The first Learner Connect session, held on September 24, was a big success. The session brought together learners from across the country for an open conversation with the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada (AFMC) leadership and content experts about the enhanced Student Portal and its new functionalities.
Participants had the opportunity to share their experiences, ask questions, and hear practical advice to help navigate the new system. AFMC thanks all learners who took part for their engagement and thoughtful feedback. Take a look at these helpful tips and key takeaways that were shared during the sessions:
- Plan your applications strategically. Learners can submit up to 12 applications per cycle and are encouraged to apply to a variety of specialties and locations, including rural areas, to increase their chances of receiving an offer.
- Be mindful of your application order. The improved, lottery-based portal uses the order of submitted applications as your order of preference. This ensures that applicants are placed in a pool with other applicants who ranked the electives similarly.
- Understand how offers work. Only one offer can be accepted. Remaining offers are withdrawn and released back into the remaining capacity pool, ensuring fairness for all applicants.
- Wait until the weekend to accept an offer. Schools process applications until the end of the day Friday, and with higher volumes this year, some offers may need to be withdrawn during the week for valid reasons. Waiting for the weekend ensures you will see all your offers before making a decision.
- Weigh your options carefully. If you receive an offer that isn’t your top choice, declining it in hopes of receiving another offer for a preferred elective in the Remaining Capacity Pool carries a risk of not receiving a new placement for that elective block.
AFMC continues to integrate learner perspectives into its committees and working groups, including the Portal Steering Committee, Electives Network, and Electives Coordinators Working Group. Learners interested in contributing to these discussions or with questions about the Portal are encouraged to contact communication@afmc.ca.
The next Learner Connect session will take place in January 2026. You can register and suggest discussion topics through this link.