Improving Black Student Admission Pathways in Health Sciences

This guide explains the purpose of Black student admission pathways and highlights key strategies for implementing them

Impacts of Black student underrepresentation

Fewer Black healthcare professionals entering the workforce

Lower diversity in medical programs, residency training, and clinical practice, contributing to discrimination and exclusion

Reduced use of culturally informed and responsive approaches to care

Less representation of diverse perspectives in healthcare decision-making

Greater health disparities for equity-deserving communities

Barriers for Black student applicants:

Black Student Admission Pathway (BSAP) initiatives are vital for overcoming systemic barriers and fostering inclusive admission practices for Black students

Facilitators for Effective BSAPs

Inter-Institutional Collaboration

Work with other institutions to improve recruitment efforts and expand Health Sciences pathways for Black communities. Use evidence-based, equity-focused approaches, such as Indigenous Student Admission Pathways, to support the timely and successful implementation of BSAPs

Addressing BSAP Barriers

Integrate BSAP initiatives across all Health Sciences disciplines
Mandate anti-racism, bias, and cultural safety training for admissions staff
Provide substantial resources and long-term planning to ensure BSAPs are effective

For references and additional information:

Black Student Admission Pathways in Health Sciences Higher Education: A Scoping Review of Canadian and United States Pathways

Research by Haley Kombargi & Design by Vanessa Young

Improving Black Student Admission Pathways in Health Sciences

Black students remain underrepresented in Canadian medical schools, making up just 1.7% of enrolled students. Of this group, 59% have experienced at least one instance of discrimination during their studies.

Impacts of Black student underrepresentation

Barriers for Black student applicants:

Lack of connections or mentorship

Systemic exclusion and discrimination

Concerns about fitting in

Poor support navigating admission processes

Black Student Admission Pathway (BSAP) initiatives are vital for overcoming systemic barriers and fostering inclusive admission practices for Black students

Facilitators for Effective BSAPs

Community-centered Collaboration

Holistic Admissions

Sustained Support

Inter-Institutional Collaboration

For references and additional information:

Black Student Admission Pathways in Health Sciences Higher Education: A Scoping Review of Canadian and United States Pathways