Medical School Requirements

To apply to U.S. medical schools, you typically need to meet several general requirements:

1. Bachelor’s Degree

• You need to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. While you can major in any field, most applicants choose majors in the sciences, such as biology or chemistry, because they cover many of the prerequisites.

2. Prerequisite Coursework

• Medical schools usually require specific undergraduate coursework, including:

  • Biology: 1 year with lab

  • General Chemistry: 1 year with lab

  • Organic Chemistry: 1 year with lab

  • Physics: 1 year with lab

  • English: 1 year

  • Mathematics: 1 year (often calculus or statistics)

  • Biochemistry: 1 semester (increasingly required by many schools)

• Some schools may also recommend or require additional courses in social sciences, psychology, or advanced science classes.

3. Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)

• You must take and submit your scores from the MCAT. This standardized exam tests your knowledge of natural sciences, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. A competitive score is crucial for your application.

4. GPA Requirements

• Medical schools generally require a strong undergraduate GPA, particularly in your science courses. A GPA of 3.5 or higher is typically considered competitive, though requirements may vary by school.

5. Clinical Experience

• Gaining clinical experience through volunteering, shadowing doctors, or working in healthcare settings is important. This shows your commitment to medicine and helps you understand the field better.

6. Research Experience

• Participation in research, especially in the sciences or medicine, is highly valued by medical schools. It demonstrates your ability to think critically and contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge.

7. Extracurricular Activities

• Involvement in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, community service, and other personal interests can strengthen your application by showing a well-rounded character and a commitment to helping others.

8. Letters of Recommendation

• You will need strong letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or healthcare professionals who can attest to your academic abilities, character, and readiness for medical school.

9. Personal Statement

• A personal statement or essay is required as part of your application. This is your opportunity to explain why you want to pursue a career in medicine, discuss your experiences, and highlight your strengths.

10. Interviews

• If your application is competitive, you will be invited for an interview. Medical school interviews assess your communication skills, maturity, empathy, and suitability for a career in medicine.

11. Technical Standards

• Medical schools have technical standards that outline the essential abilities required to complete the curriculum and practice medicine. These include physical, cognitive, and behavioral competencies.

Each medical school may have its specific requirements or recommendations, so it's essential to research the schools you’re interested in and tailor your preparation accordingly. To see the specifics on each school