When it comes to choosing the right medical school, there are many factors to consider. It's important to remember that no two medical schools are the same. Each one has its own mission, location, size, and teaching style. To make sure you make the best decision for your future, it's essential to do your research.
The Medical School Admission Requirements website is the best source of reliable and up-to-date information. It provides a comprehensive list of M, D. medical school profiles, which include admission requirements and national and school-specific applicant and acceptance data. You can use the site to search for schools, compare them side-by-side, sort data, save and rank favorites, write notes, and compare your own coursework with each school's requirements.
The profiles are updated and revised each year in collaboration with each medical school. It can also be helpful to hear from current medical students about why they chose their school. You can listen to students about their experiences in Anatomy of an Applicant and our Inspirational Stories interviews. If you're in high school and considering a medical baccalaureate program, you should start researching medical schools during your junior year. If you're in college or after college, you should begin researching at least several months before starting your AMCAS application, which opens in early May each year. The most knowledgeable person you can talk to is your school's pre-health counselor.
Be sure to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. If you don't have access to a pre-health coach, talk to an academic advisor or look for an advisor through the National Association of Advisors for Health Professionals (NAAHP) website. Choosing the right medical school is a big decision that requires careful consideration. With the right research and guidance, you can make an informed decision that will set you up for success.
