Tips on Applying to Medical School

Applying to graduate programs such as medical school can seem daunting. There is a lot of work involved and a lot to consider. You will be asked to take exams, send your transcripts, and submit essays just like you did for your undergraduate program. And just like undergrad, the competition can be fierce. Here are a few tips to help you stand out with your applications:

Study for the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT).

One of the main reasons that students get rejected from medical school is that their test scores are too low. You want to aim for an above average position with your score. A top score is ideal. When looking at applications, medical schools are not just looking at the total score, but they are analyzing your score in each section of the test. Therefore, it’s important that you do well not just cumulatively, but on each individual section. Make sure you prepare for the MCAT early. Slowly incorporate new information into your study routine slowly over an extended period of time to really allow the information you are learning to set in. If you don’t do well the first time you take the test, don’t get discouraged. Study hard and try again. There are several successful medical professionals who took the MCAT more than once. Students who work with an Ivy Link MCAT tutor prep for 4 - 8 months. This allows you to properly absorb the material, and maintain your other commitments without burning out.

Make sure you have enough clinical experience before applying.

Medical schools want to see that you have a realistic idea of what it means to be a doctor. Volunteering at a doctor’s office once a week for a couple of months isn’t going to cut it. Prepare to spend roughly six months or longer shadowing a physician at a local clinic or emergency room. Gain a variety of experiences working with patients to show the school that you are informed of and committed to doing the work of a physician. Additionally, extracurriculars that show good research and leadership skills also look great on a medical school application. So, if you are in an undergraduate program, join some clubs that will emphasize these qualities. If you have already graduated, look for volunteer positions or create an independent project that will show off these skills.  

Know why you want to study medicine.

This will be one of the topics on which you write an essay. You need to have a clear and well thought out answer to this question. In your admissions essays, talk about patient care. It’s incredibly noble of you if you want to cure cancer or change the healthcare system. But the truth is, medical schools are not interested in hearing this. They hear these ideals from everyone who applies. What they want to see is that your patients will come first. That you will be committed to upholding the oaths you take to ensure the best care for every patient that you meet. That doesn’t mean you can’t pursue these other interests. But for the sake of admissions, it’s best to focus on what the school wants to hear, which is about your dedication to patients. 

These are just a few tips to get you started on your applications. If you need more help with your application strategy, essays, or preparing for your MCAT, contact Ivy Link below.