Primary Application
Most medical schools in the United States participate in the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS), a centralized application processing service. For osteopathic medical schools, the equivalent is the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service (AACOMAS).
The primary application includes:
1. Personal Information
This includes basic demographic information, citizenship status, languages spoken, and other general information about yourself.
2. Transcripts
You’ll need to provide transcripts from every post-secondary institution you’ve attended. These transcripts serve to verify your academic performance and course load over time.
3. MCAT Scores
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) score is a significant aspect of your application, as it measures your understanding of relevant sciences and critical thinking skills.
4. Work and Activities Section
This section allows you to list and describe up to 15 experiences that have been important to your personal or professional development. This can include extracurricular activities, research, clinical experience, employment, volunteer work, or other significant experiences.
5. Personal Statement
Your personal statement is a narrative essay where you explain your motivation for pursuing a career in medicine. It’s a chance to tell your unique story and show who you are beyond grades and test scores.
Secondary Applications
After reviewing your primary application, many medical schools will send you their secondary application. These usually include a series of essay questions designed to gather more detailed information about your experiences, motivations, and fit for their specific program.
Letters of Recommendation
Medical schools require letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to your qualifications for medical school. These usually come from professors, research advisors, employers, or physicians you’ve shadowed.
Interviews
If a medical school is interested in your application, they will invite you to an interview. The interview allows admissions officers to assess your interpersonal skills, communication abilities, and suitability for a career in medicine. It’s also an opportunity for you to ask questions and get to know the school.
In summary, the main components of a medical school application are:
– The primary application, which includes personal information, transcripts, MCAT scores, a record of your activities, and a personal statement.
– Secondary applications, usually comprising several essay questions.
– Letters of recommendation from individuals who can vouch for your qualifications and dedication.
– An interview to evaluate your interpersonal and communication skills, as well as your fit for the school.