Medical exams for student visas: What to expect and how to prepare
Depending on your country of residence and where you plan to study overseas, a medical exam may be part of your student visa process. It’s not required for every applicant, but when it is, it must be completed through an approved medical provider and submitted correctly.
This guide explains when a medical exam is required, what it includes and how to make sure it does not delay your visa approval.
When are medical exams required for student visas?
The need for a medical exam depends on the country you’re applying to and your personal background.
U.S. student visa (F-1)
The U.S. does not typically require a medical exam as part of the F-1 visa application. However, some universities may require proof of vaccination or a physical exam before you enroll or live on campus.
Check with your school about health insurance and vaccination requirements. You may be asked to provide documentation for:
- Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR)
- Hepatitis B
- Tuberculosis screening
- COVID-19 or flu vaccines (depending on location)
These requirements are handled by your university, not the U.S. embassy. Learn more about how to apply for a F-1 visa.
Canada study permit
Canada may require a medical exam for certain students depending on:
- The country you lived in or visited for six months or more in the past year
- The length of your program
- Whether you plan to work in health care, child care or education during or after your studies
If a medical exam is required, you will be told after you submit your visa application. Some applicants choose to get the exam early (called an upfront medical exam).
What happens during the medical exam?
Medical exams for visa purposes are not the same as a full checkup. They’re designed to screen for specific illnesses or conditions that affect immigration eligibility.
The exam usually includes:
- A review of your medical history
- A physical examination
- A chest X-ray and blood test
- Proof of vaccinations
The exam must be done by a panel physician approved by the visa country. For Canada, you can find this list on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. For the U.S., universities may give you a list of accepted local clinics or requirements.
You should bring:
- Your passport
- A list of any medications you’re taking
- Records of your vaccination history
- Glasses or contact lenses, if you use them
If you’re applying to Canada and choose an upfront medical exam, the doctor will give you a confirmation sheet to upload with your application.
How long does processing take after the exam?
Medical exam results are usually sent directly to the visa office by the doctor. For Canada, results are valid for 12 months. If you do not receive your visa within that time, you may need another exam.
Delays can happen if:
- You forget to schedule the exam after being asked
- The panel physician is not approved
- Your documents are incomplete or unclear
- The results show something that needs additional testing
To avoid delays, schedule your exam early and follow all instructions carefully.
MPOWER Financing supports your visa prep from start to finish
A medical exam is just one part of your visa checklist. Having strong financial proof is another. MPOWER Financing helps international postgraduate students finance education in the U.S. and Canada without needing a cosigner or collateral.
An MPOWER Financing loan can:
- Cover tuition and living expenses, including health insurance in the U.S.; tuition and university-invoiced expenses in Canada
- Help you meet financial proof requirements for your visa
- Provide a loan approval letter that can be submitted with your application
Whether you’re applying for a visa or preparing for arrival, MPOWER offers financial support
Stay healthy, stay prepared
If a medical exam is part of your visa process, treat it like any other important step. Book your appointment early, bring the right documents and make sure the physician is officially approved.
With the right preparation, your medical exam will not delay your visa, and it can help ensure a smoother, safer start to your studies abroad.
