As a traditional medical school applicant, you will prepare for and apply to medical school during college and enter a program directly upon graduation. In addition to your science-heavy course load, graduation requirements, and extracurriculars , you now must juggle (1) preparing for and taking the MCAT and (2) tackling your medical school applications.
We know it feels like you have a lot on your plate. Follow this medical school admissions timeline to stay on track with your pre-med requirements , MCAT prep , and completing your applications. (We've got tips for non-traditional applicants , too!).
Keep in mind that the courses below represent only the minimum requirements for admission to most medical school programs. You can use this schedule as a general guide, but always double-check admission requirements for the schools you are considering.
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NOTE: Timing is an important factor with the MCAT. The field of applicants grows more crowded as the admissions season advances. Therefore, the earlier you sit for the MCAT, the better off you'll be. Even if you complete the remainder of your application early, the vast majority of medical schools will not closely consider your candidacy until they have a copy of your MCAT scores.
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Read More: Upcoming MCAT Dates
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Acceptances (and rejections) start arriving during the winter and spring of your senior year. If you don't get in, reconsider your career options or prepare to apply again next year .
Relax (for now). Classes begin in August. Congratulations, future doctor!
Our admissions experts know what it takes it get into med school. Get the customized strategy and guidance you need to help achieve your goals.
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Explore our featured graduate schools & programs to find those that both match your interests and are looking for students like you.
Check out our complete list of 168 law schools, based on surveys of school administrators and over 17,000 students.
Visit our Med School Hub to explore med schools with our ‘Find Your Med School’ filtered search or visit our Med School Advice pages for info about good MCAT scores or interview question prep.
Explore our featured business schools to find those that are looking for students like you.
Explore our featured graduate schools & programs to find those that both match your interests and are looking for students like you.
Check out our complete list of 168 law schools, based on surveys of school administrators and over 17,000 students.
Visit our Med School Hub to explore med schools with our ‘Find Your Med School’ filtered search or visit our Med School Advice pages for info about good MCAT scores or interview question prep.
Explore our featured business schools to find those that are looking for students like you.
Explore our featured graduate schools & programs to find those that both match your interests and are looking for students like you.
Check out our complete list of 168 law schools, based on surveys of school administrators and over 17,000 students.
Visit our Med School Hub to explore med schools with our ‘Find Your Med School’ filtered search or visit our Med School Advice pages for info about good MCAT scores or interview question prep.
Explore our featured business schools to find those that are looking for students like you.