News in Brief: Queen’s Medical School moving to lottery admission system

University claims lottery will help dismantle equity barriers

Image by: Herbert Wang
Announcement was made on April 2.

Queen’s Cancer Research Institute Renamed

The University is changing the name of the Queen’s Cancer Research Institute (QCRI) following a large donation. The renaming of QCRI was confirmed during Senate’s closed session on March 28.

Queen’s was unable to disclose the amount of the donation or identity of the donor to The Journal.

Earlier this year, the Faculty of Engineering was renamed Smith Engineering after Stephen Smith, Sci ’72, donated $100 million to his alma mater.

Queen’s Medical School Moves to Lottery System

Starting in 2025, all Queen’s Medical School applicants who reach an admission threshold will be entered into a lottery. Thresholds will be based on applicant’s grade point average, Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), and CASPer test scores.

If chosen from the lottery, applicants will complete multiple interviews to answer scenario-based questions before a panel interview and application review.

READ MORE: Medical school admission requires diverse experience

The decision stems from an attempt to make the admissions process more equitable. Given the high number of applicants each year, extracurriculars and placements in health facilities have played a large role in admissions decisions, disadvantaging students with limited access to these opportunities.

The new admissions structure will include a specific pathway for applicants from lower socio-economic backgrounds, and in the future, Black and Indigenous applicants.

AMS Walkathon 2024

On Saturday, AMS Walkhome is hosting a charity walkathon to raise funds for the AMS Food Bank. Participants will walk from Rideau Hall, around Summerhill House, and end at Common Ground Coffeehouse (CoGro) for a concert.

Students and community members are encouraged to bring $5 or canned food to donate to the AMS Food Bank. They will receive a coupon for fries from the FryWay food truck in return.

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AMS, medical school, News in Brief, Queen’s Cancer Research Institute

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