St. George’s University and Hilton College Establish New Medical Education Pathway for South African Students

St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies, has established an academic affiliation with Hilton College, one of South Africa’s leading independent schools, to create new opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in medicine.

Through this affiliation, eligible Hilton College students will have access to admissions pathways into SGU’s Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, scholarship opportunities, and academic guidance designed to support their progression from secondary education to medical school.

The collaboration comes at a time when demand for medical education in South Africa continues to outpace available university places. With only ten medical schools in the country and admissions remaining highly competitive, the affiliation provides aspiring physicians with an additional pathway to pursue an international medical education.

Students who successfully complete their secondary education and meet SGU’s admissions requirements may be eligible to apply to SGU’s 5-Year MD track. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to begin their studies at SGU’s campus in Grenada or at Northumbria University in Newcastle, United Kingdom, through SGU’s longstanding partnership with the university.

Through this affiliation, eligible Hilton College students may benefit from dedicated admissions support, guaranteed interviews for admission consideration, and opportunities to be considered for partial merit-based scholarships at SGU.

Students enrolled in SGU’s MD programs will have access to clinical training opportunities through a network of more than 75 affiliated hospitals and health centres across the United States and United Kingdom. These experiences provide hands-on exposure to patient care while helping students develop the clinical knowledge, professionalism, and practical skills required for successful careers in medicine.

Lily Phommarack, Associate Director of International Academic Affiliations at St. George’s University, said:

“Hilton College has a longstanding reputation for academic excellence and developing students who are prepared to succeed in globally competitive environments. Through this affiliation, we are creating new opportunities for aspiring physicians in South Africa by providing access to international medical education pathways, scholarship opportunities, and dedicated guidance as they prepare for careers in medicine. We look forward to working closely with Hilton College to help support the next generation of healthcare professionals.”

James Webb, Head of Futures at Hilton College, said, “This affiliation strengthens the support available to students interested in pursuing medical careers internationally. At Hilton College, we are committed to ensuring that students have access to high-quality guidance as they explore future academic and professional opportunities. Through our collaboration with St. George’s University, students will gain greater insight into the journey to becoming a doctor and the opportunity to engage with an institution that has educated physicians practicing around the world.”

The Hilton College was founded in 1872 and is one of South Africa’s most respected independent schools, recognized for its academic excellence, leadership development, and strong record of preparing students for admission to leading universities around the world. Through comprehensive university guidance and career counseling programs, the school supports students pursuing highly competitive fields of study, including medicine, science, and healthcare. This affiliation expands opportunities for students seeking a globally recognized medical education and an international career pathway in medicine.

As South Africa continues to experience strong demand for medical education and healthcare professionals, the affiliation provides students with an additional pathway from secondary school to medical study. SGU’s recognition by the HPCSA also provides eligible South African graduates with a potential route to pursue registration in the country, subject to meeting all applicable regulatory requirements.

For more information about the affiliation and medical education pathways available, students may contact Hilton College or visit SGU’s official website.