The journey to becoming a doctor is a challenging and competitive one, marked by rigorous exams, extensive coursework, and the high-stakes process of applying to medical school. With acceptance rates consistently low, many pre-med students find themselves asking a crucial question: How many medical schools should I apply to?
The answer depends on several factors, from your academic stats to the competitive nature of your chosen schools. This guide will help you determine the ideal number of applications to submit by considering med school acceptance rates, how to build a strong school list, and how to position yourself as a competitive applicant.
Factors That Influence How Many Applications You Should Submit
The number of medical schools you should apply to depends on several factors. Here are the key ones:
1. Geographic Location and State Competitiveness
Where you’re applying plays a significant role. States with high competition, such as California or New York, have a larger pool of applicants for each available spot. If you’re applying to schools in these states, you might need to apply to more than the average 15–20 schools to boost your chances. Students from less competitive states may be able to apply to fewer schools.
2. Your GPA and MCAT Scores
Your academic profile is a major determinant. If your GPA and MCAT scores are strong and fall within the typical range of accepted students at most schools, you may not need to apply to as many programs. On the other hand, if your scores are below average, you’ll likely need to apply to more schools (potentially 20+ programs) to increase your chances of acceptance.
3. Target vs. Reach Schools
How you distribute your applications between target and reach schools affects the number of applications you’ll submit. Ideally, your list should include about 80% target schools (where your stats are within or above the school’s average range) and 20% reach schools (where your stats are lower than average). If you’re applying to many reach schools, you may need to apply to a larger number overall.
4. Program Preferences
Some applicants may have specific preferences related to a school’s curriculum, location, or specialty programs. If you’re looking for schools with particular strengths (e.g., research, clinical opportunities, global health), you might need to broaden your list to ensure your chosen programs match your interests and career goals.
5. Financial Considerations
Medical school applications are costly—application fees, secondary fees, travel for interviews, etc. These financial factors might influence how many schools you can realistically apply to. Some students may prioritize fewer applications if they want to limit costs, while others might invest more in applying broadly to increase their chances.
Each of these factors plays a role in shaping your strategy for how many applications you should submit. Balancing these considerations helps ensure you apply to an appropriate number of schools based on your profile and goals.
Building Your Medical School Application List
Creating a strategic list of medical schools to apply to is one of the most important steps in the application process. With acceptance rates generally low, simply applying to as many schools as possible isn’t the best strategy. Instead, you need a well-thought-out approach that balances realistic options with ambitious goals. Most admissions experts recommend a balanced approach when building your list, dividing your applications between target and reach schools. This ensures that you’re applying to a mix of programs that match your academic profile while still allowing room for some ambitious choices.
Here’s a breakdown of how to create your ideal list of schools:
Target Schools
A target school is one where your academic credentials—GPA and MCAT scores—fall within or above the school’s average range for accepted students. These are the programs where you are considered a competitive applicant. You have a solid chance of getting accepted because your scores, grades, and other qualifications match what the school typically looks for in its incoming class.
You should aim for 80% of your applications to fall into this category. This gives you the best chance of acceptance while still maintaining a realistic approach to the competitiveness of the admissions process. For instance, if you are applying to 20 medical schools, 16 of them should be target schools.
When evaluating whether a school is a target for you, it’s essential to research the average GPA and MCAT scores of their most recent admitted class. These statistics are often published on the school’s website or can be found in online databases like the AAMC’s Medical School Admission Requirements. Pay attention to both the median scores and the overall range. If your scores are close to or slightly above the median, you’re in the target zone.
Also, consider other factors beyond just the numbers. Medical schools look for well-rounded applicants with a strong personal statement, clinical experience, extracurriculars, and recommendations. If your non-academic qualifications are particularly strong, a school where you are just below the median for GPA or MCAT could still be a good target.
Reach Schools
A reach school, on the other hand, is one where your GPA and MCAT scores are below the average range of the school’s accepted students. While it’s not impossible to gain admission to a reach school, it’s less likely, especially if there is a significant gap between your stats and those of their average admitted students. However, reach schools are still worth applying to, especially if they align well with your goals, interests, and career aspirations.
It’s advisable to dedicate 20% of your applications to reach schools. If you plan to apply to 20 programs, this means 4 of them should be reach schools. While the chances of acceptance are slimmer, applying to a few reach schools gives you the opportunity to aim high and potentially secure admission at a more prestigious or desirable institution.
When selecting reach schools, it’s important to manage your expectations. Schools in this category are generally looking for applicants with higher GPAs and MCAT scores, but they also consider other parts of your application, such as research experience, volunteer work, and letters of recommendation. Some schools may place a heavier emphasis on holistic review, meaning that even if your scores are lower, you could still stand out due to other factors like your personal statement, clinical experiences, or leadership roles.
For example, if you’ve engaged in significant research or leadership activities, a highly competitive school might consider your unique experiences and skills as valuable assets. Some reach schools might also be attracted to applicants who bring diversity to their program, whether in terms of background, life experiences, or non-traditional paths to medicine.
What to do NOW Before Applying to Medical School!
Researching Med School Admissions Criteria
To make informed decisions about your target and reach schools, you need to dive deep into each program’s admissions criteria. Don’t rely solely on average stats—many schools have nuanced requirements that go beyond grades and test scores.
1. Grades and MCAT Scores
While GPA and MCAT scores are critical, schools weigh these numbers differently. Most medical schools calculate your GPA using AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service) standards, which include your performance in all college-level coursework. Some schools may also adjust these calculations, particularly when it comes to graduate or post-baccalaureate work. This means that even if you have a solid graduate GPA, it may not fully offset a lower undergraduate GPA, depending on the school.
2. Course Requirements and Clinical Experience
Admissions committees also consider factors like your coursework, clinical experience, research, and volunteer work. Make sure your application reflects a well-rounded candidate with experience in healthcare environments, leadership roles, and community service.
3. Contacting Schools
If you’re unsure whether a particular school is a target or reach for you, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call or email the admissions offices with questions about specific criteria or how they view certain aspects of your application. This can help you refine your list and avoid applying to schools where you may not be a strong fit.
What to Do If Your GPA or MCAT Scores Are Low
Not every applicant enters the process with perfect numbers. If your GPA or MCAT scores fall below the target range for your desired schools, there are steps you can take to improve your application.
1. Retake the MCAT
If your MCAT score is below the average for your target schools, consider retaking the exam. But don’t rush—make sure you have a solid MCAT prep plan in place. This could involve self-study, enrolling in a test prep course, or working with a tutor. The goal is to take the exam when you’re fully prepared to improve your score. You can check out Jack Westin’s extensive MCAT prep plans and tutoring options if you need a solid plan to retake the MCAT.
2. Boost Your GPA
If your GPA is your weak point, consider taking additional courses, particularly in the sciences. Many applicants enroll in post-baccalaureate programs or even pursue a master’s degree to raise their GPA. Keep in mind that these programs can be costly and time-consuming, but they can also significantly strengthen your application.
3. Strengthen Other Parts of Your Application
Beyond academics, focus on other aspects of your application to stand out. Strengthen your personal statement, gather strong letters of recommendation, and showcase your clinical experience and research. Admissions committees look for well-rounded applicants who demonstrate passion for medicine through various experiences.
Finding the Right Fit: More Than Just Acceptance Rates
When building your application list, don’t just focus on where you’re likely to get in—consider where you’ll thrive as a student and future physician.
1. Curriculum and Learning Environment
Each medical school has a unique curriculum and approach to teaching. Some schools emphasize problem-based learning, while others offer a more traditional, lecture-based approach. Think about your learning style and what environment would help you succeed.
2. Location and Campus Culture
Location matters too. Consider whether you’d prefer to study in an urban or rural setting, and think about the school’s campus culture. A supportive environment with ample student resources can make a big difference in your medical school experience.
3. Clinical and Research Opportunities
Finally, look into each school’s clinical opportunities and research programs. Some schools have affiliations with top hospitals or research institutions, providing invaluable hands-on experience.
Conclusion
Applying to medical school is a marathon, not a sprint. With low acceptance rates and fierce competition, it’s essential to be strategic about how many schools you apply to and which ones make the cut. By carefully crafting your application list—aiming for a mix of target and reach schools—and improving your profile where necessary, you can maximize your chances of success.
Remember, it’s not just about how many applications you submit; it’s about applying to schools where you’re both a good fit and a competitive candidate. Take your time, do your research, and apply wisely. With persistence and preparation, you can increase your odds of earning that coveted acceptance letter and taking the next step on your journey to becoming a physician.
You can always contact Jack Westin’s team of academic consultants for more tailor-made advice during your MCAT prep journey. Make sure to check out our website for affordable MCAT online courses, tutoring options, free weekly sessions, practice questions, and more!