oops. Sorry, one more thing. Someone said that the profs at Shifa kind of 'hate' Americans? I use the word 'hate' loosely. You know what I mean. So, do they not like Canadians, too? Haha! They probably think it's the same thing? Or no? I know it's a stupid question. I was just curious! Thanks, again.

Islamabad is pretty quiet and boring--not too many exciting things happen here and its definitely not the open at all hours of the night crazy place that Lahore or Karachi are, but if you like the quiet small town atmosphere, this is the place for you. In terms of safety and adaptability, I think coming from the West, Islamabad is the best place to be---its the easiest to get adjusted to.

Yes, you do need to take the SAT Subject Tests in Bio, Physics and Chemistry for Shifa College admissions. You need to get a minimum of 650 in at least two of the three tests. The third test score can be less than 650. You also need to have taken physics, chemistry, and biology in high school to qualify to do medical school anywhere in Pakistan so make sure you take those courses also.

Most of the professors and doctors that you'll meet at Shifa have done some sort of medical training either in the United States or the United Kingdom so there isn't really any Anti-American hate, per se. There may be some teasing every now and then but nothing to worry about. As a Canadian you should be more worried about the American kids making fun of you! I'm kidding of course :wink:

That was a very fast reply. I forgot to mention that earlier. This is an amazing forum you have set up. Thanks a lot! God bless.

Moazzma, I didn't get 2 talk to you about da medical forms. You said earlier you will tell me the website 4 those so yaar just e-mail dat site to me plz cuz I need to take a look at dat.
btw I lykee dat pic, BD party did rock

thx for the compliment but I am changing it lolz. And yes I am sorry I completely forgot about e-mailing the forms to you...but I'll def. do it tonight after I finish up some of my work. good luck!

thx dude lol stay safe!

This is the most helpful website iv found for this whole paki medschool thing, and bc i want to go to shifa. this has answered every question i had about this topic...thanks everyone.

That's what we're here for friend Glad to hear it!

how would u guys recommmend studying for the SATII? taking the classes or just self study with review books?

To do really well on the SAT II's, all you need to have is discipline. If you can force yourself to study for long periods of time, and find a lot of practice material, then you'll end up in the same place as the people who take a class. All a class does is ensure you spend the time studying; there's no secrets being passed out or any answers being given away. If you can't make a schedule on your own that you'll stick to, or you just like to day dream after every few minutes, then a class is the way to go. You really can do it all on your own though, as long as you can stay focused.

If you take the courses in high school (i.e. AP/regular physics, biology, and regular chemistry), then you already know everything you need for the exams. It's just a matter of being asked the same material in more ways than one. Barron's is really good for physics, and Kaplan worked for me for biology and chemistry.

Do as many questions as you possibly can, and you can't go wrong. It's not about memorization, just practice. If you finish the practice questions in your book, then get another book and finish that one too.

Shifa's requirement used to be 700 in Physics, Biology (M), and Chemistry. They only ask for 650 now, but they get plenty of applicants who are well over the requirement.

Thanks for the help everyone....