Even with unique requirements from some institutions, the medical school application process is a generally common one. Knowing the basic steps will prepare you for applying into any medical school. You will have the varying deadlines left to worry about.
Step 1: Narrowing down your choice
Because each application will require you to pay a fee ranging from $35 to $100, it is best to select a few medical schools to apply to. Know the medical schools better by checking out their official websites and reading reviews about the institutions. You may also include your own criteria, including proximity of the medical school, fees, and opportunities for scholarships and financial aid. Once you have selected the medical schools you will apply to, take note of their requirements and deadlines.
Step 2: Going through the requirement checklist
Next, you need to tackle down your requirement list. Here are the things you need to do:
- Request your college transcript if you have not yet done so.
- Ask respected people who know you well to write recommendations.
- Have your MCAT score ready.
- Prepare your resume.
- Write your medical school personal statement.
To know what to include in your personal statement, study examples of medical school application essays. These medical school application essays will also give you ideas on what angle you will write your own personal statement.
Step 3: Meeting deadlines
Being able to submit on or before the prescribed deadlines is a must. If done so, you will be creating a positive image of yourself. If the institutions are quite accessible, you can always hand over your requirements in person. You can also mail each application to its destination. However, there is a more convenient way to submit your application requirements. Make use of the American Medical Application Service (AMCAS). It can send your application requirements to about 90% of medical schools in the US.
Step 4: It’s time to wait…and follow-up
Once you have submitted all your requirements, you must be on the alert for responses from any of the institutions you applied to. The response may be in the form of scheduling for an interview. Make sure that you can make it on the agreed date and time of your interview. While waiting for the interview to take place, get some additional research and advice from people who have experienced the whole medical school application process. A few days after your interview, follow up by phone or email about your application status.
Photo Credit : otisarchives2
