Getting through the medical school admissions process can seem quite daunting, but if you have the right tools and preparation, you should have nothing to fear. And with a little understanding of how med school applications are evaluated, you can put together a stronger application package.
The entire process can seem frightening and stressful. Most applicants feel trepidation simply because they are not fully prepared for the process and the various requirements for medical school admission. However, when you understand the requirements and the intricacies of the process, you’ll have greater peace of mind about your future success.
Step One in the admissions process
The very first thing that you should do to help ensure your future success is to carry good grades throughout your academic career. Students with high GPAs stand a better chance of being accepted to their school of choice. You should also ensure that you know what prerequisite classes are required and that you have taken each of them.
You also will need to take the MCAT. It is essential that you score well, and this requires preparation. You can take advantage of the myriad resources available by enrolling in test prep courses – either online or in a classroom – or consider a medical school admissions consultant.
Step Two in medical school admissions
The next phase of your admissions process will be filling out and sending in the initial application. Your medical school application should contain several things, including your MCAT results, letters of recommendation and a personal statement written by you. You should also include things such as your extracurricular activities.
Never make the mistake of only submitting an application to your first-choice school. You should have several schools lined up, ranging from top-ranked to those schools you know will accept you. If your entire career hinges on the choice of only one or two schools, you could be in for a rude surprise.
Step Three for admission to medical schools
After you complete the initial and secondary applications, you will move on to the interview portion of the process. Any school that accepts your application will offer you an in-person interview. It is essential that you be prepared for these, but that you remain comfortable during the interview process. Remember, the interview is designed to give the admissions board a good feel for who you are, as well as how qualified you might be.
Other resources
The AMCAS (the American Medical College Application Service) offers help with medical school admissions.
The AAMC provides assistance with medical school admissions, as well.
You will also find med school admissions help with PremedGuide.com.
Premed Guide
