How does regular decision work for Rice/Baylor applicants?

Hi! I'm looking into the Rice/Baylor Medical Scholars Program, and I'm curious about how the regular decision process works for applicants. Is the timeline different from regular college admissions?

The Rice/Baylor Medical Scholars Program stands out in the college admissions terrain as it's a distinctive accelerated 8-year program that culminates in both a BA from Rice University and an MD from Baylor College of Medicine.

Now, if you apply to the Rice/Baylor program, you'll submit your application along with all the other applicants in the regular decision admissions timeline. The application deadline usually falls at the beginning of January, with notification coming in early April. This is quite similar to Rice University's regular decision timeline.

However, there's an added layer to the proceedings. If you get shortlisted for the Rice/Baylor program, you'll be invited for an interview in late March or early April. The admissions decisions will be shared shortly after these interviews, usually around late April.

One key point to keep in mind is that the Rice/Baylor program has an exclusivity clause. If you apply to this program, you can't apply to other combined medical programs in Texas. If you get admitted into the Rice/Baylor program, it is binding, which essentially means you've committed to attending, given sufficient financial aid.

As always, it's a good idea to directly check the official Rice and Baylor websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information on admissions timelines and requirements. Each year could bring small changes to the process, and staying informed will help you navigate the application more smoothly.