Nuts and Bolts of the Premedical Journey – For Students

Find out if this is what you want to do.

Investigate the requirements and procedures for medical schools of interest.

  • Consult the current Medical School Admission Requirements (MSAR), which is available in the Biomedical Studies Resource Area in Hustad Science Library, or purchase a copy (www.aamc.org).
  • Explore the websites of various medical schools of interest.
  • Challenge yourself with a rigorous array of courses across the curriculum; practice good time management.
  • Get to know your professors.
  • Learn to study effectively and efficiently; if you are having any difficulties, get help.

Become a competitive applicant.

  • Grades are important but are not the sole entrance criteria; GPA overall as well as in the sciences are considered; the GPA of a majority of accepted students is 3.5 to 3.75.
  • Study and prepare for the MCAT; scores of 10 and above are more likely to be accepted to medical school.
  • Continue volunteer work, independent studies, campus and community involvement; keep records of your activity; “Walk the talk!”
  • Contact Karen Renneke from the Chemistry Departmental Office early in the spring (Jan/Feb) of the year you intend to apply to start the Health Professions Committee (HPC) interview and evaluation (usually the Junior year). Interviews are held in April/May.
  • Be realistic; are your grades and MCAT scores acceptable? Keep alternate plans or careers active.

Apply to medical school.

  • Apply through the AMCAS website; apply early starting the process May 1 and submit as early as possible (often June 1) for entry in September of the following year.
  • Select an appropriate number of schools with a realistic perspective (five to ten).
  • Complete supplemental applications in a timely manner (less than two weeks after receiving them).
  • Arrange to have the requested letters of evaluation sent and the committee evaluation from the Health Professions Committee.
  • Check with the medical school to insure that your file is complete.
  • If invited for an interview , dress appropriately and prepare adequately; prepare questions and acquaint yourself with the school through its website before interviewing.
  • Provide updates on course work, change of address, e-mail address.
  • Be professional in all your interaction and contact with the medical school.
  • Wait patiently! Good luck! You have done all you can.
  • Develop contingency plans.

Adapted from Eastern Illinois University, with resources from the St. Olaf Center for Experiential Learning

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