Support To Entry Program (STEP)
STEP is designed to address barriers that systemically-disadvantaged groups encounter when preparing to enter medicine and health science studies. It has been developed in collaboration with CSM students.
STEP Initiatives
The Cumming School of Medicine (CSM) recognizes medical institutions' historic exclusion and discrimination against, including but not limited to, people who identify as Black, Racialized, Indigenous, 2SLGBTQ+, disabled or having diverse abilities, as well as individuals facing financial barriers. To address this, learners who identify with the above and are planning on applying for a CSM program are eligible for STEP. STEP initiatives include:
A workshop with practice MMI cases is offered annually for those STEP applicants who applied for medical school Canada for the upcoming admissions year.
Mock MMI workshops for medical school typically take place in January and February. STEP participants will be contacted as opportunities arise.
STEP participants will be contacted as opportunities arise.
A free MCAT Preparation course is offered in the spring to STEP participants. Sessions are planned for June 2026. STEP participants will be contacted once registration opens.
We thank the University of Toronto Community of Support (COS) Program for their assistance in developing this course.
A limited number of MCAT resource materials to help applicants prepare for the MCAT exam are available, such as donated previously-used books. STEP participants will be notified when materials are available.
Prospective applicants will be matched with a current student at CSM who will provide guidance related to the application process, interview support, and general questions about medical and/or graduate health science studies. The mentorship program is available for those applying for medical school and those applying to enter graduate health science.
Who is STEP-MPAS for?
The Support to Entry Program (STEP) provides support for applicants to the Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program who belong to any group that is traditionally under-represented in medicine. These applicants are members of equity deserving groups including, but not limited to, people who self-identify as Black, racialized, Indigenous, 2SLGBTQ+, from a rural or remote community, persons with diverse abilities, or those facing financial barriers.
2025-26 Application Cycle
STEP-MPAS provides supports to individuals belonging to any group that is under-represented in medicine and who will be submitting their MPAS application by the January 9, 2026 deadline.
There is a separate application portal/initiatives for STEP-MPAS applicants. Click below for the application form. For more information about STEP-MPAS, click here.
Questions? Email us at step@ucalgary.ca