# How Long Does it Take to Become a Doctor? – A Guide to Becoming a Medical Professional
Becoming a doctor, or any other medical professional, is no easy task. It requires dedication, hard work, and most of all, a lot of time. But how long does it take to become a doctor? The answer depends on the type of doctor you want to become, the country you plan to practice in, and the specialty you choose. In this article, we will cover the different steps to becoming a doctor, the time frames involved, and provide some tips for a successful journey.
## Introduction
Becoming a doctor is a long and rewarding journey. It usually takes between 11 to 16 years to become a doctor, depending on the type of doctor you want to become. The steps to becoming a doctor include completing an undergraduate degree, taking the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT), earning a medical degree, completing a residency, and, in some cases, a fellowship.
## Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a Doctor
### FAQs on Becoming a Doctor
**Q1. What are the steps to becoming a doctor?**
The steps to becoming a doctor include completing an undergraduate degree, taking the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT), earning a medical degree, completing a residency, and, in some cases, a fellowship.
**Q2. How long does it take to become a doctor?**
It usually takes between 11 to 16 years to become a doctor, depending on the type of doctor you want to become.
**Q3. What degree do I need to become a doctor?**
You will need to complete an undergraduate degree and a medical degree in order to become a doctor. Most medical degrees are Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degrees.
**Q4. What is an MD degree?**
An MD degree is a Doctor of Medicine degree. This degree is typically required to become a medical doctor, such as a general practitioner or a specialist.
**Q5. What is a DO degree?**
A DO degree is a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree. This degree is typically required to become an osteopathic doctor, which is a type of medical doctor that focuses on treating the whole person, not just the disease.
**Q6. What is a residency?**
A residency is a postgraduate training program that medical doctors must complete in order to become licensed to practice medicine. A residency typically lasts three to seven years, depending on the specialty chosen.
**Q7. What is a fellowship?**
A fellowship is a postgraduate training program that medical doctors may choose to complete in order to specialize in a particular field of medicine. Fellowships typically last one to three years.
**Q8. Are there any other requirements to become a doctor?**
In addition to the educational requirements, doctors must pass licensing exams in order to practice medicine. In the United States, doctors must also meet the requirements of their state medical board.
## Conclusion
Becoming a doctor is a long and rewarding process that typically takes between 11 to 16 years. It involves completing an undergraduate degree, taking the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT), earning a medical degree, completing a residency, and, in some cases, a fellowship. In addition to the educational requirements, doctors must pass licensing exams in order to practice medicine and meet the requirements of their state medical board. With dedication, hard work, and perseverance, it is possible to become a doctor and make a difference in people’s lives.
