Studying on Saba

Saba University School of Medicine (SUSOM) provides a rigorous medical education that features hands-on learning and intentionally small class sizes. The island’s limited distractions encourage a dedicated focus on studies, while the natural local beauty offers a range of outdoor activities for relaxation and rejuvenation. Learn more about Saba in this Forbes article.

All together, living on the island of Saba and attending SUSOM is more than just an education; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that combines academic success, career development and unforgettable experiences.

Why do Students Choose Saba?

• Intimate community: Living on the island of Saba offers students a close-knit and welcoming community where connections can be formed easily. With a population of around 2,000 residents, students can enjoy a supportive environment that encourages collaboration and lasting friendships.
• Spectacular natural beauty: Saba is known for its breath-taking natural views, from lush rainforests to towering volcanic peaks. Students have the opportunity to explore diverse ecosystems through hiking trails, diving in pristine waters, and enjoying outdoor activities against a backdrop of the island’s beautiful landscape.
• Tranquil environment: Unlike some bustling city environments where other medical schools are located, Saba offers a peaceful atmosphere. The absence of urban distractions allows students to immerse themselves fully in their academic pursuits while enjoying the laid-back social life on the island.
• Cultural diversity: Despite its small size, Saba Island boasts a rich blend of cultures and traditions due to its history as a melting pot of nationalities. This diversity provides students with a unique opportunity to experience various customs, languages, and cuisines, contributing to a well-rounded global study perspective.
• Unique healthcare opportunities: For students pursuing medical or healthcare-related studies at Saba University School of medicine, the island serves as an ideal backdrop for hands-on learning. With access to local healthcare facilities which have a close relationship with the school, students can gain invaluable clinical experience and contribute to the health and well-being of the island’s population.
• Extraordinarily safe location: Saba is the safest island in the Caribbean and has an almost non-existent crime rate. Residents typically leave their cars unlocked with the keys on the dashboard, and young children are known to hitchhike alone to their grandparents’ home.

Day-to-day life on Saba

• Transport: The island offers a well-connected network of public buses and taxis that efficiently transport residents and visitors between key locations. For those seeking a more personal experience, renting a car or scooter is a popular option. Exploring the island’s stunning landscapes while driving along picturesque roads is a unique and unforgettable benefit of living here.
• Accommodation: Students can choose from a range of accommodation options that cater to various preferences. Our modern and well-equipped student residences offer a comfortable and safe living space for students to focus on their studies. With various housing options to suit different preferences, students can choose from single rooms, shared apartments, and private homes.
• Banking: As the U.S. dollar is the official currency of the island of Saba, this smooth financial integration makes it easy for our students to manage their finances while studying on the island. There is one bank on Saba, in the village of Windwardside, and automated teller machines in Windwardside and The Bottom.
• Entertainment: While the island of Saba is a peaceful retreat, it certainly doesn’t lack entertainment options. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, there’s something for everyone. Dive into the crystal-clear waters, embark on hiking trails that lead to awe-inspiring views, or unwind at local cafes and restaurants that offer a fusion of international and local cuisines. Regular community events, cultural festivals, and art exhibitions ensure that there’s always something happening to keep you engaged and entertained.
• Weather: The island of Saba enjoys a tropical climate throughout the year. Warm temperatures and gentle sea breezes create an inviting atmosphere and encourage an active lifestyle. While the island does experience occasional rainfall, the showers are usually brief and followed by clear skies. Pack light, breathable clothing, and don’t forget your sunscreen, as you’ll be soaking up the sun and enjoying the outdoors a lot of the time.

Activities and Fun Things To Do

While studying at Saba, it is important to take time off between your classes to ensure that you rest and recharge. Despite a rigorous study schedule, it’s easy to get into relaxation mode at Saba and there’s something for everyone to do.

Top past-times on the island include:

• Scuba diving and snorkeling: Take advantage of Saba’s stunning underwater world and explore its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and unique dive sites. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, Saba offers excellent opportunities to experience the mesmerizing underwater landscapes.
• Hiking: Engage in outdoor adventures by hiking the island’s well-maintained trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints. The hikes offer a chance to immerse yourself in Saba’s lush rainforests, encounter diverse flora and fauna, and enjoy panoramic vistas of the Caribbean Sea.
• Relaxing at the beach: Saba’s beaches are unlike any other, each offering its own distinct charm. Whether it’s Wells Bay Beach with its black volcanic sand or Cove Bay with its serene atmosphere, spending a relaxing day by the sea is the perfect way to unwind and recharge.
• Cultural immersion: Embrace the island’s culture by attending local events, festivals, and markets. Engage with the warm and welcoming community to learn about Saba’s history, traditions, and customs, creating a deeper connection to the place you will call home during your studies.
• Exploring Windwardside Village: Windwardside is the main village on Saba and offers quaint shops, cozy cafes, and art galleries. Spend leisurely afternoons strolling through its charming streets, discovering unique souvenirs, enjoying delicious local treats, and experiencing the relaxed pace of island life.

Campus Life

At Saba University School of Medicine, education goes beyond the borders of the classroom. During their time with us, we want our students’ education to be a comprehensive and fulfilling academic journey. Our campus offers numerous avenues for students to enrich their medical learning beyond traditional lectures and textbooks.