Every year, students across the country gain acceptance into medical school, fulfilling a dream that’s been in the works for years. Maybe you’ve been working toward that same dream but wonder, “How do I actually apply, and succeed at doing so?” And more importantly, when do I start? Read on for a detailed medical school application timeline to ensure you’re in the best position to get into your dream medical school.
Phase Zero: Before Applications (Prior to May Application Year)
If you’re serious about attending medical school, you’ve likely started taking the steps necessary to build a transcript and CV worthy of medical school admission. You’ve been taking (and acing!) the necessary classes, doing research, shadowing physicians, and more. Maybe you already have that ideal MCAT score you’ve been striving for. These long-term steps are essential for your medical school application, so it’s important to be collecting these accolades throughout your undergraduate years.
In addition to this ongoing work, there are four major items to check off your list leading into application “season”:
- Get a viable MCAT score on file.
- Write a standout personal statement.
- Obtain a copy of your transcript.
- Seek letters of recommendation from professors, advisors, or physicians.
While the letters of recommendation aren’t due until later in the process, it’s crucial to give your writers plenty of lead time to craft high-quality letters that enhance your chances of success.
Phase One: Primary Applications (May – June of Application Year)
Depending on whether you’re applying to an allopathic medical school (seeking an MD, through AMCAS) or an osteopathic medical school (seeking a DO, through AACOMAS), your primary application process will begin at different times. AMCAS applications open in early June, and AACOMAS applications open in early May.
Your primary application is where you will put all of your preparation to work, and it is critical to be ready! Medical schools admit candidates on a rolling basis, meaning early applicants have a significant advantage as spots fill quickly.
Having an excellent personal statement and a polished CV prepared for submission ensures that your medical school application process is smooth and timely. The last thing you want is to be scrambling to write your personal statement when other applicants have already submitted their materials.
Phase Two: Secondary Applications (July – September of Application Year)
Once you’ve submitted your primary application, many medical schools will send you secondary applications. Some schools may send them automatically, while others will review your MCAT scores and GPA to determine if you qualify for a secondary application. Be sure that your MCAT scores and GPA meet the admissions requirements for each school to avoid wasting time on applications you’re unlikely to get into.
Secondary applications usually arrive after you’ve submitted your primary application, and it may seem like a break from the process, but it’s not! Medical schools expect you to submit your secondary applications quickly usually within two weeks of receiving them. This is where preparation is key: drafting and perfecting your answers to commonly asked essay questions, such as the diversity question or the challenge question, can save you valuable time and reduce stress.
For even more preparation, you can look up a particular school’s secondary essay questions (or past questions) online. Code Blue Essays can help you polish not only your personal statement for your primary application but also guide you through perfecting your secondary essays.
Phase Three: Interviews (Around September – March Preceding Admission Year)
After submitting your secondary essays, medical schools may immediately request an interview or you may experience a waiting period. Medical school interviews typically take place from fall into winter and sometimes even early spring.
Preparing for an interview requires thoughtful planning. Not only do you need to prepare answers to potential questions, but you also need to handle logistics like hotel bookings, flights, and transportation. Make sure you dress appropriately for the interview day and arrive prepared.
Finally, don’t forget the importance of a Thank You letter. After your interview, send a personalized thank-you note to those who were involved in your interview to express gratitude and reinforce your interest in the school.
Phase Four: Acceptance!
After your interview, it typically takes two to three weeks for medical schools to make a decision regarding your application. Acceptance letters or rejections will be sent out, and you can finally begin to make plans for the next chapter in your medical career.
Conclusion
The medical school application process is undeniably challenging, but with careful planning, early preparation, and a well-executed strategy, you can maximize your chances of acceptance. By following the detailed timeline, starting with building a strong academic foundation and gaining relevant experience, and moving through each phase of the application process you can position yourself as a competitive candidate.
Remember, the key to success is staying organized, proactive, and calm under pressure. If you ever need assistance along the way, expert services like Code Blue Essays can provide invaluable support in polishing your essays and navigating the complexities of the application process.
Stay focused on your goal, and with the right approach, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your dream of becoming a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When should I start preparing for my medical school application?
Ideally, you should begin preparing for the medical school application process as early as possible, ideally during your undergraduate years. Focus on maintaining a strong GPA, gaining relevant experience through shadowing or volunteering, and preparing for the MCAT. The actual application process begins in the year you plan to apply, but laying the groundwork earlier will give you the best chances for success.
2. How long does it take for medical schools to make decisions after interviews?
After your medical school interview, it generally takes about two to three weeks for schools to make a final decision regarding your acceptance. During this period, some schools may send out acceptance letters, while others may provide rejection notices or place you on a waitlist.
3. What is the difference between the AMCAS and AACOMAS applications?
AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service) is used for applying to allopathic (MD) medical schools, while AACOMAS is the application service for osteopathic (DO) medical schools. The key difference lies in the type of medical degree you’ll pursue—MD or DO—but the application processes are similar, with minor variations in deadlines and procedures.
4. How should I prepare for secondary application essays?
Preparing for secondary application essays is crucial. First, research common secondary questions related to diversity, challenges faced, and motivations for pursuing medicine. Prewriting your responses and having them ready will allow you to quickly submit them once you receive the secondary application from the school. Tailor your responses to reflect each school’s unique values and goals.