When I apply to medical school, do admissions look at what undergrad school I went to?
I am a sophmore in high school and I'm planning on pursing a career in the medical field. I was wondering if the undergrad school I go to is important to get into medical school? Meaning, when applying to medical school, does admissions look at if I went to a UC school or a State school and does this affect my chances of getting in? #medicine #medical-school #undergrad #uc #state-school
5 answers
Madison’s Answer
Elizabeth’s Answer
When you are considered for medical school, an admissions representative will consider the college you attended but many other things as well. All medical schools have certain courses that are required for admission so they will look to see how you did in these courses as well as advanced level biology and chemistry courses. In addition, you will need to take the MCAT exam - which is, in a nutshell, the medical school version of the SAT or ACT exam.
During your time in college, you will want to join clubs and organizations that not only support medical school students but provide hands on experiences. This could vary from transporting patients in a hospital to assisting with check in at a free clinic. Other options are research, study abroad, or shadowing physicians.
Richard’s Answer
Pick a college that suits your personality and a major that interests you. You will need to get good grades in college in order to apply for medical school. At the medical school I attended, the average GPA is reported to be 3.85, so even one or two B's can hurt your chances of acceptance.
Aside from this, any major is acceptable as long as you complete the prerequisite courses.
Typical medical school prerequisites include:
Biology: Lecture – 4 semesters; Lab – 1 semester
General Chemistry: Lecture – 2 semesters; Lab – 1 semester
Organic Chemistry: Lecture – 2 semesters; Lab – 1 semester
Biochemistry: Lecture – 1 semester
General Physics: Lecture – 2 semesters; Lab – 1 semester
Math: Statistics – 1 semester
English: Rhetoric (Composition) and Literature – 2 semesters
Try to find opportunities to pursue research.
Volunteer at your local hospital or low-income clinic. Ask physicians, PAs or other clinical providers if you can shadow them.
During college study for and complete the MCAT. Devote an entire summer to studying for the MCAT and consider paying for a prep course if you can afford it.
Estelle’s Answer
Best of luck!