What do medical schools actually want from pre-med students?

Entering medical school is undeniably challenging, but it's not impossible

In a typical year, approximately 40% of medical school applicants get accepted. However, acceptance rates for individual schools are around 5.5% nationally. That’s why pre-med students are advised to apply to between 15 and 25 different schools.

Academic excellence is crucial, but medical schools are looking for more; something that sets you apart from other candidates. This includes the 17 Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) Core Competencies, which cover attributes like cultural humility, empathy, and critical thinking.

So, while getting into medical school is tough, dedication, resilience, and a well-rounded application can make all the difference.

When to apply

Timing is crucial when applying to medical school. Most students begin the application process in their junior year of undergraduate studies. At the latest, you’ll want to submit your application in the summer before your senior year.

However, planning should start earlier, especially when preparing for the MCAT. Many medical schools operate on rolling admissions, so applying early in the cycle can increase your chances of acceptance.

Bear in mind the financial planning required, too. There are primary and secondary application services, test materials, exam fees, and travel expenses. This can add up quickly, but by starting early, you can plan your finances carefully.

What GPA do you need for med school?

While there's no strict GPA cutoff for medical school admissions, a strong academic record is crucial. The average GPA for matriculating students hovers around 3.7, but this can vary among different schools and programs.

Medical schools also consider the rigor of your coursework, trends in your academic performance, and any extenuating circumstances. As outlined in the introduction, while a high GPA certainly strengthens your application, it's not the sole determining factor.

Going beyond GPA

Your GPA isn’t everything. Medical school admissions committees also value applicants who demonstrate a well-rounded skill set, such as a commitment to service and leadership.

Engaging in research, clinical exposure, and volunteering can significantly enhance your application.

These experiences showcase your passions and demonstrate qualities like teamwork, empathy, and resilience. These traits are essential for success in the medical field.

Clinical exposure is a critical aspect of how to get into medical school. It provides first-hand insight into patient care and healthcare systems, something required of pre-med students.

Most medical colleges recommend at least 100 clinical hours of medical work experience. However, remember that the quality of these hours also matters. You should be able to talk about what you have learned and how this has increased your medical understanding.

What experience is needed to get into medical school?

Clinical exposure is key to proving you have the experience needed to excel at medical school.

You should seek clinical exposure in two ways:

1. Physician shadowing: This gives you direct first-hand access to the life of a medical professional as you observe how they operate on a daily basis.
2. Community volunteer service: This is a chance to put what you’ve learned into practice while proving your commitment to helping others.

Join an overseas Pre-Med Program

Participating in an overseas Pre-med Program offers a unique opportunity to gain clinical exposure in a global context. These programs include shadowing experiences, volunteer work, and cultural immersion.

Engaging with healthcare systems abroad broadens your perspective, develops cultural awareness, and provides insights into global health challenges. These qualities are highly valued by medical school admissions committees.

Our overseas Pre-Med Programs guarantee 40+ hours of clinical exposure and 15+ hours of community volunteer service.

Why not join our:

• Pre-Med Program in Peru: Provide medical checkups to patients in the ancient and beautiful city of Cusco.
• Pre-Med Program in Nepal: Gain clinical exposure in the colorful city of Kathmandu, set among the majestic Himalayas.
• Pre-Med Program in Tanzania: Shadow doctors in a busy Arusha hospital, complete outreaches in Maasai communities, and spot incredible wildlife in East Africa.
• Pre-Med Program in Greece: Explore the ancient city of Athens as you help out in a modern but resource-limited European hospital.

You’ll explore the world’s most spectacular destinations while gaining an edge over other medical school applicants.

Developing Core Competencies is crucial for aspiring medical students. These are the qualities essential for success in the medical profession. 

Why Core Competencies matter

The AAMC Core Competencies encompass essential skills and attributes that medical schools value in applicants. They include interpersonal skills, cultural awareness, and critical thinking.

These attributes are fundamental for effective patient care and collaboration within healthcare teams. By demonstrating proficiency in these areas, you strengthen your medical school application. You’re also preparing yourself for the challenges and responsibilities of a career in medicine.

Learn more about AAMC competencies.

Experience healthcare in a different country​

Participating in healthcare experiences abroad offers a unique opportunity to learn how healthcare operates outside of the United States.

By immersing yourself in diverse healthcare settings, you’ll also enhance your interpersonal communication skills, cultural competence, and adaptability.

You’ll gain insights into how healthcare operates in a low-resource environment and other challenges. This helps you understand the socioeconomic determinants of health.