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Medical school admission can set your doctorate career up for success. Read on to learn about the best schools in the United States for your career in medicine.
You're determined to attend a top-ranked medical school in the United States, but selecting the right one can be daunting. With many aspects to evaluate, thoroughly researching each school could take you from weeks to months to decide.
Fortunately, our guide is here to simplify the process for you. We will show you how to gain admission into a prestigious medical school, assist you in determining which schools align best with your goals, and provide you with a comprehensive list of the requirements needed to apply to one of the USA's top medical schools.
The methodology used to rank the best medical colleges involves a combination of quantitative and qualitative assessments. Data is sourced from national education authorities, alumni feedback, and faculty publications.
To view the top 20 medical schools in the US, use this list as reference.
Due to their top-ranking status and intense competition, getting admitted to one of these medical schools will be challenging. However, once you understand each school’s admission process and review our top tips for getting accepted, you’ll feel a lot more confident in your abilities. Let’s dive right in!
Located in Boston, Massachusetts, Harvard Medical School has been the school of “firsts” since the 18th Century.
Faculty members and alumni of Harvard have made significant contributions to medicine since 1799; introducing the smallpox vaccine is just one example of their many achievements. In fact, over 15 researchers have won nine Nobel prizes for work conducted at this school.
As one of the top medical schools in the US, Harvard Medical School has imprinted itself on the world of science and healthcare advancement, making it one of the most desirable medical schools in which to get admitted.
With high admission standards and low acceptance rates, Harvard requires you to submit a top-notch application.
If you decide to apply to Harvard Medical School, you will need the following materials in your application:
As with all of the top medical schools in the United States, you will apply through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). When you apply, you will designate Harvard Medical School as the school to which you are applying.
Applicants are ineligible if they are already enrolled in medical school or have previously applied to Harvard Medical School two times. Transfer students are also not accepted.
The admissions committee does not pre-screen applications. All applicants who apply to Harvard Medical School through AMCAS will automatically receive a secondary application. You will need to complete it and return it to the admissions committee to move forward in the application process.
If your application is selected, the committee will invite you to interview for a spot at Harvard Medical School. Successful completion of the primary application, secondary application, and interview is required before an offer of admission will be extended.
Unlike most medical schools, Harvard Medical School does not have a rolling admissions policy; you must submit all application materials before the final deadline. Therefore, it is crucial to know the following deadlines for Harvard Medical School:
Source: Harvard
Harvard Medical School will review your application to see if you are a good fit for their community. The admissions committee bases its evaluation on the materials you provide, focusing on academics and extracurricular activities.
Here are a few key features to include in your application:
Harvard Medical School does not explicitly give preference to applicants who majored in science over applicants with a non-science degree.
The school prefers that students pursue a balanced, liberal education rather than specialized training in just the sciences. As long as you have an adequate science background, Harvard Medical School believes you can succeed in medical studies.
While it is not required, mastery of a foreign language is a valuable skill that enhances your application. It reinforces your preparation for patient care in a multicultural society.
As previously stated, Harvard Medical School encourages applicants to have a balanced, liberal education. The school recommends courses and extracurricular activities that pertain to literature, the arts, social sciences, and humanities as great additions to your arsenal.
These helpful tips are great elements to include in your application because Harvard Medical School likes applicants to have a well-ranged background. By including the items on the list above, your application has a stronger chance of getting you into Harvard Medical School.
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine is one of the most diverse medical schools on our list. In terms of academia, 14% of the entering students in the last admissions cycle had a non-science background.
Johns Hopkins looks more at an applicant’s leadership qualities and passion for medicine rather than their educational background. Like Harvard, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine believes anyone can succeed in the field of medicine.
Compared to the low acceptance rates at Harvard and Grossman, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine has a 6% acceptance rate.
While it sounds like your chances of getting accepted into medical school would be better here, Johns Hopkins is just as challenging to get into as the other top medical schools in the United States.
There are four steps in the application process for Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine:
Students must provide proof of completion of required coursework along with MCAT scores, letters of recommendation, and a resume with work or volunteer experiences relating to medicine.
Johns Hopkins will not process your application until it receives your primary and secondary applications.
You will need three to five letters of recommendation. The following are acceptable letters to include: committee letters, faculty letters, and letter packets.
Failure to provide any of the information listed will result in a delay in processing your application.
These are the following deadlines you must adhere to when applying to Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine:
Source: Johns Hopkins
The admissions committee at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine looks for a well-rounded, compassionate student who is ready to be a leader in the future of modern medicine.
Research experience has proven to be beneficial for applicants. According to a recent interview with Paul White, Assistant Dean for Admissions at Johns Hopkins, entering students already have some research experience: “Although it’s not required, I would say easily 95 or 96% have had research prior to their matriculation.”
The research should involve patient care, as the admissions committee seeks students who have had meaningful patient interactions before applying. You will be discussing these experiences in your primary and secondary applications, and it will give you an edge in the competition to have such.
Expanding upon those experiences during the interview portion is a great way to convey your passion for medicine.
If you have experiences in the medical field that translate well, include them in your secondary application. It will increase your chances of being accepted into Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.
Our Expert Tips on Getting Into Johns Hopkins
Here are a few tips our experts have shared on getting into Johns Hopkins School of Medicine:
"Number one, use the AMCAS work and activities section to demonstrate your leadership experience, compassion, and your experience working in a team. These are essential qualities that Johns Hopkins is looking for in its applicants."
"Johns Hopkins wants to know that you're going into medicine for the right reasons. But it isn't just enough to say that you want to help people; your application needs to show your dedication to service over time. 89% of the most recent class had community service and volunteering experience, while 96% of the class had medical-specific community service and volunteering experience."
"When it comes to your secondary essays, focus on addressing the prompt. One of the biggest mistakes students make while filling out their secondaries is that they don't read the prompt thoroughly and haven't actually understood what is being asked."
The University of Pennsylvania is the oldest school in the United States, so the fact that the Perelman School of Medicine is one of the top medical schools in the country is no surprise.
The school prides itself on creating leaders in patient care, biomedical research, and medical education. Some of the most important medical advancements have spawned from the Perelman School of Medicine or were developed by a Penn Medicine alumni.
These achievements have placed the Perelman School of Medicine in the top three medical schools in the country. Similar to Harvard, Perelman has a low acceptance rate of 3.8%. Perelman accepts fewer than 150 applicants out of the thousands they receive.
When applying to the Perelman School of Medicine, you will follow a similar process as you would with Harvard Medical School. A complete medical school application for Perelman needs to include the requirements on its website.
Apply through the AMCAS application and designate Perelman School of Medicine as the medical school to which you apply. Once your application has been verified through AMCAS, the admissions committee will decide whether you will be a good fit for Perelman.
Unlike Harvard Medical School, Perelman School of Medicine will ask you to complete a secondary application if your primary application meets their criteria.
When you apply to the Perelman School of Medicine, you need to be aware of your application deadlines. Please keep in mind the following dates:
Source: Perelman
The best way to enhance your application for the Perelman School of Medicine is to highlight your research and work experiences. While Perelman stresses a strong science background in students, they want to see your field experience and how it has benefited you.
Over 97% of Perelman’s enrolling students had research experience in 2020. To be a competitive applicant, you should participate in at least one or two research experiences.
Many universities offer opportunities to participate in research projects; this would be an excellent way to enhance your application if you do not have such experiences.
Another essential experience to include is medical shadowing. Even though physician shadowing is not technically compulsory, we cannot recommend it enough. Shadowing is your opportunity to put yourself in a physician's shoes and learn first-hand what a typical day is like in this profession.
Around 83% of Perelman’s students either shadowed a doctor or were involved in clinical experiences, so these activities increase your chances of being accepted into the Perelman School of Medicine. However, the quality of your experiences is important.
The admissions committee would rather see a candidate with two or three high-quality research and shadowing experiences than dozens of one-off experiences. With high-quality experiences, your application becomes more appealing to the admissions committee at the Perelman School of Medicine.
If you are invited for an interview, the admissions committee will ask about these experiences to better understand who you are. If you have a passion for medicine, make sure you discuss it.
The Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons (VP&S) at Columbia University is one of the international leaders in educating physicians on patient care. The institution was established in 1767 and was known as King’s College at the time.
Fast forward 250 years to the present day, and we find ourselves staring at one of the longest-standing medical schools in the country. Columbia University’s medical school is one of the most research-intensive universities in the United States.
Anil Rustgi, Dean of the VP&S, states that the college and health science schools are dedicated to all aspects of medical research, care, and education. With such dedication to the sciences, VP&S is a highly desired community to join, even with a 1.9% acceptance rate.
VP&S at Columbia University requires applicants to meet specific requirements to be considered eligible to apply. Failure to meet the minimum criteria results in your application’s rejection.
In addition to the medical school academic requirements, applicants must also submit their MCAT scores and three recommendation letters.
You will apply to Columbia University’s medical school through AMCAS. Once your application is verified, VP&S will receive your primary application. All applicants will be sent a secondary application to complete.
Supporting documentation, such as letters of recommendation, must be submitted with the secondary application, or the school will no longer consider your application.
Prospective Columbia medical students should mark the following deadlines in their calendars. These dates are subject to change by the College of Physicians and Surgeons. Columbia University recommends that prospective students begin preparing for the application process a year in advance.
Source: Columbia
Extracurricular activities related to the medical field are crucial to a prospective student’s application. The admissions committee at VP&S wants to see how your knowledge translates into real-life situations.
Can you take your knowledge and apply it to real problems? Are you able to think critically and take responsibility for human lives?
Shadowing a physician and patient care work are great experiences to obtain and include in your application. You will be able to expand upon those experiences more during the personal essay portion and interviews.
When you reach the essay portion of your application, you must fully answer the prompts given. Avoid describing the New York City lifestyle and culture. The admissions committee has thousands of essays to read, and they don’t want to know about how the “hustle and bustle” of a big city draws you to Columbia University.
Instead, focus on why you want to go to VP&S. Is it the program? Did someone or something inspire you to apply there? Explain how you will be an asset to their school.
Columbia University thrives on diversity, so explain how your passion for medicine and past experiences make you the ideal candidate for VP&S. Your essays must stand out from the thousands submitted, so take your time and answer each question thoroughly.
Your application for Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons can lead you to admittance if you follow these simple tips.
In fifth place, we have Stanford University School of Medicine. According to US News, Stanford Medical School is one of the top medical schools in the United States, ranking #4 in research and #8 in internal medicine. Like all the other leading medical schools in the country, Stanford Medicine has a low acceptance rate of 1.4%.
It is almost as challenging to be accepted here as it is at Grossman School of Medicine, but if you play your cards right, your application will be the one to beat.
Before you apply to Stanford Medicine, you must make sure you are eligible. Stanford Medical School does not have requirements; instead, they have recommendations for potential students regarding what they wish to see in an applicant.
It’s a recommendation, but consider it mandatory if you’re dedicated to getting accepted at Stanford Medical School.
Applicants should have strong knowledge in the following areas: biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and behavioral/social sciences. You should also include lab or field experiences in your application. The admissions committee can see how your background in the sciences has applied to patient care and your overall desire to pursue a medical career.
You must complete your application for Stanford Medical School through AMCAS. The primary application must include your MCAT scores and letters of recommendation. You will also submit transcripts through AMCAS; Stanford will request a copy of your transcripts if necessary.
The Stanford Supplemental Application will consist of application fees and personal essays. The interviews, conducted in MMI format, will be the final part of the application process. If you succeed in all three parts of the process, you will be offered admittance to Stanford Medicine.
Here is a rough timeline of important dates and deadlines when applying to Stanford Medicine. Please note that the timetable is subject to change at any given time.
Source: Stanford
The most significant component of your application to Stanford Medical School is the personal essay. The admissions committee asks questions regarding your experiences and background, and the goal is to provide as much detail as possible.
Applicants should prove that they are more than just numbers. The essay should discuss your key characteristics, such as leadership abilities, communication skills, and compassion.
One helpful tip that many applicants do not know about is that you can update your application. Updates can include personal achievements, awards, or additional letters of recommendation. Note that you can only make updates to your application after being invited to interview, so you must make sure your application is complete.
Selected applicants are invited for interviews, and they may be asked to participate in the AAMC VITA. This is a one-time, one-way, recorded interview of the applicant designed to give the admissions committee a glimpse of the potential students’ abilities and competencies.
The best way to succeed during this portion is to practice before recording. Have a general idea of what you would like to discuss. Remember, you should tie it back to your passion for medicine and why you chose a career in the medical field.
The AAMC VITA does not fill the interview requirement; it is more of a precursor to a final interview for Stanford Medical School. The one-time, recorded interview is a great way to prepare for the multiple mini-interviews the university will conduct, so definitely give it your all.
The Washington University School of Medicine has been a leader in medical education since its founding in 1891. Some achievements include the pioneering of bedside teaching, contributions to new Alzheimer’s screening methods, and spearheading the treating diabetes with insulin.
With such milestones, it is no surprise that the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis made its way to having one of the top medical programs in the US. Its acceptance rate is 8%.
The Washington University School of Medicine offers various medicine, allied health, public health, and biomedical science programs. The school has compiled a list of prerequisites for admission on its website.
While these are the prerequisites noted, the admissions committee at the Washington University School of Medicine also takes the following into consideration:
Include the list of prerequisites and factors in your application to the Washington University School of Medicine. Complete your primary application through AMCAS, and a secondary application will be given soon after.
Interviews are conducted after all other application materials are reviewed.
The following dates are the deadlines for applying to the Washington University School of Medicine:
Source: Washington University
The Washington University School of Medicine emphasizes that prospective students should have some research experience in their resumes before applying to medical school.
Research provides students with hands-on experience and allows them to determine the program in which they wish to specialize. Research experience is a great way to get published, and published works are impressive and increase your chances of being interviewed.
The Washington University School of Medicine will require extensive research projects during a student’s residency, so having prior experience has proven beneficial.
The interview portion of the admissions process will be the final step before admittance. This experience allows the committee to learn more about who you are and whether you are the right fit for the Washington University School of Medicine.
There are three interviews in total. Two live virtual interviews are conducted, followed by an asynchronous virtual interview.
The first live virtual interview will be open-book, meaning the committee member interviewing you has access to your full application. The second live virtual interview will be closed-file, meaning the interviewer will only know your name and see your application materials.
Whether they have reviewed your application or not, you have to come in with the assumption that they do not know anything about you. You will have 30 to 45 minutes to convey who you are and why you belong at the Washington University School of Medicine.
The asynchronous virtual interview requires applicants to answer questions in a prerecorded video. All three interviews allow you to discuss your accomplishments, interests, passion for medicine, and why you want to attend Washington University School of Medicine.
Your interview performances will help to determine the admissions committee’s decision, so give it your best!
Cornell University School of Medicine, more commonly known as Weill Cornell Medicine, is the last university in our list of the top-ranked medical schools in the US.
Founded in 1898, the university prides itself on its health education and advancements in clinical practices. There is a constant outpour of research opportunities, mainly because it shares a campus with four other world-renowned universities.
With a 1.6% acceptance rate, Weill Cornell Medicine is one of the most challenging medical schools to enter. Therefore, your application must go above the minimum requirements set.
The admissions committee requires applicants to meet the criteria listed on the school's website.
All applicants must apply through AMCAS. You will submit your MCAT scores, letters of recommendation, and any other documentation that gives the admissions committee a better idea of who you are.
Do not send copies of published articles or research papers. Only include documents that discuss you as an individual.
Applicants must submit a copy of their official transcripts through AMCAS. Your academic records must show at least a year of biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics courses. Laboratories are mandatory with science courses, but Weill wants prospective students to take more labs when possible.
AMCAS will notify Weill that the primary application is verified, and Weill will provide applicants with a link to the supplemental application.
The deadlines for Weill Cornell Medicine can be found on the school’s website. Prospective students should hold themselves to those dates.
Weill Cornell Medicine actively seeks students with impressive extracurricular activities and research experience. They want motivated and academically qualified students, and the best way to show this is in your secondary application essays.
You should explain how you have taken your education and applied it in your work, volunteer experience, or research. The essay portion must demonstrate your commitment to the medical field and how you can contribute to the university.
The New York University Grossman School of Medicine is one of the top three medical schools in the United States. Their 29 academic departments include nationally and internationally recognized faculty in clinical and basic sciences.
Grossman School of Medicine has been one of the leaders in research and medicine for over 175 years, making it one of the country’s oldest medical schools.
Grossman offers full-tuition scholarships to all current and future students enrolled in the MD program regardless of financial need as long as the student maintains excellent academic standing per NYU Grossman School of Medicine’s Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy.
Due to the tuition-free education, there has been a rise in applications to the Grossman School of Medicine. With an increase in applications, there is also a decrease in acceptance rates. Most recently, the acceptance rate has hovered at approximately 2.1%.
Your application must go above and beyond Grossman’s essential criteria to be offered admittance at this medical school.
To be eligible to apply to the NYU Grossman School of Medicine, you must meet the criteria and provide the materials listed on their website.
You can apply to the Grossman School of Medicine through the AMCAS application. Once AMCAS verifies your application, they will send it to the medical school you are applying to.
Grossman requires one copy of your transcripts through AMCAS. You will not send transcripts to Grossman unless you are accepted.
After your application is verified through AMCAS and sent to Grossman School of Medicine, you are sent a secondary application to complete. It may take up to two weeks to receive the secondary application.
You will complete the secondary application for Grossman School of Medicine through AMP, a secure online application portal. A $110 nonrefundable application fee is required before you complete the secondary application.
The Grossman School of Medicine provides all applicants with the required questions for the secondary application well in advance to expedite the application process.
You must be aware of the following timeline when applying to the Grossman School of Medicine:
Source: Grossman
There are a few tips and tricks that can help you when applying to the Grossman School of Medicine. The first is to take advantage of the secondary application questions.
Grossman provides students with the required questions they must answer in their secondary application in advance. This allows you to expedite the application process and gives you a chance to answer each question with extra time.
Read over each question given and outline what you wish to convey for each one. You have a better chance of your personality shining through the application if your thoughts are more organized.
The interview portion will be another critical part of the application process. While Grossman does conduct interviews, their methods are different from other medical schools. The Grossman School of Medicine conducts multiple mini-interviews, consisting of six online interviews and one final one-on-one interview.
The first six interviews are each six minutes long, and you have a scenario you must answer. You are given two minutes to prepare an answer and are scored after you have responded. The final one-on-one interview lasts approximately 15 minutes.
During this time, you can ask the interviewer any questions you may have and bring forth any final thoughts about yourself you feel the admissions committee should know.
If this sounds daunting, we provide mock interview services to help you prepare for a med school interview that comes your way.
The Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, formally known as Mayo Medical School, has the most extensive graduate medical education training program in the US.
The school has three different locations, making it one of the most accessible medical schools in the country. However, each site specializes in a different field of medicine. So, applying to the correct program and location is crucial when applying to the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science.
In a recent report, the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine had an acceptance rate of 2%. Out of the 6,000 applications received, 744 received an invitation to interview. Mayo Clinic accepted only 174 applicants.
The statistics reveal how quickly applicants are filtered, making it all the more important to exceed Mayo Clinic’s requirements.
The Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine has a set of required prerequisites and materials that each applicant must submit to be considered.
Unlike medical schools like Harvard and Grossman, the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine prefers students with a strong background in life and social sciences. An applicant is rarely accepted if their undergraduate work does not have a strong science focus.
The college does not specify any required coursework before admission as long as the applicant has a debachelor’s degree from an accredited university in the United States or Canada.
You will submit your primary application through AMCAS. Once verified, your application goes to the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine. Because the application process is competitive, start your application as early as possible.
If you meet the standard criteria, you will receive a secondary application to complete. This is where you will list the program you intend to pursue at the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine. You will include any other required application materials in your secondary application.
The Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine has strict deadlines to meet to be considered for a spot at their institution. If you are applying to medical school, be aware that the process is arduous and will take close to a year before you are accepted.
Source: Mayo Clinic Alix
The most important item in your application is your MCAT score. The admissions committee requires your most recent MCAT scores. Please note that you are allowed to take the exam more than once, but you must take the MCAT before applying.
The admissions committee will not consider your application until these scores are present. The Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine requires prospective students’ MCAT scores to be at least in the 75th percentile to move forward in the application process.
You will not receive a secondary application if you are below the 75th percentile. Therefore, you must do well on the MCAT, or your primary application will be rejected.
The University of Michigan is ranked as one of the top medical schools in the United States. It is a public research university located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and is home to over 1,700 medical students, as well as 1,800 graduate students.
The medical school offers a wide range of programs, including MD, PhD, and dual-degree programs, with a strong emphasis on research and innovation. The faculty is made up of over 1,600 members, many of whom are world-renowned experts in their fields.
The University of Michigan Medical School is a great choice for students who are looking for a top-ranked medical school with a strong emphasis on research and innovation.
Students can apply to the University of Michigan Medical School through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). These are the prerequisites for the application:
Students should apply to the University of Michigan Medical School during their senior year of college or after completing their undergraduate degree. The application deadline is October 15, and interviews are conducted from September through February.
Students should focus on their academic achievements, research experience, and extracurricular activities when applying to the University of Michigan Medical School. They should also be prepared to discuss their motivation for pursuing a career in medicine, and their long-term goals and aspirations. Aim for 3-4 letters of recommendation.
The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine is a top-ranked medical school located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It is one of the oldest medical schools in the United States, dating back to 1886. The school is known for its strong focus on research, and its faculty includes many world-renowned experts in various fields of medicine.
Pittsburgh's medical school offers a variety of programs, including a traditional MD program and dual-degree programs such as the MD/PhD and MD/MBA. The school also offers a variety of residencies and fellowships in various medical specialties.
Applications are accepted through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). The following academic prerequisites are required:
In addition, students must also submit:
The deadline for early decision is August 1. The regular decision application deadline is October 15.
In your application, make sure to highlight your research experience. Gather your letters of recommendation from faculty members. Highlight your sense of personal discovery and what draws you to helping others.
The University of Chicago, nestled in its urban location, is known for its world-class education and top-ranked med schools. One of the best med schools in the US is the Pritzker School of Medicine, attached to the University of Chicago. If you're considering applying to this prestigious institution, you’ll undoubtedly receive an excellent foundation for your career.
To apply to the Pritzker School of Medicine, start by familiarizing yourself with the application requirements:
For the letters of recommendation, applicants can submit:
The application deadline is November 15. The supplemental application deadline is December 1.
As you begin the application process, take the time to thoroughly research the University of Chicago and its programs. Understanding the university's values, academic offerings, and culture will help you tailor your application to align with their expectations.
Additionally, make sure your personal statement reflects your passion for medicine and highlights your achievements. Don't hesitate to reach out to the university's admissions office or attend informational events to gather further insights and clarify any doubts.
The median MCAT score for the Pritzker School of Medicine is 520. To ensure you receieve a guaranteed score of 520+, book a free consultation with us for MCAT tutoring in Chicago.
Applying to the Pritzker School of Medicine can be a highly competitive and rigorous process, but with careful planning, thoughtful preparation, and determination, you can increase your chances of securing a spot at one of their top-ranked med schools.
Baylor College of Medicine is a private medical school located in Houston, Texas. It was founded in 1900 and is affiliated with the renowned Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center and Texas Children's Hospital. The school is consistently ranked among the top medical schools in the United States, and for a good reason.
Baylor College of Medicine offers a wide range of medical programs, including MD, PhD, and combined degrees. The school is known for its strong research programs, particularly in genetics, neuroscience, and cancer research. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including the Human Genome Sequencing Center and the National School of Tropical Medicine.
Baylor College of Medicine offers a rigorous and comprehensive medical education that prepares students for successful careers in medicine and research. The school's strong research programs and cutting-edge facilities provide students with unique opportunities to gain hands-on experience and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries.
Students can apply to Baylor College of Medicine by completing The Texas Medical and Dental Schools Application Service (TMDSAS) application. The remaining requirements are as follows:
The application cycle for Baylor College of Medicine opens on May 1 and closes on November 1. It is recommended that applicants submit their primary application as early as possible to increase their chances of acceptance.
Baylor College of Medicine values diversity and seeks to admit students from various backgrounds and experiences. Applicants should highlight their unique qualities and experiences in their application materials.
Additionally, the school values strong academic performance, so applicants should strive to maintain a high GPA and MCAT score. Finally, applicants need to demonstrate a genuine passion for medicine and a commitment to serving others.
The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center is a top-ranked medical school located in Dallas, Texas. It is consistently ranked among the top 20 medical schools in the United States. The school offers a variety of programs for students interested in pursuing a career in medicine, including MD, PhD, and combined degree programs.
One of the reasons to choose the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center is its commitment to research. The school has a strong reputation for conducting groundbreaking research in a variety of fields, including cancer, neuroscience, and genetics. Students have the opportunity to work with leading researchers and contribute to cutting-edge research projects.
To apply to the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, students should submit their application through the TMDSAS portal. While not required, you may also want to submit a secondary application by November 15. Review the prerequisite courses before your application.
The application deadline is November 1, and interviews are conducted from September through January.
The admissions committee reviews the following factors in each applicant:
Overall, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center is an excellent choice for students interested in pursuing a career in medicine. With its commitment to research, strong academic programs, and supportive faculty, students are well-prepared to succeed in their future careers.
The University of North Carolina (UNC) School of Medicine is a top-ranked medical school located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. It is consistently ranked among the top 20 medical schools in the United States by U.S. News & World Report.
UNC School of Medicine offers a wide variety of programs, including MD, PhD, and dual-degree programs. It is known for its strong research programs in areas such as cancer, genetics, and neuroscience.
UNC School of Medicine is an excellent choice for students who are interested in pursuing a career in medicine. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum, world-class research opportunities, and a supportive learning environment. Students at UNC have access to state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge technology, and renowned faculty members.
Students can apply to the UNC School of Medicine through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). In addition to the AMCAS application, students must also submit secondary applications and letters of recommendation.
The application deadline is October 1. Regardless of whether you receive an interview or not, you will be notified by December of your application status.
The ideal candidate is more than a good student, volunteer, and good on paper. UNC School of Medicine looks for students who are passionate about medicine and have a strong academic record. In addition to academic achievements, the school also values extracurricular activities and community involvement.
Overall, UNC School of Medicine is a top-tier medical school that offers students an exceptional education and research opportunities.
The University of Virginia School of Medicine is one of the top-ranked public universities in the United States and is located in the heart of Charlottesville, Virginia. It is a competitive school that attracts some of the best and brightest students from around the world.
Virginia’s medical school offers a comprehensive education that prepares students for successful careers in medicine. The medical school “recognized faculty for their lasting impact on the success of our students and the advancement of science and medicine.” If you’re looking for an innovative and impactful research facility that lifts its students to success, look no further than the University of Virginia!
Prospective students must apply through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS), which opens in early May. In addition to transcripts, letters of recommendation, and MCAT scores, applicants must also consider:
The application cycle opens in May and closes on November 1.
University of Virgnia only invites approximately 650 applicants for interviews each year. That means applicants should focus on highlighting their academic achievements, research experience, and commitment to service. It is also important to demonstrate a strong interest in medicine and a clear understanding of the challenges and rewards of a healthcare career.
The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health is a highly respected institution known for its commitment to excellence in education, research, and patient care. It is consistently ranked among the top medical schools in the United States.
The school offers a variety of programs, including MD, PhD, and dual degree programs, as well as residency and fellowship training. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in both the basic and clinical sciences, as well as hands-on experience in patient care.
The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health provides students with a world-class education and research opportunities, as well as access to top-notch clinical facilities. The school is committed to training the next generation of healthcare professionals and leaders and provides students with the resources and support they need to succeed.
Students can apply to the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). In addition, the following must be considered:
The AMCAS application opens in early May, and the deadline is October 15. The secondary application deadline is December 1.
Applicants should focus on highlighting their academic achievements, research experience, and clinical exposure in their application. It is also important to demonstrate a strong commitment to service and leadership, as these are qualities that the school values highly.
Applicants should be prepared to discuss their interest in the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health and how they believe the school can help them achieve their career goals.
The University of California Davis School of Medicine is renowned for its excellence in education and research across a wide range of disciplines. Among its many accomplishments, it stands out for its top medical programs and prestigious medical schools.
It has three distinguished rankings in the various schools of medicine:
As one of the most diverse schools, students from all backgrounds can learn comprehensive studies of what it’s like to work in the health sector. UC Davis is known for its commitment to innovation, cutting-edge research, and outstanding faculty.
The first step in the application process is to complete the AMCAS application via your account in addition to the AAMC exam. All application details can be found in their application handbook.
In addition to the application form, students must also submit a secondary application consisting of secondary assignments, essays, and letters of recommendation. The last step in the process is the interview.
The application opens each year in late June and can be submitted by October 1.
Applying to UC medical schools can be a competitive process, but with some helpful tips, you can increase your chances of admission. Firstly, it's important to showcase your passion for medicine and highlight your unique experiences and qualities that make you a well-rounded candidate. Personal statements and letters of recommendation play a critical role in the process, so take the time to prepare them carefully.
Additionally, consider participating in research opportunities, clinical experiences, and volunteer work to demonstrate your commitment to the field and to gain practical knowledge.
As one of the top US medical schools, UCLA Medical School — also known as the David Geffen School of Medicine (DGSOM) at UCLA — is also one of the most competitive, with a 2.1% acceptance rate.
The medical school proudly declares its ninth-place ranking in the country in research funding from the National Institutes of Health and is third in the United States in research dollars from all sources. Because of this, DGSOM wins its spot as one of the top medical schools in the country.
The David Geffen School of Medicine has a full list of admissions requirements on its website.
Prospective students must apply through AMCAS. Your MCAT scores are a required component of your application. The David Geffen School of Medicine requires all grades to be submitted, so if you have taken the MCAT multiple times, you will need to submit your scores for each attempt.
Your three letters of recommendation must be submitted through AMCAS and not sent to the university. Send a complete set of official transcripts to the AMCAS as well. Failure to include your transcripts will delay your application’s processing.
Once you have completed the primary application and it is verified, you will receive a secondary application that will consist of essay questions. You must answer each question in its entirety and submit the application before the deadline. Invitations for interviews are sent after both applications are reviewed.
The David Geffen School of Medicine utilizes a rolling admissions schedule. Due to the substantial number of applicants, it is vital to have all materials completed on time, or the admissions committee will not accept your application.
The timeline from application submission to admission offers is shown below:
Source: David Geffen
The essay portion of the secondary application will be the determining factor for your application at the David Geffen School of Medicine. The questions are general, so you have the freedom to discuss what you want — as long as you answer the question itself thoroughly.
The essay portion is designed to engage with students and understand their interests and experiences, along with any significant achievements and hardships that would prove beneficial to know.
This is the time to give as much information as possible about yourself, specifically anything you feel the review committee should know. Be clear and concise with your writing, and provide as much detail about the qualities that make you an ideal candidate for DGSOM.
Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine is a private medical school located in Cleveland, Ohio. It was founded in 2002 and is affiliated with Case Western Reserve University. It is known for its unique five-year program that integrates clinical experience and research.
The school is committed to producing physician-scientists who are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of modern medicine. Students at Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including the Cleveland Clinic, which is consistently ranked as one of the top hospitals in the country.
Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine is an excellent choice for students who are interested in pursuing a career in medicine and research. The five-year program allows students to gain hands-on clinical experience while also conducting research in a variety of areas. The school's commitment to producing physician-scientists means that students will be well-prepared to tackle the challenges of modern medicine.
Students can apply to Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). The school requires applicants to submit their AMCAS application, transcripts, MCAT scores, letters of recommendation, and a secondary application. The secondary application includes several short essays and is used to determine whether a student is a good fit for the program.
The deadline for submitting the AMCAS application is November 1, and the deadline for submitting the secondary application is December 1.
When applying to Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, it is important to emphasize your interest in research and your commitment to becoming a physician-scientist.
The school is looking for students who are passionate about both medicine and research and who have a track record of academic excellence. It is also important to have strong letters of recommendation and to demonstrate leadership skills and community involvement.
So, how hard is it to get into medical school?
Getting into one of the top ranked medical schools in the US is no easy feat. The competition you will face is fierce; some of the brightest minds around the globe apply to these world renowned institutions.
If you want to be a competitive applicant, achieving good MCAT scores and exceeding GPA requirements is essential. The AAMC notes that 2020 applicants achieved an average MCAT score of 506.1 and an average GPA of 3.8.
If it’s possible, start studying for the MCAT as early as possible so you can re-sit it if needed. You can retake the MCAT up to three times a year and four times over two years. An excellent MCAT score is essential to help you get into these top medical schools.
Additionally, achieving high scores on the Computer-Based Assessment for Sampling Personal Characteristics (CASPer) test is vital. You can only take the CASPer Test once per application cycle.
Writing a strong personal statement for medical school is also a crucial part of the application process. The 5,300-word essay fills many applicants with dread, as this is where they have to explain to an admissions committee why they are an ideal candidate for its medical school.
Although the number varies between the top medical schools in the country, you will need to submit several letters of recommendation. These letters provide medical schools with evidence of your experience and character and illustrate why you are a great fit for medical school.
Asking for recommendation letters can be difficult, so try to give your recommender plenty of time to write you a great letter.
Once you have submitted your application, you may be invited for an interview. Medical school interview preparation is important — you want to convey your passion and dedication to the admissions officers.
Fortunately, Advantage's med school application coaches can streamline the entire process, from selecting the right schools to apply to, all the way to acing your interview!
To start your career in medicine, you’ll need to apply to a good school. Let’s look at the most frequently asked questions about the best schools for medicine in the US.
Many schools have low acceptance rates, but medical schools are known to be highly competitive. The acceptance rates of our recommended medical schools are:
Good MCAT scores for top medical schools range from the upper 510s to the low 520s. For a competitive edge at top medical schools, applicants should aim for scores at least in the 94th percentile, which corresponds to an MCAT score of around 515.
The top medical school in the United States is Harvard University, according to the most recent rankings. Harvard's medical school is renowned for its rigorous academic program, extensive research opportunities, and the highest level of innovative and influential medical studies.
The best medical schools have specific coursework requirements for admission. These prerequisites ensure that applicants have a solid foundation in the sciences and other areas critical to the practice of medicine. Common prerequisites include biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and English.
Applying to prestigious medical schools with a low GPA is challenging but not impossible. The lowest GPA medical schools will accept is 3.0.
To set a GPA goal, look at the current average GPA of admitted students. For example, the average GPA of enrolled students at Harvard and Johns Hopkins is 3.9.
To get into a top medical school, focus on achieving a high GPA, scoring well on the MCAT, gaining relevant clinical experience, engaging in research, and obtaining strong letters of recommendation. Tailoring your application to each school's requirements and demonstrating your commitment to medicine through your personal statement are also vital to your success.
Prestigious Ivy League medical schools have such low acceptance rates that attending one seems next to impossible. Use our guide to help secure your spot and begin your doctorate journey.
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